Sabrina Jackson was a 19-year-old student who had a bright future ahead of her. She was a graduate of Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she was involved in various activities such as choir, theater, and speech. She was also a member of the National Honor Society and the Student Council. She had plans to attend the University of Iowa and pursue a career in psychology.
However, her life was cut short on June 15, 2021, when she was shot and killed in her home, along with her parents, Jan and Melissa Jackson. The suspect in the triple homicide was none other than her older brother, Alexander Jackson, who was 20 years old at the time.
The Motive Behind the Murders
According to The Gazette, Alexander Jackson had a history of mental health issues and substance abuse. He had been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and had been prescribed medication for his conditions. He had also been using marijuana and alcohol regularly, despite his parents’ disapproval.
The police found evidence that Alexander Jackson had been planning the murders for months. He had searched online for topics such as “how to get away with murder”, “how to kill someone”, and “how to fake a crime scene”. He had also purchased a .22-caliber Ruger rifle and ammunition online using his father’s credit card.
On the day of the murders, Alexander Jackson waited until his parents and sister were asleep before shooting them multiple times in their bedrooms. He then staged the scene to make it look like a home invasion. He called 911 and claimed that he had been awakened by gunshots and that he saw a masked intruder fleeing from the house. He also claimed that he had been shot in the foot during the struggle.
However, the police quickly became suspicious of his story. They found no signs of forced entry or robbery at the house. They also noticed that Alexander Jackson had no blood on his clothes or hands, despite having a gunshot wound on his foot. They also found the rifle and ammunition hidden in his car.
The Aftermath of the Tragedy
Alexander Jackson was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder. He pleaded not guilty and is currently awaiting trial. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment without parole.
The murders shocked and saddened the community of Cedar Rapids, especially those who knew the Jackson family. They described them as kind, loving, and generous people who were involved in various social causes and charitable organizations. They also remembered Sabrina Jackson as a talented, smart, and friendly young woman who had a positive impact on everyone she met.
A memorial service was held for the Jackson family at St. Pius X Catholic Church on June 21, 2021. Hundreds of people attended the service to pay their respects and offer their condolences. A scholarship fund was also established in Sabrina Jackson’s name to help students pursue their academic goals.
Sabrina Jackson’s cause of death was a senseless act of violence that robbed her of her potential and dreams. Her story is a tragic tale of two families: one that nurtured and supported her, and one that destroyed her.
