Caroline County, Virginia — Authorities have identified the remains of 56-year-old Helen Marie Pullen Banks through advanced DNA analysis, linking four suspects already charged in the murder of a teenager to a second homicide in what investigators describe as connected, premeditated killings.

Banks’ remains were discovered on March 27 on private property in Caroline County. After extensive and complex DNA testing completed on July 7, she was formally identified. Her family was notified that same evening.

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 a murder in Banks’ death.

The four were already in custody without bond, facing similar charges in the death of 18-year-old Jayden McComber, whose body was found March 31 in a pond near the Caroline County line. McComber disappeared the same day Banks’ remains were discovered.

Investigation Details

Investigators recovered McComber’s vehicle in Virginia Beach and processed it for evidence, leading to key leads. A search of a Henrico County residence associated with one suspect yielded personal items believed to belong to McComber. Ballistic testing later linked the two cases.

Authorities noted that both victims knew at least one of the suspects, but have not disclosed a specific motive. They described the acts as deliberate, with efforts allegedly made to conceal Banks’ identity.

Tributes and Family Impact

Banks, a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother from Culpeper, was remembered by her family as much more than the circumstances of her death. A GoFundMe has been set up to support memorial expenses.

McComber’s family described the search for him as a “nightmare” and remembered him as someone with a big heart who always expressed love to those around him.

The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, and ATF. No additional suspects are being sought, though the case remains active.