In July 2015, a violent encounter inside a Charleston, West Virginia apartment ended in a way no one expected. Heather Saul, a local woman, was forced to fight for her life after a man she had met online turned on her. What followed would later lead investigators to believe she may have stopped a dangerous predator.
The Attack and Self-Defense
Neal Martin Falls entered Heather Saul’s home and quickly became violent. According to investigators, Falls grabbed Heather by the throat, held her at gunpoint, and threatened to kill her. During a desperate struggle, Heather managed to strike him with a garden rake. When Falls momentarily released control of his gun, Heather grabbed it and fired, killing him.
Police later confirmed the shooting was clear self-defense, and Heather Saul was never charged with any crime.
Disturbing Evidence Found
When authorities searched Falls’ vehicle, they uncovered an alarming collection of weapons and tools, including axes, machetes, a shovel, bleach, heavy-duty trash bags, handcuffs, and body armor. Investigators described it as an extensive “kill kit.”
They also found handwritten notes containing names and contact information of multiple women, raising immediate concerns that Heather may not have been his first intended victim.
Later Investigations and Findings
In the years following the incident, law enforcement agencies from multiple states reviewed unsolved cases involving missing and murdered women to determine whether Neal Falls could be linked to other crimes. While no charges could be filed posthumously, investigators publicly stated that the evidence strongly suggested Falls was preparing to commit additional acts of violence.
To date, Falls has not been officially confirmed as a serial killer, but police continue to classify him as a suspected serial predator based on his behavior, materials found, and travel history.
Heather Saul’s Life After the Incident
Heather Saul has largely stayed out of the public spotlight since the case. Authorities have repeatedly emphasized that her actions likely saved other lives, crediting her with stopping a man believed to be planning further attacks.
The case remains a powerful example of survival, self-defense, and the thin line between ordinary life and sudden danger.
Current Status (As of Latest Available Information)
- The shooting remains officially ruled justified self-defense
- Heather Saul faces no legal consequences
- Neal Falls is still considered a suspected serial offender, though never formally charged
- The investigation into possible additional victims remains closed due to lack of definitive evidence