Major Case Squad disbanded for Millersburg murder

The Callaway County Sheriff's Office is preparing to take over as the trail grows cold in the investigation into the murder of Deborah A. Bates, 54, at her home Thursday.

Sheriff Dennis Crane said Tuesday afternoon that with officers reaching a point where they are making little headway, officers assisting from other agencies will be withdrawing from the case.

"Unfortunately, the Major Case Squad will disband (after) today," Crane said. "Usually (the Major Case Squad) is activated for five days, and the leads are pretty well run out (for now).

"There's not enough to keep them busy."

Bates, 54, was reported dead Thursday night by Bryan Wiser, who lived with her in a mobile home in Millersburg for at least six years. Wiser reported leaving the residence at approximately 5:30 a.m. Thursday - telling law enforcement she was asleep inside at that time.

To help the tornado-stricken people of Dumas and surroundings, donations can be made to the Delta Area Disaster Relief Fund, care of the Delta Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 894, Dumas, AR, 71639, or through the Arkansas Community Foundation, 700 S. Rock St., Little Rock, AR, 72202.