FAYETTEVILLE, W.Va. — Three men tied to a double murder and arson case from five years ago were sentenced for their crimes in Fayette County Circuit Court.
A judge gave Brian Willis, 32, two consecutive life terms without parole. He was convicted on two counts of first-degree murder, one count of first degree arson, and conspiracy to commit murder and arson.
Charles Gill, 24, was given 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of voluntary manslaughter and second degree arson. Everett Gill, 57, was sentenced to one to five years in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy.
All three were involved in the 2016 murders of Steven Skaggs and Stephanie Watters. The two were found in the ashes of a burned out home in the Fayette County community of Victor in 2016. Autopsy results showed both had been killed by gunshot wounds to the head.
Deputies in an 18 month investigation discovered all three men were involved in lengthy discussions and planning for weeks leading up to the crime to kill Skaggs. Investigators say the motive was jealousy, revenge over theft, disputes over drugs and drug money, and assertions Skaggs and Watters were police informants.
The murders happened days before the fire and authorities were able to prove the fire was set to the home to conceal evidence in the case.
Willis was already serving a prison sentence for his convictions for attempted robbery and murder of two other men in 2017. His life sentences will begin after he completes his prior sentences.