Emma Compton was born and raised in Virgina. She called the state home even in adulthood. Her right hand no matter the distance was her sister Shawna. Although older both Shawna and Emma shared the same birthday March 6, making their bond stronger. Emma married but when her husband tragically passed, she hoped to one day find love again. A local, Russell Layne came into her life. Russell and Emma married but over time their marriage deteriorated. They separated but neither moved out. Instead, Emma made her new living area in the basement of their home. Emma bought a local convenience store and felt independent. She worked from sunup to sundown, everyday greeting locals with the warmest smile. This is what Emma dreamed of a simple life in a small town.

On June 17, 2017, Emma closed the doors of her store and headed home. The following day she was supposed to visit her mother who was in the hospital. When Shawna received the news that Emma did not show up to visit their mother, she knew something was terribly wrong. Emma disappeared and her estranged husband Russell Layne denied knowing anything.

On November 22, 2017, hunters came upon a shallow grave containing human remains, less than a mile and bordering the property of Emma’s home. In January 2018 the remains were identified as Emma’s

Over the course of seven years Shawna has done anything she could to bring whoever took her baby sister away to justice. Although this is the most challenging situation, she has ever had to deal with she has remained strong for Emma.

On November 27, 2024, Russell Layne was arrested and charged with Emma’s murder. Although this is only the first step, this is a major first step. Shawna fought day in and day out to see the day Emma’s killer would be brought to justice.

Advocates that have supported Shawna rally around her to raise awareness about domestic violence.

“Maybe Emma can save a life or more or can give at least one person a reason to not look back” -Shawna

https://www.momsandmysteries.com/episodes/the-murder-of-emma-compton

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/virginia-emma-compton/id1532438222?i=1000677172034