CASSIA COUNTY, Idaho — Authorities have confirmed the identities of two victims, Kelly and Donna Jenks, who were found murdered at their home in Burley on July 8. The couple is survived by their daughter, Jerica Harper, and her family, which includes her husband, Alex, and their young daughter, Adalee.
A GoFundMe campaign established to assist the family with funeral expenses and unexpected costs has garnered nearly $10,000. The fundraising page highlights the deep bond that Jerica and Alex shared with Kelly and Donna, describing them as loving parents and devoted grandparents who were treasured in their community.
The investigation into the murders has expanded, following the discovery of additional victims in the surrounding area on the same day. Investigators suspect a connection between these cases and have arrested 56-year-old Benjamin Naylor of Burley. Naylor is facing four counts of first-degree murder in connection with the incidents, which have drawn significant attention across multiple counties.
The sequence of events began Tuesday afternoon when emergency responders were called to Rupert, responding to reports of a possibly deceased woman. On arrival, authorities noted suspicious circumstances that initiated a wider police investigation into a potential homicide. Later that day, the bodies of Kelly and Donna Jenks were discovered in Cassia County, while another victim was located inside a vehicle in nearby Minidoka County. The identities of the victims found in Rupert and Minidoka County have not yet been released.
Residents in the area have expressed shock and grief in the wake of the violent events. Neighbors described Kelly and Donna as kind and involved members of the community. The focus now remains on providing support to their family as they process their loss.
The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement continuing to gather evidence and details surrounding all four homicides. As authorities work diligently to piece together the events of that day, updates will be provided as more information comes to light. Community members are awaiting further news with heavy hearts, hoping for justice for the victims and their families.