911 call, autopsy report reveal more about Wilmington murder-suicide

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington police say an autopsy report determined 23-year-old Rebecca Jones was strangled to death Monday by her former fiance Justin Walker.

Jones was found dead inside Walker’s apartment on Dapple Court just before 3 p.m. Her discovery was minutes after the New Hanover Sheriff’s Office say Walker drove to a Wilmington gun range and killed himself.

A 911 caller revealed Walker left a note behind telling authorities Jones’ body was at his apartment.

911 Caller: “Ma’am the letter says her body is at his apartment.”
Dispatcher: “Her Body is at his apartment?”
911 Caller: “Yes ma’am”
Dispatcher: “Where’s his apartment? Does it say who the female is?”
911 Caller: “Negative.”

911 operators then notified Wilmington police about the letter.

WPD: “Be advised there was a letter behind him that there is a body at this location. Requesting, we have EMS responding to this location as well.”

When officers arrived at the scene, the door to Walker’s apartment was locked.

WPD: “I’ve got someone from the office heading there with the key.”                                                                                         WPD: “Can you advise EMS come to our location, found victim 10-7. Most likely homicide.”

Investigators say a second note written by Walker was found with Jones’ body suggesting he was upset because the two were going through a breakup.

After the news of her death, Jones’ family released the following statement:

“Rebecca grew up in Rindge and attended Rindge Memorial School and Conant High School. She played softball and field hockey. She was a charming, joyful, independent, spunky woman who never was afraid to be herself. She loved the beach and spending time with her family and friends, but especially her four babies(dogs) and three cats. Her kind, loving soul made her the type of person you could only wish to have in your life. She has been taken from us way too soon in a senseless manner which none of us can comprehend. She leaves behind nieces and a nephew, sisters and a brother, her parents, many more family members and countless friends. She will be missed by everyone who ever had the privilege to know her. Heaven has truly gained a beautiful angel.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help her family bring her pets and belongings home to New Hampshire along with funeral costs. Click here to see how you can donate.