Benjamin Naylor | Mini-Cassia Criminal Justice Center
Suspect Identified in Southern Idaho Quadruple Homicide
Authorities have charged a Burley man with four counts of first-degree murder following the deaths of four people across two Idaho counties.
According to law enforcement officials, 56-year-old Benjamin Naylor was arrested on July 8 after police discovered multiple victims in Cassia and Minidoka counties. He remains in custody without bond while awaiting preliminary hearings scheduled for July 18 and July 23.
Victims Found in Two Counties
Police reported finding the first victim, a woman, at a home in Rupert on F Street just after 3 p.m. on July 8. Additional victims were later located—two in Cassia County and a fourth in Minidoka County. Officials confirmed the identities of two victims as Kelly and Donna Jenks. The names of the other two victims have not been released.
Investigators believe Naylor acted alone. The Cassia County Sheriff’s Office, Minidoka County Sheriff’s Office, Rupert Police Department, Idaho State Police, and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office collaborated to apprehend him quickly.
Family Releases Statement Expressing Remorse
Following the arrest, Naylor’s family issued a public statement acknowledging the tragedy.
“Our hearts and thoughts will forever be with every life touched by this terrible loss,” the family wrote. They described Naylor as having struggled with severe mental illness for much of his life and expressed belief that he would have been “horrified by his actions” if in his right mind.
The statement also noted their expectation that Naylor will have to live with the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life.
Court Dates Set
Naylor faces two counts of murder in Cassia County and two in Minidoka County. A weapons enhancement was added to the Minidoka County charges.
His preliminary hearings are scheduled for:
- Cassia County: July 18
- Minidoka County: July 23
Local law enforcement has asked the public to respect the ongoing investigation and the privacy of the victims’ families.
“We offer our deepest sympathies to the victims’ families during this profoundly difficult time,” police said in a statement.
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