05/19/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CABELL COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE ANNOUNCES CONVICTION OF JOSHUA MORROW IN WAYNE COUNTY DOUBLE MURDER AND ARSON CASE
HUNTINGTON, WV — Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney Jason Spears announced today that Joshua Morrow has been convicted on two counts of First Degree Murder, one count of First Degree Arson, and one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm in connection with the tragic deaths of Britney Brown and her mother, Erma Brown, in a Wayne County case in which the Cabell County Prosecutor’s Office served as Special Prosecutor.
The convictions were secured following a lengthy investigation and prosecution involving multiple law enforcement and forensic agencies. The matter was presided over by Judge Jim Young. Sentencing will occur at a later date.
“This was a horrific and heartbreaking case that devastated a family and shocked the community,” said Prosecuting Attorney Jason Spears. “While no verdict can ever restore the lives that were taken from Britney and Erma Brown, today’s conviction ensures that the individual responsible will be held accountable under the law.”
Spears noted that the Cabell County Prosecutor’s Office was appointed as Special Prosecutor in the matter only months ago, requiring an accelerated and coordinated effort to prepare the case for trial.
“Our office inherited this Wayne County case as Special Prosecutor mere months ago, and the dedication shown by law enforcement, forensic experts, our prosecutors, and support staff made it possible to present the truth to the jury,” Spears said. “This verdict is a testament to tireless investigative work, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”
Spears specifically recognized Sgt. Susan Cooper of the West Virginia State Police who was the lead case agent.
He also recognized Dawn Smith of the WVSP Digital Forensics Unit, Chief Investigator Jason Baltic, Deputy State Fire Marshal Tim Chastain, and Deputy State Fire Marshal Larry T. Hamrick of the West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office for their extensive investigative efforts throughout the case.
The Prosecuting Attorney also expressed his appreciation to the many additional members of the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office who assisted throughout the investigation and prosecution.
“This case required an enormous team effort,” Spears said. “Sgt. Cooper’s hard worked investigation led to today’s results. We are grateful not only to those specifically named, but to the many Troopers, investigators, forensic personnel, and support staff from the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office whose work helped bring justice to this family.”
The Prosecuting Attorney also commended Assistant Prosecutors Scott Bellomy and Shawn Bartram for their work in securing the convictions.
“Assistant Prosecutors Scott Bellomy and Shawn Bartram handled this case with extraordinary professionalism and determination,” Spears stated. “They presented the evidence with precision and compassion, ensuring the victims’ voices were heard throughout this process.”
Spears additionally thanked Victim Advocate Emilie Christenberry and Chief Paralegal Ashley Brewer for their support to the victims’ family and the prosecution team.
“Cases of this magnitude are never handled by prosecutors alone,” Spears said. “Without the work of Emilie Christenberry and Chief Paralegal Ashley Brewer, we could not provide families the support, closure, and justice they deserve. Their commitment behind the scenes is invaluable.”
The Cabell County Prosecutor’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Britney and Erma Brown. Nothing can bring them back, but we hope this brings closure.
As always, the Prosecutor’s Office thanks the jury for its service and careful consideration of the evidence presented during trial.
