PACIFIC, MO (KTVI-FOX2now.com) -
A suspect now in custody hours after the chilling discovery of a woman's body in the trash at a Pacific apartment complex, and the case grows even more disturbing. Investigators reveal the body had been mutilated and body parts are still missing after what the prosecutor calls a dispute that went terribly wrong
37 year old Vernell Loggins Jr. was arrested last night. He's charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action. Franklin County Prosecutor Robert Parks told reporters the crime took place sometime between Nov. 1st and Nov. 2nd.
The Major Case Squad was called in after the body of 26 year old Stephanie Fields was found beside a garbage dumpster near the couple's apartment.
Parks says, "The physical evidence found at the scene led back to the apartment. And led back to Mr. Loggins."
Court records show she was stabbed and mutilated. Police found her body stuffed in plastic trash bags, inside a 64 gallon garbage can. Loose ice cubes were on top of the body. Parks was careful not to say too much about the case.
"It was a very violent gruesome crime, which is all that I can say at this time."
Investigators also found mail addressed to the suspect and bloody paper towels inside the garbage can. Surveillance video may have captured Loggins leaving a local store with the trash can and other items.
Police believe she was murdered inside the couple's apartment. Parks did not explain why. "We do not know the motive. We do know they were living together, as boyfriend and girlfriend, but that is all we know about their relationship. "
Police are convinced the suspect acted alone....something that should put ease neighbors concerns. But Melissa Covert, who lives nearby says never let your guard down.
"Hold onto your kids a little tighter, keep an eye on them a little better, keep an eye on your neighbors.And lock your doors."
This is terribly graphic to pass along but police need your help.. they are still looking for some of the victim's body parts..if you can help them please contact Pacific police.
37 year old Vernell Loggins Jr. was arrested last night. He's charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action. Franklin County Prosecutor Robert Parks told reporters the crime took place sometime between Nov. 1st and Nov. 2nd.
The Major Case Squad was called in after the body of 26 year old Stephanie Fields was found beside a garbage dumpster near the couple's apartment.
Parks says, "The physical evidence found at the scene led back to the apartment. And led back to Mr. Loggins."
Court records show she was stabbed and mutilated. Police found her body stuffed in plastic trash bags, inside a 64 gallon garbage can. Loose ice cubes were on top of the body. Parks was careful not to say too much about the case.
"It was a very violent gruesome crime, which is all that I can say at this time."
Investigators also found mail addressed to the suspect and bloody paper towels inside the garbage can. Surveillance video may have captured Loggins leaving a local store with the trash can and other items.
Police believe she was murdered inside the couple's apartment. Parks did not explain why. "We do not know the motive. We do know they were living together, as boyfriend and girlfriend, but that is all we know about their relationship. "
Police are convinced the suspect acted alone....something that should put ease neighbors concerns. But Melissa Covert, who lives nearby says never let your guard down.
"Hold onto your kids a little tighter, keep an eye on them a little better, keep an eye on your neighbors.And lock your doors."
This is terribly graphic to pass along but police need your help.. they are still looking for some of the victim's body parts..if you can help them please contact Pacific police.
