ZEBULON, N.C. (AP) — A North Carolina man, Wellington Delano Dickens III, was charged Tuesday with four counts of murder after he confessed to authorities about killing his children. Following the call to 911, deputies discovered human remains in the trunk of a vehicle parked in his garage.
Dickens, 38, is currently being held without bond in Johnston County Jail. Court records indicate he was first charged in connection with the death of one of his children earlier that day, with three additional murder counts added later.
During the 911 call on Monday evening, Dickens informed the operator of the horrific acts. Upon arrival, deputies found Dickens’ 3-year-old son unharmed inside the residence, located about 25 miles east of Raleigh.
Investigators described the discovery of “multiple bodies” in the trunk, asserting that the remains had been present for an extended period. The sheriff's office believes the victims were killed on May 1.
According to arrest warrants, the victims include Dickens' three biological children, aged 6, 9, and 10, and his 18-year-old stepchild. While three of the victims are confirmed, one warrant did not disclose the date of birth for the fourth victim.
Investigators are continuing their work, with Dickens' court appearance set to secure him legal representation. Court records reveal that Dickens’ wife, who passed away in April 2024, left behind five children, highlighting the significant personal losses he encountered in recent years, including his father's death in a car accident the previous year.
This heart-wrenching incident has left the community in shock, with neighbors expressing disbelief over the tragedy. Some recalled seeing the children in the neighborhood, noting that their absence in recent times went unnoticed until the tragedy was revealed.
Zebulon, once known for its tobacco market, is evolving into a suburban community within the Raleigh-Durham area, raising concerns about the social support available to families dealing with difficult circumstances.
