Jalayshia Allford Found Dead in New Jersey After Week-Long Search in Philadelphia
A 10-year-old West Philadelphia girl who had been missing for more than a week was found dead in New Jersey, sources tell Action News. The body of Jalayshia Allford was located overnight in a car at the Stonington Court Apartments in Lindenwold, Camden County, according to sources.
No further details were immediately available. Investigators have reportedly been reviewing conflicting accounts from adults connected to the case.
The Timeline on North Simpson Street
Jalayshia was last seen on Oct. 26 at a residence situated in the 500 block of North Simpson Street, the address of her foster home. Police have previously stated that the child “may be at special risk of harm or injury.”
Before the discovery in New Jersey, family members spoke publicly about the uncertainty surrounding her disappearance. Her biological father, Nazir Allford, told Action News on Wednesday that he was struggling to cope with the uncertainty surrounding his daughter’s whereabouts.
TRAGIC UPDATE: BODY REPORTEDLY FOUND IN NEW JERSEY IN SEARCH FOR MISSING 10-YEAR-OLD WEST PHILADELPHIA GIRL A heartbreaking development has been reported in the search for 10-year-old Jalayshia Alford, who disappeared from West Philadelphia more than a week ago. According to… pic.twitter.com/S6QCu0V0We
All I’m concerned with is my child. I’m not concerned about nothing else,
Nazir Allford said.
Other biological relatives expressed similar pain over the lack of answers. Nyfisha Allford, Jalayshia’s aunt, described the profound toll of the ordeal.
It’s really so much pain in not knowing,
Nyfisha Allford said.
Family Appeals for Information
Court records show that Nazir Allford previously pleaded guilty to charges related to interference with child custody. Relatives maintained that he dedicated his life to gaining custody of his daughter after she entered the foster system a few years ago, emphasizing that he wants what is best for his daughter.
He loved his daughter. His daughter loved him. We’re vouching for that as a family because we know that,
said Nafis Horne, Jalayshia’s uncle.
Family members also called on Jalayshia’s foster parent to speak out.
Individuals possessing any details are encouraged to reach out to the Philadelphia police via call or text at 215-686-TIPS (8477), or by providing an anonymous tip through the internet.
