Philadelphia, PA — October 18, 2025 | 6ABC Action News
In a tragic turn of events, Philadelphia police sources have confirmed that human remains found Saturday are believed to be those of 23-year-old Kada Scott, a young woman who was reported missing earlier this month. The discovery was made near an abandoned elementary school close to the Awbury Arboretum in the Germantown section of the city.
Sources tell Action News that the body was found in what investigators are describing as a “fresh grave,” suggesting the remains were recently buried. While formal identification and autopsy results from the Medical Examiner’s Office are still pending, multiple law enforcement officials have confirmed that the remains are consistent with Kada Scott’s description.
Scott had been missing since early October, with friends, family, and community activists organizing numerous searches and vigils in the days following her disappearance. Her case has gripped the city and prompted widespread media attention and community outcry.
Grim Discovery in Germantown
The discovery was made Saturday morning, when a tip reportedly led investigators to the area around a long-abandoned elementary school near Awbury Arboretum, a public park and historic site in Germantown. Law enforcement sources say that the site showed signs of recent digging, and the grave appeared shallow and hastily covered.
Crime scene units, homicide detectives, and cadaver dogs were seen canvassing the area throughout the afternoon, and a large police presence remained into the evening as the investigation unfolded.
“This was not a place where someone would accidentally stumble across it,” one police source said. “This was a concealed burial site.”
The Disappearance of Kada Scott
Kada Scott was last seen alive on the night of October 3, according to police and family members. She was reportedly on her way to meet a friend but never arrived. Her phone last pinged in the Germantown area, but no one had been able to contact her since.
Her disappearance triggered immediate concern from loved ones and community members. Flyers with her photo were posted across the city, and her story was widely shared on social media platforms.
“She was full of life, so loving and sweet,” said her older sister, Jamira Scott, during a vigil last week. “We just want her home.”
Now, the family’s worst fears appear to have been realized.
Investigation Now a Homicide
The Philadelphia Police Department has not yet made a formal statement, but sources tell Action News the case has shifted from a missing person investigation to a full-scale homicide probe.
There is no official word yet on suspects or persons of interest. However, sources close to the investigation say that detectives are pursuing several leads and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby properties and businesses. They are also expected to re-interview individuals who were among the last to have contact with Scott.
Community Reaction and Outrage
As news of the discovery broke, a somber mood fell over Germantown and beyond. Friends, neighbors, and concerned residents gathered near the scene throughout the day, laying flowers and lighting candles in Scott’s memory.
“This is every family’s nightmare,” said activist Asa Khalif, who has been working closely with the Scott family. “Kada was loved. She mattered. We demand justice, and we won’t stop until we have answers.”
Many have pointed to what they describe as systemic failures in how missing Black women are handled by authorities and the media. Several community leaders are calling for increased attention, accountability, and resources for missing persons investigations—especially involving women of color.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
While the remains have not yet been officially confirmed by the Medical Examiner’s Office as belonging to Kada Scott, police sources are treating the case as a resolved missing persons case and now a homicide. Autopsy results will determine the cause and manner of death, which will likely be key in developing a case against potential suspects.
The Scott family has not yet released a public statement but is said to be receiving support from community organizations, grief counselors, and faith leaders.
Call for Information
Philadelphia police are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area of the abandoned school or Awbury Arboretum in recent weeks to contact the Homicide Unit at (215) 686-3334. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 215-686-TIPS or using the online tip submission form on the department’s website.
Vigil Planned
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Sunday evening at 6 p.m. at Vernon Park in Germantown to honor the memory of Kada Scott. Organizers are inviting members of the public to come together in support of the family and to call for justice.
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