WAGONER, Okla. — Authorities in Wagoner County are investigating a suspicious death after the body of 23-year-old Cheyann Anderson was discovered on her front porch with severe injuries early Thursday morning in the Whitehorn Cove area.
Anderson, a mother to a two-year-old daughter, was found by deputies after a 911 call reported a woman who was unconscious at the residence. Upon arrival, authorities found Anderson dead on the porch, covered in severe injuries. Investigators determined that Anderson had been beaten with a wooden bat and tased before her death.
Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliott stated that while the cause of death has not been confirmed, evidence inside Anderson’s home strongly suggests that the injuries played a major role in her death. A final determination will be made after the medical examiner’s report is completed.
Sheriff Elliott emphasized the tragic nature of the crime, stating, “She was only 23 years old, and for her to die like she did, it is just very, very tragic.” Authorities believe Anderson’s death is likely a homicide, but the investigation is ongoing.
Arrests Made in Connection to Death
Anderson’s roommates, Christopher Zwirtz and Roberta Slagle, have both been arrested on assault charges. Slagle has admitted to tasing Anderson during an altercation, while investigators say the evidence found at the scene confirms that Anderson was beaten with a wooden bat. Both suspects remain in custody at the Wagoner County Jail.
Remembering Cheyann Anderson
Cheyann’s family is devastated by her loss. Her grandmother shared that Anderson was a happy, loving person who came from a great family, but unfortunately, had “evil people living with her.”
Cheyann’s mother, in a heartfelt message, described her daughter as someone who loved life, her family, and her daughter above all. Born on June 12, 2002, in St. Mary’s, Maryland, Anderson graduated from Porter High School and worked at McDonald’s as a cashier and server, where she found joy in helping others. Cheyann had a love for the outdoors, including horseback riding, hunting, and fishing, and cherished her role as a mother.
Her family remembers Cheyann as kind-hearted, with a deep love for animals, nature, and her family, and as someone who brought joy to the simple moments of life.
Investigation Ongoing
Both Slagle and Zwirtz are facing assault charges, and investigators are continuing to gather evidence, including interviews with witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage. The case remains under active investigation as authorities work to determine the exact cause of Anderson’s death.
Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office.
