by Zebulon, NC – A tragic and disturbing case has emerged from Zebulon, North Carolina, where Wellington Delano Dickens III, a 38-year-old father, reportedly confessed to killing his four children over the course of several months. The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office revealed new details on October 29 about the timeline and circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking crime.
Authorities charged Dickens with four counts of murder following a 911 call made by the suspect on October 27, where he admitted to the killings. The discovery has left the local community and law enforcement officials searching for answers about what led to such a horrific act.
A Shocking Confession and Investigation Unfolds
On the night of October 27, Dickens called 911, declaring that he had killed four of his children and that their bodies were in the trunk of a vehicle in his garage. Deputies responded promptly to the rural Zebulon residence and found Dickens calmly waiting with his 3-year-old son alive inside the house.
The sheriff’s office reported an odor of decay at the scene and signs that someone attempted to clean up, painting a grim picture of the environment where the crimes occurred.
- Three biological children aged 6, 9, and 10.
- An 18-year-old stepchild whose body was also found in the car trunk.
- The children were homeschooled and lived in seclusion according to neighbors.
Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell stated, “There’s no reason for a father to murder his children,” underscoring the unfathomable nature of the case.
Timeline Reveals Months of Tragedy
While arrest warrants initially indicated the children died on May 1, further investigation revealed that their deaths were spread out over several months:
- Leah Dickens, 6, reportedly killed in May 2024.
- Zoe Dickens, 9, died in August 2024.
- Wellington Dickens, 10, passed away in late August or early September.
- Sean Brasfield, 18, the stepchild, died in September 2024.
The North Carolina Bureau of Investigation and the state Medical Examiner’s Office are assisting with autopsies and the overall investigation.
Life Behind Closed Doors: Isolation and Loss
Neighbors described the family as very secluded, with little to no visible activity outside the home. The children were homeschooled and reportedly confined to the house, while Dickens’ extended family was not permitted to visit.
Authorities also noted that Dickens’ wife, Stephanie Rae Jones Dickens, passed away suddenly in April 2024 due to complications from a miscarriage, a tragic loss that deeply impacted the family.
Sheriff Bizzell recounted the sorrowful event: “She was three months pregnant and experienced excessive bleeding but refused medical treatment. Her death was ruled natural, but the trauma to the family is undeniable.”
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The discovery shocked the local Zebulon community and initiated a comprehensive investigation involving multiple agencies. Officials canvassed the neighborhood and are continuing to gather information as they seek to understand the motives behind these killings.
According to Dickens’ great uncle, Charles Moore, who spoke to WRAL-TV, Dickens was an Iraq War veteran and seemed well the last time they met a year ago.
For further details and updates on this case, visit USA TODAY’s report.
What Happens Next?
Dickens remains held without bond as legal proceedings continue, with his next court appearance scheduled for November 13, 2025. Authorities have not yet identified a motive, and additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation unfolds.
Remembering the Children and Raising Awareness
This case highlights the critical importance of community vigilance and support systems for vulnerable families. The unimaginable conditions reported by neighbors underscore the need to address isolation and provide assistance where needed.
Key takeaways:
- Early intervention can be crucial in preventing domestic tragedies.
- Awareness about mental health and family support resources must be increased.
- Communities should remain attentive to signs of isolation and distress.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about this tragic discovery? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help spread awareness about the signs that might prevent such devastating events.
