Suzanne Morphew Case: Husband Faces Murder Charges

CHAFFEE COUNTY, CO — A Colorado man faces murder charges after his wife, Suzanne Morphew, went missing nearly a year ago.

Barry Morphew, 53, was arrested Wednesday in connection with his wife's disappearance, the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office said. He faces charges of first-degree murder after deliberation, tampering with physical evidence and attempt to influence a public servant, according to court documents.

The 49-year-old mother of two went for a bike ride May 10, 2020, in Maysville, and hasn't been seen since.

"Our belief is that Suzanne is not alive at this time," said Chaffee County Sheriff John Spezze.

Her cause of death is not known, Spezze said.

Her husband's arrest affidavit remains sealed and details of the case will not be disclosed as the investigation is ongoing, the 11th Judicial District Attorney Linda Stanley said.

Barry Morphew posted a video on social media a week after his wife's disappearance, and announced a $100,000 reward for her safe return with "no questions asked."

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and FBI assisted the Chaffee County Sheriff's Office in the search.

Morphew went for her bike ride on Mother's Day near County Road 225 and West Highway 50 and never returned, her family said.

Helicopters, drones, divers and canine teams were used for months in the search for the missing mother. Investigators said that one of her "personal items" was recovered during one of the searches, but didn't disclose what the item was.

A GoFundMe page was launched to raise money for search efforts, and a "Find Suzanne Morphew" Facebook page was created.

Chaffee County residents were asked in May to preserve all video footage from Ring doorbells, security cameras, game cameras and any other recording device from May 8 to May 12.

More than 1,400 tips came in from the public, Spezze said.

Barry Morphew remains in custody at the Chaffee County Detention Facility after he was arrested at his home, officials said. His next court date is scheduled for Thursday morning.