An Elderly Woman Went Missing. Now Her Son Is Accused of Murdering Her and Hiding Body Behind Bookcase

**Illinois Man Charged with First-Degree Murder After Mother’s Body Found Concealed**

A Chicago man has been charged with murder following the discovery of his mother’s body, which had been concealed in a rolled-up rug within her home. Kevan Works, aged 66, faces a charge of first-degree murder alongside another charge for the concealment of a death.

The investigation commenced after the remains of 88-year-old Daniest Graves were found on 7 April. Prosecutors attending a detention hearing indicated that her body was located in a hidden area of the basement, blocked by a bookcase. This distressing revelation was made public through statements issued by the Chicago Police Department.

Graves was last seen alive on 26 March, and alarm was raised when her sister attempted to visit. Upon her arrival on 28 March, Works reportedly prevented his sister from entering the home, which raised significant concerns. Authorities were contacted following her failed attempt to check on Graves, leading to the police subsequently interviewing Works. He claimed he had not seen his mother since 27 March.

According to prosecutors, the condition in which Graves’ remains were discovered was particularly harrowing. Reports indicate that her body was not only wrapped in a rug but was also enclosed in black garbage bags and secured with duct tape. Furthermore, it has been reported that Graves suffered from at least 17 injuries, notably including knife wounds. This grave aspect of the case prompted Judge Rivanda B. Doss to remark during the hearing, “If you could do this to your mother… what would you do to your family?”

The police search of the home yielded further shocking findings, including a folding blade knife, brass knuckles, a hammer, and an additional knife, all of which were seized as evidence. Disturbingly, other personal items belonging to Graves were discovered in the garage’s garbage can. These items included her purse and wallet, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.

Prosecutors added that a jewellery box was found, its contents aggressively cleaned and arranged, further suggesting foul play. During this time, Judge Doss articulated concerns over the potential motives behind the crime, commenting that it seemed to be committed for some form of monetary gain.

Works was taken into custody on the day that Graves’ body was unearthed and is expected to appear in court for further proceedings scheduled for 29 April. The case continues to unfold, and authorities are likely to examine the full circumstances surrounding both the alleged murder and the concealment of the victim’s body.

As the investigation progresses, local community members are left shocked by the gruesome details of the case, highlighting the tragic nature of familial violence. The case also reveals a darker side of domestic relationships, as those close to grievances may often overlook distress signals.

While awaiting trial, Works remains in custody, and he will likely face intense scrutiny as more evidence emerges. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance in the face of domestic issues, as the community grapples with the implications of such a tragic event.