Powhatan, Virginia — A quiet stretch of Red Lane Road turned into a tragic scene late Saturday evening when a 52‑year‑old woman was found fatally stabbed and another adult was left seriously wounded. The victim, identified as Melissa Ann Seamster, was discovered with severe stab wounds at about 7:45 p.m. after deputies from the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office were called to a reported domestic assault at a home in the 2000 block of Red Lane Road. Officers began CPR on her immediately, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the chaotic moments that followed, a second victim, an adult man, was also found injured. He was flown by medical helicopter to a nearby hospital, where officials later confirmed he was in stable condition. The sheriff’s office has not disclosed details about his identity or his connection to the suspect, citing privacy and the ongoing investigation.
Minutes after the stabbing, deputies tracked the suspect, 31‑year‑old Cody Travis Mulchi, to a nearby residence. A brief standoff unfolded before Mulchi was taken into custody without further violence. He was first taken to a local hospital for evaluation, then booked into the Pamunkey Regional Jail without bond.
Investigators have released that Mulchi now faces serious charges tied to the incident, including second‑degree murder, malicious wounding with the intent to maim or kill, and assault and battery of a family or household member. Those charges reflect the violent nature of the attack and the loss of Seamster’s life.
Family members and neighbors described Seamster as a devoted mom and a fixture in the community, someone who was quiet but kind. Her sudden death has sent a wave of shock and sadness through the otherwise peaceful rural county.
Authorities say this remains an active investigation, and they urged anyone with information to come forward to help fill in the gaps of what led up to the night’s horrific events. There has been no indication of danger to the wider community, but residents are still reeling from the news.
The Pamunkey Regional Jail will hold Mulchi as the case moves through the court system. Prosecutors have yet to set a trial date, but the charges reflect the seriousness with which officials are treating the case.
