The search for 23-year-old beauty queen Kada Scott has ended in tragedy. Authorities have confirmed that a body found in a shallow grave near an abandoned middle school in East Germantown belongs to the young woman who had been missing since early October.
Police discovered Scott’s remains behind the long-vacant Ada H. Lewis Middle School after receiving an anonymous tip that urged them to “go back, she’s there, look again.” DNA tests later verified her identity.
Keon King, 21, from Dover, Delaware, is now a key figure in the investigation. He has been charged with multiple offenses, including kidnapping, stalking, arson, causing catastrophe, conspiracy, and tampering with evidence. Investigators believe he was the last person in contact with Kada before her disappearance.
District Attorney Larry Krasner shared during a press briefing that additional charges, possibly including homicide, are anticipated soon. “We are not done,” he asserted. “I am confident that homicide charges will be brought, but we also have an obligation to follow the law and uphold the Constitution. That means we don’t take shortcuts.”
Officials have disclosed alarming details linking King to Kada’s disappearance, including cellphone data, surveillance footage, and a burned vehicle he allegedly used during the crime. Prosecutor Ashley Toczylowski stated, “This was not random. We have reason to believe other people may have been involved after the fact, and that’s something we’re still investigating.”
What adds to the disturbing nature of this case is King’s history. Earlier this year, he faced charges in a similar kidnapping incident, accused of abducting a woman from her home. However, that case fell apart when both the victim and a witness failed to appear in court, allowing King to be released on $200,000 bail.
Kada Scott’s family expressed their devastation in a poignant statement, describing her as a source of light and kindness. “Our hearts are shattered,” they shared. “Kada was our joy, our peace, and a beautiful soul who brought love wherever she went. Please keep us in your prayers.”
Kada, who worked at a local nursing home, had aspirations to further her education and enhance her platform as a pageant contestant. Friends and neighbors have gathered at the site of the discovery, leaving flowers, candles, and photographs in her honor.
As the community mourns, many are demanding justice and questioning how someone previously accused of violent crimes was allowed to remain free.
Philadelphia police continue to investigate the case and urge anyone with information to come forward.
