On July 16, 2020, 32-year-old Jessica Lashae Haynes of Alexandria, Alabama, was found deceased at a residence on Bellvue Road in the Saks community. The Calhoun County Coroner's Office confirmed that her death was the result of a murder-suicide. Haynes was discovered alongside Herschel Neill May III, who was identified as the perpetrator.
Jessica, a mother of three, was remembered by her family as a kind-hearted and loving individual who prioritized her family above all else.
She was described as a caregiver by profession who enjoyed helping people of all ages. A family member referred to the tragic event as an 'unnecessary' act of domestic violence.' Her life was cut short by gun violence, a fact lamented by those who knew her.
An Alexandria native and a devoted fan of the Valley Cubs, Jessica was known for her generosity and her infectious laugh. Her family described her as someone who would give to others even if it meant she had to go without. In the wake of her death, her family requested that donations be made to a local organization that supports victims of domestic violence. The investigation concluded that May was the suspect in Haynes's death, and with his own death at the scene, the case was closed.
