Missing New York Mother Found Dead in Suitcase, Suspect in Custody
A tragic discovery in early September 2024 left a New York family mourning the loss of Seikeya Jones, a 31-year-old mother whose body was found inside a suitcase in a wooded area near Huntington, Long Island. The case has shocked the community and prompted an ongoing investigation by Suffolk County authorities. Here's what we know.
The Discovery of Seikeya Jones
On Sept. 3, 2024, police were called to a wooded area in Huntington after a 911 caller reported suspicious activity and a foul odor. Upon arrival, officers found a suitcase containing the body of Seikeya Jones, who had been missing since Aug. 16. Her body was found in the fetal position with black cords tied around her wrists, and a bungee cord strapped around the suitcase.
Jones, whose family had reported her missing, was last seen on surveillance footage walking near the Huntington Station apartment building before vanishing. She leaves behind a 4-year-old son, who is now in the care of relatives.
Arrest of Ronald Schroeder
Three days after the grim discovery, police arrested 41-year-old Ronald Schroeder at Penn Station. Schroeder, who was already wanted on an outstanding warrant, was found carrying date rape drugs and other illegal substances when he was taken into custody. He was charged with concealing a corpse in connection with Jones' death.
Though an autopsy is still pending, authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of Jones' death. Schroeder, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, is currently being held without bail at Suffolk County Jail and is expected to return to court later this month.
The Family's Grief
Seikeya Jones' family is devastated by her untimely death. Her mother, Yolando Terrell, shared how she learned the heartbreaking news while watching a news report upon returning from vacation. "Someone has to give me some answers," she said, according to PEOPLE.
Jones had struggled with homelessness and mental health issues, which her family tried to help her manage. Despite her struggles, Jones was remembered by her friends as the "life of the party," earning herself the nickname "Cheese" for her infectious smile, as reported by PEOPLE.
Jones' sister, Shasia Correnthi, shared her anger and sorrow over her sister's murder, expressing that Seikeya's mental illness "does not give anybody the right to put their hands on [her] and put her in a suitcase, and stuff her inside these bushes like she was nothing," according to PEOPLE.
What Happened to Seikeya Jones?
Authorities are still piecing together the details of Jones' death, including how long her body was in the wooded area before it was discovered, and how long she had been deceased before her remains were found. With so many unanswered questions surrounding this case, the community is left with hope for justice as the investigation continues.
References: Man Arrested After Missing Mom Found Dead in Suitcase in Wooded Area | Suspect found with date rape drug after arrest over woman's body stuffed in LI suitcase: cops
