It has been more than 24 years since the brutal murder of Jeneka Stovall Weddle, a young mother whose life was stolen far too soon. Today, her family and advocates are pleading for her case to be reopened so that justice can finally be served.
What Happened to Jeneka
On the night of January 28, 2001, Jeneka—just 22 years old and four months pregnant with her second child—was killed inside her home on Carruthers Drive in Jackson, Tennessee.
Her husband, Antonio Weddle, told investigators that he left the house around 12:30 a.m. to go bowling, leaving Jeneka at home preparing for bed. He claimed he tried to call her while away, but when she didn’t answer, he returned home around 2:00 a.m. Unable to get inside, Antonio said he pried the front door open with a screwdriver.
Once inside, he discovered Jeneka in the back bedroom, lying in a pool of blood. The young mother had suffered an unspecified injury and died from strangulation. Her death was ruled a homicide.
Police at the scene noted signs of forced entry, including a pried-open back door and an unlocked gate. Despite these details, the case went cold.
A Life Cut Short
Jeneka was not only a young mother—she was also expecting another child at the time of her death. Both her life and her unborn baby’s life were taken in one night of senseless violence.
For over two decades, her surviving daughter has grown up without her mother, and without answers.
Why This Case Needs to Be Reopened
This case has been unsolved for 24 years, leaving the family without closure. Jeneka’s life mattered. Her unborn child’s life mattered. And the pursuit of justice still matters today.
Call to Action
Authorities urge anyone who knows something to finally speak up. Even the smallest detail could help investigators reopen this case and bring long-overdue justice for Jeneka and her family.
If you have information, please contact the Jackson Police Department at 731-425-8400.
If you know something, say something. Her family—and her community—deserve the truth.
