Four Virginia residents have been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Helen Marie Pullen Banks, whose remains were discovered in March and identified in July through DNA analysis. The suspects, Rashad Antonio Mayfield, 21, Devonti Gregory Pettaway, 19, Jaden Lamont Phillips, 20, and Kennady Jade Lambert, 18, were already in custody facing charges for the murder of 18-year-old Jayden McComber.
Investigators identified Banks, 56, of Culpeper, through "extensive and complex DNA analysis" after her remains were found March 27 on private property in Caroline County. The sheriff's office announced the new charges this month, stating that Mayfield, Pettaway, Phillips, and Lambert are each charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and use of a firearm in the commission of murder in Banks' death.
The four suspects were already being held without bond for the murder of McComber, whose disappearance on the same day Banks' remains were discovered is believed to be linked. McComber's vehicle was found the following day in Virginia Beach, providing investigators with leads that ultimately led to the location of his remains and the identification of the suspects.
During a search of a Henrico County residence on April 2, investigators recovered personal belongings believed to have been with McComber when he disappeared. Mayfield was arrested during a traffic stop while this search was underway and a handgun was seized from his possession, though its link to either homicide has not been disclosed. Pettaway, Phillips, and Lambert were arrested simultaneously at an apartment in Henrico.
Ballistic testing, 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 but have not revealed a possible motive or if the victims knew each other. Investigators described the killings as "premeditated and deliberate acts."
When Banks' remains were discovered, the property owner contacted authorities. Sheriff Scott Moser described the case as "deeply disturbing" and praised the "relentless work" of the investigators. The sheriff's office alleged that measures were taken to conceal Banks' identity, calling it one of the more disturbing cases they had encountered. Banks' identity was formally confirmed July 7, and her family was notified. She is survived by five children, her mother, two siblings, 10 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
The investigation involved the Caroline County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, the FBI, and the ATF. Authorities indicated they are not searching for additional suspects, and the case remains active.