Randolph County, MO — Authorities have arrested four young adults following the discovery of 16-year-old Kayla Huff’s body, found in a wooded area of a local conservation site about a week after she was reported missing on May 6, 2026.
The suspects arrested include Julian Mason, 26; Christopher Hull, 23; Alayna Mason, 20; and Hunter Ames, 19. As of May 15, no one has been charged directly in connection with Kayla’s death, though all four face other felony charges. Ames and Hull are charged with kidnapping and tampering with evidence, Alayna Mason faces vehicle theft, firearm theft, and escape-related charges, and Julian Mason is charged with tampering with evidence.
According to probable cause statements, Alayna Mason allegedly told several people that she and another individual placed Kayla in the trunk of a vehicle, transported her to the Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area, and assaulted her. Ames allegedly assisted in the kidnapping and provided a firearm, while Ames, Hull, and Julian were involved in discarding a baton suspected to have been used in the assault. Authorities reportedly recovered the baton during the investigation.
The brutal killing has left the community and Kayla’s family reeling. “Kayla was not only a cherished sister but also a bright presence in her family’s life,” read a GoFundMe page set up for her sister. Officials have said more charges are expected as the investigation continues.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact local law enforcement to aid the ongoing investigation.
