Body Of Melissa Jenkins, Missing Teacher, Possibly Found In Vermont

ST. JOHNSBURY, VERMONT – Police in Vermont discovered a body today that they believe is Melissa Jenkins, a respected teacher who went missing Sunday night. The discovery comes the day after police found Jenkins’ two-year-old son in her running SUV in the small New England town. The boy was unharmed.

Det. Sgt. Walter Smith said that he could not elaborate on the details at this time but did say that Jenkins death was suspicious.

Smith told ABC News:

“I cannot disclose the details of how the body was found or the condition of the body, but this death is considered suspicious. We don’t know if it’s an isolated incident, we expect the public to use all diligence and vigilance while out and about.”

Police believe that they have discovered the body of Melissa Jenkins but said that the body wouldn’t be officially identified until after an autopsy.

Jenkins, a 33-year-old single mother who taught at St. Johnsbury Academy, was well respected in the small town. According to USA Today, Jenkins was the girls freshman basketball coach and a dorm proctor.

St. Johnsbury headmaster Tom Lovett said:

“She’s got a real gift with students who either haven’t liked science before or learning science doesn’t come easy to them. She’s got a real gift with them.”

A candlelit vigil was held last night at the restaurant where Jenkins’ worked part time. Ron Craig, who occasionally looked after Jenkins’ son, said:

“She would do anything for anybody. She definitely will be greatly missed.”

An autopsy is planned for later today. Jenkins’ son is currently being looked after by a family friend.