Relisha Rudd, an African American girl from Washington, D.C., was 8 years old when she disappeared in 2014 from a homeless shelter in the city. Twelve years later, authorities still have not solved her disappearance, and the case remains open.
Relisha lived in a family shelter in Washington, D.C. with her mother, stepfather Antonio Wheeler, and her two younger brothers after the family lost their home. The shelter, which used to operate as a hospital, had poor conditions and limited supervision.
While staying there, Relisha came into contact with a janitor named Khalil Tatum. He had a criminal record and should not have been hired at the facility. He gave her gifts, took her on outings, and broke shelter rules by building a close relationship with her. Relisha’s mother later allowed her to stay overnight with him, believing she was safe and spending time with his family.
Relisha began missing school soon after. Her absences were covered with notes signed by a “Dr. Tatum.” A school counselor checked the contact number on the notes and reached the shelter instead, where staff confirmed no such doctor existed. By that time, 18 days had passed since Relisha was last seen.
Investigators later found surveillance footage showing Relisha with Tatum inside a Washington, D.C. hotel in February 2014. The case escalated weeks later when police discovered Tatum’s wife, Andrea Tatum, dead in Maryland. Authorities issued a warrant for his arrest in connection with her killing and said he was believed to be traveling with Relisha.
Before police could locate him, Tatum was found dead by suicide in April 2014 in Northeast Washington, D.C. His death ended the active manhunt, but it did not bring answers about Relisha’s whereabouts.
In October 2025, when Relisha would have turned 20, the Black and Missing Foundation released a short docuseries to bring renewed attention to her case. Advocates hope the spotlight will lead to new tips. Some investigators and advocates believe she may have been a victim of trafficking.
According to People, the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department says the investigation remains open. Officials continue to ask the public to come forward with any information that could help solve the case.
Relisha’s stepfather, Antonio Wheeler, has said he still believes she may be alive. He remembers her as caring and responsible, often looking after her younger brothers and bringing warmth to those around her.
SOURCE: blacknews.com