Father Arrested After Reportedly Killing Children in Zebulon

ZEBULON, N.C. — A local man, Wellington Delano Dickens III, 38, is in custody after he called 911 Monday night claiming he had killed his children. The emergency call was made around 10:09 p.m., according to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.

When deputies arrived at Dickens’ residence on Springtooth Drive, he informed them that his 3-year-old son was safe inside the house, but that four other children were dead in the trunk of a vehicle located in the garage.

The deputies found the 3-year-old unharmed. However, a preliminary investigation revealed multiple bodies in the trunk, which had apparently been there for an extended period.

Authorities believe Dickens is responsible for the deaths of his biological children, ages 6, 9, and 10, as well as an 18-year-old stepchild. The State Medical Examiner’s Office is presently at the scene to conduct further investigations, and positive identification of the deceased children will be confirmed by their office.

Dickens has been charged with one count of murder in connection with the death of a juvenile. He is currently being held at the Johnston County Jail without bond. Officials have stated that the investigation is ongoing, with further charges anticipated as more information becomes available.