Fact Check: West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the death toll had risen to six on June 17, 2025.

Fact Check: "West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the death toll had risen to six on June 17, 2025."

What We Know

On June 17, 2025, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey provided updates regarding the severe flash flooding that affected Ohio County. During his announcement, he confirmed that there were five confirmed fatalities and three individuals reported missing as of 5 PM that day (Governor Patrick Morrisey Delivers Updates on Flood). This information was corroborated by multiple news outlets, including WTRF and WCHS, which reported the same figures of five confirmed deaths and ongoing search efforts for the missing individuals (WTRF, WCHS).

Analysis

The claim that Governor Morrisey confirmed the death toll had risen to six is inaccurate. All available reports from the day in question consistently state that the confirmed death toll was five, with no indication that it had increased to six at any point during his announcements. The sources used to substantiate the claim, including the official update from the governor and reputable news outlets, clearly document the figures as five deaths and three missing persons (Governor Patrick Morrisey Delivers Updates on Flood, WTRF, WCHS).

The reliability of these sources is high, as they originate from official statements and established news organizations that adhere to journalistic standards. There is no evidence from credible sources to support the claim of a sixth fatality, making it essential to rely on verified information rather than unconfirmed reports or speculation.

Conclusion

Verdict: False. The claim that West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the death toll had risen to six on June 17, 2025, is incorrect. The confirmed fatalities were reported as five, with three individuals still missing, according to multiple reliable sources.

Sources

1. Governor Patrick Morrisey Delivers Updates on Flood ...
2. Westenergy – Wikipedia
3. Etusivu | Rakennusliike | WestGroup
4. Ohio County flooding update, death toll rises to five ...
5. Westenergy
6. Morrisey: Death toll from Wheeling-area flood rises to 5 ...
7. Kansainvälinen rahansiirto | Western Union Finland
8. Death toll up to five following flooding in Ohio County, W.Va.