SCOTT DEPOT MAN DIES AFTER SWALLOWING DRUGS DURING DRUG INVESTIGATION

Huntington officials and West Virginia State Police continue to
investigate.

HUNTINGTON -- Huntington Police say the HPD Drug Unit, DEA, and West
Virginia State Police were conducting a drug investigation in the
3100 block of Fifth Avenue Friday. During the investigation officers
stopped a 2008 Chevy Trail Blazer driven by Christopher Lee Ratliff
of Scott Depot.

Police were trying to detain Ratliff when he swallowed a baggy
containing suspected heroine. Ratliff immediately suffered medical
distress. Upon arrival, EMS rendered aid and transported Ratliff to
St. Mary's Hospital. Ratliff died a short time after his arrival.

The body will be taken to the State Medical Examiner's Office. The
autopsy will include toxicology testing.

Officials are continuing to investigate.