Model’s husband isolated for years before being found dead in NYC apartment, friends say
Jacob Zieben and Jacob Paulson formed a close friendship in 2013 after moving to New York City, bonding over their shared name and experiences as young gay men fresh out of college. For two years, the two were inseparable, but that changed when Zieben began dating model Donald Hood. Paulson recalled how his friend “just vanished,” cutting off contact as he focused on his new relationship. Despite the loss, Paulson moved on, unaware of many details until news broke two weeks ago that Jacob had been found dead in his Harlem apartment.
Authorities discovered Zieben’s body on July 31 after Hood called for help, finding him slumped over a toilet with a head wound and multiple stab wounds to his leg. Charging documents describe a history of alleged abuse beginning in 2022, including felony charges against Hood for strangulation and menacing. Hood, a model with a large social media following, was arrested the same day and remains in custody without bail. Prosecutors are investigating the death as a homicide but have not filed murder charges pending the autopsy.
Friends and acquaintances of Jacob have shared memories of the personal trainer’s life over the past decade, reflecting on his warmth, protectiveness, and the close-knit circle he once kept. Several friends described how Jacob distanced himself from them after meeting Hood, cutting off communication and blocking phone numbers. One longtime friend recalled Jacob mentioning Hood’s possessiveness and jealousy restricting his social contacts—behavior uncharacteristic of Jacob, who valued his independence.
Court records reveal multiple domestic incident reports filed against Hood since 2022 and two orders of protection issued to prevent contact with Jacob. In February, Hood was charged with strangulation following an alleged attack on Jacob, and in June, he faced additional charges including menacing with a knife. Hood pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the cases remain pending.
Earlier this year, Jacob briefly reconnected with Paulson on social media, offering a glimmer of hope for rebuilding their friendship. That hope was shattered by his sudden death, which has deeply affected Paulson and others who knew him. On the day Jacob was found, police observed injuries on Hood consistent with a struggle, but Hood claimed Jacob attacked him first. Jacob’s father reported overhearing a call during which Jacob said Hood was blocking his exit and using knives, while Hood shouted insults.
As the investigation continues, Jacob’s friends have come together to remember him, honoring the bond they shared. “Years can go by, but he was our family till’ the end,” one friend said, capturing the lasting impact Jacob had on those around him.
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