WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 27, 2025) – Today, October 27, marks what would have been the 20th birthday of Relisha Rudd, the young girl who disappeared from a D.C. homeless shelter in 2014. Relisha’s tragic case remains unresolved, and her family continues to seek answers and justice. Though her life was taken far too soon, her memory is honored today as the search for her continues, with the FBI offering a $25,000 reward for any information that could lead to her safe return.
What Happened
Relisha Rudd, only 8 years old at the time, vanished from a D.C. homeless shelter on March 1, 2014, where she had been living with her mother, Shamika Young. The family became acquainted with Khalil Tatum, a janitor at the shelter, who befriended Relisha by buying her gifts like a tablet and Disney on Ice tickets. With her mother’s permission, Tatum even took Relisha on overnight trips.
However, the disappearance took a sinister turn when Relisha stopped attending school. Shamika Young sent a note to the school claiming her daughter was ill and under the care of “Dr. Tatum.” Alarm bells were raised when “Dr. Tatum” failed to show up for a scheduled school meeting. On March 20, 2014, school administrators reported Relisha missing, and by that time, she had been absent for over a month.
That same day, Tatum’s wife, Andrea, was found dead in a Prince George’s County hotel room from a gunshot wound to the head. Investigators later uncovered disturbing security footage, showing Relisha with Tatum in a hotel hallway on February 26, 2014, and entering a Days Inn hotel room with him on March 1, 2014. Further details revealed that Tatum had purchased a shovel, 42-gallon trash bags, and lime on March 20, the same day Relisha was reported missing.
Who Was Relisha Rudd?
Relisha Rudd was an 8-year-old girl full of life, innocence, and potential. She had a bright future ahead of her, but her dreams were abruptly interrupted when she disappeared. Known for her warmth and vibrant personality, Relisha was loved by her family and friends. Her mother, Shamika, and the rest of the family have been devastated by her loss and are tirelessly working to keep her memory alive.
Relisha’s disappearance is a painful reminder of the dangers that can lurk even in seemingly safe spaces. Her case has prompted widespread attention, as it raises questions about how such tragedies can be prevented and how vulnerable children can be better protected.
Investigation and Ongoing Search
The investigation into Relisha’s disappearance has been extensive but has yielded few answers. Tatum’s body was found on March 31, 2014, in Kenilworth Park, having died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Despite intense efforts by law enforcement, Relisha remains missing. Her case is one of the many unsolved missing persons cases that continue to haunt the D.C. area.
The FBI is still actively seeking any information regarding her whereabouts. They continue to offer a $25,000 reward for any leads that could help locate Relisha. Her family is hopeful that the persistence of investigators, along with public support, will one day bring them the closure they desperately need.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Relisha’s case has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and support from the public. Social media platforms are filled with posts marking her 20th birthday, with many people expressing their sorrow and calling for justice. Hashtags like #FindRelisha and #BringRelishaHome continue to circulate, as people from all over the country share her story.
Community members have also expressed their heartbreak, remembering Relisha for the young girl she was, and calling for renewed efforts to bring her home. One post shared on Facebook reads, “Relisha should have been turning 20 today, but instead, we are still waiting for answers. Let’s keep her story alive and fight for justice.”
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The FBI and local law enforcement are continuing their investigation into Relisha’s disappearance. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, as even the smallest detail could be crucial. The FBI has set up a tip line where individuals can report information confidentially.
Relisha’s family is also continuing to speak out about the need for action and answers. Shamika Young, Relisha’s mother, has remained vocal in her search for her daughter, calling on the public to assist with any information that could lead to her return.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as the investigation progresses. On what would have been Relisha’s 20th birthday, her family remains committed to finding answers and honoring her memory. The fight for justice continues, and the hope that Relisha will one day be brought home safely remains strong. Please continue to share her story and help keep the search alive.
If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Relisha Rudd, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
The post HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY, BEAUTIFUL RELISHA. The Disappearance of Relisha Rudd: A Heartbreaking Case Still Unresolved first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
