A coach and former soldier is accused of shooting an 18‑year‑old, and the search for him is underway as he remains on the wanted list.
The tragic case of 18‑year‑old Elayjah Murray has shaken South Kansas City.
On November 28, her family reported her missing, and soon after, authorities discovered she had been fatally shot.
Police have identified Eric Phillips II, a Raytown South football coach and former Army soldier, as the suspect.
He is currently wanted in connection with the homicide and has not been seen at his residence.
The Independence, Missouri, Police Department, working with the Kansas City Police, is urging Phillips to surrender.
On the other hand, Murray’s family is devastated by the loss and is pleading for the suspect to come forward to aid the investigation.
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A Former Soldier and Raytown South Football Coach is the Prime Suspect in the Murder of 18‑year‑old Elayjah Murray!
On social media, Traci Lynn Goodman posted a picture with the words, saying:
Raytown if you see this man please call 911. Prayers for this girl’s family! This is a football coach at Raytown South!!
Also, Shae shared a post from KC Discover, which detailed the case and underlined the shocking reality of a former Army soldier being wanted for murder.
The author of that post focused on the grief of Murray’s family and the urgency of the police search.
They concluded writing that the situation was “just horrible,” further writing:
The family of Murray is deeply saddened by the loss of their daughter and is requesting that the suspect come forward to facilitate the investigation.
Our thoughts and condolences extend to the entire family during this difficult time.
People have been reacting strongly to the author’s post, sharing their own points of view.
One person highlighted their concern for the family’s immediate needs, saying:
Would you please post the go fund me link along with this post so this mama can get her baby laid to rest without stress, KC Discover.
Another shared their anger and disbelief, saying,
that’s just horrible how the heck are you gonna be a former Army soldier and yet be wanted for murder. how can you live with yourself. this is just horrible. i hope he’s caught for what he did and may this young lady rest in peace.
A person who once served in the Army, someone expected to uphold discipline and responsibility, is now on the wanted list for the murder of 18‑year‑old Elayjah Murray.
The contrast between his current status as a fugitive suspect and his past role as a soldier makes the situation feel even more tragic.
May the criminal receive the punishment he deserves for this heinous crime.
Rest in Peace, Elayjah Murray!
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