Information sought in man's death

Information sought in man's death

Nov. 2, 2000

CORTEZ JOURNAL

Law-enforcement officials and Montezuma Crimestoppers are asking anyone with information about the death of McKean Peabody in late May to provide that information, even if they do so anonymously.

Peabody, 70, of Towaoc, was reported missing in May. His remains were found in a field behind the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Oct. 1.

On Wednesday, Montezuma County Sheriff Joey Chavez said, although the cause of Peabody’s death could not be determined during an autopsy, the sheriff’s department is treating the incident as a homicide until it can be proven otherwise.

"It’s a very suspicious death," Chavez said. "The autopsy did not show that it was a homicide but we’re looking for information. We’re wanting to make sure if there’s any loose ends, we tie them up."

Chavez said officers believe there may be persons in the community who know details about the circumstances surrounding the death.

"We have evidence that tells us, probably around the time that he died out there, that he was seen with somebody and that they may know more than what we know right now," Chavez said.

Anyone with information about Peabody’s death, or any crime, can call Crimestoppers at 565-4243 weekdays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. If there is no answer or a busy signal, callers are asked to try again. The information will be held in strict confidence and informants could receive a sizable reward. You do not have to give your name for information leading to the arrest or conviction of someone responsible for a crime in order to receive the award.