A suspect now faces charges after authorities found a missing Alabama teen shot, dismembered, and burned.
Eufaula police announced Friday night that 19-year-old Josiah Isaiah McKinney has been charged with murder, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence in the death of 18-year-old Markavious “Mark” Rumph.
Police Chief Danny Christ said investigators arrested McKinney after confirming that the remains discovered on May 11 near White Oak Church Road in Barbour County belonged to Rumph.
According to police, Rumph was last seen alive on Wednesday, May 6, at the Beeline #3 gas station in Eufaula, where he was seen getting into a black Nissan.
A search party organized by Rumph’s family found his remains five days later.
Authorities said McKinney had reportedly been a suspect early in the investigation.
“On occasion the need for information by the public is outweighed by the integrity of an investigation,” Christ said Friday night.
“Detectives were in contact with the parents on Day 1 of Rumph being reported missing to build timelines and produce contacts to trace his last known locations,” the chief said.
“Significant evidence was recovered on Day 2 that led to the (eventual) arrest of McKinney after the positive identification of the remains,” Christ said.
Police have not released a motive in the killing.
Rumph had recently earned his GED and was “truly aiming for the stars,” according to a GoFundMe created to help cover funeral expenses.
“Tragically, Mark’s life was cut short in a senseless crime in Eufaula…leaving his parents and the community heartbroken and searching for answer,” the fundraiser stated.
Chief Christ said the investigation remains active, and detectives continue conducting additional interviews.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact investigators at 334-687-1200 or the anonymous tip line at 334-687-7100.
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