FARNHAMVILLE, IOWA — Nathaniel Bevers-McGivney, 22, has been convicted of first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse after the brutal killing of Michele “Luna” Jackson, a 17-year-old girl. The teenager’s body was found in a garbage can in Farnhamville, Iowa, months after she was stabbed 22 times.
Bevers-McGivney’s conviction came after a series of troubling events, including his encounter with Jackson’s family while riding her green scooter, which became a key piece of evidence in the case.
The Night of the Murder
On the night of September 22, 2024, Michele Jackson was last seen leaving for a local park. When she failed to return home later that evening, her family grew concerned.
Her mother, sister, and her sister’s boyfriend began searching the area, which led them to Bevers-McGivney, who was found riding Jackson’s signature green scooter. Shockingly, one of Jackson’s shoes was found in the scooter’s basket, covered in blood.
Confrontation and Evidence
In a tense confrontation, Jackson’s family members questioned Bevers-McGivney about the scooter, and he claimed it was his, later changing his story to say he had just found it. Jackson’s mother called 911, and the audio was played during the trial.
The distressing call revealed the moment when she reported the bloody shoe in the basket, leading to even greater concern for her daughter’s well-being.
During the 911 call, Jackson’s sister filmed a cellphone video that showed the family holding Bevers-McGivney at gunpoint while they awaited police. Bevers-McGivney was reportedly covered in blood when found.
Authorities later confirmed that the teenager’s blood was found at his home, including in his bathtub, on clothing, and on a towel.
The Murder Details
Court documents revealed the horrific details of Michele Jackson’s murder. She was stabbed 22 times, and the knife’s blade was lodged in her back, while the handle was found in Bevers-McGivney’s trash.
The next morning, a worker discovered Jackson’s body in a garbage can, which was rolling around a local park. This was a park Jackson was known to visit frequently to swing and listen to music.
Conviction and Sentencing
Bevers-McGivney waived his right to a jury trial, opting for a bench trial where District Court Judge Derek Johnson convicted him of first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse. His sentencing is scheduled for August 15, 2025.
The case has left the community in shock, as Jackson’s family reflects on the brutal and senseless loss of a young life.
