Cape man arraigned on murder charges

The 22-year-old Cape Girardeau man facing double murder charges in shooting deaths last week made his first court appearance Monday, as the families of the victims made final preparations to bury their loved ones.

Kenneth D. Bell's arraignment before Judge Gary Kamp, made via teleconference from the Cape Girardeau County Jail, was brief. Kamp entered a plea of not guilty to the charges before setting a preliminary hearing for 9 a.m. March 7. The date was selected based on the availability of Dr. Russell Deidiker, the forensic pathologist who likely will testify after performing autopsies last week on the victims.

Patti Tucka of the Cape Girardeau County Public Defender's office determined that Bell qualified for their services.

Bell could be facing the death penalty in the case, though assistant prosecutor Angel Woodruff said no decision has been reached about whether that will happen.

Funeral arrangements were being finalized Monday for Shannon D. James and Misty D. Cole, who were found shot to death in their 401 S. Pacific St. apartment.

A visitation for Cole, who was 39, is scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday at Crain Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau. Cole, whose daughter said she believes drugs played a role in the shootings, is survived by one son and four daughters.

A visitation for James, who was 43, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Ford and Sons Sprigg Street funeral home in Cape Girardeau.

smoyers@semissourian.com

388-3642

Pertinent address:

100 Court St., Jackson, Mo.

401 S. Pacific St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.