Murder charge submitted in Friday evening death

Saturday, November 6, 2021

The Stoddard County Major Case was activated Friday evening after the discovery of a deceased male.

Chief Deputy Andy Holden with the Stoddard County Sheriff's Department said in a news release the department was dispatched to a truck repair business near the intersection of County Road 517 and U.S. Highway 60.

Holden said Franklin J. Morris, 32, was discovered deceased at the scene upon the arrival of the sheriff's department. The Stoddard County Major Case Squad consisting of the Stoddard County Sheriffs Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Dexter Police Department. was then activated to investigate the incident.

Holden said during the investigation it was discovered that Boyd R. Lippoldt, 41 of Dexter, intentionally struck Morris with a vehicle causing his injuries. Holden said the it was also discovered during the investigation that Lippoldt moved the vehicle used in the incident in an attempt to conceal evidence.

Lippoldt was taken into custody and is currently being held in the Stoddard County Jail on a 24 hour hold. Holden said multiple charges have submitted in the case including first degree murder, armed criminal action, possession of methamphetamine and DWI causing a death.

Stoddard County Coroner Brent Stidham said an autopsy is scheduled for Monday morning. Holden said the investigation is ongoing.

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