In the small community of Bear Lake, Michigan, a tragedy unfolded on October 18, 2024, ending the life of 72-year-old Diane 'Jinx' Jenks. Authorities were called to a residence on the 13000 block of Lakeside Avenue in the early evening, around 6:05 pm, to investigate what was initially described as a suspicious incident. Upon arrival, police discovered the bodies of Diane Jenks and her 55-year-old son, Ernest Beatty.
Both individuals were found to have died from gunshot wounds in what
investigators later determined to be a murder-suicide. The Manistee County Sheriff's Office concluded that Ernest Beatty allegedly shot and killed his mother before taking his own life. The investigation into the circumstances that led to this tragic event is ongoing, and authorities have encouraged anyone with additional information to come forward.
Diane Jenks, who was born in Onaway, Michigan, in 1952, was a well-known and active member of her community. Having earned the nickname 'Jinx' for being born on Friday the 13th, she was remembered as the heart of her family, known for hosting large Thanksgiving gatherings. She had a long career as a cosmetologist, owning A Shear Class Experience until her retirement in 2021, and was also dedicated to helping others, working as a Spiritual Counselor for Hospice of Michigan. She continued this work independently through her Hedwig House Spiritual Center and was involved with the local chapter of P.R.I.D.E.
