In Loving Memory of Abel Sims: A Bright Young Life Gone Too Soon

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we remember Abel Sims, a beloved 12-year-old boy whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating side-by-side accident in Cabell County, West Virginia. His heartbreaking passing has left his family, friends, classmates, teachers, and the entire Barboursville community grieving an unimaginable loss.

Abel was a sixth-grade student at Barboursville Middle School, where he was cherished as an important member of the school family. Although his time on earth was far too short, he made a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered for his joyful personality, kind heart, infectious happiness, and the laughter he brought to the people around him.

According to information obtained by WSAZ through a criminal complaint, deputies responded to a serious crash shortly after 5:50 p.m. Wednesday in the 3000 block of Cyrus Creek Road. When authorities arrived, they discovered an overturned side-by-side vehicle.

Investigators determined that Michael Hager had been operating the vehicle with his 12-year-old grandson, Abel Sims, as a passenger. Authorities said Hager lost control of the side-by-side, resulting in the devastating crash. Tragically, Abel was pronounced dead at the scene.

The criminal complaint further states that investigators noticed signs of possible impairment when they encountered Hager. Deputies reported smelling an alcoholic beverage and observing that his speech was slurred. They also stated that he nearly fell backward down a hill beside the roadway.

According to the complaint, Hager became uncooperative and had to be detained in the backseat of a deputy’s cruiser. Investigators subsequently documented additional signs they believed indicated impairment, including a droopy face, droopy eyelids, a flushed face, glassy eyes, a blank stare, and dilated pupils.

Hager was arrested and charged with DUI causing death in connection with the fatal crash.

While authorities continue addressing the circumstances surrounding this tragedy, the greatest heartbreak remains the loss of a young boy whose future was filled with possibilities.

Cabell County Schools confirmed Abel’s death and shared a deeply emotional tribute to the young student. Barboursville Middle School Principal Kerri Brown remembered him as a wonderful young man who was always happy, made his friends laugh, and consistently put others before himself.

The school community described Abel as an important part of the Barboursville Middle School family, emphasizing that his absence will be deeply felt by his friends, teachers, staff members, and the wider community.

In honoring his memory, the school announced that students would wear green on Friday, Abel’s favorite color, as a special tribute to the boy who brought so much happiness into their lives. Mental health services would also be made available to students and staff members who need support as they navigate this difficult time.

The school extended its thoughts and prayers to Abel’s family and expressed its commitment to supporting everyone affected by his passing.

A LIFE THAT WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN

Abel’s story is a painful reminder of how precious and fragile life can be. At just 12 years old, he should have had countless more opportunities to grow, learn, laugh, make memories, discover his passions, and experience all the beautiful moments childhood has to offer.

He should have had more birthdays to celebrate, more friendships to build, more school memories to create, and more dreams to pursue. His family should have been able to watch him grow into the person he was meant to become.

Instead, those who loved him are left holding memories of a beautiful young soul whose journey ended much too soon.

To his parents, family members, and everyone who loved Abel, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. No words can adequately express the pain of losing a child, and no message can take away the emptiness left behind by such a heartbreaking tragedy.

May you find strength in the love surrounding you, comfort in the memories you shared, and peace in knowing that Abel’s life touched so many people.

To his classmates and teachers at Barboursville Middle School, may you continue to celebrate the laughter, kindness, friendship, and happiness Abel brought into your lives. Let his memory remain a reminder to cherish one another and never take the gift of another day for granted.

Rest peacefully, dear Abel Sims.

You were loved beyond words, your smile brought happiness to others, and your kindness made a difference. Though your time here was far too short, the memories you created will remain in the hearts of those who knew you.

You will forever be part of the Barboursville Middle School family, and your favorite color, green, will always carry a special meaning for those honoring your memory.

Gone too soon, but never forgotten. Forever 12, forever loved, and forever remembered.

May your soul rest in eternal peace, Abel. 🕊️💚

In Loving Memory of Abel Sims.