Husband charged in wife's beating death

FREDERICKTOWN, Mo. -- A husband allegedly beat his wife to death during a custody dispute Sunday, police said. James Boekemier, 31, of Fredericktown was arguing with his wife Andrea, 26, over custody of their 4-year-old and 2-year-old children. Witnesses told police the mother was beaten as she called her mother-in-law for help. She collapsed between several cars after she fled the home. James Boekiemer was charged with second-degree murder. Fredericktown police chief Keith DeSpain said officers were familiar with the couple, and had spoken to them recently about seeking legal remedies to try and resolve the situation. The two children are staying with grandparents.