Guilty Plea in Martinsburg Murder Case Sparks Community Response
El Salvadoran national enters guilty pleas in Jefferson County woman’s death
The Panhandle News Network | Tuesday, July 8, 2025
David Antonio Calderon, an El Salvadoran national, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and concealment of a deceased human body in the death of Samantha Dailey. Her body was discovered beneath a burning couch near Martinsburg in May 2024. The plea agreement, revealed in a Jefferson County Circuit Court session, indicates Calderon faces a life sentence with potential for parole after fifteen years as per the agreement outlined by Judge David Hammer. The case, which had connections to local law enforcement and family dynamics, sparked community interest, particularly as it highlighted issues surrounding immigration enforcement and criminal justice. Sentencing is set for July 23, with victim impact statements anticipated from Dailey’s family, who have been vocal about seeking a harsher penalty.