Person of Interest’ in Shires Murder Arrested

Arraignment in court is today for a woman arrested on forgery charges in Calaveras County, and the Sheriff´s Department there is saying it´s related to the recent death of an Arnold contractor.

Investigators say the last person known to have seen 77-year-old Ray Shires was his part-time housekeeper, 42-year-old Patricia Anne Ordway. She also lives in Arnold.

Officials say Ordway was allegedly taking money from Shires, and she´s now a person of interest in the murder investigation.

In addition, on Wednesday someone tipped off the Calaveras County Sheriff´s Department that a wallet and checkbook belonging to Ray Shires was found along Highway 4 near Angels.

A follow-up search resulted in the discovery of what may be the murder weapon and possible suspect clothing.

Officials continue to urge anyone with information in the death to contact the Calaveras County Sheriff´s Office.