Farmington Murder Investigation Underway

(Farmington, MO) A press release from the Farmington Police Department indicates officers are investigating the death of a Farmington woman, 44 year old Anne Marie Whittle. The investigation began Tuesday morning at about 10 o'clock according to the release as Farmington officers were asked to contact the Franklin County Sheriff's Department in reference to information they obtained from a cooperating witness concerning the wellbeing of the deceased. The release goes on to say an officer with the department attempted to contact Whittle but was unable to locate her at her address or place of employment.

During the investigation the name of a suspect was identified. He was found at his place of employment and was later interviewed about the victims whereabouts and condition. The suspect allegedly told investigators he picked up the victim in Farmington and drove her to his home. They had a verbal altercation that turned physical and police would find her body in the basement of his residence at 127 Moore Street in Farmington. A search warrant was obtained and the body was recovered An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday to determine the manner and cause of death. The suspect, a 55 year old white male Farmington resident, has been taken to the St. Francois County jail on charges of Murder in the 2nd Degree.  Once the investigation is complete a report will be sent to the county Prosecuting Attorney for review.