Taty’ana Zakiyyah: Virginia murder suspect arrested after woman's body found in trash truck
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VIRGINIA: Taty’ana Zakiyyah, a 30-year-old Virginia woman, was found dead in a trash truck after her family raised concerns about her disappearance.
The alarming discovery unfolded after relatives reported her missing on Thursday, March 21 at approximately 8.50 pm when she failed to pick up her child from daycare in Lake Ridge, Virginia
Police swiftly launched an investigation, initially focusing on locating Zakiyyah’s vehicle, only to discover it was being driven by her roommate, Brendon Devon White, 28, of Woodbridge.
Authorities intensified their search efforts, eventually tracing Zakiyyah's car to Newport News City, Virginia, where her personal effects remained untouched.
Authorities probe suspect for motive
Subsequently, detectives intercepted a nearby trash collection truck and uncovered Zakiyyah's lifeless body, leading to White's arrest and subsequent charge of second-degree murder, per Fox.
Details surrounding the motive and circumstances of the crime are still emerging.
Manhunt underway for suspect in the murder of a pregnant woman
In a separate development, law enforcement officials are actively pursuing Troy Cornelius Wells following the issuance of warrants for his arrest by the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. The charges leveled against Wells include murder and attempted murder, stemming from a tragic incident in which 33-year-old Jennifer Cruz, who was pregnant at the time, was fatally shot.
According to reports, around 6.00 am on Saturday, March 23, two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds were transported to Prisma Tuomey Hospital. Witnesses recounted a shooting occurrence in the 1700 block of North Main Street, as per the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. Jennifer, one of the victims, tragically succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite her untimely demise, her unborn child miraculously survived and was successfully delivered. Presently, the infant remains in critical condition at a Columbia hospital. The second victim sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, with their current condition undisclosed.
Investigators disclosed that the alleged perpetrator, Wells, was familiar with the victims and had reportedly been awaiting their arrival at a local motel. Upon their arrival at 5.42 am, Wells purportedly unleashed a barrage of gunfire at their vehicle, resulting in injuries to both victims.
Authorities have issued a public advisory, cautioning citizens to exercise vigilance. Sheriff Dennis emphasized, “Wells should be considered armed and dangerous, and we are asking citizens not to approach him but call 911 if they see him,” reported MEAWW.
Additionally, individuals with information regarding Wells’ whereabouts are encouraged to report anonymously for a reward through the P3Tips website or mobile app.
