Warren police announced the discovery of the body of James Wilkins, a beloved father and local football coach who had been missing under suspicious circumstances since the summer. The breakthrough came earlier this week in a remote area of Oscoda Township, thanks to a collaborative effort involving Warren police, Michigan State Police, Oscoda Township Police and Fire, and the U.S. Park Service.
Wilkins, 27, had disappeared on June 9, prompting a swift response from authorities. Foul play was suspected early on, leading to the identification of his roommate, Donald Renfoe, as a person of interest. Renfoe was subsequently arrested and charged with counts including tampering with evidence, concealing the death of an individual, felony firearm, and first-degree murder.
Darius Glenn, a friend of Renfoe, faces charges of tampering with evidence and being an accessory after the fact for his alleged involvement in concealing the murder. The investigation revealed that Renfoe purchased cleaning supplies on the day of Wilkins’ disappearance and, with Glenn’s assistance, worked to clean the apartment and likely dispose of Wilkins’ body.
The discovery of Wilkins’ body in a desolate area near an access road covered with brush and trees marks a crucial development in a case that had remained unresolved for months. A cadaver dog from Michigan State Police played a pivotal role in locating the burial site.
An autopsy scheduled for Thursday aims to confirm Wilkins’ identity and provide additional details crucial to the ongoing investigation. As the community mourns the loss of James Wilkins, the arrest of suspects Renfoe and Glenn brings a measure of closure, shedding light on the events surrounding the tragic disappearance of the beloved local coach and father.
