Britney Anderson Watson, 34, was reported missing in early January 2023 after her truck was found abandoned with a flat tire off Exit 52 near Whiteville, Tennessee. The investigation quickly turned to her ex-husband, Kevin Watson, whose truck was found deserted in the Big Eddy area with a note suggesting he might be armed and suicidal.

Police say Kevin confronted Britney and a male companion at a hotel near Interstate 40 on the morning of January 7; he was reportedly armed during that encounter. Friends and family later described a history of domestic conflict and threats, including alleged statements that he would kill Britney if he found her with another man.

On January 20, after Kevin’s apprehension, investigators located Britney’s body buried six feet underground inside a barrel at his residence on Hillville Loop. An autopsy reportedly showed a single gunshot wound to the head. Kevin was charged with first-degree murder; bond was denied and prosecutors filed notice of intent to seek the death penalty. The couple’s children are in the care of family members.

If anyone knew Britney’s movements around January 7 or has information about the hotel confrontation, please come forward.