Missing 9-Year-Old Missouri girl Found Dead
OZARK, Mo. – the body of 9-year-old Rowan Ford was discovered Friday on private land approximately 10 miles south of stella, Missouri, where she lived. Newton County sheriff Ken Copeland confirmed the finding and stated the death is being investigated as a homicide, though the cause of death remains undetermined.
The body was found by a McDonald County deputy who was searching a known cavern area while commuting to work, according to Sheriff Copeland.
Rowan had been reported missing since November 3rd, after her mother, Colleen Spears, returned home early from a shift at a Wal-Mart store.
Investigators have spoken with Rowan’s stepfather, David Spears, who stated he was with Rowan and two friends until approximately 10:45 p.m. the night before she was reported missing. He returned home around midnight and did not check on the girl.
Spears also told authorities he borrowed his mother’s vehicle after 1 a.m., receiving it around 1:30 a.m. His mother remained at his home while he was away in the vehicle for approximately 5.5 hours. He has been unable to account for his whereabouts during that time, though he has not been charged with any crime.Spears has acknowledged it was a mistake to leave Rowan unattended.
Stella Mayor bill alsop, reached at the family’s home, described Rowan’s mother as being deeply distressed after being informed of the discovery.Authorities were reportedly “99 percent sure” the body recovered was Rowan’s.
