Fugitive Captured After Hiding Behind False Wall in Leadwood Home

Leadwood, Mo. (KFMO) - A dramatic arrest unfolded late Wednesday morning as law enforcement officers executed a search warrant in the 300 block of Oak Street, ultimately locating fugitive Jessica Lange hidden behind a false wall inside a Leadwood residence.

Deputies with the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department served the warrant at approximately 10:30 a.m. in connection with their ongoing search for Lange, who had evaded capture despite multiple reports of her presence at the residence. According to authorities, homeowner Randy McEntire repeatedly denied that Lange was in the home. However, during a thorough search of the property, deputies discovered a recently constructed false wall, accessible only through the attic.

Lange was found concealed behind the wall and refused to comply with repeated commands to surrender. She was eventually removed from the hiding space and taken into custody on outstanding warrants, as well as a new charge of resisting arrest. McEntire was arrested at the scene for hindering the prosecution of a felony warrant.

Both Lange and McEntire were transported to the St. Francois County Adult Detention Center. An adolescent child who was present during the incident was released to a family member. Authorities say additional charges are being sought against both Lange and McEntire, including endangering the welfare of a child and possession of a controlled substance.

The case has been forwarded to the St. Francois County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.