Pennsylvania Man Charged with Murder After Missing Woman Found Dead
The remains of Kimberly Gsell have been recovered near a creek in Cumberland County, ending a nearly seven-year search for the Pennsylvania woman. Authorities announced that David Allen has been charged with first-degree murder and strangulation in connection with her death after police stated he admitted to the killing.
Seven-Year Search Ends Along Yellow Breeches Creek
Gsell was reported missing on Sept. 29, 2019, following an argument at the Rodeway Inn in Middlesex Township. Nearly seven years later, on Sept. 25, police located human remains along the bank of the Yellow Breeches Creek. The Middlesex Township Police Department stated that 39-year-old David Allen confessed to killing Gsell one day after the remains were discovered.
Forensic Technology Confirms Identity
The Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office utilized its forensic laboratory and Rapid DNA capabilities, alongside dental records, to officially confirm the identity of the recovered remains. Middlesex Township police managed the initial missing persons case, which ultimately transitioned into a homicide investigation following the recovery and the subsequent confession.
First-Degree Murder Charges and No Bail
David Allen faces formal charges of first-degree murder and strangulation. Following his arrest and admission, Allen was booked into the Cumberland County Prison. Court records show he is currently being held without bail and is scheduled to appear back in court in October.
District Attorney Addresses Family and Public
Cumberland County District Attorney Seán M. McCormack addressed the tragic conclusion of the multi-year search in a public statement. “Despite the reality that we faced, we were hoping throughout this investigation to be able to give her family good news that Kim would be found alive,” McCormack said. “Unfortunately, the news we delivered to the family confirmed what many of us suspected, Kim has been dead from the moment she disappeared.”
Upcoming October Court Hearings
The progression of the legal case now rests with the Cumberland County court system, where prosecutors will present the evidence gathered by local law enforcement and forensic investigators during the upcoming October hearings.