Appalachian Power offers $25,000 reward in Wayne County substation vandalism investigation

CHARLESTON, W. Va. (May 11, 2026) - Appalachian Power Company (APCo), in coordination with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the identification, prosecution and conviction of those responsible for vandalism at the East Lynn Substation in Wayne County that occurred in January. If more than one person provides information leading to a conviction, the reward may be divided among eligible individuals, as determined by APCo, which is working closely with local law enforcement and urges anyone with information to come forward.

APCo is also reminding customers and community members to report any suspicious activity near electrical facilities. Substations and other utility infrastructure are critical to keeping communities powered and safe.

"We take the safety and reliability of our system very seriously, and we understand the impact this situation has had on Wayne residents," said Brian Abraham, APCo president and COO. "Acts like this are illegal and dangerous, and we are working with law enforcement to hold those who commit them accountable."

Anyone with information about this incident may call the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at (304) 272-6378 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or email [email protected].

APCo was notified by the West Virginia Department of Health on Jan. 14 of a reported sheen on Twelvepole Creek near the substation. When crews responded, they discovered evidence of vandalism, including a cut security fence and an opened valve on a transformer inside the station. The opened valve allowed mineral oil used to cool transformers to spill onto the ground and reach the creek.

APCo initiated response and site work immediately and continues to cooperate fully with regulatory agencies. During the cleanup period, APCo provided shower, laundry and drinking water resources for affected residents. After discussions with the Town of Wayne, the company paid customers' February (mid-January to mid-February) and March (mid-February to mid-March) water bills.

Customers who have experienced impacts may be eligible to file a claim. Information about the claims process is available at AppalachianPower.com/Cleanup.