A Missouri man has been charged with the first-degree murder of his girlfriend, whose body was discovered in an abandoned lot following a shooting incident. Ramello Robinson-Parks, 28, faces serious charges including armed criminal action and unlawful possession of a firearm in connection with the tragic death of 26-year-old Elaysha Gilliam.
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Gilliam was found deceased in an overgrown vacant lot near Oakley Avenue and East 36th Terrace in Kansas City on 19 February 2024. A homeless couple residing nearby stumbled upon the scene, having reported hearing gunfire and a woman’s scream in the early hours of 17 February. Initial investigations revealed that Gilliam suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the head, neck, torso, arms, and buttocks. Disturbingly, her hands and feet were zip-tied, and her mouth was covered with duct tape, according to official statements from law enforcement.
The victim, a mother of four, was last seen entering Robinson-Parks’ black Jeep Grand Cherokee shortly after midnight on 17 February, which was two days prior to the discovery of her remains. Family members expressed their anguish and confusion, as they stated they were trying to remain strong while grappling with the shocking loss.
In interviews with police, Robinson-Parks claimed to have become aware of Gilliam’s death only after returning from a trip to Las Vegas. He stated that he had spoken with her on Valentine’s Day during a parade and indicated that “everything seemed fine.” However, he later questioned if Gilliam had been involved in any altercations, mentioning her previous instances of disappearing for days after arguments.
Following further inquiries, Robinson-Parks stated he needed time to “get himself together” before offering detailed information to investigators, according to the probable cause statement. Prosecutors have pointed to cell phone records that allegedly place him at the crime scene on the day of Gilliam’s murder, raising further suspicions about his involvement.
In a significant development, DNA evidence has reportedly linked Robinson-Parks to the crime. According to a press release from the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, DNA found on a piece of latex glove in Gilliam’s hair and within her mouth matched that of Robinson-Parks. Additional DNA evidence was also identified in the victim’s nail scrapings. During Robinson-Parks’ arrest, detectives discovered gloves in his backpack that bore a resemblance to the glove fragment found at the crime scene.
Robinson-Parks has a prior criminal record, having been convicted previously of second-degree manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury. He is currently in federal custody for unrelated charges relating to weapons and drug offences.
As the investigation progresses, the case has garnered significant public attention, with many calling for justice for Gilliam and her family. The tragic circumstances of her death highlight ongoing concerns regarding domestic violence, prompting community advocacy for greater awareness and resources.
For those who may be experiencing domestic violence, help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers 24/7 support for anyone in need, providing confidential assistance in over 170 languages. The hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233 or online at thehotline.org.