VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — An Elizabeth City man, who was arrested in connection with the concealment of Martell Lamar’s body, now faces a murder charge.
Antwaine Branch, 35, was indicted Wednesday on several charges including second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
After additional evidence was presented to the Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney Office for prosecutorial review, direct indictments were secured and murder charges were brought forward against Lamar.
On Dec. 2, 2024, detectives with the Virginia Beach Police Department identified Branch as a suspect following human remains being discovered near Sandy Road in Elizabeth City. He was arrested on Jan. 25 and only charged with concealment of a dead body.
In addition to Branch, Ashley Walton was identified for involvement in the concealment of Lamar’s body. She was arrested on Nov. 19, 2024, and also charged with concealment of a dead body.