Donald Zieben‑Hood is at the center of a tragic and disturbing case that unfolded in the early hours of August 1 in their Harlem apartment. What appeared as a glamorous life online ended in gruesome reality.
The preserved image of picture‑perfect couples posting loving travel shots and glossy fashion images hid a dark dynamic behind closed doors. Jacob Zieben‑Hood, a 34‑year‑old personal trainer and medical student, was found dead on their bathroom floor, slumped over on the toilet with multiple stab wounds, including one that severed an artery and caused fatal blood loss, NY Post reports.
Just hours before his death, Jacob phoned his father in panic. He said Donald was “coming after him” and preventing his exit from the apartment. He even sent a photo of a bleeding wound on his leg. During the call, Jacob’s father heard Donald yelling insults and abusive language at his son.
When police arrived, Donald had cuts on his arms that required stitches. Donald told officers he had had a knife fight with Jacob the night before, fell asleep afterward, and woke around 4 a.m. to discover his husband dead.
Prosecutors are investigating the death as a homicide, though formal murder charges have not yet been filed pending autopsy results. Donald has been charged with first‑degree burglary, weapons possession, and aggravated criminal contempt for violating court protection orders that were put in place to keep him from contacting or approaching Jacob.
This arrest was not the first brush with the law. Since 2022 there have been nine documented domestic incidents involving the couple. Allegations include choking, head injuries, threats with a knife, and physical assaults. Despite multiple arrests and protection orders, Donald repeatedly posted bail—sometimes for as little as $5,000 despite prosecutors seeking $20,000 or more.
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In February, Donald was accused of strangling Jacob. In June, he allegedly threatened him with a knife outside their apartment while invoking “I will attack you.” Each time, bail was granted even as prosecutors warned of the dangerous pattern unfolding.
Neighbors described increasingly intense and loud fights, with slamming doors and emotional outbursts. One neighbor confessed to calling 911 in June as arguments escalated. They expressed regret, saying they “knew something bad was going to happen.”
The case is chilling in its contrast between the glossy online brand the couple maintained and the retaliatory, violent behavior documented in official records.
Donald was denied bail at his arraignment and remains in custody as the medical examiner’s report will determine whether Jacob’s death will result in homicide charges.
The tragedy reminds us that behind curated feeds and glamorous partnerships, there can be hidden toxicity, intense power dynamics, and escalating violence.
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