Yes, this is the exact route you would take. 71 (49) hwy to 7 hwy to Clinton, MO. Then you could go a few different ways to Edwards. He could go through Warsaw, or there is probably a slew of back ways.
Been following since the beginning, haven't posted. Live in the area. Just drove down 71 hwy. Pretty sure they have found the crime scene/or body. Lots of tents and police activity. Right along side of highway, just south of Peculiar on west side along woods. No news as of yet.