HomeHOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
Page 1 of 1
HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by twinkletoes Wed Nov 27, 2013 2:03 am
Manhunt underway for suspect in deaths of Kansas mother, three children
Parsons Police Dept.
Authorities are seeking David Cornell Bennett, Jr., of Cherryvale, Kan., in connection with the deaths of four people in Parsons, Kan.
By Daniel Arkin, Staff Writer, NBC News
A Kansas mother and her three kids were found dead Tuesday morning, prompting a manhunt for the person authorities consider to be a prime suspect.
Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three young children were discovered dead in southeastern Parsons, Kansas, according to a statement from the state attorney general's office. The statement did not specify when or where the slain mother and her kids were found or the cause of their deaths.
Authorities from the Parsons Police Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies were searching Tuesday for David Cornell Bennett, Jr., the man police consider a suspect in the case, according to the statement. Police did not give an age for Bennett.
Bennett lives in Cherryvale, roughly 20 miles west of Parsons. The attorney general's office said no charges have been filed.
The statement did not specify how the man was linked to Umbarger and her kids.
Shawn Wheat, a news director for a Topeka radio station who told NBC News that he went to high school with Umbarger, said the victims were a "quiet family" who lived in a "quiet neighborhood."
"It's not every day that Parsons gets a quadruple homicide, especially of this magnitude," Wheat said.
Umbarger is a licensed practical nurse who was employed at the Good Samaritan Society, a Parsons nursing home, according to the Associated Press. The nursing home confirmed her employment to the AP but declined to comment.
Police received a call Monday from concerned co-workers and relatives after Umbarger apparently did not show up for work, according to the Parsons Sun newspaper.
A candlelight vigil for Umbarger and her children is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday in Parsons, the AP reported.
http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/11/26/21629658-manhunt-underway-for-suspect-in-deaths-of-kansas-mother-three-children
Parsons Police Dept.
Authorities are seeking David Cornell Bennett, Jr., of Cherryvale, Kan., in connection with the deaths of four people in Parsons, Kan.
By Daniel Arkin, Staff Writer, NBC News
A Kansas mother and her three kids were found dead Tuesday morning, prompting a manhunt for the person authorities consider to be a prime suspect.
Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three young children were discovered dead in southeastern Parsons, Kansas, according to a statement from the state attorney general's office. The statement did not specify when or where the slain mother and her kids were found or the cause of their deaths.
Authorities from the Parsons Police Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies were searching Tuesday for David Cornell Bennett, Jr., the man police consider a suspect in the case, according to the statement. Police did not give an age for Bennett.
Bennett lives in Cherryvale, roughly 20 miles west of Parsons. The attorney general's office said no charges have been filed.
The statement did not specify how the man was linked to Umbarger and her kids.
Shawn Wheat, a news director for a Topeka radio station who told NBC News that he went to high school with Umbarger, said the victims were a "quiet family" who lived in a "quiet neighborhood."
"It's not every day that Parsons gets a quadruple homicide, especially of this magnitude," Wheat said.
Umbarger is a licensed practical nurse who was employed at the Good Samaritan Society, a Parsons nursing home, according to the Associated Press. The nursing home confirmed her employment to the AP but declined to comment.
Police received a call Monday from concerned co-workers and relatives after Umbarger apparently did not show up for work, according to the Parsons Sun newspaper.
A candlelight vigil for Umbarger and her children is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday in Parsons, the AP reported.
http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/11/26/21629658-manhunt-underway-for-suspect-in-deaths-of-kansas-mother-three-children
Last edited by twinkletoes on Sat Dec 07, 2013 9:20 pm; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : Correct last name of children)
twinkletoes- Supreme Commander of the Universe With Cape AND Tights AND Fancy Headgear
- Job/hobbies : Trying to keep my sanity. Trying to accept that which I cannot change. It's hard.
Re: HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by twinkletoes Fri Nov 29, 2013 4:03 am
Nurse, 29, and her three young children found murdered in their home as police arrest man she dumped after a few dates 'because he was acting scary'
PUBLISHED: 21:03 EST, 27 November 2013 | UPDATED: 03:05 EST, 28 November 2013
The 22-year-old ex-boyfriend of a Kansas nurse found murdered alongside her three young children has been arrested late last night after a day-long manhunt involving 100 officers.
David Cornell Bennett Jr is being held on $5 million bail after the bodies of 29-year-old Cami Umbarger and her three children, aged 9, 6, and 4, were discovered.
Friends say the single mother from Parsons had gone on a couple of dates with Bennett but tried to distance herself from him when he began 'acting scary'.
- Cami Umbarger found dead with her daughters and son aged 9, 6, and 4
- David Cornell Bennett Jr held on $5m bail after massive manhunt tracks him down
- Suspect had mental evaluation last month after writing online post about murder-suicide plans
PUBLISHED: 21:03 EST, 27 November 2013 | UPDATED: 03:05 EST, 28 November 2013
The 22-year-old ex-boyfriend of a Kansas nurse found murdered alongside her three young children has been arrested late last night after a day-long manhunt involving 100 officers.
David Cornell Bennett Jr is being held on $5 million bail after the bodies of 29-year-old Cami Umbarger and her three children, aged 9, 6, and 4, were discovered.
Friends say the single mother from Parsons had gone on a couple of dates with Bennett but tried to distance herself from him when he began 'acting scary'.
Horror: Cami Umbarger with her children Hollie, Jaxon, and Averie. Their bodies were found on Monday
The 22-year-old had been taken into custody last month after police were allegedly alerted to a posting on a social media site that said he planned to carry out a murder suicide, KOAM TV reported.
He was held until a mental evaluation was carried out, and was then released. It is not clear who the intended victims in the alleged online post were.
Colleagues of Ms Umbarger, who worked as a nursing home, raised the alarm when the dedicated nurse failed to show up to work on Monday.
Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr has been arrested in connection with the deaths
Police have not yet said how the family died or where they were found, but some local stations reported that the mother was killed in her own home alongside her two daughters Hollie, 9, and Averie, 4, and son, Jaxon, 6.
She had last been seen on Saturday night when she attended her sister's wedding shower.
The children's father, Donald Betts, said: 'They are what I live and breathe for. I don't know how anyone could do this.'
The victim's sister, Beth Umbarger, told the Wichita Eagle that Miss Umbarger had been on a few dates with Bennett, but broke it off after he 'started acting pretty scary'.
She said: 'She'd been trying to stay away from him and he just kept coming back and going back. She was just hoping that he would leave her alone ... and she would be able to move past it.'
The victim's sister added that the family had been killed in their Parsons home, about 30 miles from where Bennett was later spotted.
'I want them back. I miss them. You go through life every day and you never expect that this would happen to you,' Beth Umbarger said.
Tara Umbarger said her cousin Cami had met Bennett around the end of September and went out with him a couple of times.
She said he began calling her 30 or 40 times at a time, at times making threats.
'He was basically stalking her and wouldn't leave her alone,' Tara Umbarger said.
Tribute: Donald Betts, the father of Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, kneels at a makeshift memorial in Parsons on Wednesday
Support: Lexi Umbarger cuddles a teddy bear during a vigil for the family found murdered on Monday
No complaint was filed with the police and Cami Umbarger was described as the type of person who probably thought he wasn't serious.
Bennett was arrested in connection with the murders at about 9pm on Tuesday, after he was spotted walking on a street.
At the time of his arrest Bennett was talking on a cellphone to a friend who had alerted police, according to Kake. His clothes were said to be soaked through and freezing when police found him.
No formal charges have been made yet against Bennett.
A candlelit vigil was due to take place in Parsons on Wednesday night, and counseling services were being set up at the children's schools.
Investigation: Officers are still collecting evidence at Cami Umbarger's home
Victim: Nurse Cami Umbarger was last seen at her sister's wedding shower on Saturday night. Co-workers raised the alarm when the mother-of-three failed to turn up for work on Monday
Joanna Wilson, who worked at the Good Samaritan Society of Parsons home with Miss Umbarger said they raised the alarm after the nurse failed to come to work.
'That’s just not like her. We’re a close-knit group. If someone is missing and you were expecting her, you’d reach out and see where they are,' she said.
She added that the children were 'part of the family' and regularly came to the nursing home. 'She has many dear friends, and we’re working through it. It’s been a tough time,' she said.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2514781/Ex-boyfriend-arrested-murder-nurse-young-children-killed-family-home.html#ixzz2m0DAFhCt
The 22-year-old had been taken into custody last month after police were allegedly alerted to a posting on a social media site that said he planned to carry out a murder suicide, KOAM TV reported.
He was held until a mental evaluation was carried out, and was then released. It is not clear who the intended victims in the alleged online post were.
Colleagues of Ms Umbarger, who worked as a nursing home, raised the alarm when the dedicated nurse failed to show up to work on Monday.
Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr has been arrested in connection with the deaths
Police have not yet said how the family died or where they were found, but some local stations reported that the mother was killed in her own home alongside her two daughters Hollie, 9, and Averie, 4, and son, Jaxon, 6.
She had last been seen on Saturday night when she attended her sister's wedding shower.
The children's father, Donald Betts, said: 'They are what I live and breathe for. I don't know how anyone could do this.'
The victim's sister, Beth Umbarger, told the Wichita Eagle that Miss Umbarger had been on a few dates with Bennett, but broke it off after he 'started acting pretty scary'.
She said: 'She'd been trying to stay away from him and he just kept coming back and going back. She was just hoping that he would leave her alone ... and she would be able to move past it.'
The victim's sister added that the family had been killed in their Parsons home, about 30 miles from where Bennett was later spotted.
'I want them back. I miss them. You go through life every day and you never expect that this would happen to you,' Beth Umbarger said.
Tara Umbarger said her cousin Cami had met Bennett around the end of September and went out with him a couple of times.
She said he began calling her 30 or 40 times at a time, at times making threats.
'He was basically stalking her and wouldn't leave her alone,' Tara Umbarger said.
Tribute: Donald Betts, the father of Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, kneels at a makeshift memorial in Parsons on Wednesday
Support: Lexi Umbarger cuddles a teddy bear during a vigil for the family found murdered on Monday
No complaint was filed with the police and Cami Umbarger was described as the type of person who probably thought he wasn't serious.
Bennett was arrested in connection with the murders at about 9pm on Tuesday, after he was spotted walking on a street.
At the time of his arrest Bennett was talking on a cellphone to a friend who had alerted police, according to Kake. His clothes were said to be soaked through and freezing when police found him.
No formal charges have been made yet against Bennett.
A candlelit vigil was due to take place in Parsons on Wednesday night, and counseling services were being set up at the children's schools.
Investigation: Officers are still collecting evidence at Cami Umbarger's home
Victim: Nurse Cami Umbarger was last seen at her sister's wedding shower on Saturday night. Co-workers raised the alarm when the mother-of-three failed to turn up for work on Monday
Joanna Wilson, who worked at the Good Samaritan Society of Parsons home with Miss Umbarger said they raised the alarm after the nurse failed to come to work.
'That’s just not like her. We’re a close-knit group. If someone is missing and you were expecting her, you’d reach out and see where they are,' she said.
She added that the children were 'part of the family' and regularly came to the nursing home. 'She has many dear friends, and we’re working through it. It’s been a tough time,' she said.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2514781/Ex-boyfriend-arrested-murder-nurse-young-children-killed-family-home.html#ixzz2m0DAFhCt
twinkletoes- Supreme Commander of the Universe With Cape AND Tights AND Fancy Headgear
- Job/hobbies : Trying to keep my sanity. Trying to accept that which I cannot change. It's hard.
Re: HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by twinkletoes Fri Nov 29, 2013 4:14 am
This is horrible but for once the mother did her best to protect herself and her children. She wasn't blinded by a p e n i s.
twinkletoes- Supreme Commander of the Universe With Cape AND Tights AND Fancy Headgear
- Job/hobbies : Trying to keep my sanity. Trying to accept that which I cannot change. It's hard.
Re: HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by twinkletoes Sat Nov 30, 2013 9:49 am
The Wichita Eagle, Travis Heying/AP Photo
Lexi Umbarger clutches a teddy bear during a candlelight vigil in Parsons, Kan., on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013 for Cami Umbarger and her three young children – Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, who were found murdered in their Parsons home on Monday. David Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the murders. Lexi Umbarger is the niece of Cami Umbarger and was one of nearly 200 people who turned out near the crime scene for the vigil.
Courtesy of the Kansas Attorney General’s Office
David Cornell Bennett, Jr. was arrested in connection with four deaths in Parsons.
The Wichita Eagle, Travis Heying/AP Photo
Donald Betts cries during a candlelight vigil in Parsons, Kan., on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013 for Cami Umbarger and her three young children – Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, who were found murdered in their Parsons home on Monday. David Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the murders. Betts is the biological father of the three children and was one of nearly 200 people who turned out near the crime scene for the vigil.
The Wichita Eagle, Travis Heying/AP Photo
Lexi Umbarger clutches a teddy bear during a candlelight vigil in Parsons, Kan., on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013 for Cami Umbarger and her three young children – Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, who were found murdered in their Parsons home on Monday. David Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the murders. Lexi Umbarger is the niece of Cami Umbarger and was one of nearly 200 people who turned out near the crime scene for the vigil.
The Wichita Eagle, Travis Heying/AP Photo
An active crime scene investigation is still undrerway in Parsons, Kan., on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013 where Cami Umbarger and her three young children – Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, who were found murdered in their Parsons home on Monday. David Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the murders. Lexi Umbarger is the niece of Cami Umbarger and was one of nearly 200 people who turned out near the crime scene for the vigil.
The Wichita Eagle, Travis Heying/AP Photo
Donald Betts kneels down before a makeshift memorial during a candlelight vigil in Parsons, Kan., on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013 for Cami Umbarger and her three young children – Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, who were found murdered in their Parsons home on Monday. David Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale was arrested on Tuesday in connection with the murders. Betts is the biological father of the three children and was one of nearly 200 people who turned out near the crime scene for the vigil.
A news release Friday from Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt’s office said prosecutors would soon make decisions about charges against David Cornell Bennett Jr. based on the evaluation of evidence.
Bennett, 22, is being held in the Labette County Jail in connection with the deaths of Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three children: 9-year-old Hollie Betts, 6-year-old Jaxon Betts and 4-year-old Averie Betts.
After Umbarger didn’t show up for work Monday, investigators found their bodies at their home in Parsons.
Bennett and Umbarger had dated a few times a few months ago before Umbarger ended the relationship, Umbarger’s sister told The Eagle earlier this week.
Schmidt’s office will handle prosecution in the case at the request of the Labette County Attorney, the news release said. Oswego is the county seat of Labette County.
An Independence police officer found Bennett on Tuesday walking along a street in the town, a few blocks from the hospital. He was talking on a cellphone when the officer spotted him shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday, Independence Police Chief Harry E. Smith said.
Bennett, a Cherryvale resident, is being held on a $5 million bond.
http://www.kansas.com/2013/11/29/3148684/quadruple-homicide-suspect-in.html
twinkletoes- Supreme Commander of the Universe With Cape AND Tights AND Fancy Headgear
- Job/hobbies : Trying to keep my sanity. Trying to accept that which I cannot change. It's hard.
Re: HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by twinkletoes Sat Dec 07, 2013 9:57 pm
Family and towns mourn Parsons mother, three children
December 3
By Amy Renee Leiker
The Wichita Eagle
THAYER — Correction: Donald Betts is the father of the three children. His first name was incorrect in a previous version of this story.
Travis Heying | The Wichita Eagle
Two hearses carrying the bodies of Cami Umbarger and her three young children -
Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, are led through the town of Thayer after their funeral on
Monday. The four were found dead in their home in Parsons a week before. David
Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale is in custody in the deaths. He is in a Labette
County jail on $5 million bond. (Dec. 2, 2013)
A veil of grief hung over Thayer Christian Church as a pair of southeastern Kansas towns bid farewell to a family found slain last week in their Parsons home.
A few hundred people packed into the pews of the tiny Neosho County church to pay tribute on Monday to 29-year-old Cami Umbarger and her three young children, Hollie, Jaxon and Averie Betts.
At the front of the church, flowers surrounded a pair of white caskets. Both carried handwritten messages of love and promises to remember scrawled in ink across their gleaming surfaces. Each held two members of the slain family.
David Camp, the church’s minister, called the joint funeral service “a bittersweet moment.”
“Four beautiful people – a mom and three babies – gone,” he told those in attendance. “(Theirs is) a love that will continue through all eternity and cannot be stopped by sin of any variety.”
During the service, tears flowed freely as family and friends recalled Umbarger as a devoted nurse who possessed an overwhelming passion for motherhood. A round-cheeked toddler, she had spent part of her childhood in Thayer, graduating from the high school there in 2002.
A year later, she moved to Parsons, where the family ultimately made their home. She earned an associate’s degree in nursing in 2006 and worked as a licensed practical nurse at two Parsons facilities.
Hollie, the oldest of Umbarger’s children with their father, Donald Betts, was born in 2004. Jaxon followed in 2007. Averie came just two years later. The children were students at Lincoln and Guthridge elementary schools in Parsons.
“Averie was always so sassy,” Camp said, reading a list of memories contributed by family and friends. Always a talker, the vibrant preschooler “loved to … converse with anyone,” he added.
Of kindergartener Jaxon, just 6 when he died, Camp recalled confidence, a fondness for wrestling and a love of exaggeration.
“He liked to say he was the strongest man in the world,” Camp said with a chuckle. “He thought he was hot stuff.”
Hollie, already tough even at the tender age of 9, devoted herself to basketball and tackle football, Camp said. When the fourth-grader wasn’t wrapped up in sports, she also enjoyed a good game of cops and robbers.
“She always wanted to see justice,” Camp said. “Don’t mess with Hollie.”
He made no pause or apology when referencing the family’s accused killer.
“I know a guy who will see justice,” Camp said.
The man suspected of killing Umbarger and the children was arrested at gunpoint in Independence the day after the four were found dead in their Parsons home on Nov. 25.
A few hours before their funerals Monday, Labette County District Court Judge Robert Fleming granted the state additional time to file formal charges against 22-year-old Cherryvale resident David Cornell Bennett Jr. Fleming attributed the delay to closed courts over the Thanksgiving holiday and “the complicated nature of the case.”
Bennett, who is being held in the Labette County Jail on a $5 million bond, is due back in court on Dec. 10, the deadline for prosecutors to file formal charges.
http://www.kansascity.com/2013/12/02/4664182/funeral-services-monday-afternoon.html
December 3
By Amy Renee Leiker
The Wichita Eagle
THAYER — Correction: Donald Betts is the father of the three children. His first name was incorrect in a previous version of this story.
Travis Heying | The Wichita Eagle
Two hearses carrying the bodies of Cami Umbarger and her three young children -
Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, are led through the town of Thayer after their funeral on
Monday. The four were found dead in their home in Parsons a week before. David
Cornell Bennett Jr. of Cherryvale is in custody in the deaths. He is in a Labette
County jail on $5 million bond. (Dec. 2, 2013)
A veil of grief hung over Thayer Christian Church as a pair of southeastern Kansas towns bid farewell to a family found slain last week in their Parsons home.
A few hundred people packed into the pews of the tiny Neosho County church to pay tribute on Monday to 29-year-old Cami Umbarger and her three young children, Hollie, Jaxon and Averie Betts.
At the front of the church, flowers surrounded a pair of white caskets. Both carried handwritten messages of love and promises to remember scrawled in ink across their gleaming surfaces. Each held two members of the slain family.
David Camp, the church’s minister, called the joint funeral service “a bittersweet moment.”
“Four beautiful people – a mom and three babies – gone,” he told those in attendance. “(Theirs is) a love that will continue through all eternity and cannot be stopped by sin of any variety.”
During the service, tears flowed freely as family and friends recalled Umbarger as a devoted nurse who possessed an overwhelming passion for motherhood. A round-cheeked toddler, she had spent part of her childhood in Thayer, graduating from the high school there in 2002.
A year later, she moved to Parsons, where the family ultimately made their home. She earned an associate’s degree in nursing in 2006 and worked as a licensed practical nurse at two Parsons facilities.
Hollie, the oldest of Umbarger’s children with their father, Donald Betts, was born in 2004. Jaxon followed in 2007. Averie came just two years later. The children were students at Lincoln and Guthridge elementary schools in Parsons.
“Averie was always so sassy,” Camp said, reading a list of memories contributed by family and friends. Always a talker, the vibrant preschooler “loved to … converse with anyone,” he added.
Of kindergartener Jaxon, just 6 when he died, Camp recalled confidence, a fondness for wrestling and a love of exaggeration.
“He liked to say he was the strongest man in the world,” Camp said with a chuckle. “He thought he was hot stuff.”
Hollie, already tough even at the tender age of 9, devoted herself to basketball and tackle football, Camp said. When the fourth-grader wasn’t wrapped up in sports, she also enjoyed a good game of cops and robbers.
“She always wanted to see justice,” Camp said. “Don’t mess with Hollie.”
He made no pause or apology when referencing the family’s accused killer.
“I know a guy who will see justice,” Camp said.
The man suspected of killing Umbarger and the children was arrested at gunpoint in Independence the day after the four were found dead in their Parsons home on Nov. 25.
A few hours before their funerals Monday, Labette County District Court Judge Robert Fleming granted the state additional time to file formal charges against 22-year-old Cherryvale resident David Cornell Bennett Jr. Fleming attributed the delay to closed courts over the Thanksgiving holiday and “the complicated nature of the case.”
Bennett, who is being held in the Labette County Jail on a $5 million bond, is due back in court on Dec. 10, the deadline for prosecutors to file formal charges.
http://www.kansascity.com/2013/12/02/4664182/funeral-services-monday-afternoon.html
twinkletoes- Supreme Commander of the Universe With Cape AND Tights AND Fancy Headgear
- Job/hobbies : Trying to keep my sanity. Trying to accept that which I cannot change. It's hard.
Re: HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by twinkletoes Sat Dec 07, 2013 10:12 pm
Man charged in deaths of Parsons family appears in court
The scene in Parsons, Kansas.
(Photo by KOAM-Fox14 reporter Liz Holliday)
Law enforcement searching vehicles at the Walmart in Independence.
(Photo by KOAM-Fox14 reporter Kelly Reid)
Suspect - David Cornell Bennett, Jr.
Updated December 4, 2013 at 5:15 PM: NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
Schmidt has charged one count of capital murder in connection with the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger, 29, Parsons, and her three minor children. In the alternative to the capital murder charge, Schmidt filed four counts of first degree premeditated murder. The Attorney General also filed charges of one count of rape and two counts of criminal threat.
District Judge Robert J. Fleming scheduled Bennett's next court appearance for January 17 at 1 p.m. in Oswego. Bennett remains in custody in the Labette County jail on $5 million bond.
Criminal prosecution is being handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney.
Criminal charges are merely accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity, and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
Media inquiries should be directed to Don Brown, Director of Communications for the Kansas Attorney General's Office, 785-296-3459.
Updated December 4, 2013 at 2:40 PM: Bennett's court appearance ended at about 2:30 p.m. Watch the proceeding here:
December 4 court appearance
Updated December 4, 2013 at 2:15 PM: The first appearance in court for David Cornell Bennett has just begun. Bennett is charged in the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger and three of her children.
Updated December 3, 2013 at 4:10 PM: NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
PARSONS -- (December3, 2013) -- Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt today filed charges of capital murder, rape and criminal threat against David Cornell Bennett, Jr.,Cherryvale.
Schmidt charged one count of capital murder in connection with the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger, 29, Parsons, and her three minor children. In the alternative to the capital murder charge, Schmidt filed four counts of first degree premeditated murder. The Attorney General also filed charges of one count of rape and two counts of criminal threat.
Under Kansas Law, a conviction of capital murder can carry sentencing options of either the death penalty or life in prison with no chance for parole.
District Judge Robert J. Fleming has scheduled Bennett for a court appearance tomorrow, December 4, at 2 p.m. in Oswego.
Bennett remains in custody in the Labette County jail on $5 million bond.
Criminal prosecution is being handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney.
Criminal charges are merely accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity, and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
Media inquiries should be directed to Don Brown, Director of Communications for the Kansas Attorney General's Office, 785-296-3459.
# # #
Updated December 2, 2013 at 5:55 PM: A Southeast Kansas family is remembered and honored as a community gathers to mourn.
Funeral services were held Monday afternoon in Thayer Kansas, followed by a large procession to the cemetery for the burial of 29-year-old Cami Umbarger, nine-year-old Hollie Betts, six-year-old Jaxon Betts and four-year-old Averie Betts..
They were found dead in their Parsons, Kansas home a week ago.
People lined the processional route, including a group on horseback.
"God bless everybody that's here and the family," says Robert Allen Eaton, a family friend who organized the riders. "I believe this will be a great honor to them."
Memorials are suggested to the Parsons Recreation Center. Those can be sent through the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home in Parsons.
You can also send condolences through the funeral home's website.
Updated December 2, 2013 at 11:15 AM: David Cornell Bennett Jr., of Cherryvale, appeared via video in a court hearing held this morning at the Labette County courthouse in Parsons.
Bennett has been in custody since November 26 in connection with the deaths of Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three children in Parsons.
During Monday's hearing the judge announced the state attorney general has until December 10 to file formal charges.
Bennett, who is being held on a $5 million bond, responded with concerns about how long he would remain in jail.
Updated November 29, 2013 at 11:30 AM - NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
David Cornell Bennett Jr., Cherryvale, was arrested Tuesday night in Independence. On Wednesday, District Judge Robert J. Fleming found probable cause to hold Bennett in connection with the matter. Bennett is scheduled for a first appearance Monday, December 2, at 11:00 a.m. in Oswego. Bennett remains in custody in the Labette County jail.
Criminal charging decisions will be made as soon as possible, but not later than December 10, Schmidt said. Information about charging decisions will be announced by the Attorney General's Office as soon as they are made, hesaid.
Any criminal prosecution resulting from the investigation will behandled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney. Any charges that might arise from the investigation aremerely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agenciesare bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity, and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
Media inquiries should be directed to Don Brown, Director of Communications for the Kansas Attorney General's Office, 785-296-3459.
Updated November 27, 2013 at 3:06 PM
NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE LABETTE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
On November 27, 2013 at 01:05 hrs. David C. Bennett Jr - age 22 of Merriam, KS was transported by Labette County Deputies to the Labette County Jail, following his arrest in Montgomery County.
Bennett is currently being held on a Detention Order citing four counts of first degree murder. A bond has been set at $5,000,000.00.
The Attorney General's Office has been designated the primary source of information to the media concerning Bennett's charges and subsequent investigation.
No further information is available at this time...
Robert D. Sims
Labette County Sheriff
# # #
Updated November 27, 2013 at 2:05 PM: The City of Parsons has confirmed that a man suspected in the deaths of a Parsons woman and her three children had been in custody recently after posting a message on social media describing a murder-suicide he allegedly intended to commit.
David Cornell Bennett, Jr., 22 of Cherryvale, is in custody for the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger and her children, Hollie, Jaxon and Averie.
On October 31 KOAM posted a news release regarding an unidentified 22-year-old Cherryvale man who had been taken into custody. On Wednesday, an official with the City of Parsons confirmed that man was Bennett.
ORIGINAL NEWS RELEASE FROM THE CITY OF PARSONS
Police arrest man who threatened murder-suicide via Facebook
PARSONS, KS — A 22-year-old Cherryvale man is in custody and currently undergoing mental evaluation after using social media to post a warning message describing a murder-suicide he allegedly intended to commit.
The initial call reporting the Facebook status was called in to the Chanute Police Department, who then contacted the Cherryvale Police Department, the man's hometown. Cherryvale Police officers received reports that the man had been dropped off at a local motel in Parsons, and Parsons Police were contacted.
At around 4:30 p.m. yesterday, Parsons Police officers arrested the man without incident at the motel.
# # #
Updated November 27, 2013 at 10:30 AM: Funeral services have been scheduled for Parsons woman and her three children. That information is below.
Also, a candlelight vigil for Cami Jo Umbarger and her children, Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, will be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:00 p.m. at the home - 415 North 25th Street in Parsons.
FROM FORBES-HOFFMAN FUNERAL HOMES
Memorials are suggested to the Parsons Recreation Center. These may be left at or mailed to the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS 67357.
Complete obituary details will be announced by the funeral home.
Online condolences may be left at www.forbeshoffman.com.
# # #
Updated November 26, 2013 at 10:15 PM: According to a Press Release sent from Montgomery County, suspect David Cornell Bennett Jr. was apprehended at 9:15 on Tuesday 11/26/13.
From the Kansas Attorney General's Office:
INDEPENDENCE – (November 26, 2013) –Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt's Office confirmed that homicide suspect David Cornell Bennett, Jr., was apprehended tonight in Independence, Kan., by law enforcement officials. The investigation remains ongoing.
Any criminal prosecution resulting from the investigation will be handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney. No charges have been filed. Any charges that might arise from the investigation are merely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
# # #
Updated November 26, 2013 at 9:35 PM: Montgomery County Sheriff's Department confirms suspect, David Bennett Jr. has been caught and is in custody at this time. We will post more information as it becomes available to us
Updated November 26, 2013 at 4:45 PM by Liz Holliday and Kelly Reid: A woman and her three children have been found dead in Parsons, Kansas. Now, a manhunt is underway in Montgomery County, Kansas.
Authorities say Cami Umbarger and her three children were reported missing Monday morning when Umbarger did not show up for work.
On Tuesday the Kansas Attorney General confirmed all four have been found dead in Parsons. The Kansas Attorney General is now in charge of the case and not releasing many other details at this time.
Cami Umbarger was 29 years old and worked as a nurse at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Parsons. Her three children - Averie, Jaxon and Hollie were ages four, five and eight - sometimes attended the Parsons Church of the Nazarene.
We spoke with the minister.
"Precious gifts from God - just beautiful smiles... your typical young children," says Pastor Christie Walker. "They smiled, they laughed, there were some tears when they were here because they didn't want to be left by themselves without their relative that brought them. Just precious, there are no words but that."
Those we spoke to who knew the family are left asking why.
"This is a horrible tragedy," says Shari Coatney of Thayer. "There isn't enough explanation to how this could happen or why this would happen and this family is going to turn to God and turn to the church for strength."
"I think people search for answers, they search for reasons to make sense of it," says Pastor Walker. "One of the the teachers from our church just said 'give me anything to tell my kids.'"
Authorities have identified a suspect in the case. He's David Cornell Bennett Jr., 22 of Cherryvale, Kansas.
Tuesday afternoon's manhunt has been focused on Independence, Kansas.
The Montgomery County Sheriff's office reported that Bennet had been spotted at a Dollar General Store at around 12:45 p.m.
A few hours later the crews were dispatched to a nearby Walmart. Crews blocked off all exits and did not allow anyone to enter the building for about 20 minutes. Crews cleared the scene and activity there has returned to normal.
Bennett is described as a black male, 22 years of age. He's 5'5" and 145 pounds with brown eyes. Bennett is considered to be armed and dangerous.
Authorities say if you see Bennett to not approach him... call 911 immediately.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 4:15 PM: KOAM reporter Kelly Reid says things are calming down at the Walmart in Independence and the entrance has been reopened. Law enforcement had been searching cars as they left and did not allow anyone into the building for a short time.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 3:55 PM: KOAM reporter Kelly Reid says law enforcement is now at the Walmart in Independence, searching cars as they leave and not allowing anyone into the building.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 2:50 PM: The suspect in the deaths of a Parsons woman and her three children were last seen at a Dollar General Store in Independence. That's according to our reporter at the scene.
Reporter Kelly Reid says officers from the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Cherryvale Police Department, Independence Police Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol are still on the scene.
David Cornell Bennett, Jr., of Cherryvale, Kansas, is a suspect in the death of Cami Umbarger and her three children.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 1:21 PM: NEWS RELEASE FROM THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Residents should be on the lookout for a black male, 22 years of age, 5 ft 5 inches tall, weight 145 pounds, brown eyes. Individual is a suspect in a multiple homicide. Last confirmed sighting was today at approx. 12:45 p.m. at 3176 W. Main St. in Independence. Contact 911 if sighted. Suspect should be considered armed and dangerous – do not approach.
# # #
Updated November 26, 2013 at 11:22 AM: NEWS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
Kansas Attorney General's Office statement on Parsons investigation
PARSONS – (November 26, 2013) – The Parsons Police Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies are investigating the deaths of four individuals in Parsons. The deceased individuals are identified as Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three minor children.
Authorities are seeking a suspect, David Cornell Bennett, Jr., of Cherryvale, Kan.
Any criminal prosecution resulting from the investigation will be handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney. No charges have been filed. Any charges that might arise from the investigation are merely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
# # #
Posted November 26, 2013 at 11:20 AM: Police have blocked off a neighborhood in Parsons, Kansas.
A missing persons investigation has created a lot of online chatter in Southeast Kansas but officials are releasing very few details.
On Monday the Parsons Police Department received a call for a well-being check on a 29 year old woman and her three children.
There were reports that Cami Umbarger and her kids were missing.
The City of Parsons says this is an ongoing investigation. We're told the case has been handed over to the Kansas Attorney General's office.
We do have a reporter on the scene, who says Parsons police and crime scene units have blocked off 25th and Clark Streets.
We are following this story closely and will bring you the latest confirmed information as it comes available.
http://www.koamtv.com/story/24074235/investigation-into-missing-parsons-family
The scene in Parsons, Kansas.
(Photo by KOAM-Fox14 reporter Liz Holliday)
Law enforcement searching vehicles at the Walmart in Independence.
(Photo by KOAM-Fox14 reporter Kelly Reid)
Suspect - David Cornell Bennett, Jr.
| Obituary for Cami Jo Umbarger and her three children Memorials suggested to the Parsons Recreation Center Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home P.O. Box 374 Parsons, KS 67357 |
| Court Documents Complaint filed December 3, 2013 (PDF) |
AG Schmidt update: December 4 hearing on Labette County homicides
OSWEGO -- (December 4, 2013) – David Cornell Bennett, Jr., Cherryvale, today appeared in court and was advised of charges filed against him, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said.Schmidt has charged one count of capital murder in connection with the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger, 29, Parsons, and her three minor children. In the alternative to the capital murder charge, Schmidt filed four counts of first degree premeditated murder. The Attorney General also filed charges of one count of rape and two counts of criminal threat.
District Judge Robert J. Fleming scheduled Bennett's next court appearance for January 17 at 1 p.m. in Oswego. Bennett remains in custody in the Labette County jail on $5 million bond.
Criminal prosecution is being handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney.
Criminal charges are merely accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity, and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
Media inquiries should be directed to Don Brown, Director of Communications for the Kansas Attorney General's Office, 785-296-3459.
###
Updated December 4, 2013 at 2:40 PM: Bennett's court appearance ended at about 2:30 p.m. Watch the proceeding here:
December 4 court appearanceUpdated December 4, 2013 at 2:15 PM: The first appearance in court for David Cornell Bennett has just begun. Bennett is charged in the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger and three of her children.
Updated December 3, 2013 at 4:10 PM: NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
PARSONS -- (December3, 2013) -- Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt today filed charges of capital murder, rape and criminal threat against David Cornell Bennett, Jr.,Cherryvale.
Schmidt charged one count of capital murder in connection with the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger, 29, Parsons, and her three minor children. In the alternative to the capital murder charge, Schmidt filed four counts of first degree premeditated murder. The Attorney General also filed charges of one count of rape and two counts of criminal threat.
Under Kansas Law, a conviction of capital murder can carry sentencing options of either the death penalty or life in prison with no chance for parole.
District Judge Robert J. Fleming has scheduled Bennett for a court appearance tomorrow, December 4, at 2 p.m. in Oswego.
Bennett remains in custody in the Labette County jail on $5 million bond.
Criminal prosecution is being handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney.
Criminal charges are merely accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity, and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
Media inquiries should be directed to Don Brown, Director of Communications for the Kansas Attorney General's Office, 785-296-3459.
# # #
Updated December 2, 2013 at 5:55 PM: A Southeast Kansas family is remembered and honored as a community gathers to mourn.
Funeral services were held Monday afternoon in Thayer Kansas, followed by a large procession to the cemetery for the burial of 29-year-old Cami Umbarger, nine-year-old Hollie Betts, six-year-old Jaxon Betts and four-year-old Averie Betts..
They were found dead in their Parsons, Kansas home a week ago.
People lined the processional route, including a group on horseback.
"God bless everybody that's here and the family," says Robert Allen Eaton, a family friend who organized the riders. "I believe this will be a great honor to them."
Memorials are suggested to the Parsons Recreation Center. Those can be sent through the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home in Parsons.
You can also send condolences through the funeral home's website.
Updated December 2, 2013 at 11:15 AM: David Cornell Bennett Jr., of Cherryvale, appeared via video in a court hearing held this morning at the Labette County courthouse in Parsons.
Bennett has been in custody since November 26 in connection with the deaths of Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three children in Parsons.
During Monday's hearing the judge announced the state attorney general has until December 10 to file formal charges.
Bennett, who is being held on a $5 million bond, responded with concerns about how long he would remain in jail.
Updated November 29, 2013 at 11:30 AM - NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
AG Schmidt update: Southeast Kansas homicide suspect
PARSONS – (November 29, 2013) – The Kansas Attorney General's Office will thoroughly evaluate all evidence before making charging decisions in connection with the deaths of Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three minor children, Attorney General Derek Schmidt said today.David Cornell Bennett Jr., Cherryvale, was arrested Tuesday night in Independence. On Wednesday, District Judge Robert J. Fleming found probable cause to hold Bennett in connection with the matter. Bennett is scheduled for a first appearance Monday, December 2, at 11:00 a.m. in Oswego. Bennett remains in custody in the Labette County jail.
Criminal charging decisions will be made as soon as possible, but not later than December 10, Schmidt said. Information about charging decisions will be announced by the Attorney General's Office as soon as they are made, hesaid.
Any criminal prosecution resulting from the investigation will behandled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney. Any charges that might arise from the investigation aremerely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agenciesare bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity, and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
Media inquiries should be directed to Don Brown, Director of Communications for the Kansas Attorney General's Office, 785-296-3459.
###
Updated November 27, 2013 at 3:06 PM
NEWS RELEASE ISSUED BY THE LABETTE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
On November 27, 2013 at 01:05 hrs. David C. Bennett Jr - age 22 of Merriam, KS was transported by Labette County Deputies to the Labette County Jail, following his arrest in Montgomery County.
Bennett is currently being held on a Detention Order citing four counts of first degree murder. A bond has been set at $5,000,000.00.
The Attorney General's Office has been designated the primary source of information to the media concerning Bennett's charges and subsequent investigation.
No further information is available at this time...
Robert D. Sims
Labette County Sheriff
# # #
Updated November 27, 2013 at 2:05 PM: The City of Parsons has confirmed that a man suspected in the deaths of a Parsons woman and her three children had been in custody recently after posting a message on social media describing a murder-suicide he allegedly intended to commit.
David Cornell Bennett, Jr., 22 of Cherryvale, is in custody for the deaths of Cami Jo Umbarger and her children, Hollie, Jaxon and Averie.
On October 31 KOAM posted a news release regarding an unidentified 22-year-old Cherryvale man who had been taken into custody. On Wednesday, an official with the City of Parsons confirmed that man was Bennett.
ORIGINAL NEWS RELEASE FROM THE CITY OF PARSONS
Police arrest man who threatened murder-suicide via Facebook
PARSONS, KS — A 22-year-old Cherryvale man is in custody and currently undergoing mental evaluation after using social media to post a warning message describing a murder-suicide he allegedly intended to commit.
The initial call reporting the Facebook status was called in to the Chanute Police Department, who then contacted the Cherryvale Police Department, the man's hometown. Cherryvale Police officers received reports that the man had been dropped off at a local motel in Parsons, and Parsons Police were contacted.
At around 4:30 p.m. yesterday, Parsons Police officers arrested the man without incident at the motel.
# # #
Updated November 27, 2013 at 10:30 AM: Funeral services have been scheduled for Parsons woman and her three children. That information is below.
Also, a candlelight vigil for Cami Jo Umbarger and her children, Hollie, Jaxon and Averie, will be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:00 p.m. at the home - 415 North 25th Street in Parsons.
FROM FORBES-HOFFMAN FUNERAL HOMES
Cami Jo Umbarger, 29, and her children, Hollie Betts, 9, Jaxon Betts, 6, and Averie Betts, 4, of Parsons, died at their home in Parsons.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, December 2, 2013 at the Thayer Christian Church. Burial will be at Thayer Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3-6:00 p.m., Sunday, at the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home in Parsons.Memorials are suggested to the Parsons Recreation Center. These may be left at or mailed to the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS 67357.
Complete obituary details will be announced by the funeral home.
Online condolences may be left at www.forbeshoffman.com.
# # #
Updated November 26, 2013 at 10:15 PM: According to a Press Release sent from Montgomery County, suspect David Cornell Bennett Jr. was apprehended at 9:15 on Tuesday 11/26/13.
From the Kansas Attorney General's Office:
INDEPENDENCE – (November 26, 2013) –Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt's Office confirmed that homicide suspect David Cornell Bennett, Jr., was apprehended tonight in Independence, Kan., by law enforcement officials. The investigation remains ongoing.
Any criminal prosecution resulting from the investigation will be handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney. No charges have been filed. Any charges that might arise from the investigation are merely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
# # #
Updated November 26, 2013 at 9:35 PM: Montgomery County Sheriff's Department confirms suspect, David Bennett Jr. has been caught and is in custody at this time. We will post more information as it becomes available to us
Updated November 26, 2013 at 4:45 PM by Liz Holliday and Kelly Reid: A woman and her three children have been found dead in Parsons, Kansas. Now, a manhunt is underway in Montgomery County, Kansas.
Authorities say Cami Umbarger and her three children were reported missing Monday morning when Umbarger did not show up for work.
On Tuesday the Kansas Attorney General confirmed all four have been found dead in Parsons. The Kansas Attorney General is now in charge of the case and not releasing many other details at this time.
Cami Umbarger was 29 years old and worked as a nurse at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Parsons. Her three children - Averie, Jaxon and Hollie were ages four, five and eight - sometimes attended the Parsons Church of the Nazarene.
We spoke with the minister.
"Precious gifts from God - just beautiful smiles... your typical young children," says Pastor Christie Walker. "They smiled, they laughed, there were some tears when they were here because they didn't want to be left by themselves without their relative that brought them. Just precious, there are no words but that."
Those we spoke to who knew the family are left asking why.
"This is a horrible tragedy," says Shari Coatney of Thayer. "There isn't enough explanation to how this could happen or why this would happen and this family is going to turn to God and turn to the church for strength."
"I think people search for answers, they search for reasons to make sense of it," says Pastor Walker. "One of the the teachers from our church just said 'give me anything to tell my kids.'"
Authorities have identified a suspect in the case. He's David Cornell Bennett Jr., 22 of Cherryvale, Kansas.
Tuesday afternoon's manhunt has been focused on Independence, Kansas.
The Montgomery County Sheriff's office reported that Bennet had been spotted at a Dollar General Store at around 12:45 p.m.
A few hours later the crews were dispatched to a nearby Walmart. Crews blocked off all exits and did not allow anyone to enter the building for about 20 minutes. Crews cleared the scene and activity there has returned to normal.
Bennett is described as a black male, 22 years of age. He's 5'5" and 145 pounds with brown eyes. Bennett is considered to be armed and dangerous.
Authorities say if you see Bennett to not approach him... call 911 immediately.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 4:15 PM: KOAM reporter Kelly Reid says things are calming down at the Walmart in Independence and the entrance has been reopened. Law enforcement had been searching cars as they left and did not allow anyone into the building for a short time.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 3:55 PM: KOAM reporter Kelly Reid says law enforcement is now at the Walmart in Independence, searching cars as they leave and not allowing anyone into the building.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 2:50 PM: The suspect in the deaths of a Parsons woman and her three children were last seen at a Dollar General Store in Independence. That's according to our reporter at the scene.
Reporter Kelly Reid says officers from the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Cherryvale Police Department, Independence Police Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol are still on the scene.
David Cornell Bennett, Jr., of Cherryvale, Kansas, is a suspect in the death of Cami Umbarger and her three children.
Updated November 26, 2013 at 1:21 PM: NEWS RELEASE FROM THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Residents should be on the lookout for a black male, 22 years of age, 5 ft 5 inches tall, weight 145 pounds, brown eyes. Individual is a suspect in a multiple homicide. Last confirmed sighting was today at approx. 12:45 p.m. at 3176 W. Main St. in Independence. Contact 911 if sighted. Suspect should be considered armed and dangerous – do not approach.
# # #
Updated November 26, 2013 at 11:22 AM: NEWS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF KANSAS ATTORNEY GENERAL DEREK SCHMIDT
Kansas Attorney General's Office statement on Parsons investigation
PARSONS – (November 26, 2013) – The Parsons Police Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies are investigating the deaths of four individuals in Parsons. The deceased individuals are identified as Cami Umbarger, 29, and her three minor children.
Authorities are seeking a suspect, David Cornell Bennett, Jr., of Cherryvale, Kan.
Any criminal prosecution resulting from the investigation will be handled by the Kansas Attorney General's Office at the request of the Labette County Attorney. No charges have been filed. Any charges that might arise from the investigation are merely accusations. Individuals are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
The Kansas Attorney General's Office and other involved agencies are bound by the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.6, Trial Publicity and Rule 3.8, Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor.
# # #
Posted November 26, 2013 at 11:20 AM: Police have blocked off a neighborhood in Parsons, Kansas.
A missing persons investigation has created a lot of online chatter in Southeast Kansas but officials are releasing very few details.
On Monday the Parsons Police Department received a call for a well-being check on a 29 year old woman and her three children.
There were reports that Cami Umbarger and her kids were missing.
The City of Parsons says this is an ongoing investigation. We're told the case has been handed over to the Kansas Attorney General's office.
We do have a reporter on the scene, who says Parsons police and crime scene units have blocked off 25th and Clark Streets.
We are following this story closely and will bring you the latest confirmed information as it comes available.
http://www.koamtv.com/story/24074235/investigation-into-missing-parsons-family
twinkletoes- Supreme Commander of the Universe With Cape AND Tights AND Fancy Headgear
- Job/hobbies : Trying to keep my sanity. Trying to accept that which I cannot change. It's hard.
Re: HOLLIE, AVERIE, and JAXON BETTS - (and their mother) - 9, 4, 6 - / Suspect: David Cornell Bennett Jr - Parsons KS
by Sponsored content
Sponsored content
Similar topics» The KILLOUGH Brothers & Mother - 5 and 4 yo (2010)/ Suspect: Father; David Ross Killough Sr.(deceased) - Meridian MS
» UNNAMED GIRL - 12 yo/ Accused: Mother; Tracy Lynn Betts - Temecula CA
» VICTORIA WYATT - 4 yo (7/2014) - / Charged: Mother; Stacie Marie Parsons - Athens TX
» CARNEL CHAMBERLAIN - 4 yo/ Convicted: Mother's BF: Anthony Bennett - Mount Pleasant MI
» ROBERT MANWILL - 8 yo (2009) - Boise ID
» UNNAMED GIRL - 12 yo/ Accused: Mother; Tracy Lynn Betts - Temecula CA
» VICTORIA WYATT - 4 yo (7/2014) - / Charged: Mother; Stacie Marie Parsons - Athens TX
» CARNEL CHAMBERLAIN - 4 yo/ Convicted: Mother's BF: Anthony Bennett - Mount Pleasant MI
» ROBERT MANWILL - 8 yo (2009) - Boise ID
Page 1 of 1
Permissions in this forum:
You cannot reply to topics in this forum