In the summer of 2019, the quiet community of Portland, Missouri, was disturbed by the violent death of one of its residents. James Ray Newsom, a 48-year-old male, was found deceased in his home on July 10, 2019, from a gunshot wound. The investigation into his death quickly focused on a single suspect, leading to an arrest and the unfolding of a story of a friendship ending in tragedy.
Responding to a 911 call, deputies from the Callaway County Sheriff's Office discovered Newsom's body.
The initial investigation pointed to a homicide, and it wasn't long before authorities identified a person of interest. Chadwick D. Moore, then 41, of Fulton, was located and brought in for questioning. During the interview with investigators, Moore admitted to shooting Newsom. This confession provided a critical breakthrough in the case, leading to his immediate arrest.
Court documents later revealed the motive behind the fatal shooting. Moore and Newsom were reportedly friends, but their relationship had soured over a dispute involving a woman. Investigators learned that this disagreement escalated, culminating in the deadly confrontation at Newsom's Portland residence. The probable cause statement filed in court detailed Moore's admission of guilt, solidifying the case against him.
Following his arrest, Chadwick D. Moore was charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action. He was held in the Callaway County Jail without bond. In subsequent court proceedings, Moore pleaded guilty to the charges. In February 2021, he was sentenced for his role in the death of James Newsom, bringing a legal conclusion to the case that had shaken the small Missouri town.
