In the spring of 2021, the life of a 35-year-old Caucasian woman named Cheyenne Danielle "Spanky" Johnson was tragically cut short. On April 29, 2021, Johnson, a resident of Cottageville, West Virginia, was last seen near her hometown. A few days later, after her family had not heard from her, she was reported missing, sparking an investigation that would soon uncover a grim and violent end.
The search for Cheyenne led authorities to a secluded farm on Britton Ridge Road in the Sissonville area of Kanawha County, where a horrifying discovery was made. Her body was found submerged in a deep water well, identified by the tattoos on her arms. An autopsy would later reveal that she had sustained multiple injuries, but the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head.
The investigation into Johnson's death quickly focused on two individuals with whom she was acquainted: Michael Wayne Smith, 41, and his girlfriend, Virginia Marie Smith, 29, who were not related to each other but were in an intimate relationship. The tragic events reportedly began with an accusation that Johnson had stolen Virginia Smith's car. When Johnson returned the vehicle the following morning, she was confronted by the couple who were in their driveway engaged in target practice. The confrontation escalated, leading to a violent altercation.
Initially, Michael Smith confessed to the murder, claiming that Johnson had pulled a knife and attacked Virginia. He stated that after a struggle, he shot Johnson and then disposed of her body in the well, later getting rid of the rifle in another county. However, the narrative shifted during the investigation. Information provided by a 10-year-old witness revealed that it was Virginia Smith who had actually fired the fatal shot. Michael Smith's initial confession was believed to be an attempt to cover for her. He was still charged with murder for his role in the crime.
Ultimately, both Michael and Virginia Smith were arrested and faced charges for their involvement in Cheyenne Johnson's death. Virginia Smith later pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, concealment of a dead body, and using a firearm during the commission of a felony. In a separate legal proceeding, a jury convicted Michael Smith of second-degree murder for his participation in the crime. Following the convictions, prosecutors announced their intention to pursue enhanced penalties against him. Both individuals are now incarcerated, held accountable for the senseless killing of Cheyenne Johnson.
