This week marks a significant moment in the case of a West Virginia man accused of fatally shooting a woman and disposing of her body in a well. Michael Wayne Smith, 46, faces trial after new charges were brought against him earlier this year.

Smith stands accused of murdering 35-year-old Cheyenne Johnson, who was reported missing in April 2021. Her body was later discovered in a deep well, and according to previous reports by Law&Crime, Smith confessed to police that he shot Johnson in the head before hiding her remains in the well. The investigation gained momentum after Smith’s girlfriend, 33-year-old Virginia Smith, provided authorities with a crucial tip.

Virginia Smith, who is not related to Michael Smith despite sharing a last name, was charged as a co-defendant in the case. Earlier this year, she pleaded guilty to charges including first-degree murder, concealment of a dead body, and using a firearm during the commission of a felony. Both she and Michael Smith were re-indicted in 2023, adding another layer to this complex case.

The case took a turn when a criminal complaint, as reported by the Parkersburg News and Sentinel, revealed information from an informant who overheard a discussion between Michael Smith, Virginia Smith, and another individual about Johnson’s death. During the conversation, Michael Smith allegedly confessed to the fatal shooting and the subsequent concealment of the body.

Initially, Virginia Smith denied any knowledge of Cheyenne Johnson, but eventually, she led police to the well where Johnson’s body was recovered. This cooperation has been pivotal in piecing together the tragic events leading to Johnson’s death.

During an interview with police, Michael Smith was read his rights and allegedly confessed to the crime. He reportedly told police that Johnson had stolen his girlfriend’s car. When Johnson returned the car to Virginia Smith, a confrontation between the two women took place. Michael Smith, who was present for the confrontation, told police that Johnson produced a knife that he tried to take away.

According to police, Michael Smith said that as the argument escalated, he pushed her and struck her to get her to stop attacking his girlfriend. When Johnson would not let up, Michael Smith allegedly told police he got a rifle and threatened her with it. According to the complaint, he allegedly shot her in the head. He then allegedly disposed of her body in a deep water well using a belt and ratchet straps.

Johnson was reported missing on April 29, 2021. Her body was found on May 3, 2021.

According to local CBS and Fox affiliate WCHS, Michael Smith was also accused of stabbing Johnson before shooting her in the new indictment.

Michael Smith is charged with first-degree murder, concealment of a deceased human body, use and presentment of a firearm during the commission of a felony, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, malicious assault, and assault in the commission of or attempt to commit a felony. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His trial begins in Kanawha County Circuit Court on Monday.

Matt Naham contributed to this story.