PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The family of Philadelphia elementary school teacher Rachel King, who was shot and killed in front of her son three years ago, credits one advocacy group with their healing.
When Ahyana King got a call from her nephew Jalen that her sister Rachel had been shot and killed in front of him, she rushed to be by his side.
“I am finding my way from my morning walk up to the police station in Elkins Park,” Ahyana said.
The family was sent to the nonprofit organization Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center for an interview with the police.
“Being able to conduct a forensic interview with him that they were able to videotape and do with such integrity and specificity ultimately meant that Jaylen did not have to testify in court,” Ahyana said.
Two people were convicted in Rachel King’s murder.
Ahyana said Mission Kids guided their family on how to help Jalen navigate the trauma.
"Kind of giving us a soft, if you see these things, you know, don't be too alarmed and just go gentle and go slow,” she said.
The nonprofit, which also helps children who have been abused, expanded its facility with a ribbon-cutting last week.
As for Ahyana’s nephew, she said he is doing “remarkably well”.
