A 21-year-old man was arrested in Philadelphia in connection with the disappearance of Kada Scott, a 23-year-old nursing assistant last seen on October 4, but authorities said the investigation is still open and the priority remains finding her. life.

The suspect, identified as Keon King, was charged with kidnapping, the Philadelphia Police Department announced Wednesday. Despite the arrest, First Assistant Commissioner of Field Operations John M. Stanford stated that “there is still a lot of work to be done.”

“The number one priority is to locate Ms. Scott,” Stanford stressed.

Missing after leaving work

Scott left her home for her night shift at a nursing home, but did not return or complete her shift. Her vehicle was found in the parking lot, police confirmed.

Capt. John Craig said the disappearance was of particular concern from the start because of the disturbing phone calls the young woman had received days before.

“In the days leading up to her disappearance, Ms. Scott told family and friends that an unknown person had been harassing her on the phone,” he explained in statements reported by ABC News.

Last contact with the suspect

The investigation revealed that Scott was in communication with King shortly before she disappeared. Assistant District Attorney Ashley Kozlowski said investigators believe the young woman met with him shortly after leaving work.

“We believe Mr. King was the last person who was in contact with her when she went offline,” Kozlowski said.

Police are searching for a 1999 gold metallic Toyota Camry, Pennsylvania license plate MSX-0797, which may be linked to the case. The vehicle has damage to the left front bumper.

Arrestee's Background

King had previously been charged with kidnapping and strangulation of an acquaintance earlier this year, but the case was dismissed after a witness failed to appear.

According to Kozlowski, authorities have decided to reopen the previous charges following his arrest in Scott's disappearance.

While the case is being investigated by the Homicide Unit, police clarified that they are not treating it as a homicide investigation.

The young woman's father, Kevin Scott, expressed his hope in a statement to ABC News.

"It's been extremely difficult. We're confident that she's okay and that she'll be with us as soon as possible. We'll find her, and hopefully she's not harmed," he said.

Philadelphia police asked for the public's assistance and asked anyone with information to contact authorities.