A man has been charged with the murders of his mother and brother on Monday night, March 31, in Wilson, just days after his release from prison, according to police reports.
Da’ron Donta Jenkins, 25, of Wilson, faces two counts of first-degree murder following the incident, which occurred at 5:30 PM in the 1700 block of Snowden Drive. Officers initially responded to what was described as an “unknown type call” and discovered two victims at the scene.
The deceased have been identified as 50-year-old Dana Vanessa Jenkins, the suspect’s mother, and her 15-year-old son, Daryn Cox.
Just a few days prior, on March 25, Dana had celebrated her son’s release from prison on Facebook, posting, “MY BABY HOME!! MY MF BABY!! MY BABY IS HOME!! LORD I THK U!!”
Dana often expressed her love for Da’ron on social media. In a past post from 202, when Da’ron voiced feelings of not being loved, Dana responded with a reassuring message, affirming her unconditional love for him.
Da’ron Jenkins is currently held at the Wilson County Jail without bond and made his first court appearance on Tuesday, April 1.
Both Dana and Daryn were remembered fondly by their local community. Bishop Sherman Blandon of Mount Moriah Community Church remarked on their infectious joy, stating, “Their smiles would light up a room.”
Daryn was a student at Beddingfield High School, where additional counselors were made available to support students and staff in the aftermath of the tragedy. A spokesperson for the school district commented, “Please keep the family in your thoughts, as well as the Beddingfield community, during this difficult time.”
The church plans to hold a youth service on Wednesday to pray for the victims. Bishop Blandon added, “They loved each other. They loved us. We loved them. Daryn meant the world to all of us. Our teens are grieving heavily, along with his school colleagues and teachers. It’s a very difficult situation.”
Daryn was an active member of the church, attending every Sunday where he played music and served on the media team.
The Wilson Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Dana and Daryn Jenkins.
