SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - Police continue to search for a man from the Kansas City area. Eric Phillips II is a person of interest in the death of a Missouri State University freshman Elayjah Murray.

Murray’s family says she went home to Kansas City for the Thanksgiving holiday. That night, she went out with friends but did not return. Her remains were found in South Kansas City the next day.

Her death has left a lasting impact on MSU’s campus. On Sunday afternoon, a large group of students gathered to hold a balloon release in honor of Murray. Many shared their thoughts about her and prayed. They say it’s a way for them to pay tribute to the 18-year-old.

“I think it was closure for us. We all needed to understand. We have to let her go, but still let her name be in a bright light. It’s j

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