Community Meeting Planned to Discuss Violence on Charleston's West Side

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Even on screens-open spring days, sidewalks on Charleston's West Side remain bare.

Porches are empty, except for the occasional neighbor catching some fresh air.

They're scared of stories they've heard, or witnessed.

"My first week, someone got shot there," said Candy Adkins, who lives on the West Side.

That week was four years ago for Adkins. Now, with three teenagers, she's constantly reminded why she doesn't let them go out alone.

"We heard all the shooting up there and then saw a car drive by really fast with the cops behind him," Adkins said.

That shooting killed 18-year-old Tymel Mickinney, who was Walker Stacy's close friend.

"It broke my heart," Stacy said.

On walks with Lacey West, they only go on certain routes at certain times.

"It's not even summer yet," West said. "It's still spring, and it's way worse than last summer ever was."

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Community Meeting Planned to Discuss Violence on Charleston's West Side