A horrifying crime scene unfolded in the Baden neighborhood of St. Louis on Saturday evening, October 19, 2024, shaking the community to its core. The burned body of 21-year-old Kiya Holt-Biggs was discovered in a parking lot, sending shockwaves through both the neighborhood and surrounding areas. What was initially reported as a fire-related emergency turned out to be a gruesome case of homicide, with a suspect, Zaveon Mills, now on the run, and a nationwide manhunt underway. The authorities are seeking the public’s help in locating Mills, who has fled the area to avoid capture.
The tragedy began around 8:30 PM when first responders were dispatched to a parking lot in the 1200 block of Switzer Avenue in the Baden neighborhood, after multiple emergency calls reported what appeared to be a fire. When St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) officers and paramedics arrived at the scene, they found a shocking discovery—Kiya Holt-Biggs’ body had been set ablaze. Her unconscious and burned body lay in the lot, and despite immediate efforts, it was clear that Holt-Biggs had already succumbed to her injuries.
The young woman, a resident of Granite City, Illinois, was quickly identified as the victim of this heinous crime, and the SLMPD’s Homicide Division took charge of the investigation. It wasn’t long before the investigators honed in on a suspect—21-year-old Zaveon Mills, also a resident of the St. Louis area. Mills, who had reportedly been involved with Holt-Biggs, became the prime suspect based on evidence gathered at the scene and witness statements.
As the investigation deepened, law enforcement pieced together more details that pointed to Mills as the perpetrator. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses in Baden revealed Mills in the area around the time of the crime. Additional physical evidence, combined with witness testimonies, connected him to the scene. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a man matching Mills’ description leaving the scene shortly before the fire started. Authorities believe that Holt-Biggs was already deceased when her body was set ablaze in a brutal attempt to destroy evidence.
Forensic experts and arson investigators were called to the scene to examine the remains and gather any potential clues that could explain the full sequence of events. Although the exact cause of Holt-Biggs’ death remains under investigation, preliminary findings suggest that she was killed before her body was burned, likely as a result of a violent encounter with Mills.
The community was left in disbelief as the news spread. Holt-Biggs, a vibrant and well-liked young woman, was described by friends and family as having a kind heart and a bright future ahead of her. Those close to her are devastated by the tragic loss and have called for justice. “She was such a sweet, caring soul,” said one of Holt-Biggs’ close friends in an interview. “To think that someone could do this to her is beyond comprehension. We just want answers, and we want whoever did this to pay for what they’ve done.”
The Suspect: Zaveon Mills on the Run
As the SLMPD worked tirelessly to build a case, their focus shifted to locating Mills, who had vanished following the crime. Police believe that Mills fled the St. Louis area shortly after the murder and has been actively trying to evade capture ever since. With leads suggesting that he may have left the state, a nationwide manhunt has been launched in coordination with federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI.
Mills is facing charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action, charges that carry the possibility of life in prison without parole. According to sources close to the investigation, Mills was known to Holt-Biggs, and the two had a complicated relationship marked by conflict and tension in the weeks leading up to the murder. Police are exploring the possibility that this may have been a crime of passion or retribution, although they remain cautious about releasing too many details about the motive until more facts are uncovered.
Mills is considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to avoid any direct contact with him and to immediately report any sightings or information regarding his whereabouts. Mills has a history of violent behavior and has been linked to previous altercations in the St. Louis area, although none as severe as this case. Authorities are particularly concerned that he may attempt to harm others in his effort to avoid arrest.
The Investigation Unfolds
As detectives continue their investigation, they are piecing together a clearer picture of the days leading up to Holt-Biggs’ murder. Initial interviews with family and friends revealed that Holt-Biggs had expressed concerns about her safety in the weeks leading up to the incident. She had allegedly confided in close friends about feeling threatened by Mills, although no formal restraining orders or reports were filed. The investigation is looking into whether there were missed warning signs that could have prevented the tragedy.
The SLMPD is also examining potential connections between Mills and any prior incidents of violence, both in the St. Louis area and beyond. Digital forensics teams are reviewing Holt-Biggs’ social media and phone records in search of any communications that may provide insight into the nature of her relationship with Mills and any possible threats she may have received. Detectives are particularly interested in determining whether the crime was premeditated or occurred spontaneously during a heated confrontation.
While forensic evidence from the crime scene, including DNA and any other trace materials, will be critical in securing a conviction, the search for Mills remains the top priority. The SLMPD has intensified its efforts to track Mills, collaborating with multiple law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Marshals, to extend the search beyond the immediate St. Louis region.
Community Reaction and Call for Justice
The murder of Holt-Biggs has left the Baden community in shock, with local residents expressing their grief and anger over the crime. Community leaders have organized a candlelight vigil in Holt-Biggs’ memory, which will take place at the location where her body was found. Friends, family, and community members are expected to gather to honor her life and demand justice.
In a statement released by Holt-Biggs’ family, they expressed their heartbreak and called on the public to come forward with any information that could help bring Mills to justice. “We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful Kiya,” the statement read. “She was loved by so many, and her light was taken from us too soon. We urge anyone who knows where Zaveon Mills is hiding to come forward and help us get justice for Kiya.”
The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses and has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community. Many have contributed to the fund, with donations and heartfelt messages of condolence flooding in.
Manhunt and Legal Proceedings
As the search for Mills continues, legal proceedings are already in motion. The St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office has formally charged Mills in absentia, and an arrest warrant has been issued. Prosecutors are confident that, once apprehended, Mills will face the full weight of the law.
Authorities are hopeful that Mills’ flight from justice will be short-lived, but they remain vigilant, knowing that fugitives in murder cases can often evade capture for extended periods. Still, with Mills’ face and details about his vehicle and movements widely circulated through media channels and law enforcement bulletins, investigators believe that his time on the run is limited.
Conclusion: A Tragic Loss
The death of Kiya Holt-Biggs is a devastating reminder of the brutal violence that continues to plague communities across the country. Her senseless murder has left a void in the lives of those who loved her and a community desperate for answers. As the manhunt for Zaveon Mills intensifies, police and the public alike remain determined to see him brought to justice, knowing that it is the first step toward healing the wounds left by this unimaginable tragedy.
