Michael J.
Bransfield, an American Roman Catholic prelate who served as bishop of Wheeling-Charleston from 2004 to 2018, died on May 7, 2026, at age 82. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on September 8, 1943, he was a bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in West Virginia from 2005 to 2018.
After his retirement in 2018, a church investigation examined allegations of sexual harassment of adults and financial improprieties. The report said the harassment accusations were credible and found that diocesan funds had been diverted to support a lavish lifestyle.
Michael J. Bransfield, 82, American Roman Catholic prelate, bishop of Wheeling-Charleston (2004–2018).