That hope was shattered late last week when maintenance workers behind an abandoned middle school in West Philadelphia stumbled upon a shallow grave. Investigators quickly arrived and cordoned off the area. DNA testing confirmed what the Scott family had feared most — the remains were Kada’s.
“It’s a devastating loss,” a police source said quietly. “But at least now, her family has some answers.”
The Suspect
Authorities have identified 21-year-old Keon King as a suspect in the case. King, who is already in custody for kidnapping charges connected to Kada’s disappearance, has a documented history of violence, including assault and weapons offenses. Police have not yet confirmed whether homicide charges will follow, but investigators are reportedly gathering additional evidence before moving forward.
Sources say Kada and King were “acquaintances through mutual friends,” and detectives are working to piece together their final interactions. Neighbors described King as volatile, with a reputation for aggression. “He always seemed angry,” one resident recalled. “When we heard about Kada, sadly, we weren’t surprised.”
A Mother’s Heartbreak
Standing outside her home clutching a framed photo, Denise Scott, Kada’s mother, shared her pain. “My baby was full of love,” she said through tears. “She had dreams. She worked so hard to build a better life. She didn’t deserve this.”
Kada had recently started working as a nursing assistant while studying part-time toward a degree in healthcare management. Her mother said she was known for her compassion — always putting others before herself.
A City Mourns Together
In the wake of the news, hundreds of residents gathered near the school where Kada was found. Candles and flowers lined the fence as the community stood in silence. “She mattered,” one volunteer said softly. “Every missing woman deserves to matter.”
Activists and city leaders echoed that message, calling attention to the lack of urgency often seen in missing persons cases involving women of color. “It shouldn’t take a tragedy for people to pay attention,” said Tiana Reynolds, a community advocate. “We must protect our daughters before it’s too late.”
The Road to Justice
Investigators continue to analyze forensic evidence from the scene, including personal belongings found near the remains. Cell phone data and surveillance footage reportedly helped connect King to the case. The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office has declined to comment on when murder charges might be filed, saying only that the case is “active and ongoing.”
For Kada’s family, the wait for justice feels endless. “We just want the truth,” said Denise. “And we want whoever did this to face what they’ve done.”
Remembering Kada
Friends describe Kada as the “light of every room.” She loved music, late-night talks, and helping others. A candlelight vigil is planned for Friday evening at the park where she used to play as a child. Hundreds are expected to attend, bringing photos, flowers, and memories.
“She deserves to be remembered for her laughter, not her loss,” said Maya. “Kada was love — that’s the legacy she leaves.”
Moving Forward
Kada’s death has reignited a difficult but necessary conversation about women’s safety in Philadelphia. Lawmakers are now calling for stronger partnerships between law enforcement and neighborhood watch groups, hoping her case will spark lasting change.
As candles continue to flicker outside that empty schoolyard, one message echoes through the crowd: “She’s home now — but her story isn’t over.”
Kada Scott’s name deserves to be remembered — not as a victim, but as a symbol of change. What do you think needs to happen to make our cities safer for young women? Share your thoughts and stand for justice below.