Jayden Robker was a 13-year-old boy from Kansas City, Missouri, who went missing on February 2, 2023. He was last seen riding his skateboard near his home, wearing a green camouflage hoodie, gray sweatpants, and black tennis shoes. He had told his family that he was going to sell some Pokemon cards, but he never returned.
His disappearance sparked a massive search effort by the police, the FBI, and the community. Flyers with his photo were distributed, and a $5,000 reward was offered for any information leading to his whereabouts. But despite all the efforts, Jayden remained missing for more than a month.
On March 10, 2023, a tragic discovery was made. Jayden’s body was found in a pond in Gladstone, Missouri, about a mile away from his home. The police confirmed his identity two days later, after conducting an autopsy.
But the autopsy did not reveal the cause of Jayden’s death. According to the Gladstone Police Department, there were no obvious signs of foul play on his body. However, further tests may be necessary to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
The investigation into Jayden’s death is still ongoing, and the police have not ruled out any possibilities. They are asking anyone with information to contact them or the TIPS Hotline.
A History of Abuse?
While the police are trying to solve the mystery of Jayden’s death, some of his family members and loved ones are questioning whether he was living in a safe and happy environment before he disappeared.
According to a report by The Kansas City Star, Jayden had told the police that he was being abused by his stepfather, Eric Givens, more than a year before he went missing. The report was written by Gladstone police after Jayden ran away from home in November 2021. He was found wandering near a street late at night and told the officers that he had escaped from an orphanage. He later admitted that he had run away because of his stepfather’s abuse.
The officers then contacted Jayden’s grandmother, Kitty Robker, who picked him up and took him home with her. They also notified the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), which is responsible for responding to reports of child abuse.
However, it is unclear what actions were taken by DSS to protect Jayden from harm. The Star reported that Jayden’s uncle, Derek Robker, and other relatives had also communicated their concerns to DSS about Jayden’s welfare, but they felt that nothing was done to help him.
Jayden’s mother and stepfather have moved away from the Kansas City area since his death. They have not been named as suspects or persons of interest in the investigation by the Gladstone Police Department.
A Life Cut Short
Jayden Robker was described by his family and friends as a smart, funny, and kind-hearted boy who loved skateboarding, video games, and Pokemon cards. He had dreams of graduating from high school, going to college, getting married, and having kids.
But his life was cut short by a tragic and mysterious death that has left many questions unanswered. His family and loved ones are grieving for him and hoping for justice.
They held a memorial service for him on March 20, 2023, at Antioch Bible Baptist Church in Gladstone. They released balloons in his favorite colors: blue and green. They also shared memories of him and expressed their love for him.
“Jayden was my best friend,” his cousin Jaden said at the service. “He always made me laugh. He always had my back. He was always there for me.”
“Jayden was my grandson,” Kitty Robker said. “He was my sunshine. He brightened up my day every time I saw him. He was always smiling and happy.”
“Jayden was my nephew,” Derek Robker said. “He was my buddy. He was always curious and adventurous. He always wanted to learn new things.”
“Jayden was my son,” Jason Robker said. “He was my pride and joy. He was always smart and talented. He always amazed me with his abilities.”
They also pleaded for anyone with information about Jayden’s death to come forward and help them find closure.
“Jayden deserves justice,” they said. “We need answers.”
