Son arraigned in death of 74-year-old father

James Collier
James Collier

CALIFORNIA, Mo. -- The California Police Department on Monday identified the man found dead in his East Street apartment as the father of the man accused of the crime.

James L. Collier was arraigned Monday on charges of first-degree murder and third-degree assault with no bond in connection with the death of his father, William Arthur Collier, 74. James Collier is scheduled to appear for a bond hearing later this month.

The father and son shared a residence at 310 S. East St., apartment 3.

When authorities arrived at the apartment at 3 a.m. Wednesday, William Collier's body was found between the kitchen and living room. James Collier was found in his bedroom, where he became combative and "head butted" a member of local law enforcement, according to a probable cause report.

The defendant allegedly told the Missouri State Highway Patrol he and his father had a physical altercation earlier in the day. James Collier also allegedly told California police and the patrol he was responsible for the death, but would later state he could not remember what had occurred, according to probable cause statements.

A Thursday afternoon news release from the Moniteau County Sheriff's Office stated the defendant was taken to a hospital in Jefferson City, where he was treated for a hand and foot injury prior to being transported to the Moniteau County Jail and charged with the crimes.