A North Carolina man walked free from prison only to allegedly commit a horrific crime days later. Da’ron Donta Jenkins, 25, is accused of shooting and killing his mother, Dana Vanessa Jenkins, and his 15-year-old brother, Daryn Cox, less than a week after his release. The killings took place in their family home in Wilson, leaving a community stunned and grieving.
Da’ron had spent over three years in prison for crimes like larceny of firearms, breaking and entering, and malicious conduct by a prisoner. He was released on March 25, 2025. His mother, Dana, couldn’t hide her excitement. She posted on Facebook that day, saying,
“MY BABY IS HOME!! LORD I THX U!!”
Her words showed how much she looked forward to having her son back. Sadly, that joy didn’t last long.
On March 31, police found Dana, 50, and Daryn dead at their home on Snowden Drive. Authorities say Da’ron shot them both. Investigators are still working to figure out why this happened. A family member mentioned that Da’ron had been acting strange since coming home, but no clear reason for the violence has emerged yet. The sudden loss of Dana and Daryn has hit their loved ones and neighbors hard.
Dana was known as a caring mom who loved her family deeply. Her cousin, Juanilla Kornegay, said Dana always made sure Da’ron went to church, even if he was still in his pajamas. Daryn, a freshman at Beddingfield High School, was active at Mount Moriah Community Church. He played music there and helped with the media team. People described him as a happy, respectful teen with a bright smile.
Da’ron didn’t stay free for long. Police arrested him soon after the shootings. He now faces two counts of first-degree murder and sits in Wilson County jail with no chance of bail. His first court date was April 1, 2025. The legal process is just beginning, but the pain for those left behind is already overwhelming.
The community in Wilson, North Carolina is reeling from this tragedy. Bishop Sherman Blandon, who leads Mount Moriah Community Church, said Daryn’s cheerful spirit lit up any room. The church posted on Instagram about their sorrow, showing how much Daryn meant to them. Friends and family are struggling to make sense of how a homecoming turned into such a nightmare.
This devastating case has left a family broken and a community searching for answers. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on remembering Dana and Daryn for the love and light they brought to those around them.
