SerpApi.Org
Virginia authorities have identified a 56-year-old woman as Helen Marie Pullen Banks, whose remains were discovered in March 2026. Investigators believe Banks’ death is connected to the case of 18-year-old Jayden McComer, who was initially reported missing before his body was later discovered.
The police have charged the four suspects in McComer’s case with the murder of Banks, and they are currently facing charges in a double homicide. Banks was identified via testing described as an “extensive and complex DNA analysis,” the results of which were released on July 7, 2026. Banks’ remains were found on March 27, 2026, on private property in Caroline County, according to the sheriff’s office.
Additional Charges
The four suspects, 21-year-old Rashad Antonio Mayfield, 19-year-old Devonti Gregory Pettaway, 20-year-old Lamont Phillips, and 18-year-old Kennady Jade Lambert, are each facing charges in connection with Banks’ death. Their charges include first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and use of a firearm in the commission of murder.
All four suspects were being held without bond in connection with the murder of McComer and are now facing additional charges. Investigators, however, said they had earlier suspected the two murders were linked.
Case Details of Both Victims
McComer was reported missing the same day Banks’ remains were discovered in Caroline County. However, on March 31, 2026, McComer’s remains were found in a pond, according to the sheriff’s office. Soon after the teenager’s body was discovered, police said his murder was connected to another killing. However, Banks’ identity was not released until then.
Sheriff Scott Moser, in a statement released in March, said, “This is a deeply disturbing case. The scene our deputies and investigators encountered was difficult, but they remained focused and professional the moment they arrived.”
Police recovered Banks’ remains after receiving a call from someone who reported finding something that appeared to be human remains. At the time of the discovery, police said it was difficult to identify the victim because the alleged killer took “sick and desperate” measures to conceal the victim’s identity.
Investigators also said that both victims knew at least one of the four suspects. However, police have not found any evidence suggesting there was any conflict between the suspects and the victims. The motive remains under investigation.
Moser further described the case as “complex and difficult” and praised the “relentless work” of his officers, which ultimately led to the arrest of all four suspects.
