The Maries County Sheriff’s Department is partnering with the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group (LANEG) to assist in the death investigation of a Belle man.

Raymond Z. Limberg, 25, of Belle, was found at 4 a.m. Friday morning in a residence located at the 100 block of Third Street in Belle by a friend. Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman said it is suspected that Limberg’s death is due to a drug overdose.

“We are waiting on the medical examiner’s report to confirm that,” Heitman said. “I do anticipate arresting the dealer who provided Ray with the fatal dose of drugs that caused his death.”

Heitman said he understands that Limberg has suffered from addiction for a long time, that he was the one to inject himself with the drugs, but feels the drug dealer should also be held accountable.

“These are always hard cases to make,” Heitman said. “I intend to go after them with every legal means possible.”

Limberg’s autopsy was expected to be conducted Tuesday (July 28) and results are expected back next month.

“At which time we will present our case to Maries County Prosecutor Tony Schouby and ask for an arrest warrant,” Heitman said. “Under Missouri law, a person can be charged with murder in the second if they commit a felony and as a result of that felony someone dies. If you know anyone suffering from addiction, please reach out for help before they take that fatal dose as well.”

Heitman shared the phone number to LANEG’s drug tip hotline (1-800-351-TIPS) or call the sheriff’s department at 573-422-3381 to share information.

“This is something we are still investigating, and the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group is assisting with,” Heitman said. “My prayers go out to Ray’s family, and I am truly sorry for their loss.”