Yesterday, the West Virginia Daily News reported on a murder that occurred in Fayette County. Douglas Joseph Greene, 41, of Robson, W.Va. has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Craig Anthony Cottle.
Fayette County Sheriff’s Deputies received notification on Thursday, February 18, of a reported shooting in Robson. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a deceased male inside of a camper.
According to the criminal complaint, the 911 caller stated that Greene had come to his residence and shot Tony Cottle. Deputies asked Greene to accompany them to the station and he complied.
The criminal complaint details that, after being read the department’s Miranda form, Greene waived his right to have an attorney present. Greene reportedly did not provide much information but did state that he had been drinking beer with the victim when a verbal argument took place.
According to the criminal complaint, Greene did admit to shooting the victim, Craig Cottle in the head with a 22-magnum revolver, stating “it was either him or me.” Deputies report that they did not observe any injuries on Greene consistent with self-defense.
The criminal complaint further states that Fayette County Sheriff’s Deputies had received a complaint from Greene the previous day, February 17, accusing Cottle of arson involving his camper. However, no charges were filed as a result of Greene’s complaint.
After returning to the scene with a search warrant, deputies discovered at least two gunshot wounds to the victim’s body, but no indication of an altercation, according to the criminal complaint.
Based on their investigation, the criminal complaint reports that deputies believe Doug Greene went to the camper of Craig Cottle armed with a revolver with the intent of confronting him about his camper. After a verbal altercation ensued, Doug Greene shot Craig Cottle resulting in his death.
Douglas Joseph Greene is currently being held at Southern Regional Jail. He is not eligible for bail at this time.
The West Virginia Daily News will update with any additional information as it becomes available.
