Man Who Shot, Killed Pregnant Ex-Girlfriend In KOP Arrested: DA

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA — The search for the man who authorities said shot his pregnant ex-girlfriend and left her to die on the ground in a King of Prussia gas station parking lot is over. Rafiq Thompson turned himself into police Wednesday morning.

A $5,000 reward had been posted for the capture of Thompson, 38, who is a Philadelphia resident. He faces first degree murder charges and related counts in the shooting death of 31-year-old Tamara Cornelius.

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“This violent criminal is now safely behind bars due to the great work of the Upper Merion Police and Montgomery County Detectives," District Attorney Kevin Steele said in a statement. "I want to thank the public for the many tips we received, which put a spotlight on the defendant. Our thoughts are with Ms. Cornelius’ family and friends at this sad time.”

The incident occurred on Friday night at 10:22 p.m., at the Exxon Station on 113 N. Gulph Road.

The two had talked briefly outside the Cheesecake Factory at the King of Prussia Mall at around 9:10 p.m., police said.

Thompson then followed Cornelius from the restaurant to the mall parking garage, and then to the Exxon station, according to authorities.

Cornelius was pumping gas when Thompson got out of his car, spoke to her, and shot her multiple times, police said. They added that he continued to shoot her as she attempted to run away.

A witness told police that he he overheard the two arguing at the gas station for 10 to 15 minutes before hearing gunshots.

An ambulance took her to Paoli Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Thompson was taken to Montgomery County Correctional Facility, where he is awaiting his arraignment. A preliminary hearing is forthcoming.

No bail will be available due to the first degree murder charge.