Janiya Jenkins, 21, and Uyani Jones, 10, Found Dead in Streamwood Home: Sisters’ Tragic Deaths Leave Community Grieving, Authorities Searching for Answers in ‘Isolated’ Incident

STREAMWOOD, ILLINOIS —
The town of Streamwood, a quiet suburban community northwest of Chicago, is mourning an unthinkable tragedy after two sisters—21-year-old Janiya Jenkins and 10-year-old Uyani Jones—were found dead inside their townhome late Wednesday night.

Police responded to the residence in the 1500 block of McKool Avenue around 9:50 p.m. after receiving a call prompted by disturbing sounds overheard during a phone call with the sisters. Upon arrival, Streamwood officers discovered the two girls unresponsive. Paramedics arrived soon after, but both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office officially identified the sisters the following day. While the cause and manner of death have not been made public pending autopsy results, police have confirmed that the deaths are being treated as “suspicious.” No arrests have been made. Officials have emphasized that this appears to be an isolated incident, with no ongoing threat to the wider public.

But for a grieving family—and a shocked neighborhood—those assurances offer little comfort.

A Sisterly Bond Cut Short

By all accounts, Janiya Jenkins and Uyani Jones were not only siblings but best friends. They lived together in the townhome with other family members and shared a close-knit relationship that was visible to those around them.

“They were always together—laughing, walking to the store, going to the park,” said neighbor Celeste Thompson. “You could tell Janiya looked out for Uyani like a second mom. It’s so hard to believe they’re gone.”

Janiya, just 21, had recently graduated from high school and was planning to enroll in a community college to study early childhood education. Friends described her as nurturing, patient, and incredibly protective of her younger sister. Uyani was in elementary school, a fourth grader known for her bright smile and love of drawing.

A memorial now grows on their front steps—flowers, stuffed animals, hand-drawn notes from classmates and neighbors, and candles flickering in the breeze.

What Happened That Night?

While authorities have not released detailed information about the circumstances inside the home, CBS Chicago and ABC 7 Chicago reported that the timeline began earlier in the evening with a phone call. Around 7:40 p.m., a young girl who was speaking to the victims on the phone reportedly overheard alarming noises—what she described to her mother as “something scary.” That mother, who is a family friend, later told reporters she had a “gut feeling” that something was wrong.

Shortly thereafter, two other children inside the home reportedly went to a neighbor’s house in distress, prompting the 911 call.

Police have not confirmed what role—if any—those children may have played in alerting authorities or whether they were eyewitnesses to what occurred. They have been placed in the care of relatives, and trauma support is being offered.

The home was secured as a crime scene by late Wednesday night. Investigators and crime scene technicians worked through the night, photographing the interior, collecting evidence, and interviewing neighbors.

Streamwood Police Statement and Community Concerns

In a statement released Thursday morning, the Streamwood Police Department confirmed that while the incident is under active investigation, it appears to be domestic in nature and not a random act of violence. They emphasized there is “no known threat to the public,” but declined to release additional details pending the outcome of forensic testing and witness interviews.

That hasn’t stopped speculation from spreading throughout the neighborhood.

“People are scared, of course,” said lifelong resident Jose Alvarez. “This doesn’t happen here. Two girls—dead—in their home? Everyone’s asking why, and no one has answers.”

Some residents have expressed concern about police transparency, but others have defended the department’s cautious approach, recognizing the complexities of investigations involving children and family members.

Cook County Medical Examiner’s Involvement

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the deaths on Thursday, releasing the names of the victims and their ages. However, autopsy results have not yet been made public. It remains unclear whether the sisters died as a result of violence, an external actor, or other causes.

In similar cases, results from autopsies—especially those involving minors—can take several days or even weeks to complete, especially when toxicology or additional forensic analysis is required.

The Devastating Toll on the Family

Relatives of the victims have declined formal interviews, though a family member shared a brief message via social media, asking for prayers and privacy. In their grief, the family is also reportedly seeking legal guidance and has begun arrangements for funeral services.

A memorial fund is in the process of being set up through a local nonprofit to assist with burial costs and counseling for surviving children in the household.

“There are no words for this kind of loss,” said Rev. Tanya Marshall, a local pastor who knows the family. “We are praying for peace, for justice, and for truth.”

Neighbors Reeling from the Loss

The 1500 block of McKool Avenue is lined with similar homes, some single-family, others multigenerational households. Residents describe it as a generally peaceful place—quiet, with children often playing outside during summer evenings. The crime rate in the immediate vicinity is relatively low, which is why this tragedy feels especially jarring.

“This shakes your faith in everything,” said neighbor Gina Lewis. “I have a daughter the same age as Uyani. It’s every parent’s nightmare.”

A community vigil is being organized for the coming weekend, with local clergy, school representatives, and youth counselors expected to attend.

Questions Still Unanswered

Despite law enforcement’s reassurances that this is an “isolated” incident, many critical questions remain:

• What exactly happened between 7:40 and 9:50 p.m.?
• Were any suspects inside the home when police arrived?
• Was there any history of domestic issues?
• What role, if any, did the other children in the home play in the timeline?

Authorities have said they are reviewing 911 call audio, examining digital evidence (including phone records), and awaiting autopsy findings to guide the next steps in the investigation.

How the Public Can Help

Streamwood Police are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious near the McKool Avenue residence on the evening of Wednesday, May 22, to contact them directly. All tips will be handled confidentially.

Anonymous information can also be submitted through Cook County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-535-STOP.

Remembering Janiya and Uyani

What should not be lost in this tragedy are the lives that were cut short. Janiya Jenkins had her entire adult life ahead of her. Uyani Jones was just beginning to blossom.

“They didn’t deserve this,” said family friend Andrea Wilson. “They were loved. They were innocent. We owe them the truth, and we owe them justice.”

For those looking to support the family, updates and verified donation links will be posted through the following memorial page:

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