CHELTENHAM TWP. , Pennsylvania (WPVI) – Authorities have located the woman, who was shot and killed while waiting in Dunkin’s car Tuesday morning while her 11-year-old son was in the car.
The Montgomery County District Attorney’s office said 35-year-old Rachel King of Elkins Park was hit multiple times while driving her SUV.
It happened around 7:40 am on Cheltenham Twp.
According to investigators, King was heading west on Cheltenham Street when she turned into the Melrose Shopping Centre, then pulled into a line of traffic in the Dunkin’ lane.
The DA’s office said a light-colored sedan, likely a Ford or Mercury, was seen driving right behind King.
According to investigators, the driver of that car stopped a short distance from the car, climbed into the driver’s side of King’s car, and fired several shots through the window.
The man then returned to his car and fled east on Cheltenham Street.
King’s 11-year-old son was in the back seat of the car. He was not hurt.
Prosecutor Kevin Steele said this appeared to be targeted killing. He said the suspect did not attempt to open the door or communicate with King prior to the shooting.
King was a teacher at Grover Cleveland Elementary in the Mastery charter school system.
“We are devastated by the loss of an extraordinary teacher, who has spent the last 10 years working with our students and their families,” the school system said in a statement.
There will be a two-hour delay at Cleveland Elementary School on Wednesday. Social workers and counsellors will be available for those who need support.
“She was one of the best teachers, she did the best she could at this school, the best of it,” said Charice Jones of Tioga-Nate Town.
King’s friend spoke to Action News off camera. He said King was taking her son to violin practice when she was shot.
He said he had no idea who wanted to do it.
King’s friend went on to say that she was a loving mother who was working toward her master’s degree and getting her principal’s certification.
Students and parents from Grover Cleveland Elementary School are in mourning.
“I had a friendship with this lady,” said Jones, “a friendship, a very good friendship, not just from school—that outside of school. She gave me great advice.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cheltenham Township Police Department at 215-885-1600 (Extension 400) or Montgomery County Detectives at 610-226-5553.
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