AMHERST COUNTY, Va. — A jury has convicted Frederick Wiggington of first-degree murder in connection with the death of his wife, Elsie Wiggington. The decision came swiftly, with jurors deliberating for slightly over an hour before reaching a verdict.
Elsie Wiggington mysteriously vanished in June 2023, with her remains found more than a year later under a concrete slab. The verdict brought a sense of relief to her family, though the trial’s emotional weight was palpable.
James Knight, Elsie’s brother, expressed mixed feelings, saying, “It hurts, but in the end, there is joy as well.” His sister, Mary Jordan, emphasized the necessity of the evidence presented during the trial: “Whatever is needed for justice for my sister makes us very happy.”
Tracey Coleman, Elsie’s foster sister, described the outcome as “bittersweet,” particularly concerning the impact on the children who lost their mother. “My niece and nephew, they lost their mom,” she remarked, highlighting the lasting consequences of the tragedy.
Throughout the proceedings, members of the family noted Frederick Wiggington’s lack of remorse, which added to their pain. Jordan pointed out his consistent smiling demeanor in court, while Coleman revealed her hope for a moment of regret that never materialized. “There was nothing,” she said. “And so that hurt my soul.”
The family expressed gratitude toward law enforcement and the prosecution for their roles in the case. Coleman praised the sheriff’s office for its diligent pursuit of justice, as well as the Commonwealth’s Attorney for delivering an impactful closing statement during the trial.
Defense attorneys argued that the prosecution had not provided sufficient evidence to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Frederick Wiggington was guilty. His defense raised concerns about ambiguities in the evidence, questioning the absence of forensic links to the crime and the credibility of the witnesses presented by the prosecution.
In contrast, the prosecution laid out a narrative that depicted Wiggington as a manipulative figure who misled authorities about Elsie’s whereabouts after her disappearance. They underscored his admission of guilt to a fellow inmate, asserting that the inmate possessed details only known to law enforcement. The prosecution also claimed to have recovered the weapon used in Elsie’s murder.
For the conviction of first-degree murder, the jury needed to ascertain that Wiggington’s actions were intentional, willful, and premeditated.
Sentencing for Frederick Wiggington is scheduled for July 30. Family members indicated they are bracing themselves for the forthcoming legal proceedings related to Elsie’s death. They are committed to seeking justice for their beloved sister, determined to honor her memory as they navigate the challenges ahead.