Davenport, Iowa, was shaken to its core when the remains of 10-year-old Breasia Terrell were identified in March 2021. The young girl had gone missing nearly nine months earlier, sparking a widespread search effort that involved family, friends, and even strangers who wanted to help bring her home. Authorities confirmed on Wednesday that the human remains discovered in rural Iowa last week belonged to Breasia.
The Disappearance of Breasia Terrell
Breasia Terrell, a bright and beloved child, was last seen on Friday, July 10, 2020, in Davenport. Standing at just 4 feet, 5 inches tall and weighing around 75 pounds, she had black hair and brown eyes. Her sudden disappearance prompted an immediate response from local law enforcement, with an Amber Alert issued shortly after her case gained national attention.
Friends and total strangers joined forces with the family to form an improvised search party within 48 hours of her disappearance. Despite their best efforts, Breasia remained missing for months, leaving her loved ones desperate for answers. The world watched as the community rallied together in hope, only to face heartbreak when her remains were eventually found.
Investigation and Breakthrough
An exhaustive investigation by the Davenport Police Department led to a breakthrough in the case. Henry Dinkins, a man already in police custody on unrelated charges, emerged as a person of interest. On January 10, 2021, six months after Breasia went missing, investigators revealed they had followed up on over 170 tips related to her disappearance. Their diligence ultimately paid off when human remains were discovered in a pond north of DeWitt on March 23, 2021. Forensic analysis later confirmed these remains belonged to Breasia.
Henry Dinkins' son provided crucial testimony during court proceedings, stating he witnessed his father shoot Breasia. This shocking revelation solidified the prosecution's case against Dinkins, leading to his conviction on charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping.
Community Reaction and Justice Served
The tragic news of Breasia's death devastated her family and the broader community. Aishia Lankford, Breasia's mother, expressed her belief that her daughter had been held against her will during the early stages of the investigation. However, as evidence mounted against Dinkins, it became clear that Breasia's fate was far worse than anyone could have imagined.
In November 2022, Henry Earl Dinkins, 51, was sentenced to two consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole. Judge Michael Walton presided over the sentencing hearing, ensuring justice was served for Breasia and her grieving family. During the trial, Dinkins' sister publicly declared her brother's innocence, though the overwhelming evidence contradicted her claims.
Remembering Breasia Terrell
Born on December 4, 2009, in Davenport, Breasia attended Jackson Elementary School and was known for her vibrant personality. Friends and family remember her fondly, celebrating her life through heartfelt messages and memories shared online. Weerts Funeral Home assisted in organizing a service to honor Breasia, inviting those touched by her story to leave kind words or reflections in her memory.
Though Breasia's journey ended tragically, her legacy lives on through the love and support shown by those who cared about her. As the world mourns her loss, her case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and compassion in protecting vulnerable children.
New Details Emerge
Pre-trial motions filed in the case shed additional light on the circumstances surrounding Breasia's death. Prosecutors revealed chilling details about the events leading up to her murder, painting a grim picture of what transpired that fateful night in July 2020. These revelations underscored the severity of Dinkins' actions and reinforced the necessity of holding him accountable.
While no amount of punishment can undo the harm caused, Breasia's family finds solace in knowing justice has been served. Her story continues to inspire others to advocate for missing persons and promote awareness about child safety issues across the world.
