Four suspects accused in the murder of an 18-year-old Virginia resident are now facing charges in a second homicide after DNA analysis identified the remains of a woman who had been missing for over three months. Authorities announced this month that Rashad Antonio Mayfield, 21, Devonti Gregory Pettaway, 19, Jaden Lamont Phillips, 20, and Kennady Jade Lambert, 18, have each been charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and use of a firearm in the commission of murder in the death of Helen Marie Pullen Banks, 56.
All four suspects were already in custody without bond after being charged in the death of 18-year-old Jayden McComber. Investigators stated early in the case that they suspected the two homicide investigations were linked. McComber disappeared on March 27, the same day Banks' remains were discovered on private property in Caroline County. His vehicle was recovered the following day in Virginia Beach. Investigators processed the vehicle and uncovered leads that helped them locate McComber’s remains on March 31 in a pond near the Caroline County line.
Investigation Details
During a search of a Henrico County residence on April 2, investigators recovered personal belongings believed to have been in McComber’s possession. Mayfield was arrested during a traffic stop while authorities searched the residence, and a handgun was seized from his person, though its link to either homicide has not been disclosed. Pettaway, Phillips, and Lambert were arrested simultaneously at an apartment in Henrico. The Caroline County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the U.S. Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force during these arrests.
Forensic Evidence
Ballistic testing, conducted with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, provided forensic evidence linking the two murders. Authorities stated that both Banks and McComber knew at least one of the suspects prior to their deaths. However, investigators have found no evidence of prior conflict or disputes between the victims and the suspects, describing the acts as premeditated and deliberate. The motive for the killings and whether Banks and McComber knew each other have not been disclosed.
Identification of Victim
Banks' identity was confirmed on July 7 through “extensive and complex DNA analysis.” Investigators notified her family the same evening. Sheriff Scott Moser described the case as complex and difficult, praising the relentless work of investigators. He stated that while no announcement can ease the pain of loss, the identification of Helen Marie Pullen Banks offers some measure of answers to her loved ones. Banks, originally from Charlottesville and residing in Rixeyville, is survived by five children, her mother, two siblings, 10 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Her family described her as a daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
McComber's family also created a GoFundMe after his death, detailing the week-long search as a nightmare. They remembered Jayden as a deeply loved individual with a big heart who frequently expressed his love for his family.
The investigation remains active, involving the Caroline County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF. Authorities confirmed they are not searching for additional suspects.