Man wanted in wife's death captured after 2-month hunt

HOUSTON, Mo. -- A former convict who led authorities in south-central Missouri on a two-month manhunt after the death of his wife was arrested Saturday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.

Patrol Sgt. Marty Elmore said Neldon Neal, who had been sought since his wife was shot to death March 13, was found near a campsite on the Gasconade River in Laclede County.

Neal was arrested without incident shortly after 11 a.m. and taken to the Texas County Jail in Houston, Elmore Said.

"My understanding was that his son was arrested with him at the time of his capture," Elmore said, adding that he was unsure what criminal charges -- if any -- the son might face.

Authorities have said that on March 13, the unemployed Neal and a drinking buddy returned to the trailer in Roby he shared with his wife, Judy Lewis. His wife, Lewis' former daughter-in-law and her 2-year-old daughter were there.

A fight broke out, authorities said and Lewis, 51, was shot. Neal fled, and authorities say he had help eluding them.

Four women, all of whom knew each other, have been charged with hindering prosecution. They told authorities they bought Neal food and beer and gave him a tent and sleeping bag, according to court documents.

Neal's criminal history dates to the 1960s. He was sentenced to 15 years in 1998 for stealing beer but was released for good behavior in October 2005.