New evidence tampering charged in Moberly teen’s disappearance

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A fourth person has been charged in Randolph County court in the disappearance of a Moberly teen who was found dead Thursday.

Julian L. Mason, 26, was charged Thursday with felony evidence tampering in the disappearance of Kayla Huff, who was reported missing May 6. Three others -- Alayna Mason, Hunter Ames and Christopher Hull -- were charged Wednesday. All three were charged with evidence tampering, but Alayna Mason was charged only with kidnapping.

Julian Mason helped to pour motor oil into the gas tank of a car used in the alleged kidnapping and helped dispose of a telescoping baton reportedly used in the crime near the Chariton/Carroll County line.

Dozens of volunteers have been searching the 3,500-acre Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area southeast of Higbee on foot and horseback for the past several days, leading up to officials saying Huff's body had been found.

Sheriff Andy Boggs said Friday morning that Huff's body had been found by a Randolph County resident in a wooded area of the conservation area about 8 p.m. the previous night.

A probable cause statement says Mason told investigators that she, with help from the co-conspirators, had taken Huff to the conservation area in the trunk of a vehicle with an unnamed person, where they beat and shot her.

Ames allegedly told investigators that the group killed Huff. Authorities allege the suspects then covered up evidence.

Initial court hearings are set for Thursday afternoon.