Inkster, MI – A mother and son have been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of 20-year-old London Thomas, whose remains were discovered in Southfield earlier this year. Jalen Pendergrass, 23, and his mother, Charla Pendergrass, 49, face up to life in prison if convicted.
Thomas was last seen april 5th when she was dropped off at her boyfriend’s house on Carlysle Street in Inkster. Her disappearance sparked a search that ended tragically on April 26th when her body was found inside a sealed plastic bin in an SUV on Millard Street in southfield. The case highlights the potential for escalating violence in domestic disputes and underscores the importance of thorough investigations into missing persons reports. The Pendergrasses are scheduled to be arraigned October 17th at 9 a.m.
According to Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, Jalen Pendergrass had previously been in a relationship with Thomas, but the relationship had ended by the time she arrived at his home. Investigators learned that on April 11th, Charla Pendergrass allegedly asked a friend to transport the sealed bin, ultimately leading to the discovery of Thomas’s body.
The Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office persistent thomas died from asphyxia and ruled her death a homicide. Charla Pendergrass was initially charged with lying to a peace officer during the examination, but those charges were later dismissed.
police searched the area on Millard Street after receiving details from a friend of Charla Pendergrass. The investigation remains ongoing.
