UPDATE: Villa Ridge Man Found Dead From Gunshot Wound
UPDATE:
On 9-4-2022, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the 400 block of Saturn Lane, Lonedell, MO in reference to this investigation. While searching the residence, an explosive device was located and St. Louis County Regional Bomb and Arson squad was contacted to respond to the scene. The item in question was proven to be an improvised explosive device and was able to be diffused at the scene.
The homeowner was taken into custody at this time and charges were applied for with the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. A no bond warrant was issued, charging James R. Friedmann, a 59 year old male from Lonedell, with Unlawful possession, transport, manufacture, repair or sale of illegal weapon.
The investigators continued the homicide investigation and on 9-15-2022, Mr. Friedmann was also charged with Murder in the 2nd degree and armed criminal action in the death of Hugh Campbell. His bond was then set at $500,000 cash or surety for all three charges. I would like to thank the Franklin County Investigators for their countless hours into this investigation, I would also like to thank the Franklin County Prosecutors office for their assistance in this case.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Franklin County deputies located a deceased male Sept. 2 in the 5800 block of Dry Branch Road in St. Clair.
The male had been clearing timber.
An autopsy was performed and the victim, identified as Hugh T. Campbell, a 53-year-old male from Villa Ridge, died from an apparent gunshot wound.
This remains an active investigation and Franklin County Investigators are actively working this case.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office at 636-583-2560.
All callers may remain anonymous . Further information will be released as it develops.