Philadelphia authorities are continuing their investigation into the disappearance of Kada Scott, a 23-year-old woman last seen earlier this month, after human remains were found in a shallow grave behind an abandoned school in the city. Police discovered the remains on October 18 near Ada H. Lewis Middle School, the same area where Scott’s belongings were recovered days earlier. The remains were transferred to the medical examiner’s office for identification, though officials have not yet confirmed whether they belong to Scott.
Scott was reported missing on October 5 after she failed to return home from her overnight shift at an assisted living facility. Her vehicle was located in the employee parking lot, but her phone, iPad and other belongings were missing. Investigators allege that in the days leading up to her disappearance, Scott received multiple harassing phone calls. She was last seen leaving work the night of October 4 and reportedly met with Keon King, a 21-year-old man who has since been arrested in connection with the case.
King was taken into custody on October 14 and charged with kidnapping, false imprisonment, stalking, tampering with evidence and other offenses related to Scott’s disappearance. Police believe King was the last person to communicate with Scott before her phone and social media activity abruptly stopped. Authorities also linked King to a 1999 gold Toyota Camry, which they allege may have been used in the crime. The vehicle was found in an apartment complex parking lot and sent for forensic examination.
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner announced during an October 17 press conference that additional individuals have come forward alleging previous encounters with King. He described the public’s response to the case as unprecedented, noting the collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies and community members. Krasner also pointed out that King had been charged earlier this year in a separate kidnapping and strangulation case, which was dismissed after his accuser didn’t appear in court. Prosecutors have since refiled those charges, describing King’s behavior as part of a possible pattern.
Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski confirmed that investigators are pursuing evidence from both cases. She said phone data and surveillance footage indicate that Scott and King were in contact shortly before she vanished. Authorities are also examining whether others may have assisted in the crime. King is currently being held on $2.5 million bail and has not yet entered a plea.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed condolences to Scott’s family and urged continued public cooperation as the investigation proceeds. The discovery of human remains has intensified efforts to locate definitive evidence and determine Scott’s fate. Law enforcement agencies, including the Philadelphia Police Department’s homicide division and the FBI’s Violent Crime Task Force, continue to work around the clock to bring closure to the case and ensure accountability for those responsible.
Sources: People, CNN, NBC News
