DeKALB, Ill.— A tragic incident unfolded early Tuesday in DeKalb when 31-year-old Jasmine Dejournette was found dead in her home with severe injuries, leading to the arrest of her boyfriend, Devonne L. Montgomery, on first-degree murder charges.
Dejournette, discovered by police at her West Hillcrest Drive residence, suffered fatal facial injuries and brain hemorrhaging from blunt force trauma, according to forensic findings shared by local police. The emergency call, made by Montgomery around 2:20 a.m., initially reported Dejournette as unresponsive. Upon police arrival, they found her naked and lifeless on the apartment floor.
Montgomery, 30, faces multiple charges including two counts of first-degree murder, felony aggravated domestic battery, and unlawful possession of a weapon, as per DeKalb County court documents. His criminal history, revealed through court records, includes previous convictions for aggravated battery and illegal firearm use.
In response to the tragedy, loved ones of Dejournette have launched a GoFundMe drive to support funeral expenses, remembering her as a “kind, loving, and selfless” individual who brightened any space she entered.
The devastating night, as retold by authorities, was reportedly preceded by Montgomery engaging in video games and consuming alcohol. The couple’s troubled relationship surfaced with over 8,000 text messages exchanged since mid-year, some of which depicted Montgomery’s coercive behavior and references to physical abuse, highlighting a pattern of escalating violence.
According to Kevin Catlin, Dejournette’s brother, his sister exuded deep compassion and unwavering kindness, enriching their family gatherings with joy and warmth. Catlin shared an emotive tribute online, expressing profound grief over the loss of such a vital presence in their lives.
Investigators also disclosed that on the night of her murder, Montgomery maintained a multi-hour call with relatives, which could potentially corroborate the timeline of events leading to her death. His alibi, claiming absence from the scene during the time of the crime, was contradicted by data from his phone, positioning him at or near the apartment throughout the evening.
Further investigation of the scene revealed bloody clothing, a blood-soaked carpet, and a pair of shoes whose tread pattern coincided with the injuries observed on Dejournette’s body. A firearm, registered to Dejournette, was also found concealed under a bed.
During his first court appearance, Montgomery was denied release, with a follow-up hearing scheduled. He remains detained at DeKalb County jail, represented by public defender Chip Criswell.
The community and those affected by this tragedy continue to seek justice while advocating for awareness and intervention in domestic violence situations. For those experiencing domestic abuse, several resources including Safe Passage in DeKalb provide round-the-clock support services.