By Salma El-Sakka
Philadelphia foster mother Carprice Williams, 36, has been charged with murder after the body of 10-year-old Malayshia Allford was discovered in a car in Lindenwold, New Jersey, following a 10-day search. Williams, a teacher in the School District of Philadelphia, faces multiple charges including murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and abuse of corpse. She is being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court on November 23.
Investigation and evidence
Allford was last seen alive on October 22. Surveillance footage captured a body being removed from a West Philadelphia home in the early hours of October 26, which led investigators to a suspect vehicle and eventually to Williams. Authorities believe the girl's body was moved to a second vehicle before being found in Lindenwold. A medical examiner ruled the death a homicide caused by blunt force trauma, with signs of abuse and possible injury from objects.
Community response
The case has shaken the West Philadelphia community, where residents and volunteers conducted extensive searches. The School District of Philadelphia expressed heartbreak over the death of the Robert E. Lamberton student. A vigil was held Thursday night outside the home where Allford lived. Her biological family has requested privacy and urged the public to refrain from judgment while they grieve. Allford's uncle, Nafis Horne, said he believes additional people may have been involved and called for accountability for everyone responsible.
Police are asking anyone with information to call or text 215-686-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip through the department's website.
