Desmond Myles Jenkins, an 18-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on August 9, 2019, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Desmond was a recent graduate of Sanderson High School and was set to attend Vance-Granville Community College to play basketball. He was known for his infectious smile and positive spirit, which left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
On the night of August 9, 2019, Desmond was found with a gunshot wound in the 9400 block of Prince George Lane,
Raleigh. He was taken to WakeMed, where he succumbed to his injuries. The investigation into his death revealed that Desmond was not the intended target of the shooting. The perpetrators were seeking someone they believed had previously robbed them, but Desmond had no connection to the incident.
The investigation led to the arrest of two individuals: Elijah Umelo, 18, and Roland Lacure, 44. Both were charged with first-degree murder in connection with Desmond's death. The trial concluded with both men being found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Superior Court Judge Keith Gregory emphasized the gravity of their actions by ordering that they not be allowed to take educational or vocational classes for the first 22 years of their sentences, a period that would have marked Desmond's 22nd birthday.
Desmond's family and friends were deeply affected by his untimely death. His mother, Sherri Jenkins, expressed her heartbreak over losing her only son, while his grandmother, Gwen Tyree, spoke about their last conversation, which centered around faith. The community mourned the loss of a young man who had a bright future ahead of him and who had touched the lives of many with his kindness and enthusiasm.
