Death investigation underway in Audrain County, victim identified

UPDATE 7/7 4:18 P.M.: It has been confirmed that Wilder died from a gunshot wound.

UPDATE 7/7: The victim has been identified as 30-year-old Leon Wilder III of Columbia. CrimeStoppers is also offering a reward for information leading to an arrest in the death investigation. CrimeStoppers can be contacted at (573) 875-TIPS. All calls are held in strict confidence.

ORIGINAL STORY: The Audrain County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a death.

According to Sheriff Matt Oller, a body of a man was found on the side of the road on County Road 997, just a few miles southeast of Centralia.

The man’s age and identity has not yet been determined, but foul play is suspected.

Audrain County has requested the Mid-Missouri Major Case Squad be activated for this investigation. The squad is expected to meet tomorrow morning.