Alarming Confession in North Carolina Child Deaths
A father from North Carolina has reportedly called 911 to confess to the murder of four of his children, whom he claimed were hidden in the trunk of his car. Additionally, he mentioned that a fifth child was buried in the backyard of his home near Zebulon.
Wellington Delano Dickens III, 38, has been charged with four counts of first-degree murder after law enforcement stated he admitted to killing the children over a span of several months.
The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office announced that deputies were dispatched to the home around 10 p.m. on October 27, following Dickens’ call to emergency services. He informed the dispatcher about the dead children in his vehicle parked in the garage.
Upon arrival, officers found Dickens and his 3-year-old son, who was unharmed. However, they discovered what appeared to be human remains in the trunk of the car.
Investigators indicated that the remains appeared to have been there for some time. In recordings from the 911 call, Dickens allegedly gave his home address and stated that he had killed the children.
During the call, Dickens remarked, “I have a lot of explaining to do, but in short, it’s probably my fault. It’s terrible. I was too disciplined in the beginning. That’s it.”
Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell mentioned in a recent press conference that the tragic events likely took place over several months, from May to September. He expressed bewilderment regarding Dickens’ motives, stating that there is no justification for a father to harm his children.
Stephanie Rae Jones Dickens, Wellington’s wife, passed away in April 2024 due to complications from a miscarriage. Authorities believe the children’s deaths occurred in the months following her death.
Neighbors described the family as reclusive, noting they were homeschooling their children and rarely seen outside.
Deputies were present at the home when Stephanie died, and her death was ruled natural due to her decision against medical treatment. Neighbors shared that they seldom observed the family outdoors.
Court documents reveal that Dickens allegedly confessed to burying a fifth child in the woods behind their home. He claimed the infant’s health had worsened before he wrapped the child in plastic or paper and buried them.
Officials reported that no deaths were previously reported and that family members had not seen the infant since Dickens relocated. To date, the infant’s remains have not been recovered.
Sheriff Bizzell emphasized the emotional impact of this case on the responding officers and investigators, stating, “It’s something I’ll never forget.” While details about how the children died remain undisclosed, the state medical examiner’s office is working to determine the causes of death, with plans to continue searching for the fifth child’s remains when weather permits.
