On October 4, 2024, 23-year-old MaryJayne Collins was found dead in her Seabrook, Texas apartment, having suffered blunt force trauma and a stab wound. Her two young children were present but unharmed.
Investigations revealed that Collins had been in a relationship with 22-year-old Dawayland Earnest Hurst since June 2024. Hurst's half-brother, Diajwan Triplett, was killed by Michael King in 2020; King, who was convicted for Triplett's murder, is the father of one of Collins' children. Authorities believe Hurst initiated a relationship with Collins to avenge his half-brother's death.
In the days leading up to her death, Collins confided in friends about Hurst's abusive behavior, displaying injuries she attributed to him. On the morning of her murder, Hurst participated in a video call with King, who was incarcerated at the time. During the call, Hurst allegedly taunted King and slapped his own child, actions that were recorded and shared with others.
Following the murder, a warrant was issued for Hurst's arrest. He was apprehended on October 28, 2024, in Texas City during a coordinated operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies. Hurst faces multiple charges, including homicide, and remains in custody at the Galveston County Jail.
Authorities assert that Hurst's actions were driven by a desire for revenge against King, leading him to befriend, abuse, and ultimately murder Collins. The case underscores the tragic consequences of retaliatory violence and its devastating impact on families.
