Donna Jenks Obituary, Death – Authorities have confirmed the identities of two of the victims in a recent multi-county homicide case in Idaho. Kelly and Donna Jenks were found murdered at their home in Burley on Tuesday, July 8. The couple’s deaths are part of a broader investigation involving four homicides across different counties.
Kelly and Donna are survived by their daughter, Jerica Harper, her husband Alex, and their young daughter, Adalee. In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page was created to assist the family with funeral expenses and other unexpected costs. As of the latest update, the campaign had raised nearly \$10,000. The fundraiser describes Kelly and Donna as warm, caring individuals who were not only devoted parents and grandparents but also deeply valued members of their community. Jerica and Alex were described as extremely close to the couple, making the loss even more devastating.
In addition to the murders of Kelly and Donna, two more people were killed the same day in nearby locations. Investigators believe all four deaths are connected. The case quickly developed into a multi-county investigation, involving law enforcement agencies from Cassia, Minidoka, and Rupert.
The chain of events began Tuesday afternoon when first responders in Rupert were called to check on a possibly deceased woman. Upon arrival, authorities found circumstances that raised immediate suspicion, prompting a homicide investigation. Later that day, the bodies of Kelly and Donna were discovered in their Cassia County residence. A fourth victim was located inside a vehicle in Minidoka County. Authorities have not yet released the names of the individuals found in Rupert and Minidoka.
Police arrested 56-year-old Benjamin Naylor of Burley in connection with the killings. He appeared in court on Wednesday, where he was formally charged with four counts of first-degree murder. Officials have not yet provided a motive, and the investigation remains active as they continue to gather evidence and piece together the timeline of events.
This series of tragic incidents has shaken the local communities, with residents mourning the loss of the Jenks couple and others affected. Authorities are working diligently to ensure justice is served and to support the families during this difficult time.