Police have found human remains while searching for Kada Scott, a missing woman from Philadelphia.

John Stanford, the deputy commissioner of the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD), told reporters at a press conference that investigators had found remains that were around a week old in a shallow grave in a wooded area behind the abandoned Ada H. Lewis Middle School near the Awbury Arboretum in Germantown following an anonymous tip.

They have not yet been identified, but a PPD spokesperson told Newsweek that they believed they belonged to Scott.

The Philadelphia Police Department told Newsweek in a statement on Sunday morning: “On Saturday, October 18, 2025, Homicide Investigators continued their investigation into the disappearance of Kada Scott on the grounds of Ada H. Lewis Middle School, an abandoned school located near Awbury Arboretum. While conducting a search of the property, investigators discovered a shallow grave and recovered human remains believed to be those of Kada Scott. The Medical Examiner’s Office will work to confirm the identity and determine the cause of death.” 

The Context

Scott, 23, was last seen by her mother on October 4 as she left for work at a nearby nursing home. She arrived at the facility but left before her shift ended, and her vehicle was found abandoned at her workplace. 

Earlier this month, Philadelphia officials announced they had arrested Keon King in connection with the disappearance.

Philadelphia Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski said at a news conference that King is believed to be the last known person to have contact with Scott before she went missing. She said their relationship and how long they have known each other remained under investigation.

He is facing multiple charges, including kidnapping and recklessly endangering another person.

Philadelphia Police Captain John Craig said during a news conference earlier this month that “in the days leading up to her disappearance, Ms. Scott related to her family and friends that an unknown individual or person had been harassing her via phone.”

Scott’s family launched a GoFundMe page to support search efforts and raise awareness. The fundraiser has so far collected over $15,000.

What To Know

Investigators had previously searched the area where the remains were found but had not found anything.

But speaking to reporters, Stanford said a specific tip prompted them to look at the area again where they found the remains in a shallow grave.

“All indications at this point is that it’s a female,” Stanford said, who added that police had been in communication with Scott’s family but that they could not yet confirm the identity of the body.

“No one is happy that this is the ending,” he said.

The police also found items believed to belong to Scott, like an iPad case, glasses, a cell phone case, and a card with her name on it.

What People Are Saying

Philadelphia Assistant District Attorney Ashley Toczylowski, speaking about Keon King at a news conference on Wednesday: “All roads at this point lead to him, and so that’s what we’re hoping leads us to her.” 

The Philadelphia Police Department said in a statement to Newsweek: “This is a heartbreaking development, and our thoughts are with Kada’s family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time. The Philadelphia Police Department remains committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that justice is served.”

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said in a statement: “There are no words that I can employ to remove the unimaginable pain and turmoil that the family of Kada Scott is experiencing with the tragic loss of their beloved daughter, sister and loved one. I pray that God will give the family a certain peace that passes all understanding to meet this moment. The City of Philadelphia is here to support them in any way that we can. We will continue to stay by their side.”

What Happens Next?

The remains have been sent to the medical examiner’s office to determine their identity.

Stanford urged the public to continue providing information to the police about the case at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or anonymously online here.

Update 10/19/25 10:33 a.m. ET: This story has been updated with comment from the Philadelphia Police Department.