Body Confirmed as Jenkins, Ruled Homicide

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Created on Monday, 30 July 2012 17:13
Written by Super User

Melissa JenkinsAROUND THE NEK - The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Steven Shapiro, has completed the autopsy of the body found on Comerford Dam Road in Barnet yesterday and identified it as 33 year old Melissa Jenkins.


The manner of death has been ruled a homicide but details are being withheld to protect the investigation.

 

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Ms. Jenkins and our thoughts are with her family and friends. We remain committed to solving this case and to identify and bring to justice the person or persons responsible for the death of Ms. Jenkins," said Criminal Division Commander Major Ed Ledo of the Vermont State Police.

Jenkins was reported missing after a friend had not heard from her since Sunday night. The friend went looking for Jenkins, and discovered her car, a  2006 silver Suzuki Grand Vitara on Goss Hollow Road in St. Johnsbury. The car's engine was found running with Jenkins' two year-old child still inside. Police have collected evidence that indicates a struggle occurred.

Police say that they are following numerous leads and are conducting multiple interviews. The Vermont State Police Crime Scene Search Team returned to Comerford Dam Road this morning, and have collected additional items of interest. They will continue the search for evidence through today and possibly into tomorrow.

Jenkins, who was not only a science teacher at St. Johnsbury Academy, but also a senior adviser as well as basketball coach, and a friend to many in the area.  Students who knew her such as Danna Cleverley describe Jenkins as a "good person" who was "always there for somebody to talk to. If you were having a hard day she was somebody that you could go to."

Anyone with information concerning this incident should call the Vermont State Police in St. Johnsbury at 802-748-3111. Police are also looking to speak with anyone who traveled on Goss Hollow road in St. Johnsbury on Sunday evening between the hours of approximately 7:00 PM and 11:30 PM, and along Comerford Dam Road in Barnet.