Cause of Death Revealed for Fitness Instructor Found Stabbed in NYC Apartment

Authorities have revealed the official cause of death for Jacob Zieben-Hood, a 34-year-old fitness instructor found dead in his Manhattan apartment in August. The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed on Friday, Oct. 17, that Zieben-Hood died from multiple blunt and sharp force injuries. His death has been officially ruled a homicide.

The announcement comes more than two months after Zieben-Hood was discovered slumped over the toilet with multiple stab wounds to his legs and face. The grim discovery was made by his husband, 40-year-old model Donald Zieben-Hood, who is currently facing several charges — though none directly tied to the death.

Medical Examiner Confirms Cause of Death as Homicide

According to officials, the medical examiner’s findings clarify the violent nature of the incident. Jacob Zieben-Hood’s body showed signs of severe blunt and sharp force trauma, including multiple stab wounds. The injuries align with what prosecutors allege was a brutal assault that occurred just hours before his death.

On the night of July 31, Jacob reportedly texted his father, saying Donald had “attacked, beat, and sliced” him. Prosecutors say he also sent disturbing photos showing deep leg wounds and his face covered in blood. Less than 12 hours later, he was found dead inside the couple’s Manhattan apartment.

Responding officers described a chaotic and bloody scene, with blood splattered across the furniture, walls, and counters. Authorities believe the violent events leading to Jacob’s death occurred in the early hours of Aug. 1.

Donald called police around 4 a.m., claiming he found Jacob dead in the bathroom. However, investigators quickly uncovered a troubling history of alleged abuse, including two prior assaults earlier in the year, both in violation of a protective order against him.

Jacob and Daniel Zieben Hood.
Photo Credit : Jake Hood/Instagram

Legal Developments and Ongoing Investigation

While Donald Zieben-Hood has not been charged with homicide, he was indicted on Oct. 1 on multiple charges, including burglary, assault, criminal contempt, and criminal possession of a weapon. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts. Court records show he previously threatened Jacob with a knife during a June altercation, intensifying concerns over a pattern of escalating violence.

Authorities are continuing to investigate Jacob’s death, and additional charges against Donald remain possible as the case develops. The NYPD has not commented on whether new charges are expected following the medical examiner’s homicide ruling.

The case has drawn widespread attention due to the disturbing allegations and the couple’s high-profile social circle. Friends and supporters have called for justice, while domestic violence advocacy groups highlight the tragedy as a reminder of the dangers faced by victims even when protective orders are in place.

Community Reactions and Broader Implications

Jacob’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the fitness and LGBTQ+ communities, where he was known as a positive and encouraging figure. Social media has been flooded with tributes celebrating his work as a trainer and his advocacy for mental health awareness.

Legal experts say the case underscores ongoing challenges in domestic violence enforcement, including the limitations of protective orders. Advocates emphasize that repeated violations, as alleged here, should trigger more immediate interventions to prevent escalation.

As the investigation continues, Jacob Zieben-Hood’s family is calling for accountability. The homicide ruling marks a significant step forward, but questions remain about whether additional charges will follow and how the justice system will address the alleged pattern of abuse.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Jacob Zieben-Hood’s cause of death?

He died from multiple blunt and sharp force injuries, according to the NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

Q2: Has anyone been charged with his murder?

No one has been charged with homicide as of now. His husband faces other serious charges but not murder.

Q3: What happened before his death?

Jacob texted his father claiming Donald had attacked him and sent photos of his injuries the night before he was found dead.

Q4: What charges does Donald Zieben-Hood face?

He has been indicted on burglary, assault, criminal contempt, and criminal possession of a weapon charges.

Q5: Is the investigation still ongoing?

Yes, police are still investigating, and additional charges could be filed following the homicide ruling.