All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Trial begins in case of woman accused of attempting to solicit a man to kill her husband

Judge Kurt Hall talks with attorneys from the defense and prosecution.

BUCKHANNON – The trial of a woman charged with solicitation of murder began Tuesday in Upshur County Circuit Court.

Jaymie Wright was indicted in January 2022 and faces one count of solicitation of murder for allegedly attempting to have someone kill her husband.

The case was previously delayed and three of the four felony charges were dropped. The trial on the single remaining charge commenced April 18 at the Upshur County Courthouse, where special prosecuting attorney Savannah Wilkins laid out her opening arguments.

“You’re going hear from six witnesses on behalf of the state today,” Wilkins said. “This case is basically about the relationship between Jaymie, the defendant, and her husband Zech, the alleged victim.”

Wilkins also clarified the definition of solicitation of murder for the jury, which she said is when “a person intentionally and willfully knowingly instigates or induces another to commit an act of violence against a third person, a felony crime of violence.”

Wilkins outlined the witnesses that would be testifying on behalf of the state, including Brandon Daff, the person Wright allegedly asked to shoot her husband.

“I expect him to testify that Jaymie Wright provided him a firearm that belonged to her husband Zech and asked Brandon to kill Zech and make it look like a suicide,” Wilkins said.

She told the jury they would also hear from Michelle Tomey, a friend of Jaymie’s who was previously in a relationship with Brandon Daff.

“You’re going to hear about her observations throughout this time period,” Wilkins said. “She’s going to tell you that she was aware of this plan and that she saw a firearm that was provided to Brandon Daff.”

Jerry Daff, the father of Brandon Daff, would also be called to testify to the location of the firearm after it was allegedly given to Brandon Daff.

“The firearm was then taken to Jerry Daff, who put it in a safe so it wouldn’t be in the wrong hands, and nothing would happen to it,” Wilkins said.  

Other state witnesses included the alleged victim, Zech Wright; his mother, Roberta Grey; and Special Agent Steve Worthy with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The defense also presented opening arguments Tuesday, saying the case essentially comes down to the testimony of one person. Defense attorney Tom Dyer asked the jury to pay close attention during the proceedings, particularly to Daff’s testimony.

“I’m confident when you listen to the evidence, you’re going to discover there’s not a lick of truth to the story this first young man is going to tell you,” Dyer said. “I’m here to ask you to pay close attention; the information you’re going to hear is rather random and disjointed.”

He also asked the jury to keep an open mind about the case.

“The very first witness is going to be what this case is all about, a young man named Brandon, he’s going to tell you a story, and that’s the state’s entire case.”

The state rested its case after presenting all its witnesses April 18, and the defense will make its case beginning April 19. More information will be available as the trial continues.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.

BCT to light up the stage with Mamma Mia starting this weekend

Buckhannon Community Theatre will present the musical Mamma Mia! at the Colonial Arts Center starting July 12, featuring ABBA hits, lively performances, and a cast assembled from across the region.

St. Joseph’s Hospital supports healthy habits with mile-long midday walks

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has launched a noon walk initiative, inviting staff and community members to join daily one-mile walks to promote physical activity and improve health outcomes.

John Paul Ingram

John Paul Ingram, 83, a beloved Buckhannon resident, ordained minister, and avid outdoorsman who shared his faith and kindness with many, died July 6, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Wesleyan finishes seventh in MEC Commissioners Cup standings

West Virginia Wesleyan finished seventh in the 2024-25 Mountain East Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings, while the University of Charleston captured its eighth consecutive and tenth overall title for all-around athletic excellence.