Noel, MO — A Missouri man has pleaded guilty in federal court to kidnapping resulting in death in connection with the 2019 killing of a Noel woman, authorities confirmed on Friday.
Victim Identified as Jessica McCormack
The victim, 25-year-old Jessica McCormack, was last seen on July 16, 2019, after calling 911 to report that Mahamud Tooxoow Mahamed, 43, had held her at knifepoint outside their residence and attempted to force her into sexual activity, according to a Kansas City Star report. During the incident, McCormack informed officers that Mahamed had multiple knives in the apartment.
McCormack’s decomposed body was discovered in a pink suitcase near Missouri Highway 59 between Lanagan and Noel on July 29, 2019, according to court records. Investigators found her blood on multiple items inside a car used by herself and Mahamed. A cashier at a local store confirmed Mahamed purchased the pink suitcase before her body was found.
Timeline of Disappearance and Investigation
After her 911 call, two women attempted to locate McCormack on July 16 and 17, 2019. One of them reported to McDonald County dispatchers that she had been unable to reach McCormack since the previous day.
On July 28 or 29, Mahamed’s cousin received a call from him, stating he was bringing McCormack’s three children to her in Minnesota. When asked why, he cryptically replied, “something bad had happened and he could be in trouble.” The children were later recovered on August 8, 2019, from a residence in Des Moines, Iowa.
During the period from July 18 to July 29, 2019, Mahamed stayed in communication with a woman occupying McCormack’s residence. She observed him every day and their interactions were corroborated by Facebook messages. In one voice message, Mahamed said he was “trying to find them all,” referring to McCormack and her children, and added that the police believed “the lady in the suitcase” was McCormack.
Flight and International Pursuit
Following McCormack’s death, Mahamed left the United States and lived in Guatemala. On July 27, 2021, he was expelled by the Guatemalan government and returned to U.S. jurisdiction. He now faces a potential sentence of life in prison without parole under federal law. A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
Charges and Plea Agreement
Mahamed, a Somali national legally residing in Missouri at the time, signed a plea agreement admitting guilt to the kidnapping resulting in death of McCormack. The agreement details the possession of knives, restraining of the victim, and the sequence of events that ultimately led to her death.
“McCormack’s blood was found on various items located in a car used by herself and Mahamed,” court documents state, highlighting the evidence linking Mahamed to the crime.
Community and Victim Legacy
Jessica McCormack was remembered for her love of horses and wildlife, and her passion for photography and family time, according to her obituary. Her death has left a lasting impact on the Noel community, raising awareness about domestic violence and personal safety.
Next Steps in the Case
Authorities continue to prepare for Mahamed’s sentencing, which will determine the final extent of his punishment. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by violent domestic incidents and the importance of reporting threats and suspicious behavior promptly.
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