Missouri S&T custodian found dead; homicide investigation begins

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A custodian at Missouri S&T in Rolla whose body was found this week was the victim of a homicide, the Phelps County Sheriff's Department said Thursday.

Deputies found Eugene R. Morton, 57, dead Wednesday morning at his home in the 15000 block of County Road 8430 outside Rolla, the department said in a Facebook post. Deputies were sent for a wellness check after Morton hadn't been to work for a few days, the department said.

Investigators and the coroner determined the death was a homicide but not a random act of violence, according to the sheriff's department. Deputies don't believe there's any danger to the public.

The post said that no further information about the investigation is being released.

Missouri S&T posted a message about Morton's death on its website, saying he worked for facilities services. The university was offering counselors for anyone affected by his death.