NITRO, WEST VIRGINIA — A tragic and shocking incident has left the Nitro community grieving after a Walmart employee was found shot to death inside her vehicle during a work break. Authorities have confirmed an arrest in the case, which is now being treated as a homicide.

The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Misty Rose Williams. According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, Williams had stepped away from her duties at the store for a routine break but failed to return, raising concern among her coworkers.

Concerned colleagues went to check on her and made a heartbreaking discovery. Williams was found slumped over inside her parked car in the store’s parking lot. Deputies say she had suffered an apparent gunshot wound. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators immediately began working to determine what had happened. Surveillance footage from the area was reviewed, and through that process, authorities identified 54-year-old Eric Dewayne Richmond as a suspect. Officials confirmed that Richmond and Williams shared children together, suggesting a prior personal relationship.

Richmond has since been taken into custody and formally charged with first-degree murder. Authorities have stated that he is expected to appear in court as the legal process continues. Officials also reminded the public that, under the law, Richmond is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

As the investigation continues in Nitro, West Virginia, detectives are working to gather more details about the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities say the incident appears to be isolated and have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of Williams, remembering her as a coworker and mother whose life was taken too soon.