A fitness model has been arrested following the death of his husband, who was found stabbed in their Harlem apartment.
Authorities report that 40-year-old Donald Zeven Hood called 911 around 4 a.m. on Friday, asserting that he had just awakened after a knife altercation, during which his husband had died in the bathroom.
Police discovered Jacob on the floor, significant blood present, showing cuts on his head and multiple stab wounds, particularly on the back of one leg.
Investigating as a homicide, authorities noted that one of the wounds severed an artery, leading to Jacob’s death.
It was also revealed that Donald’s husband had cuts on his arms.
Prosecutors outlined a history of conflict between the couple, with Donald allegedly displaying a pattern of escalating violence, often in violation of multiple court orders, which they argue ultimately resulted in his husband’s death.
As for the couple’s tumultuous relationship, it came to light that Jacob, who was pursuing a medical career, had reached out to his father that night, insisting he could not leave his apartment because Donald was allegedly “following” him.
According to the victim’s father, he overheard Donald yelling at Jacob and using derogatory terms.
In a further troubling context, Donald was previously arrested in November for breaching a protective order that prohibited contact with Jacob. Reportedly, during police conversations, he acknowledged the protective order, questioning why he was being arrested.
The judge has since denied Donald bail, and the case remains under investigation for murder.
Both men were not only models but also social media influencers.
A neighbor, who only disclosed her first name as Craig, shared with the Daily News that the couple frequently fought. “I’ve noticed their arguments were quite intense,” she reflected. “They were always loud, and it felt as though something tragic was waiting to happen.” She expressed her sorrow over the situation.
Donald faces charges of first-degree robbery, weapon possession, and aggravated assault.
The medical examiner’s office will determine the nature of Jacob’s wounds, whether they are indicative of an accident, self-harm, or something more sinister.
