The search for 10-year-old Jalayshia Alford ended in tragedy after investigators found her body inside the trunk of a vehicle in Lindenwold, New Jersey. Her foster mother, Caprice Williams, has now been charged with murder in connection with the child’s death.
Philadelphia authorities announced the charges on Thursday, November 5, 2026, following an investigation that stretched from West Philadelphia into Camden County, New Jersey.
Williams faces several charges, including murder and abuse of a corpse. Prosecutors say evidence gathered during the investigation linked the home where Jalayshia had been living to the vehicle where her remains were discovered.
Prosecutors Outline Evidence Against Caprice Williams
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner announced the charges during a news conference. Prosecutors described evidence they say helped investigators reconstruct what happened after Jalayshia disappeared.
According to the account presented by authorities, surveillance footage showed a bag being taken from the West Philadelphia residence and transferred between vehicles. Investigators later located the bag in the trunk of a car at the Stonington Court Apartments in Lindenwold.
Prosecutors also discussed injuries found during the examination of Jalayshia’s body. They said the findings included bruising and scarring, while blunt force trauma was identified as the cause of death.
Authorities have also indicated that another individual may have been involved in the disposal of the child’s remains. That person’s identity and the extent of any alleged involvement have not been fully established in the information released.
Timeline of Jalayshia Alford’s Disappearance
Jalayshia, also referred to as Malayshia in reports about the case, was last seen alive on October 22, 2026. She was living with her foster family at a residence in the 500 block of North Simpson Street in West Philadelphia.
She was reported missing on October 26, prompting Philadelphia police to seek public assistance in locating her. The search eventually involved the FBI and the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, alongside local investigators and members of the community.
Investigators reviewing surveillance footage reportedly identified activity outside the West Philadelphia home during the early hours of October 26. Prosecutors said video appeared to show a body being taken from the residence at approximately 1:53 a.m.
That footage became part of the investigation that led authorities to examine vehicles and locations connected to the disappearance.
Body Discovered in Lindenwold
The investigation led police to a vehicle parked at the Stonington Court Apartments in Lindenwold, New Jersey.
Late on Wednesday, November 4, officers discovered Jalayshia’s remains inside its trunk. The discovery brought the search for the missing child to an end and prompted further questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.
Criminal Case Remains Under Investigation
Williams is facing serious charges, but the allegations must still be addressed through the criminal justice system. Investigators are continuing to examine the events leading to Jalayshia’s death and whether anyone else played a role in the alleged disposal of her remains.
Prosecutors are expected to present their evidence as the case proceeds. Further information about any additional suspects or charges has not been established in the account provided.
Jalayshia’s death has left relatives and members of the West Philadelphia community mourning a child whose disappearance had drawn widespread attention and efforts to bring her home.
Disclaimer: The charges against Caprice Williams are allegations. She is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. This report reflects the information provided about the investigation as of November 5, 2026.