JACKSONVILLE, FL – Detectives questioned Zebulon Perkins in a Florida police station as he sat across from them, nervously insisting he knew nothing of the violent deaths that had stunned their city. It was December 28, 2019, and Perkins found himself under scrutiny for driving the car belonging to Vivian James, a retired teacher whose body had been discovered that morning.

Authorities grilled Perkins about his connection to James, a woman he described as a friend. Perkins denied any involvement, claiming he was unaware of her death. His responses, at times defiant and emotional, failed to sway investigators who had pieced together a troubling sequence of events.

Prosecutors later revealed that Perkins, now 33, carried out two murders over the course of three days. Court records show he pleaded guilty last year to second-degree murder charges for killing James, his former teacher, and Leah Kline in unrelated but connected episodes. He is now serving a 70-year prison term.

The incidents began on December 25, 2019, when Perkins got into a confrontation with Kline at a local motel. According to statements from the prosecution, the argument escalated into violence, and Perkins strangled Kline before disposing of her body in a nearby dumpster. The following day, apparently seeking guidance, Perkins visited James at her home.

When James urged him to contact the police about the incident, prosecutors say Perkins lashed out, attacking her. Authorities allege he beat and strangled James with a cord before fleeing the scene in her car. Friends discovered James’ body at her residence three days later.

Investigators quickly traced James’ missing Toyota Camry to the same motel where Perkins had argued with Kline. Perkins was found outside the vehicle, transferring items. Evidence collected from the car and a bag inside the motel room included bloodied sweatpants containing DNA from both Perkins and James, as well as James’ stolen electronics and a missing surveillance camera.

In multiple interviews with police, Perkins repeatedly professed his innocence. Footage from the interrogation room shows Perkins responding with disbelief when officers informed him of his arrest for murder. As detectives stepped out to process paperwork, Perkins—alone and visibly distraught—knelt in the corner of the room, praying and maintaining that the truth would eventually come to light.

Perkins’ capture and conviction concluded a search that brought closure to the families of both victims. James was remembered by those who knew her as a caring educator and community member, while friends of Kline mourned her sudden loss.

Court documents indicate Perkins entered his guilty pleas without offering much explanation for his actions. With his sentencing complete, Perkins now faces decades behind bars as families and the Jacksonville community continue to grapple with the tragic loss of two lives.