
Philadelphia authorities confirmed the tragic discovery of human remains belonging to 23-year-old Kada Scott.
Story Highlights
- Human remains confirmed as Kada Scott through DNA evidence after anonymous tip led to discovery
- Suspect Keon King faces multiple charges including kidnapping, arson, and tampering with evidence
- FBI and homicide detectives coordinated search efforts across multiple Philadelphia locations
- DA’s office indicates investigation continues with potential additional suspects involved
Anonymous Tip Breaks Case Wide Open
Philadelphia police discovered human remains behind the former Ada Lewis Middle School in East Germantown following an anonymous tip on October 18. The Medical Examiner’s office confirmed through DNA evidence that the remains belong to Kada Scott, the 23-year-old woman who vanished on October 4 while arriving for her overnight shift at a senior-living facility. Scott’s personal items were missing from her abandoned vehicle, immediately raising red flags about potential foul play.
District Attorney Larry Krasner announced the confirmation during a press conference, stating authorities are pursuing comprehensive charges against primary suspect Keon King. The discovery marks a tragic conclusion to a two-week search that mobilized multiple law enforcement agencies and community volunteers across Philadelphia’s East Germantown neighborhood.
Watch; Unidentified human remains found during search for missing 23-year-old Kada Scott
Escalating Charges Against Primary Suspect
Keon King initially faced charges of kidnapping, false imprisonment, and stalking on October 15. Following the discovery of Scott’s remains, prosecutors added serious felony charges including arson, causing catastrophe, conspiracy, and tampering with evidence. These additional charges stem from evidence linking King to a burned vehicle found at a local junkyard, which had already been towed and compacted when investigators located it.
The DA’s office also reopened King’s previous kidnapping case that had been dropped due to a missing witness. This pattern of escalating criminal behavior demonstrates the importance of thorough background investigations and proper witness protection protocols. King’s history of similar charges raises serious questions about why he remained free to allegedly commit these crimes against Scott.
Multi-Agency Investigation Continues
The FBI joined Philadelphia police and homicide detectives in the comprehensive search operation that began when Scott’s phone last pinged at Awbury Arboretum on October 10. This coordinated response exemplifies effective law enforcement cooperation, utilizing federal resources and expertise to support local investigators. The rapid escalation from missing person to homicide investigation required specialized forensic capabilities and extensive search coordination.
DA Krasner emphasized that the investigation remains active, stating “We are not done” and indicating officials believe others may be involved in Scott’s death. This ongoing investigation suggests a broader criminal network may have participated in the crimes, requiring continued vigilance from law enforcement and community cooperation to ensure all responsible parties face justice.
Sources:
Kada Scott timeline: Search for missing Philadelphia woman, human remains found
Kada Scott case: Officials give update on human remains found amid search for missing Philadelphia woman























