Warren Man Pleads No Contest in Roommate Murder

Donald Renfroe, 26, of Warren, Michigan, pleaded no contest to second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, concealing the death of his roommate James Wilkins—a father and football coach—and a felony firearm charge related to the June 2023 shooting. Prosecutors allege Renfroe shot Wilkins in their apartment, then, with Darius Glenn, cleaned up the scene and transported the body to Oscoda Township, where it was found months later after Glenn cooperated as part of a plea deal. Investigators found evidence including a patched bullet hole, blood, and records of Renfroe renting cleaning equipment and buying supplies the day Wilkins disappeared. Renfroe’s plea agreement includes dismissal of a first-degree murder charge and another felony case, with a sentencing agreement of 31 years plus two consecutive years for the firearm offense. Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido emphasized the tragedy of Wilkins' death in his own home and affirmed the commitment to justice for his family. Sentencing is scheduled for July 7.