Criminal charges reveal that Joshua Coleman allegedly admitted to murdering his wife.
The 30-year-old father confessed to shooting his 22-year-old wife, Mandy Coleman, in the head during an altercation last Tuesday at their home in Ridgway, Virginia. Reports indicate that he later confronted 68-year-old William Molly.
Initially, Coleman couldn’t locate Molly but eventually found another man outside upon returning home, where he also shot him, according to the affidavit.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office quickly identified Coleman as a suspect in the murder. Deputies expressed concern for the well-being of their two small children.
Authorities coordinated efforts to locate both the children and the suspect. Coleman was ultimately arrested during a traffic stop, where he was found armed with a handgun and an AR-15 rifle.
Fortunately, the two children were discovered safe and unharmed in the vehicle during the arrest.
Court documents reveal Coleman’s confession that he shot his wife during an argument about infidelity. The motive for targeting Molly remains unclear, as their connection to the Colemans wasn’t specified.
Coleman faces two counts of first-degree murder along with charges of child abuse. He is currently not in custody at the Henry County Adult Detention Center.
“It’s a heartbreaking and tragic situation that has deeply impacted both our families and our entire community,” remarked Sheriff Wayne Davis. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ loved ones during this incredibly challenging time.”
Ridgway, a small town in southwest Virginia, has a population of around 750 residents, located just north of the North Carolina border.
