Doug Skaf Junior dies at 48: former representative and businessman killed in car accidents; Leaders pay tribute

Daug Skuff Junior, a prominent Charleston businessman and former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, died on Tuesday afternoon in a car accident on Interstate 79 in Lewis County, according to several state officials.The 48 -year -old schoff was walking south, when his vehicle exited between Jane Lew and Weston around 4:15 pm. He was pronounced dead at the scene.A long -term figure in state politics and business, Skaf served in the House of Delegates for more than a decade, including a word as a house mazority leader. He also launched a failed campaign for the state Senate and the Secretary of State. Apart from his political career, he also worked as the chairman of HD Media.West Virginia Governor Patrick Morris accepted Skaf’s death on social media, while local leaders paid tribute to his contribution.Charleston’s Mayor Amy Shuller Goodwin also expressed his condolences through a statement through his official website: “I was a surprise and heart to know about the passage of former WV representative Dug Skaf. He was an excellent public servant and businessman, but most important, he was a amazing husband, father, and son.”In its most recent venture, Skaf participated with a group of investors to buy Fazio’s Italian restaurants in Charleston. In an interview of May 22 on the “580 Live” radio show, Skaf talked about maintaining long traditions, dishes and atmosphere of the restaurant.He also discussed his recovery from a serious snakebite incident in 2024, when he was bitten by several copperheads in Danville while gathering the signs of the campaign. He spent several weeks in the hospital and described himself as “blessed” for running again. Although still unable to run or jump, Skaf said he was progressing to resume general activities.