The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis said Tuesday it has identified a person of interest in the investigation into the disappearance of Royal Lakes resident Denita Hedden and has provided facts about the case to the county prosecutor.
In a press release, police said they believe Hedden’s disappearance on Jan. 25 involves foul play. This conclusion is based on several factors including, but not limited to, evidence recovered during the squad’s investigation. No information related to the evidence in this case will be released at this time. The facts and circumstances surrounding this case have been provided to the office of Macoupin County State’s Attorney Jennifer Watson.
First responders conducted 12 days of investigative effort into the disappearance of Hedden. It was reported she was last seen in the 700 block of Catalpa in Royal Lakes at 11 p.m. Jan. 25.
An extensive search operation, spanning seven consecutive days, has covered large portions of southern Macoupin County. First responders by way of land and air have canvassed more than 35 square miles. This endeavor has included more than 22,400 acres of rural terrain and 70 road miles. Numerous police, fire, and specialized search teams have spent hundreds of man-hours in the interest of finding Hedden. Search efforts have continued into Tuesday, Feb. 13, and the search for Hedden will continue.
“The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis wants to emphasize the importance of Macoupin County property owners, farmers, and residents inspecting their property for anything unusual in the interest of finding Denita,” the press release states. “Investigators implore local residents traveling county and rural roadways to report anything unusual they may encounter or observe. This request is made not only to those residing in the immediate vicinity of Royal Lakes, but also areas which may extend beyond perceived search boundaries. Even if first responders and search teams have been in your area please take a moment to check your surroundings.
“The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis extends prayers to the family and friends of Denita Hedden in this most trying of times,” the release states.
Hedden is white, 5 feet tall, and weighs approximately 110 pounds. She was last observed wearing a maroon Nike hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans, brown boots, and hoop earrings.
The investigation into this matter has transitioned back to the Macoupin County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriff at (217) 854-3135, ext. 1; St. Louis Regional Crime Stoppers at (866) 371-TIPS (8477), or Macoupin and Montgomery County Crime Stoppers at (800) 352-0136.