Man charged with murder in Jacksonville high school teacher’s death

Jacksonville, FL — Vivian James, who was a beloved teacher at Atlantic Coast High School, was found dead in her home in Cedar Hills on the morning of Dec. 28.

Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Assistant Chief Brian Kee said the medical examiner determined that James’ cause of death was strangulation.

Perkins has been in custody since Dec. 28.

On that day, investigators found Perkins at the Hospitality Inn on 103rd Street. He had James’ 2007 Toyota Camry with several of her belongings inside of it, including her ID and cellphone.

Police searched the car and found Perkins’ bag, which contained a bloody pair of sweatpants, a camera from James’ home, as well as her three laptops.

Perkins was asked by police if he recognized James’ home and he said he did and that he went to James’ home Dec. 26 to talk about anxiety issues he had been having.

A neighbor tells Action News Jax Perkins lived just a few houses down from James until about three years ago.

Kee said Perkins isn’t really cooperating with investigators and also said there are no other suspects in the case at this point.

Anyone with any information in the case is asked to contact JSO at (904) 630-0500.