By MARK PHILLIPS
The Sentinel-Record 2-24-1977

The findings of an Arkansas State Police investigation into the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards should be in the hands of Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole within the next 10 days.

Lt. Ken McFerran, a criminal investigator for the state police, said Wednesday the results of the investigation should be ready for presentation to Cole within the next week to 10 days.

Since Ms. Edwards’ remains were found on Jack Mountain by hunters on Feb. 12, state police have been conducting a homicide investigation by interviewing a large number of individuals and checking leads, McFerran said.

He said 100 or more persons will have been interviewed by the time the investigation is completed and findings are given to the Hot Spring County prosecuting attorney.

McFerran indicated it would be possible for the case to be turned over to the Garland County prosecuting attorney if any evidence is obtained indicating the death occurred in this county.

However, McFerran said the case would probably go to Hot Spring County authorities based on the results of the investigation to date and the fact Ms. Edwards’ remains were found in Hot Spring County.

Once the state police present their findings to Cole, McFerran said it would be Cole’s responsibility to decide if there are sufficient grounds on which to file charges against anyone.                                                      .

The final ruling on the cause of death was “multiple blows to the head by a blunt instrument,” according to Dr. Stephen Marx, associate state medical examiner, who said Wednesday his examination of the remains and ruling were completed last week.