BLODGETT MAN PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO MURDER OF WIFE IN FEBRUARY

BENTON, Mo. -- A plea of not guilty was given Thursday by a 40-year-old Blodgett, Mo., area man accused of killing his wife and attempting to set fire to their trailer last February.

Larry Baker appeared before Judge David Dolan and pleaded not guilty to several felony charges.

Along with first-degree murder and first-degree arson, Baker is charged with attempting to manufacture methamphetamine, possession of chemicals, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and possession of ephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine.

The charges stem from the discovery of Lizabeth "Libby" Dunn, 41, by the Scott County Sheriff's Department on Feb. 9 at 510 County Road 331. Dunn was found dead on the trailer's kitchen floor from an apparent stab wound to her chest, authorities said.

Investigators also found that someone had poured a flammable liquid on the linoleum floor up to the edge of the carpet near the front doorway. Part of the carpet and a wall were burned, but the flames were out.

A methamphetamine lab was found inside the home, which led to a warrant for arresting Baker.

Baker is next scheduled to appear in court July 26.