Wayne HS Football Player Gavin Daniels, 16, Dies In An Accidental Shooting Leaving His Parents Mark And Norena Devastated

April 20, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on April 20, 2026

On the night of 17 April in Genoa, West Virginia, a tragic accident happened inside a car parked along Joel’s Branch Road.

, three people were inside when one of them began showing a gun to Gavin Daniels, a football player from Wayne High School.

In an unexpected moment, the gun fired, hitting Gavin in the stomach.

He was rushed for medical care, but sadly didn’t make it.

Gavin Daniels was a junior at Wayne High School in West Virginia, set to graduate in 2026.

Standing 5’7″ and weighing 150 pounds, he was a dedicated athlete who proudly wore #24 on the varsity football team, playing fullback and middle linebacker.

Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Gavin Daniels

A shares that 16-year-old Gavin was the cherished son of Mark Daniels and Norena Cottrell, who are now facing an unimaginable loss.

Known for their dedication to the community and their time invested in the lives of local youth, the Daniels family has touched many hearts.

In return, the community is rallying together to help ease the financial burden of their loss and offer support through this tough time.

Gavin’s mother, Norena Cottrell, expressed the deep pain and heartbreak of losing her son, saying it’s something no parent is ever prepared for..

She described Gavin as a bright light in the world, bringing joy and energy to everyone around him.

My sweet, rotten boy. 😭 Never in a million years did I ever think we would be here. No one ever does. This is a parent’s worst nightmare, truly. If you knew our Gavin, you already know what a bright light he was in this world. I don’t know how we are ever going to do this life without him. Please just pray for us!

Similarly, Gavin’s close friend, Shawnna Burdette, shared an emotional tribute, struggling to accept the heartbreaking reality of his passing.

She called Gavin her best friend and said she never imagined having to speak about him in this way.

She shared a lighthearted memory of him walking into Mrs. Heck’s class with his playful jokes, like saying, “Guess what? Chicken butt,” and following it up with, “Guess why? Chicken thigh.”

Shawnna ended her message with love, saying they all miss him dearly and wishing him peace as he rests high on that beautiful mountain.

Never in a million years would I have to come on here and talk about this. My best friend had passed away. I just can’t wrap my head around it. You would dearly be missed Gavin. You brought so many smiles on people’s faces. Always walking in Mrs heck’s class saying “ Guess what Chicken Butt” Guess why chicken thigh. You never hated anyone. You was a genuine soul. You were a person that everyone could have laugh and giggles with. You cared for everyone. I just wish this was a dream but it’s not. I know everything happens for a reason but I just can’t wrap my head around it. When I was having a bad day you always made me laugh. 1st – 4th period was always fun. Never in a million years this will wrap my head around the whole situation. We all love you and miss you dearly Gavin. Go rest high on that beautiful mountain. I may not have any pictures of you or with you but I will miss you dearly. You loved my nephew Jaxson even though you never met him but you would always call him adorable.

Moreover, on April 19th, Giovanni’s of Lavalette announced they would host a Giveback Day in honor of Gavin Daniels.

In a heartfelt gesture, the restaurant pledged to donate 20% of all sales to Gavin’s family that day.

In Case You Didn’t Know

  • His father served in the US Army.
  • His mother studied Office Administration at Southern West Virginia Community & Technical College.
  • Gavin grew up with two siblings, Gabrielle Isabella Marie Daniels and Adriana Miranda Faith Daniels.
  • Check other Articles on

Introducing Alisha Shrestha, a dynamic writer and content editor with a finger on the pulse of the sports industry. With her passion for style and culture, Alisha delivers compelling articles that inspire and inform readers, keeping them up-to-date with the latest trends and developments.

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