Hill City

Hill City teen arrested in 15-year-old’s death

A Hill City teenager was arrested Monday in the death of a 15-year-old girl whose body was found Nov. 24.

The 17-year-old boy is to be charged with kidnapping and first-degree murder in the death of Esmeralda Gonzales, Graham County Atty. Tony Potter said.

Bond had not been set, Potter said.

Assistant Atty. Gen. John Bork is assisting Potter’s office with the case.

Gonzales’ body was found near a row of trees about 150 feet north of U.S. Highway 24 near Hill City. She had been missing since late Nov. 22.

Missouri

Guard unit mobilized for effort in Iraq

A Missouri National Guard unit based in Cape Girardeau has been mobilized to support U.S. efforts in Iraq.

The National Guard said Monday that the 1140th Engineer Battalion — with units in Caruthersville, Charleston, Farmington, Fredericktown, Jackson, Perryville, Portageville and Sikeston — had been mobilized in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and Noble Eagle.

Troops are to report to the unit’s armories Jan. 3 and then head to Fort Riley, Kan.

The unit is being mobilized for active duty for an initial period of up to 18 months.