An 88-year-old Chicago woman who had been missing for nearly two weeks has been found dead inside her home.
Her son has since been charged in connection with her killing.
Daniest Graves was discovered deceased in her residence in the Roseland neighborhood on the city’s South Side after a missing persons investigation led police back to the home. Her son, Kevan Works, 66, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and concealing a death.
Discovery After Days of Concern
According to the Chicago Police Department, Graves had not been seen since March 26, when she went shopping with her sister. Concern escalated when family members were unable to reach her and did not receive her usual daily messages.
Her sister later went to the home but was reportedly prevented from entering by Works, who claimed he had not seen Graves. A wellness check was conducted, but no immediate evidence of her whereabouts was found, prompting a formal missing persons investigation.
Body Found in Basement
On April 7, officers returned to the home on the 10700 block of South Lafayette Avenue with a search warrant. During the search, they discovered a blocked basement room. Inside, Graves’ body was found concealed, wrapped in materials including a rug and garbage bags.
Authorities said a cadaver dog alerted officers to the presence of human remains before the discovery.
An autopsy later revealed that Graves suffered multiple blunt force injuries—17 in total—along with defensive wounds and knife injuries, indicating a violent struggle.
Evidence Presented in Court
During a detention hearing, prosecutors outlined disturbing details of the case. Investigators reportedly recovered several weapons from the home, including knives, a hammer, and brass knuckles, as well as cleaning supplies such as bleach.
Additional evidence included surveillance footage from a neighbor’s camera, which prosecutors say showed that Works was the only person entering and leaving the home during the period when Graves was missing.
Graves’ personal belongings, including her purse and wallet, were also found discarded in a garbage can in the garage.
Suspect Held Without Release
Works, who had reportedly been living with his mother intermittently after periods of homelessness, is being held in custody pending trial. Court records indicate he has a history of mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder and anxiety.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on April 29.
Family and Community in Shock
Family members say they are struggling to process the loss and the circumstances surrounding Graves’ death. Relatives described her as a loved and respected matriarch, and said they never expected such violence within their family.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Roseland community, highlighting concerns about elder safety and domestic violence.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not disclosed a possible motive.
