A 22-year-old Iowa man, Nathaniel Bevers-McGivney, has been convicted of first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse after he was found responsible for the death of 17-year-old Michele “Luna” Jackson.
Jackson’s body was discovered in a garbage can in Farnhamville, Iowa, months after she went missing on September 22, 2024. Bevers-McGivney was also caught riding Jackson’s green scooter, with one of her bloodied shoes in the basket, which led to his arrest and subsequent conviction.
The Discovery and Investigation
On the night of September 22, 2024, Jackson’s family became alarmed when she failed to return home from a local park. Her mother, sister, and her sister’s boyfriend began searching for her in the area.
During their search, they encountered Bevers-McGivney riding Jackson’s green scooter, which had one of her bloodied shoes in the basket. Bevers-McGivney claimed the scooter was his or that he had simply found it, but his presence with the scooter raised suspicions.
In a tense confrontation, Jackson’s mother called 911, informing dispatchers about the bloody shoe. The audio of the 911 call was played in court as part of the evidence.
Additionally, Jackson’s sister recorded a video during the call, showing her boyfriend holding Bevers-McGivney at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived. The confrontation was a key moment in the investigation that led to Bevers-McGivney’s arrest.
The Evidence Against Bevers-McGivney
Court documents revealed shocking details about the case. When Jackson’s family members found Bevers-McGivney, he appeared to be covered in blood. Investigators later confirmed that Jackson’s blood was found at Bevers-McGivney’s home, including in his bathtub, on the floor, and on his clothing.
Further investigation showed that Jackson had been stabbed around 22 times, with the knife blade still embedded in her back. The knife’s handle was found in the garbage at Bevers-McGivney’s residence.
Jackson’s body was eventually discovered the next morning in a garbage can that had been rolling around near the park where she loved to go. It was in this park that Jackson often spent time listening to music and swinging, making the discovery all the more tragic for her family.
Bevers-McGivney’s Conviction
Bevers-McGivney waived his right to a jury trial, and the case was heard by District Court Judge Derek Johnson. After hearing the evidence and testimonies, Judge Johnson convicted Bevers-McGivney of first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 15, with his fate now in the hands of the court.
This devastating case is a reminder of the impact of senseless violence and the devastating loss it causes families. Jackson’s family has had to endure unimaginable pain, but with Bevers-McGivney’s conviction, they may find a small measure of justice.
As the sentencing date approaches, many will continue to remember Michele “Luna” Jackson, and her story serves as a somber reminder of the importance of justice for victims of violent crime.
