Wayne Carroll Key Jr., Sentenced to Life in Prison for Double Homicide of Mother and Child

Police – Accident – Death – Obituary News : Wayne Carroll Key, Jr., 44, was recently sentenced to life without parole for the double homicide of a six-year-old child and her mother. The sentencing was announced by State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling, who described the defendant’s actions as “vicious and senseless.” The court heard that after murdering the child’s mother, Key realized that the child had witnessed the crime and deliberately killed her as well.

The trial, which lasted eight days, resulted in Key’s conviction for first-degree murder. Over 200 pieces of evidence were presented, and more than 40 witnesses testified. The prosecution called four expert witnesses, including experts in DNA, cell phone mapping, microscopy, and forensic medicine.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling expressed her condolences to the family of the victims and acknowledged that nothing could ever bring them back. However, she hoped that the convictions would provide some measure of closure and allow the family to begin the healing process. Sterling also commended the jury for their professionalism and thanked the police officers, crime lab technicians, and other agencies involved in the investigation and trial.

Key will remain in custody without bond pending his sentencing. The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

In a previous update, it was reported that Key had been taken into police custody. The victims of the double homicide were identified as Martina Lynn Patterson, 37, and her six-year-old daughter, Lyneasha Justice Greenwell. A warrant had been issued for Key on charges of first-degree and second-degree murder, as well as assault.

The initial report of the double homicide stated that the bodies were found in the woods near the Colony Square Water Station in Lexington Park. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and launched an investigation. Key, who was identified as a person of interest, was also wanted on prior warrants for burglary, assault, harassment, and child support.

Anyone with information on Key’s whereabouts was urged to contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

Updates on the case will be provided as they become available..