Earlier this month, the death of 19-year-old Kenneka Jenkins who was found dead inside a walk-in hotel freezer at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Chicago went viral on social media.
Since the death of Jenkins, conspiracy theories have been developed claiming the young adult was attacked, raped, and murdered. On the other hand, surveillance videos have shown the young adult staggering down the halls of the hotel alone. Still the videos do not show Jenkins walking inside the hotel walk-in freezer.
Now, outraged protesters are calling for the FBI to take over the investigation of Jenkins’ death. However, the Rosemont police have rejected the protester’s request.
“This investigation has been and remains the utmost priority for us,” said Rosemont Police Chief Donald E. Stephens III in the statement to The Chicago Sun-Times. Throughout this investigation, we have used any and all outside agencies necessary to complete a thorough investigation and will continue to do so as needed. I am fully confident in the ability of each and every one of the officers, detectives, and leadership team charged with this case. At no time have I doubted the work that is being done.”
The Rosemont police have classified Jenkins’ death investigation as noncriminal. According to the Cook County medical examiner’s office, Jenkins’ cause of death is pending both additional police work and toxicology results.
Due to the medical examiner’s office inability to release Jenkin’s body to the funeral home, the service was delayed.
Recently, Jenkin’s mother, Tereasa Martin, announced on Facebook that the visitation will be held at Salem Baptist Church Saturday, September 30, from 11am to 12 noon in Chicago. Funeral services will follow, presided over by Rev. James T. Meeks.
On Facebook Martin stated, “all are welcome if you come in peace.”