Residents asked to double-check property for ‘anything unusual’ in missing woman case

No progress has been made in the search for a missing Macoupin County woman, as the Major Case Squad continues its investigation of her disappearance.

Denita Hedden, 37, was last seen at about 11 p.m. Jan. 25 after returning home to Royal Lakes after visiting a casino with friends on her birthday. A search spanning four days, 22,400 acres and 70 road miles has taken place by air and ground into Friday evening, but a statement from the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis indicated that no sign has been found of the missing woman.

Residents of Macoupin County are asked to inspect their property for “anything unusual,” any sign of Hedden or a clue to explain her disappearance.

“Even if first responders and search teams have been in your area, please take a moment to check your surroundings,” the release read.

Hedden is described as a white female, 5 feet tall and weighing approximately 110 pounds. She was last seen wearing a maroon Nike hoodie sweatshirt, blue jeans and brown boots, as well as hoop earrings.

Hedden and her husband, Michael Hedden, were in the process of getting a divorce, according to court records. She filed an order of protection against him in 2016.

However, Lt. Kristopher Tharp said Michael Hedden is in the area, and police believe he had no involvement in her disappearance.

Anyone with information about Denita Hedden or her whereabouts is asked to call police. The Major Case Squad can be reached at 618-585-3510. The St. Louis CrimeStoppers hotline is 866-371-8477. Callers may remain anonymous, if they prefer.

This story was originally published February 9, 2018 at 11:46 PM with the headline "Residents asked to double-check property for ‘anything unusual’ in missing woman case."