Philadelphia Man Accused of Kidnapping Missing Woman From Her Night Shift Job, Dumping Car and ‘Getting Rid of Things,’ Police Say
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA — Police say a 21-year-old man with a history of abduction has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of 23-year-old Kada Scott, who vanished earlier this month after arriving for her overnight shift at a senior living facility.
Authorities believe the suspect, Keon King, kidnapped Scott, then dumped his car and discarded evidence, including his phone, as investigators continued searching for the missing woman.
Missing Woman Vanished From Her Workplace Parking Lot
Scott was last seen on October 4, minutes after arriving for her shift at The Terrace at Chestnut Hill, an assisted living facility in northwest Philadelphia. Her car was found still parked outside, and she never reported for work that night.
At a Wednesday news conference, police confirmed that King had been charged with kidnapping, reckless endangerment, and criminal use of a communication device. Authorities also found a 1999 metallic gold Toyota Camry linked to King that had been seen “driving all over the city” before being abandoned.
“Our evidence is pretty clear that she was in communication with an individual,” said Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore. “That individual appears to meet her very shortly after she leaves her place of work, and very shortly after that, she disappears.”
Police Say the Suspect Has a History of Kidnapping Women
Investigators say King had been arrested earlier this year for a similar kidnapping involving another woman, in what prosecutors described as a “domestic-type case.”
Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski said King allegedly kidnapped the previous victim outside her home, assaulted her, and later released her. That case was initially dropped after the victim failed to appear in court — but prosecutors have since re-filed the charges following King’s latest arrest.
“We also do believe that this is a pattern for this person,” Toczylowski said.
Police said they are still investigating how King knew Scott, but emphasized that he had been in direct communication with her before she disappeared.
Evidence Recovered as Search Intensifies
Authorities conducted an extensive search at an abandoned elementary school near the Awbury Arboretum in Germantown, where they discovered a phone case and other evidence believed to be connected to the case.
Investigators say King attempted to cover his tracks, abandoning his vehicle and getting rid of personal items, including his phone. Despite his efforts, police say they were able to trace his communications, ultimately linking him to Scott’s disappearance.
“All roads at this point lead to him,” Toczylowski said.
King was taken into custody and is currently being held while investigators continue to piece together Scott’s final movements.
Family Pleads for Answers as Search Continues
Family members describe Kada Scott as energetic, friendly, and dependable, saying her sudden disappearance was completely out of character.
“In the days prior to her disappearance, Ms. Scott related to family and friends that unknown individuals had been harassing her via phone,” said Captain John Craig of the Philadelphia Police Department.
Police say the priority now is finding Scott, and they continue to treat the case as an active missing persons investigation.
“We are still operating under the hope that Ms. Scott is alive,” said First Deputy Commissioner John Stanford. “We want the public’s help locating every possible piece of this.”
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of 23-year-old Kada Scott is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department immediately.
Stay connected with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for ongoing updates on developing crime and public safety stories.