North Carolina Mother of Five Charged with Murder and Dismemberment of Two Children

In a shocking case out of Fayetteville, North Carolina, 63-year-old Avantae Deven has been charged with multiple offenses relating to the disappearance and death of two of her five adopted children. Deven was arrested on June 23 and faces allegations that she murdered her daughter, London Deven, and her son, Blake Deven, who is presumed dead. Authorities believe she coerced one of her other children into dismembering their siblings’ bodies, threatening them with severe consequences if they did not comply.

Police discovered two sets of human remains in a barrel at an Autryville residence in April. One set has been identified as London, while the other remains are believed to be Blake’s. According to court records, Deven manipulated one of her children into purchasing the tools necessary for the gruesome task, telling them to take the blame to avoid her receiving the death penalty. The involvement of the Department of Social Services and a teenager’s distress call to 911 in late 2023 led to the unveiling of this disturbing case.

Horrific Abuse and Neglect Uncovered in Fayetteville Home

The investigation into Blake’s disappearance revealed severe abuse and neglect. Blake, who had not been seen since 2017, was last reported missing by Deven in January 2024. Deven claimed Blake had left for a Buddhist retreat in 2022. However, evidence indicates Blake was starved and abused until his health deteriorated. He died in 2017 after his mother refused to seek medical help.

Deven allegedly devised a plan to dispose of Blake’s remains, forcing one of his siblings to assist in dismembering the body. She then incinerated the remains in a backyard burn barrel. During their investigation, police also uncovered details about London’s death, who was last seen alive in 2019.

Legal Proceedings and Community Shock

Deven faces charges of first-degree murder, child abuse causing serious bodily injury, destruction of human remains, concealing an unnatural death, and kidnapping. She is currently held in Cumberland County jail without bail. The case has left the Fayetteville community in shock, as details of the children’s suffering and Deven’s manipulative tactics continue to emerge. Investigators have described the living conditions as horrific, with children confined to small, dark spaces and subjected to harsh disciplinary measures.

The Department of Social Services and police are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the surviving children. This case highlights the severe consequences of unchecked abuse and the critical need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable children. The community mourns the tragic loss of Blake and London, while authorities continue to seek justice for the innocent lives lost and those forever scarred by these events.

Community Outrage and Calls for Systemic Change