UPDATE: In a shocking development, DNA testing confirms that the remains found in Philadelphia are connected to missing woman Kada Scott. The body was discovered Saturday behind a vacant school near Awbury Arboretum, an area previously searched by police.
Authorities report that the search intensified after a “very specific” anonymous tip came in overnight. Officers returned to the scene at approximately 10 a.m. and uncovered the remains in a shallow grave in a densely wooded area. First Deputy Commissioner John Stanford confirmed that the remains appear to be those of a female, and they have since been transferred to the medical examiner’s office for identification.
Police have also recovered surveillance video evidence linked to the case from a nearby recreation center, adding to the urgency surrounding this investigation. Stanford emphasized the importance of public assistance, urging anyone with information to call 215-686-TIPS (8477).
This discovery comes in the wake of the arrest of 21-year-old Keon King, who has been charged with kidnapping and other offenses related to Scott’s disappearance. King was the last person known to be in contact with Scott before she vanished on October 4 after leaving her workplace at an assisted living facility in Chestnut Hill. He is currently being held on $2.5 million bail.
The police investigation revealed physical evidence at the scene during a previous search, including Scott’s debit card and a phone case. Investigators are still piecing together the relationship between King and Scott, who had expressed fears of being harassed prior to her disappearance.
In a troubling twist, King is also facing charges from a similar incident earlier this year. Those charges were dropped when the victim failed to appear in court, but will now be refiled according to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office. District Attorney Larry Krasner expressed concerns about the handling of the previous case, stating, “We could have done better in that. A really sophisticated approach to the case would have been to try to put it all in with video evidence.”
Krasner highlighted the challenges faced by victims in cases involving suspects out on bail, suggesting that the victim’s absence in court was influenced by fears of retaliation. King had posted 10% of his $200,000 bail from his first kidnapping arrest.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on gathering more evidence and understanding the timeline leading up to Scott’s disappearance. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any further information that could assist in the case.
The emotional toll on Scott’s family is profound, with Stanford confirming that investigators are in communication with them regarding this latest development. The search for answers continues as the community rallies for justice.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
