A Braxton County man, Daniel Marquis Craddock, 30 (right) has been charged with the first degree murder of Jason Brell Knight, 42, of Roane County, the murder happened in a remote area near Big Otter in Clay County.
The murder is among the most brutal and bloody that has happened in the region, the victim was shot once and stabbed 35 times.
Trooper R.E. Wiseman of the Clay County - West Virginia State Police Detachment, filed the report below in the case. He wrote a lengthy criminal complaint that defines the events connected to the brutal murder:
Trooper Wiseman identifies himself in the transcript as ("this officer")
On Saturday, March 13, 2021, at approximately 1814 hours, this officer was contacted by Clay County 911 Center. Clay County 911 Center advised this officer that a Anthony Jones Hamrick and a Justin Charles Hamrick had found a deceased person, thrown over an embankment, on Hansford Fork Rd. Wallback, WV 25285.
Clay County 911 Center advised this officer that Justin and Anthony Hamrick stated that the said deceased person appeared to have been beat up. Clay County 911 Center advised this officer that Anthony and Justin Hamrick would be waiting for this officer at a residence located at 4009 Hansford Fork Rd. Wallback, WV 25285.
On same date at approximately 1830 hours, this officer arrived at said residence. Justin and Anthony Hamrick then guided this officer to the location of said deceased person, approximately (1) one mile from the said residence.
Upon observation of said deceased person, this officer observed the said deceased person to be a white in color male and to be wearing white in color socks, tan in color "Crock" style Sandals, tan in color outer â pants, black in color inner â sweatpants, green in color coat and blue in color WVU Hoodie. This officer observed said body to be position parallel with Hansford Fork Roadway.
Upon further observation, this officer observed the body to appear to have multiple laceration and stab wounds, consistent with that of a knife wound. The said knife wounds appeared to be on the upper-back, upper-neck (into the bottom-hairline), right side of the torso and rib cage. This officer also observed with what appeared to be a gunshot wound on the left side upper torso of said body. All said wounds appeared to be through the said green in color coat and blue in color hoodie.
This officer then spoke with Justin and Anthony Hamrick. Justin and Hamrick advised this officer that they were riding their Side x Side on Hansford Fork Rd. at which time stopped on the edge of the road to use the bathroom. Justin and Anthony Hamrick advised this officer that they then observed a body laying face down over the embankment.
Anthony and Justin Hamrick then advised this officer that they then went to check to see if said person was okay. Anthony and Justin Hamrick then advised they rolled the said body over to his back at which time observed said person to be deceased. Justin and Anthony Hamrick advised this officer that they were unable to identify said subject but stated they possibly seen him walking on Hansford Fork Rd. before. Justin and Anthony Hamrick stated that they then immediately called 911. This officer received a written statement from Justin and Anthony Hamrick. This officer will attach said statements to filed report.
This officer then contacted Clay County 911 Center and advised them said body appeared to have multiple injuries, including stab and gun-shot wounds. This officer then advised Clay County 911 Center to contact the WVSP â Crime Scene Team to assist this officer in the processing of said scene. This officer further advised Clay County 911 Center to contact Scott Corder, Medical Examiner, to process said body.
On same day at approximately 2000 hours, Trooper J. M. Mack, Trooper J. Miller, Trooper First Class Z. Hartley, and Trooper First Class Strobbe arrived on scene to assist this officer with processing. This officer then instructed Trooper J. Miller to photographing and sketch of said crime scene. Trooper Strobbe then assisted this officer in the measurement of said crime scene. This officer will attach said photographs and crime scene sketch and measurement to filed report.
On Same day at approximately 2015 hours, the Medical Examiner, Scott Corder arrived on scene. Mr. Corder then began the examination of said body. Upon examination of said body Mr. Corder and this officer discovered a Food Stamp Card belonging to a Jason Brell Knight. This officer then confirmed the said deceased person to be Jason Brell Knight.
Upon further observation of said body, a black in color AT&T cell phone, belonging to Mr. Knight, was found. The said cell phone was discovered clutched in Mr. Knights left hand, that was located in his left coat pocket. This officer then seized said cell phone.
This officer also discovered a store receipt from the Dollar General in Wallback, belonging to Mr. Knight. The said receipt was date for Sunday, March 7. 2021, at approximately 1034 hours. The said receipt was for groceries purchased by Mr. Knight for a total of $ 97.55 in U.S. Currency.
Mr. Corder then advised this officer that he observed what appeared to be multiple stab wounds, possibly from two different size and or style knives on the body of Mr. Knight. Mr. Corder was unable to give an approximate time of death at this time, due to the fluctuation of weather and temperature. This officer will attach said Medical Examiner report to filed report upon receiving.
This officer then contacted Clay County 911 Center. This officer advised Clay County 911 Center to contact Clay County E.M.S. for transportation of Mr. Knight. This officer further advised Clay County 911 Center to Dispatch Clay County Fire Department to assist with the retrieval of Mr. Knight. Clay County E.M.S. then took possession of Mr. Knight and transported to the Chief Medical Examiners Office on Virginia Street, Charleston, WV.
On same day this officer began examining the messages on the victim, Jason Knight's, cell phone. This officer obtained Facebook messages off of said cell phone. Mr. Knight's last messages on said Facebook messages was to a Tracy Shane Johnson, Mr. Knight's ex-girlfriend. The said messages occurred on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at approximately 0014 hours. The said messages included Mr. Knight stating that he was coming down to Ms. Johnson's residence because all he had on was a pair of sweatpants and he was freezing to death.
On Sunday, March 14, 2021, at approximately 0149 hours, Trooper Mack and Trooper First Class Z. Hartley traveling to 274 Uler Rd. Newton, WV 25266, to deliver the death notification to Jason Knights parents, Sharlene and William Knight. Mr. and Mrs. Knight advised said Troopers that Jason Knights ex-girlfriend was a Tracy Shane Johnson and that they had recently broken up and could possibly be related to the murder of their son Jason Knight.
This officer had prior knowledge of Ms. Johnson's whereabouts due to Cpl. J. Ellis and this officer executing a search warrant on her residence, located at 18 Brentwood Lane, Ivydale, WV 25113, for a burglary investigation. The said burglary investigation involved Ms. Johnson and her current boy-friend Danielle Marquis Craddock.
On same day, at approximately 0200 hours, this officer traveled to said residence, located at 18 Brentwood Lane. Upon arrival this officer was met by a Matthew Allen Gill. Mr. Gill appeared to be removing the contents out of said residence. This officer then ask what Mr. Gill what he was doing in said residence. Mr. Gill advised this officer that Tracy Shane Johnson and Danielle Marquis Craddock had been renting the property and was evicted by the Landowner, Brent Boggs. Mr. Gill further advised this officer that Mr. Boggs hired him to clean up the residence to be rented out to a new residence.
This officer then asked Mr. Gill about the whereabouts of Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock. Mr. Gill advised this officer that he was not sure when they left said residence or where they could have gone. Mr. Gill further advised this officer that he works away out of state in Ohio and only comes back home on the weekend. Mr. Gill further advised this officer that he is also a renter for Mr. Boggs.
This officer then asked Mr. Gill if he knew Mr. Knight. Mr. Gill advised this officer that he did know Mr. Knight. This officer then advised Mr. Gill of the incident involving Mr. Knight and asked him the last time he had seen Mr. Knight. Mr. Gill advised this officer that he had not seen Mr. Knight for at least two weeks. This officer then asked Mr. Gill if he knew anyone that would want to hurt Mr. Knight or had any grudges against him.
Mr. Gill advised this officer that the only person he could think of killing Mr. Knight would possibly be his ex-girlfriend, Tracy Johnson. Mr. Gill stated that Ms. Johnson was "Out-There". Mr. Gill was unable to provide in further information at this time. This officer then left said residence in search of Tracy Johnson and Danielle Craddock.
On same day at approximately 0900 hours, this officer contacted the Dollar General in Wallback, WV, to inquire on the store receipt of Mr. Knight on Sunday, March 7, 2021, at approximately 1034 hours. One of the Managers of Dollar General in Wallback advised this officer that they would review their video surveillance.
The Manager at Dollar General advised this officer that in said video surveillance, they did observe Mr. Knight to indeed be the individual purchasing said items. The Manager of said store advised this officer that they were unsure of who he had left with after leaving the Dollar General. This officer will attach photographs of said receipt to filed report.
Upon returning to the WVSP â Clay Detachment, this officer learned from Mr. Knight's cellphone, that was seized from his body, that after leaving the Wallback Dollar General, he traveled to a Joshua Stutler's residence, located at 5497 Hansford Fork Rd. Wallback, WV 25285.
On same day, at approximately 1100 hours, this officer then began traveling to Joshua Stutler's residence in regard to Mr. Knight. Upon traveling to said residence this officer observed a white in color GMC Sierra bearing WV â 33Y335 with a black headache rack on the bed of the truck. This officer knew said truck to belong to a Danielle Craddock, due to previous encounters. The said truck was located at a residence, first driveway on right, on Summers Fork, off WV Route 36.
This officer then traveled to said residence. This officer was then met at the door by Mr. Craddock's grandparents. This officer then requested the whereabouts of Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock. Mr. Craddock's grandparents advised this officer that they were inside the residence.
This officer then spoke with Ms. Johnson. This officer asked Ms. Johnson when the last time she had seen Mr. Knight. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that she and Danielle Craddock had driven Mr. Knight to Joshua Stutler's residence approximately a week ago, from her previous residence, located at 18 Brentwood Lane. This officer then ask. Ms. Johnson if she knew if Jason had any enemies. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Knight had a lot of people that did not like him. Ms. Johnson was unable to provide any further information at this time.
This officer then asked Ms. Johnson if she could remember an exact date that she had seen Jason. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that she believed it to be on Tuesday, March 9th, 2021, at approximately 0000 hours. Ms. Johnson stated that Mr. Knight was outside of her house begging to come in. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that she and Mr. Craddock then drove Mr. Knight to Mr. Stutler's residence at approximately 0100 hours on same day.
This officer then spoke with Mr. Craddock. This officer then asked Mr. Craddock when the last time he had seen Jason Knight. Mr. Craddock stated, 'I don't know, a couple weeks ago I am not good with dates". This officer then asked Mr. Craddock if he was upset about Mr. Knight, Ms. Johnson's ex-boyfriend being around her. Mr. Craddock advised "no not really, I am not that way". This officer then asked Mr. Craddock what time a couple weeks ago he seen Mr. Knight. Mr. Craddock advised this officer "I don't know, I am not good with times". Mr. Craddock was unable to provide this officer with any further information.
On same day, at approximately 1210 hours, this officer arrived at Mr. Stutler's residence, on Hansford Fork Rd. Mr. Stutler advised this officer that on Sunday, March 7th, 2021, at approximately 1200 hours, Mr. Knight had been dropped off at his residence by a Elijah Melrath. Mr. Stutter advised this officer that Mr. Knight was at said residence until approximately 2200 hours, on same date. Mr. Stutter advised this officer that Mr. Melrath then returned to pick up Mr. Knight. Mr. Stutler advised this officer that he was unsure where Mr. Melrath took Mr. Knight to.
This officer then asked Mr. Stutter if there was anyone at the residence. at the time Mr. Knight was there to verify his statement. Mr. Stutter advised that Justin Truman was at the said residence on same date and Mr. Melrath lived in Calhoun County on Granny She Rd. This officer then spoke with Mr. Truman who stated that Mr. Knight had been at Mr. Stutler's residence and left with Mr. Melrath.
On same day, at approximately 1400 hours, this officer attempted to locate Elijah Zane Melrath. This officer was able to discover Mr. Melrath at a residence, located 719 Granny She Rd. Chloe, WV. This officer then inquired about when the last time Mr. Melrath had seen Mr. Knight.
Mr. Melrath advised this officer that on March 7. 2021, at approximately 2200 hours, he went to pick up Mr. Knight from Joshua Stutler's residence, located on Hansford Fork Rd. Mr. Melrath advised this officer that a Crystal Drake and Carla Phillips, Mr. Stutler's girlfriend, was there at this time also.
Mr. Melrath advised this officer that he then transported Mr. Knight to Ms. Johnson residence on Brentwood Lane. M. Melrath advised this officer that M. Knight was wearing a beanie, blue jeans and a dark in colored coat when he dropped Mr. Knight off to Ms. Johnson residence. Mr. Melrath was unable to provide this officer with any further information or the whereabouts of Carla Phillips at this time.
On Monday, March 15, 2021, at approximately 1100 hours, this officer, and Cpl. R. Cervera learned of the whereabouts of Ms. Phillips father, James Thurmon Cottrell. This aforementioned officer then traveled to Mr. Cottrell's residence in search of Ms. Phillips.
On same day the aforementioned officers then discovered Mr. Cottrell at a residence located at 11517 Duck Rd. Duck, WV 25113. This officer then inquired about the whereabouts of his daughter, Carla Phillips. Mr. Cottrell advised this officer that he had not seen Ms. Phillips in a couple weeks. Mr. Cottrell advised this officer that she was known to be in the Blue Knob area from time to time.
On same day at approximately 1230 hours, this officer traveled to Blue Knob in search of Carla Phillips and/or a blue Cavalier that was rumored Ms. Phillips owned. This officer then discovered the said blue in color Cavalier at residence, located at 95 Blue Knob Rd. Maysel, WV 25133.
This officer then asked Ms. Phillips when the last time she had seen Mr. Knight. Ms. Phillips advised this officer that on Sunday, March 7. 2021, she and Mr. Knight had been at Joshua Stutler's residence, located on Hansford Fork Rd.
On same day, at approximately 1300 hours, this officer spoke with Ms. Phillips again inquiring about Mr. Cobb and Mr. Cason. Ms. Phillips advised this officer that the only person with Mr. Melrath when he picked up Mr. Knight was Mr. Melrath's girlfriend, Mckenzie Jarvis.
On same day, at approximately 1400 hours, this officer spoke with Mr. Stutler again inquiring about Mr. Cobb and Mr. Cason. Mr. Stutter also advised this officer that the only person with Mr. Melrath when he picked up Mr. Knight was Mr. Melrath's girlfriend, Mckenzie Jarvis.
On same day, at approximately 1500 hours, this officer spoke with Mr. Melrath again inquiring about Mr. Cobb and Mr. Cason. Mr. Melrath further advised this officer that the only person with Mr. Melrath when he picked up Mr. Knight was Mr. Melrath's girlfriend, Mckenzie Jarvis. Mr. Melrath further stated that he did not even know who Mr. Cobb or Mr. Cason was.
Mr. Melrath further advised this officer that he was speaking with Mr. Craddock approximately a week ago at which time he stated that he had a handgun style firearm, that he kept in his truck. Mr. Melrath stated that Mr. Craddock then began bragging that he had recently been pulled over by the police and he had said firearm underneath his passenger seat the entire time. Through this officer's prior knowledge and Mr. Craddock's criminal history, knows Mr. Craddock to be a prohibited person. Mr. Craddock is a prohibited person, due to a Felony Conviction.
On same day, at approximately 1555 hours, this officer spoke again with Ms. Johnson. This officer once again asked Ms. Johnson when the last time she had seen or talked to Mr. Knight. Ms. Johnson once again advised this officer that Mr. Knight was begging to come in the house with her on Tuesday March 9th, 2021, at which time she let him inside.
Ms. Johnson advised that Mr. Knight then stayed at the residence for approximately (1) one hour. Ms. Johnson advised that Mr. Craddock and a Bobby Duffield were also present at the residence at this time. Ms. Johnson advised that Mr. Craddock and herself then transported Mr. Knight to Joshua Stutler's residence on Hansford Fork Rd.
The first time this officer spoke with Ms. Johnson she stated that upon entering her residence Mr. Craddock and herself immediately transported Mr. Knight to Mr. Stutler's residence. Ms. Johnson stated during this interview that Mr. Craddock and herself was with Mr. Knight for approximately (1) one hour before transportation. This officer obtained a written statement from Ms. Johnson. This officer will attach said statement to filed report.
This officer then asked Ms. Johnson if she would be willing to come in for further questioning regarding this incident. Ms. Johnson stated that she would. This officer then contacted CPL. M. Jarvis. CPL. M. Jarvis advised this officer that he would be available Tuesday, March 16th, at approximately 1400 hours.
This officer then advised Ms. Johnson of said date and time to come to the Detachment for further questioning. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that she understood and would be present.
This officer did not speak with Mr. Craddock at this time, due to Mr. Craddock's unwillingness to cooperate.
On same day, at approximately 1700 hours, this officer spoke with Mr. Melrath's girlfriend, Ms. Jarvis, who stated that Mr. Melrath and herself was the only people that picked up Mr. Knight and that there were no other people with them at any point in time. Ms. Jarvis further stated that she stayed in Mr. Melrath's vehicle the entire time while they were at Mr. Stutler's to pick up Mr. Knight.
On same day, at approximately 1900 hours, TPR. J. Mack advised this officer that TFC. Z. Hartley had initiated a traffic stop on Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock a couple weeks prior to this incident. TPR. J. Mack advised this officer that the said traffic stop was on Mr. Craddock's said GMC Sierra bearing WV-33Y335.
This officer then contacted TFC. Z. Hartley via telephone. This officer then asked TFC. Z. Hartley if he had initiated a traffic stop on Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock a couple week ago. TFC. Z. Hartley, at which time TFC Z. Hartley confirmed said traffic stop.
This officer then asked TFC. Z. Hartley if he observed any weapons or ammunition in Mr. Craddock's vehicle at the time of the traffic stop. TFC. Z. Hartley then advised this officer that he did observe, in plain view, 25 Auto ammunition. (The same ammunition that Mr. Knight was shot with). TFC. Z. Hartley then provided this officer with a typed statement of said incident. This officer will attach said statement to filed report.
On Tuesday, March 16., 2021, at approximately 1100 hours, this officer traveled past Ms. Johnson's residence. This officer observed Mr. Craddock's vehicle to be gone at this time.
On same day, at approximately 1400 hours, Ms. Johnson did not show up to the WVSP â Clay Detachment for further questioning. This officer and CPL. J. Ellis then traveled to Mr. Craddock's grandparents residence, located on Summers Fork Rd. This officer then spoke with the grandparents who stated that Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson had packed their bags this morning and left the residence in Mr. Craddock's truck.
Mr. Craddock's grandparents stated that they were unsure of where they were going to. Mr. Craddock's grandma then advised this officer that Mr. Craddock forgot his phone in her house. Mr. Craddock's grandma then handed Mr. Craddock's phone to this officer. This officer will type a search warrant for Mr. Craddock's phone in an attempt to gain information on Mr. Knights death.
On same day, at approximately 1500 hours, this officer was contacted at the WVSP - Clay Detachment by Ms. Johnson. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that she was not going to come in for further questioning and did not wish to speak with this officer. This officer observed said number that she called from to be like that of Mr. Craddock's grandparents.
This officer was then advised by CPL. J. Ellis that he recently worked a burglary investigation involving Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock. CPL. J. Ellis further advised this officer that he had warrants on them for Burglary and Conspiracy to commit a felony.
On same day, at approximately 1510 hours, this officer contacted the WVSP - Charleston Dispatch and advised them to place a BOLO in their system for Mr. Craddock's truck bearing WV - 33Y335. This officer further advised WVSP - Charleston Dispatch that Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson was murder suspects and possibly armed and dangerous.
At approximately 1520 hours, this officer and CPL J. Ellis traveled back to Mr. Craddock's grandparents. This officer then asked Mr. Craddock's grandparents if Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson had traveled back to the residence. Mr. Craddock's grandparents advised this officer they came back to their residence for a couple minutes and immediately left again. Mr. Craddock's grandparents advised this officer that we just missed them by a couple minutes, traveling on to Summers Fork Rd.
On same day, at approximately 1530 hours, this officer and CPL. Ellis began traveling on Summers Fork Rd. in an attempt to locate Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson. The aforementioned officers were then able to locate Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson.
This officer then transported Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock to the WVSP â Clay Detachment for processing. During the processing of Ms. Johnson, she stated that she would provide this officer with another statement.
CPL. M. Jarvis then spoke with Ms. Johnson. Ms. Johnson advised CPL. M. Jarvis that on Tuesday, March 9, at approximately 0000 hours, she had let Mr. Knight into her residence on 18 Brentwood Ln. Ivydale, WV 25113. Ms. Johnson advised CPL. M. Jarvis that a Bobby Duffield was also inside the residence when Mr. Knight was there. Ms. Johnson initially did not advise CPL. M. Jarvis that Mr. Craddock was also in the residence until asked.
Ms. Johnson further advised CPL. M. Jarvis that Mr. Craddock and herself then transported Mr. Knight to Mr. Stutler's residence on Hansford Fork Rd. Ms. Johnson advised CPL. M. Jarvis that they took Mr. Knight to said residence at approximately 0600 hours.
Ms. Johnson advised this officer in her first statement that she and Mr. Craddock immediately took Mr. Knight to Mr. Stutler's. Ms. Johnson advised ths officer in her second statement that she and M. Craddock transported Mr. Knight to Mr. Stutler's approximately (1) one hour after Mr. Knight's arrival. Ms. Johnson stated to CPL. M. Jarvis in the 3. interview that her and Mr. Craddock transported Mr. Knight approximately (6) six hours after his arrival.
Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock were the last persons known to be with the victim prior to his death. On March 5, 2021 Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson were observed by Tpr. Hartley to have in their possession .25 Auto ammunition when stopped in a traffic stop by Tpr. Hartley approximately one week prior to the victim's death.
The location of the victim's body was beside Hansford Fork Road which is a public road that Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock would have traveled from their residence to Josh Stutler's residence. Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson stated to this officer that they took the victim from their residence on Brentwood Lane to Josh Stutler's residence on Hansford Fork Road and would have traveled by the location where the victim's body was found.
Based upon this officer's observation of the victim's cell phone the victim was communicating with Ms. Johnson by Facebook messenger which is accessible by a cell phone. The victim and Ms. Johnson had recently broken off their relationship. Ms. Johnson was involved with Mr. Craddock in a romantic relationship during the last time the victim was seen by anyone alive, and it was reported to this officer that the victim, Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock were involved in a love triangle.
On Thursday, March 18., 2021, at approximately 1800 hours, this officer requested a WVSP - K-9 Unit to search to scene of the incident, in hopes of recovering the firearm used in the commission of the crime. Cpl. Whittington from the WVSP - Huntington Detachment then traveled to Hansford Fork Rd. to assist this officer with said firearm search. This officer and Cpl. Whittington was unsuccessful in discovering a firearm in said search.
On this same day, at approximately 2200 hours, this officer was advised by Mr. Stutler that he believes Bobby Duffield to be staying at a Brent Conley's residence, located in Big Otter, WV, across from Big Otter Elementary. Mr. Stutler advised this officer that said residence was a white two-story farmhouse. This officer was familiar with said residence.
On same day, this officer traveled to Mr. Conley's residence. Upon arriving at said residence this officer observed a white male, wearing a camouflage shirt, running in to the wood-line. This officer then searched the woods in an attempt to locate said individual to no avail.
On Friday, March 19, 2021, at approximately 1800 hours, this officer traveled to the Clay County Magistrate office in an attempt to gain a search warrant for Mr. Craddock's cell phone. This officer then presented Magistrate J. Rider with said search warrant. This officer was then granted a search warrant on Mr. Craddock's cell phone for any data related to Mr. Knights murder.
On same day, at approximately 1900 hours, this officer traveled back to Mr. Conley's residence in search of Mr. Duffield. Upon traveling to said residence this officer was met by a Brenda Lee Dennis. This officer then asked Ms. Dennis when the last time she had seen Bobby Duffield. Ms. Dennis advised this officer that it had been a day or two. This officer that asked Ms. Dennis what Mr. Duffield was wearing when she had seen him. Ms. Dennis advised this officer that he was dressed in camouflage.
This officer then asked Ms. Dennis if she had any knowledge on the murder of Mr. Knight. This officer then observed Ms. Dennis's look towards the ground and nod. This officer once again asked Ms. Dennis if she knew anything about Mr. Knights murder. Ms. Dennis then stated "Yes, I know who killed Mr. Knight".
This officer then asked Ms. Dennis if she would come to the
WVSP - Clay Detachment for further questioning. Ms. Dennis advised this officer that she would. This officer then traveled to the
WVSP - Clay Detachment with Ms. Dennis.
On same day, at approximately 2010 hours, this officer presented Ms. Dennis with WVSP - Form 79, Interview and Miranda Rights form. Ms. Dennis then initialed and signed said form, stating she wished to give this officer a statement.
Ms. Dennis then advised this officer that Mr. Duffield was giving her a ride home. Ms. Dennis then advised that Mr. Duffield stated that needed to tell her something that was weighing heavy on his mind and he needed to get it off his chest.
Mr. Duffield then advised Ms. Dennis that, prior to Mr. Knight's death, Mr. Craddock had asked Mr. Duffield to sharpen a knife for him. Mr. Duffield stated that when Mr. Craddock returned, he stated "The knife worked good". Mr. Duffield further advised Ms. Dennis that Mr. Craddock stated "We won't have to worry about Jason again, I took care of him".
This officer then asked Ms. Dennis if she ever knew Mr. Craddock to have any firearms. Ms. Dennis advised this officer that the only firearm she knew him to carry was a .25 Caliber Revolver with a brown handle. (Ms. Dennis had no prior knowledge that Mr. Knight had been shot with a .25 Caliber). This officer obtained a digitally recorded audio statement from Ms. Dennis. This officer will attach said audio statement to filed report.
Ms. Dennis further advised this officer that she believed Mr. Duffield to be staying in the Birch River area, at a residence, located approximately (1) one mile past Go-Mart on the left.. same day at approximately 2200 hours, this officer traveled to Birch River attempting to locate Mr. Duffield to no avail.
On Sunday, March 21, 2021, at approximately 1100 hours, this officer was advised that Mr. Duffield was currently at Ms. Dennis's residence, located in Big Otter, WV. This officer then traveled to said residence in search of Mr. Duffield.
Upon arrival this officer was met by a male subject who this officer knew to be Mr. Duffield, from prior encounters. This officer then as. Mr. Duffield if he would come to the WVSP - Clay Detachment for an interview. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that he would and that he was getting ready to come talk to this officer anyhow. This officer then traveled to the WVSP - Clay Detachment with Mr. Duffield.
On same day, at approximately 1245 hours, this officer presented Mr. Duffield with WVSP - Form 79, Interview and Miranda Rights form. Mr. Duffield initialed and signed said form stating that he wished to continue with said interview.
This officer then asked Mr. Duffield when he had last seen Mr. Knight. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that the last time he seen Mr. Knight was on Tuesday, March 9th 2021, at approximately 0100 hours at Ms. Johnson residence, located at 18 Brentwood Ln. Ivydale, WV 25113.
Mr. Duffield further advised, that on said date, at approximately 0000 hours, he was staying at Ms. Johnson residence at which time Mr. Knight knocked on Ms. Johnson's door. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that he then let Mr. Knight inside and got him something to eat. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that Mr. Knight then laid down on Ms. Johnson's couch.
Mr. Duffield further advised this officer that at approximately 0100 hours, Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson exited their bedroom and realized Mr. Knight was there. Mr. Craddock then became aggressive and advised Mr. Knight that he was going to leave immediately. Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson then left in Mr. Craddock's GMC Sierra with Mr. Knight.
Mr. Duffield advised this officer if he knew where Craddock and Ms. Johnson was taking Mr. Knight. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that he believed them to be taking Knight to Mr. Stutler's residence on Hansford Fork Rd.
This officer then asked Mr. Duffield when Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson returned to said residence. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that they were at least gone for 4 to 5 hours. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that it was approximately 0600 to 0700 hours, when Mr. Craddock and Ms. Johnson returned.
This officer then asked Mr. Duffield if Mr. Craddock and/or Ms. Johnson acted different or said anything to him that day. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that Mr. Craddock advised Mr. Duffield that Mr. Knight had recently stole money out of his duffel bag. Mr. Craddock further stated to Mr. Duffield "We won't have to worry about Jason stealing off of me or anyone else again, I took care of him"
Mr. Duffield further advised this officer that on Monday, March 8. 2021, Mr. Craddock had asked him to sharpen a Bowie styled knife for him. Mr. Duffield then sharpened said knife. Mr. Duffield advised this officer that when he sharpened said knife it was in new condition. Mr. Duffield further advised this officer that when he seen the knife again on Wednesday, March 10, it had a couple of chips on the back of the blade.
Mr. Duffield advised this officer that he believed said knife to be one of the weapons used to kill Mr. Knight. Mr. Duffield further advised this officer that he had said knife in his truck, due to an unknown individual taking said knife, at which time Mr. Duffield regained possession of Mr. Craddock's knife.
Mr. Duffield then presented this officer with Mr. Craddock's knife, a black in color Bowie style knife in a black duct taped sheath. This officer then took possession of said knife. This officer obtained a digitally recorded audio statement from Mr. Duffield, this officer will present said audio statement to filed report.
This officer then photographed said Bowie styled knife. This officer will place said knife in to the WVSP - Clay Evidence. This officer will transport said knife to the WVSP - Forensic Laboratory to test for the evidence of Mr. Knights DNA.
On March 22, 2021, at approximately 1600 hours, this officer, Sgt. J. Keffer and Cpl. M. Jarvis traveled to Central Regional Jail in Flatwoods, to further question Ms. Johnson. Upon arrival this officer spoke with Ms. Johnson and asked her if she wished to provide this officer with another statement. Ms. Johnson advised, yes that there was something she really needed speak to this officer about. The aforementioned officers then transported Ms. Johnson to the WVSP - Braxton Detachment.
Ms. Johnson then advised this officer that on Tuesday, March 9, 2021. at approximately 0000 hours, Mr. Knight was outside of her residence, located at 18 Brentwood Ln. Ivydale, WV 25113, begging to come inside because he was cold. Ms. Johnson advised that she then let Mr. Knight inside of her residence.
Ms. Johnson stated that at approximately 0200 hours, Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock advised Mr. Knight that he needed to leave immediately. Mr. Knight then asked Ms. Johnson and Mr. Craddock to take him to Mr. Stutter's residence on Hanford Fork Rd.
Ms. Johnson stated that Mr. Craddock, Mr. Knight and herself then got into Mr. Craddock's said GMC Sierra and began traveling to Mr. Stutler's. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Craddock stated that he had some drugs stashed over the hillside just a short way past Mr. Stutler's, on Hansford Fork Rd. Mr. Craddock then asked Mr. Knight to go over in the woods with him and help him find said drugs. Mr. Knight stated that he would help Mr. Craddock.
Mr. Craddock and Mr. Knight then exited the said vehicle and walked over the hillside in to the woods. Ms. Johnson stated that shortly after Mr. Craddock and Mr. Knight going into the wood-line she heard a gunshot. Ms. Johnson stated that Mr. Craddock returned alone a couple minutes later, out of breath.
Johnson then asked Mr. Craddock where Mr. Knight was. Mr. Craddock advised Ms. Johnson that he "beat rocks". Craddock further advised Ms. Johnson that Mr. Knight would not bother her ever again. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Craddock and herself then returned to her residence on Brentwood Ln.
Ms. Johnson advised this officer that upon returning to the residence, Mr. Craddock advised her that we won't have to worry about Mr. Knight stealing from us or anyone else again. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Craddock, upon returning to the residence, stated multiple times that "If you are not with me you are against me.
Ms. Johnson advised this officer that at this time she finally realized that Mr. Craddock had murdered Mr. Knight. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that she wanted to tell this officer what happen but knew Mr. Craddock would kill her if she said anything. Ms. Johnson further stated that she was terrified of Mr. Craddock and if he gets out of jail, she thinks he will kill her. Ms. Johnson further advised this officer that Mr. Craddock is a sociopath and cold blooded. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Craddock had no emotions whatsoever.
This officer then asked Ms. Johnson if there was a specific reason Mr. Craddock would want to harm Mr. Knight. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Craddock thought Mr. Knight stole $300.00 off him. Ms. Johnson advised this officer that Mr. Craddock advised that he "would get to the bottom" of Mr. Knight stealing his money.
This officer then asked Ms. Johnson if she knew Mr. Craddock to carry any weapons. Ms. Johnson advised that Mr. Craddock had a small pistol that he could fit in his pocket but was unsure of the caliber. Ms. Johnson further advised that Mr. Craddock had multiple knives but believed him to have a switch blade knife that day. Ms. Johnson further advised that after Mr. Craddock killing Mr. Knight, she never did see said switch blade knife again.
This officer obtained a digitally recorded audio statement from Ms. Johnson. This officer will attach said audio statement to filed report. All acts occurred in Clay County, WV.
| 
