UPDATE: Kentucky State Police Investigating Murder in Marshall County
***UPDATE***
BENTON, Ky. (April 18, 2025) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 1 has arrested Claude E. Russell after he turned himself in at the Trigg County Sheriff’s Office. He is charged with Murder and lodged in the Marshall County Jail where he is being held without bond.
Previous News Release below:
BENTON, Ky. (April 18, 2025) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 1 detectives are actively searching for Claude E. Russell, 48 years old of Cadiz, KY after obtaining a warrant for his arrest in connection to the murder of Lia Thompson. Evidence was presented to the Marshall County Grand Jury on April 17, 2025, resulting in an indictment against Russell. Russell is currently wanted for Murder.
Russell is described as a black male, standing 6′ tall and weighing 190 pounds. Anyone with information on Russell’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact KSP Post 1 at 270-856-3721. Citizens may also report tips confidentially through the KSP website Tip Form.
Previous News Release below:
BENTON, Ky. (March 23, 2025) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 1 detectives continue to investigate the murder of Lia Thompson that occurred in Benton, KY last week. At this time, Ms. Thompson’s murder is believed to have been a targeted incident, indicating that there is not an ongoing threat to the general public.
Although this is believed to have been a targeted incident, it serves as an important reminder to be proactive about personal safety. Some ways to maintain personal safety include:
- Always lock your residence and vehicle doors.
- Be mindful of who you interact with on social media and who you allow into your home.
- Do not post or share personal information such as your address, financial details, or travel plans on social media.
- Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
- If you observe suspicious activity in person or online, report it.
Original News Release below:
BENTON, Ky. (March 19, 2025) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 1 has been requested by Benton Police Department to investigate the death of Lia Thompson, 49 years old of Benton, KY.
Preliminary investigation shows that shortly before 2:00pm CT, Ms. Thompson was located deceased inside her residence with injuries indicating foul play. Her death is being investigated as a homicide. KSP Post 1 detectives are actively following leads.
Anyone with information pertaining to the death of Ms. Thompson is encouraged to contact KSP Post 1 at 270-856-3721. Citizens may also report tips confidentially through the KSP website Tip Form.
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