Two charged in Parma murder

PARMA - A woman and her nephew are charged with murder in the death of a Parma man.

Rebbecca S. Pride, 41, of Catron and Cory J. Pride, 19, of Sikeston were charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action Thursday in the murder of Van Patterson, 65. Patterson was found dead in his rural Parma home on Wednesday.

At approximately 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, sheriff's deputies along with SEMO Major Case Squad began the investigation into the death of Patterson, after the body was discovered.

Authorities believe the pair had gone to Patterson's residence with the intent to steal money. Apparently during the intended robbery, Patterson was struck on the head with a metal object, causing the man to fall to the floor. Police have recovered the weapon believed used in the assault.

An autopsy was conducted Thursday in Farmington on the body. According to New Madrid County Coroner Tim Clayton preliminary reports show the cause of death as "multiple skull fractures."

The suspects are being held in the New Madrid County Jail, pending formal arraignment in Division II of New Madrid County Circuit Court on Monday. No bond has been set at this time.

Patterson's body was taken to Landis Funeral Home in Malden.