Husband Charged in 2017 Murder of Emma Compton Layne in Halifax County

After more than seven years, a major breakthrough has been made in the murder case of Emma Compton Layne. On Wednesday, the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of her husband, Russell Wayne Layne, in connection with her death.

“Sheriff Fred Clark announces the arrest of Russell Wayne Layne, age 67, of Nathalie, VA, for the senseless murder of his wife, Emma Compton Layne, which occurred in June of 2017,” Sheriff Clark stated in a press release. Layne was taken into custody by authorities and served with a murder indictment by Sergeant Jeff Burton.

The case, which Sheriff Clark described as deeply impactful for the Halifax County community, has been a top priority for investigators since it first unfolded. “We hope this arrest provides some measure of closure for Emma Layne’s family and loved ones,” said Clark.

The sheriff credited the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies, including the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the Halifax County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, for the arrest. Details about the evidence leading to Layne’s indictment have not yet been disclosed, but the announcement marks a significant step in the long-standing investigation.

Emma Compton Layne’s murder in June 2017 has remained a painful memory for her family and the community. Authorities believe this development will help bring justice to those who have waited for answers for so many years. Further updates on the case are expected as the legal process unfolds.