Already one of America’s Most Wanted, Neldon Neal’s face will soon be shown on television screens across the country.
Jenna Naranjo, an associate producer with AMW, confirmed Wednesday morning that the Fox TV show would feature Neal’s story this summer. Naranjo has been working with authorities and media members to gather information about the case. Neal is already featured on the show’s Web site.
Naranjo said Neal’s tale – from his family’s history to his weeklong log hideout and multiple accomplices – made it stand out among the thousands of stories producers dig through each day.
“Neldon Neal is one of those guys whose real-life story is better than fiction,” Naranjo said. “And for the victim’s sake and for the victim’s family’s sake, I hope this story has a happy ending.”
On the run for 53 days since he allegedly shot and killed his common law wife in his Roby trailer, Neal hasn’t been accounted for since four women accomplices took him supplies on a northwest Texas County road March 29. All four, who were arrested for hindering prosecution, have bonded out of jail.
Texas County Sheriff Carl Watson said his department has leads it “desperately needs to check.” But he also said more information is needed.
“We’ve got to have some help from the public to get us pointed in the direction we need to go,” Watson said.
Although his department has been pulled in multiple directions with two fatal fires this week alone, Watson said deputies continue to remain in the Roby area on a daily basis. He said he believes Neal is still in the area and still being helped.
Naranjo said she learned of the Neal case from a printout sent to AMW from a TV affiliate. Although it didn’t offer much information, Naranjo found it interesting and began pursuing more. She contacted the sheriff’s office and Tuesday
spoke with the Herald.
“Cops say he is dangerous and that means we need to find him,” Naranjo said. “Despite the hard facts, I also find it interesting that Neldon is using the skills he learned as a boy to help him live life as a fugitive. Not just anyone will hide out in a tree or have the sense to exploit Mother Nature in such a way.
“Not only that, most people would hide from a fugitive instead of helping him. So it’s amazing that four women have gone out of their way help him.”
Naranjo said a film crew would travel to Roby and an air date, possibly in June, would be determined in the near future. AMW has aired on FOX for 20 years and caught 937 fugitives to date.
Persons can call the sheriff’s department (417-967-4165) or Troop G of the Missouri State Highway Patrol (417-469-3121). Watson continues to emphasize that anyone with information can provide it anonymously. A reward is available.
“We’re still definitely involved in (the case) and will be until we find Neldon,” Watson said.
A link to the show’s Web site highlighting the Neal case appears at houstonherald.com