Crime & Courts

Skeletal remains found in Kansas pasture identified; suspect arrested in Oklahoma

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Skeletal remains found last month in a Kansas pasture have been identified and a man has been arrested in connection with the death.

The KBI started an investigation after the remains were found Sept. 24 in rural Wilson County by the Neodesha Police Department. Authorities determined it was a homicide.

The victim has been identified as 39-year-old Levi Ellis of Neodesha, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation said Tuesday.

The KBI and Neodesha police tracked down a suspect and issued an arrest warrant. On Tuesday, officers with the Broken Arrow Police Department in Oklahoma arrested 56-year-old Joseph D. Ferraro of Neodesha, the KBI said.

Police found him at a hotel in Broken Arrow. He was booked into the Tulsa County Jail on suspicion of first-degree murder.

He will be extradited to Kansas.

The relationship between Ellis and Ferraro is unknown. The KBI did not immediately respond to an inquiry for more details.

Neodesha is a town of 2,275 about two hours east of Wichita.

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Eduardo Castillo
The Wichita Eagle
Eduardo covers crime and breaking news for The Wichita Eagle. His previous work experience includes stints at KWCH 12 Eyewitness News, the local CBS affiliate in Wichita, and as a marketing manager for a local real estate team. In addition to writing, Eduardo also enjoys still photography and cinematography. News tips? email at Edcastillo@wichitaeagle.com or call 316-268-6213.
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