POWHATAN COUNTY, Va. — The Powhatan County community is grieving the tragic and violent loss of Melissa Ann Seamster, a 52-year-old woman who was fatally stabbed during a domestic incident Saturday evening. Her death has left family members, friends, and neighbors in shock as they struggle to process a loss that unfolded suddenly and without warning.
According to the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a residence in the 2000 block of Red Lane Road at approximately 7:45 p.m. after a report of a domestic assault. When first responders arrived, they found Seamster suffering from severe stab wounds. Deputies immediately began life-saving measures, including CPR, in an effort to save her life. Despite those efforts, Seamster was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities later confirmed that the suspect in the case is Seamster’s son, 31-year-old Cody Travis Mulchi. Investigators have not released details about what led up to the stabbing, but confirmed the incident involved family members. The sudden nature of the violence has deeply shaken the quiet community, where many are now mourning the loss of a woman described as deeply loved.
A second victim, identified as an adult male, was also injured during the incident. Officials said he sustained serious injuries and was airlifted by MedFlight helicopter to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. As of the latest update, he remains hospitalized but is listed in stable condition and is expected to recover.
Following the stabbing, investigators say Mulchi left the scene and went to a neighboring residence. Deputies quickly located him, and a brief standoff followed before he was taken into custody without further incident. Mulchi was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and later released into law enforcement custody. He was subsequently booked into the Pamunkey Regional Jail, where he is being held without bond.
Mulchi now faces several serious charges, including second-degree murder, malicious wounding or stabbing with intent to maim or kill, and assault and battery of a family or household member. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say additional details will be released as they become available. As the legal process moves forward, the focus for many remains on honoring the life of Melissa Ann Seamster, whose death has left a painful void. Community members are being asked to keep her family and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
