2022CR47 + 2025CR128

Victim: Suzanne Morphew

Defendant: Barry Morphew

Date of Incident: May 10, 2020

Location: Chaffee County, Colorado (original venue, first arrest, location of homicide) Fremont County, Colorado (change of venue, first arrest) Saguache County, Colorado (location of remains, deceased human body) Alamosa County, Colorado (newest venue, second arrest)

Status: Pending trial after grand jury indictment (second arrest)

On Mother’s Day 2020, Suzanne Morphew disappeared from her home near Salida, Colorado. Her husband, Barry Morphew, told authorities she had gone for a bike ride and never returned. Extensive search efforts yielded no sign of Suzanne, but investigators soon uncovered digital and GPS evidence that reportedly contradicted Barry’s account.

Prosecutors alleged Barry killed Suzanne amid marital troubles and her plans to leave him. In May 2021, he was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body, and related counts, despite Suzanne’s body not being located.

The case collapsed in April 2022 when charges were dismissed without prejudice days before trial. The prosecution cited the need for more time, as well as harsh winter conditions hindering searches in a key area.

In September 2023, Suzanne’s remains were found in Moffat, about 50 miles from home. Following the discovery, Barry maintained his innocence and was not immediately recharged, though the investigation remained active. He has also filed a lawsuit against prosecutors and law enforcement, alleging wrongful prosecution.

Barry Morphew was arrested in Maricopa County Arizona on June 20, 2025 and extradited back to Colorado after a grand jury indictment. He is currently awaiting trial.