A family’s worst nightmare came true when a missing teenager in Alabama was found dismembered in the woods after his body was set on fire.
The Eufaula Alabama Police Department said in a statement that Markavious “Mark” Rumph was reported missing after he was last seen at a gas station Eufaula, Alabama, on May 6.
Police later confirmed on Monday, May 11, that they found human remains on a nearby road, though they did not publicly reveal the name of the victim.
However, the victim was identified as Rumph, 18, in a GoFundMe fundraiser set up to help his family.
“Mark was an 18-year-old with a bright future ahead of him. He had recently obtained his GED and was truly aiming for the stars, inspiring those around him with his determination and hope,” the GoFundMe page read. “Tragically, Mark’s life was cut short in a senseless crime in Eufaula, Alabama, leaving his parents, Yolanda Lynn and Mark Rumph, and the community heartbroken and searching for answers.”
Eliza Jane Franklin, the page’s creator, explained that she was organizing the fundraiser “to support Yolanda Lynn and Mark Rumph as they face the unimaginable pain of losing their beloved son.”
“The sudden loss has brought unexpected burial expenses and the need for emotional support as they begin to process and heal from this tragedy. In addition to funeral and memorial costs, the family will need help with therapy and daily living expenses during this difficult time,” the post read. “We also hope to honor Mark’s legacy by starting a scholarship in his name, so his dreams can continue to inspire others.”
Rumph’s family also confirmed he was the victim while speaking to WRBL. The family said he was last seen leaving his grandmother’s home with a friend on May 7.
When he never returned, Rumph’s family grew concerned and started their own search that spanned five days.
“Me and my family in the rain on Mother’s Day, I walked through those woods,” his mother told the outlet about their search efforts.
Meanwhile, Rumph’s father told the outlet that the suspect “burned my baby, shot my baby, burned him up and chopped him up.”
The family also opened up about who Rumph was as a person, explaining that he planned to attend welding school. “He was the life of the party. He was gonna make you laugh,” his father said.
After Rumph’s body was recovered, police have asked that anyone who may have any information about the case call investigators at 334-687-1200.
