Tuesday September 13, 2016

EAST PRAIRIE SCHOOLS PUT ON LOCKDOWN DURING SEARCH FOR WANTED MAN  

Schools in East Prairie were put on lockdown Monday while authorities were searching for a wanted man.

According to the East Prairie Police Department, early Monday morning officers received an anonymous tip that a known wanted fugitive, Clyde David Franklin of East Prairie, was at a residence in the city.

While authorities were waiting for assistance, Franklin reportedly fled the residence in a white pickup and later began running on foot.

Since the suspect’s exact whereabouts were unknown at the time, the schools were notified of the search and the decision was made to lock down the schools to prevent any entry and protect the safety of students and staff.

Shortly before 11 am, the police department received a call from a citizen who stated someone was in her utility room and she could hear a male talking inside. Officers arrived at the scene and determined that Franklin was the person inside the utility room.

Franklin surrendered and was taken into custody. He has two active warrants with a total bond of $300.000 cash only. Officials say new charges are pending and being forwarded to the Mississippi County Prosecutors Office.

 

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ASKING FOR PUBLIC’S HELP IN IDENTIFIYING STEALING SUSPECT

 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in identifying a woman in connection to a stealing complaint.

According to officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Sunday at around 10 pm, officers were advised by employees at Wal-Mart that a female subject had pretended to scan several items in a self checkout lane, and then left the store without paying for the merchandise.

A picture of the woman has been made available on the Poplar Bluff Police Department’s facebook page.

Anyone who has information regarding the identity or location of the woman is asked to contact Officer Robert Reed at the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

 

SPECIAL CEREMONY TO BE HELD THIS WEEK FOR POW/MIA

 

A special ceremony has been scheduled this week for POW/MIA day.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is a day of commemoration for service members unaccounted for and/or missing in America’s wars.

The ceremony will be held at 11 am on Friday at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield.

 

TWO ARRESTED IN CARTER COUNTY ON METH CHARGES

 

Two people were taken into custody Monday afternoon in Carter County on meth charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Joel Chambliss, of Ellsinore, and 28 year old Samantha Freeze, of Van Buren, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrest, both Chambliss and Freeze were taken to the Carter County Jail on 24 hour holds.

 

PEDESTRAIAN KILLED IN HIT AND RUN INCIDENT NEAR BENTON

 

A pedestrian was killed Monday afternoon in a hit and run incident in Scott County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC news that 49 year old Jackie Crumley, of Benton, was walking on County Road 401 when he was hit by a vehicle at around 5:30 pm. The vehicle then fled the scene.

Crumley was pronounced dead at the location of the incident. No information was available on the type of vehicle that struck Crumley or who the drive might be.

 

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S EVENT TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

 

The Alzheimer’s Association will be holding an event in Poplar Bluff next month to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

The 2016 Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held at McLane Park on Saturday, October 15th. Registration will begin at 8 am, followed by a ceremony at 9 am, and the walk at 9:30.

More information about the walk, including how to start a team, is available online at alz.org/walk.

Monday September 12, 2016

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING ATV WRECK IN RIPLEY COUNTY  

A Gideon man has died in connection to an ATV wreck Friday night in Ripley County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 42 year old Kevin McClendon was pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck, around 14 miles west of Doniphan on Route Z.

McClendon’s ATV had overturned and ejected him at around 9:35 pm Friday. McClendon was reportedly not wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck.

 

PIEDMONT MAN ARRETED ON METH CHARGE

 

A Piedmont man is facing multiple felony charges in connection to his arrest early Saturday morning in Wayne County.

According to authorities, 46 year old Dale Pressdee was taken into custody on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful use of a firearm.

Following the arrest, Pressdee was transported to the Wayne County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

 

PINK GLOVE DANCE VOTING TO BEGIN TODAY AT NOON

 

Voting is set to begin today for the 2016 Ping Glove Dance Competition.

The Medline Pink Glove Dance video competition is a breast cancer prevention campaign to honor those who have been affected by the disease and raise money for a cure.

Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center is participating in the competition with the goal of winning a $15,000 donation for the United Cancer Assistance Network.

The public can begin voting today at noon at www.pinkglovedance.com, with voting continuing through September 23rd. The winner will be announced on September 30th.

 

AUTHORITES INVESTIGATING DEATH OF A MAN IN MALDEN

 

Updating a story we brought to you on Friday, an investigation is ongoing in connection to the death of a man last week in Malden.

According to authorities, 39 year old Walter Lee was found lying in the yard of a residence on North Kimball Street following a report of a possible gunshot victim Thursday night.

He was later pronounced dead. An autopsy was set to be conducted on Friday.

Anyone with information in connection to the investigation is asked to contact the Malden Police Department at 573-276-2211.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHAREGS

 

Authorities say an area man was taken into custody over the weekend on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Robert Burgin, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested Saturday night in Butler County on charges of possession of a controlled substance for clonazepam and marijuana, driving while intoxicated - drugs, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Burgin was taken to the Butler County jail on a 24 hour hold following his arrest.

 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE N IN BUTLER COUNTY

 

Pavement repairs are scheduled to begin today on Route N in Butler County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route N will be reduced to one lane from Route 53 to County Road 214 so crews can perform pavement repairs.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Thursday from 7:30 am to 4 pm each day.

Friday, September 9, 2016

   

 

 

 

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY INTO FIRE AT POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are investigating a fire at an area business Thursday night.

Deputy Chief Don Trout with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC news that a fire broke out at around 10 pm Thursday night Letassy Pharmacy in Poplar Bluff.

Few details are available about the incident but Trout did confirm that there were no injuries. We will keep following this story and bring you updates when they become available.

 

KWOC TO HOST 9/11 REMEMBRANCE PROGRAM TODAY

Today’s Talk KWOC will be bringing you a special remembrance program this morning for the upcoming 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.

KWOC will be broadcasting live today from 7 am to 9 am at Baldwin Ford in Poplar Bluff.

We will be joined by area first responders including representatives from the Poplar Bluff Police and Fire Departments, the Butler County Sheriff’s Department and the Butler County Fire Department during the broadcast.

Also joining us will be Butler County EMA director Robbie Myers and Jeff Shawan from the American Red Cross.

 

SHRINER’S RODEO TO BEGIN TONIGHT AT RAY CLINTON PARK IN POPLAR BLUFF

The 9th Annual Three Rivers Shriner's Championship Rodeo will begin tonight at the Ray Clinton Park arena in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple events at the two day rodeo including bareback bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding, and barrel racing.

The rodeo will begin at 7 pm both tonight and Saturday.

 

METHAMPHETAMINE, COCAINE, AND FIREARMS FOUND DURING SEARCH IN KENNETT

Police officials in Kennett tell KWOC News that multiple drugs along with firearms were found during a search Thursday morning.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers seized an undisclosed yet large amount of synthetic marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, prescription medications, drug paraphernalia, and firearms during the execution of a search warrant on Thursday.

Six people were taken into custody on various charges in connection to the bust. The six arrested were 45 year old Otis Yancey, 36 year old Jackie Anthony, 33 year old Pamela Simms, 23 year old Byron Norris, and 22 year old Shanika Arnett, all of Kennett, along with 36 year old Cornelius Middleton, of Hayti.

 

REAGAN DAYS EVENT TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND IN BUTLER COUNTY

Statewide Republican candidates will be in Southeast Missouri this weekend for the Butler County Reagan Days event.

The event will begin at 5:30 pm Saturday at the American Legion on Kanell Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.

Verified Guest Speakers for the event include US Senator Roy Blunt, Congressman Jason Smith, Candidate for Governor Eric Greitens, and Missouri House of Representatives Speaker Todd Richardson, among many others.

Admission is $25 and attendees will also enjoy a steak dinner. For more information contact Eddy Justice at 573-300-1845.

 

BRIDGE PROJECT IN CARTER COUNTY EXTENDED THROUGH MID DECEMBER

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC news that a bridge project in Carter County has been extended through mid-December.

Route M in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 11-foot width restriction so contractor crews can continue construction on the bridge over Pike Creek

The bridge is located on Route M just north of County Road 100. Shoulder work will also continue from County Road 100 to one half mile north of County Road 101.

Work will be done until Friday, December 16th and the work zone will be set-up for 24-hours a day. Work will be completed under one-lane traffic across the bridge using temporary signals.

Thursday September 8, 2016

POPLAR BLUFF PARENTS ENCOURAGED TO MAKE SURE THEIR CHILDREN KNOW ABOUT CURFEW LAWS  

The school year is underway in Poplar Bluff, and parents are being encouraged to make sure their children are aware of the city’s curfew laws.

We spoke with Deputy Chief Don Trout with the Poplar Bluff Police Department about the curfew laws along with the traffic situation affecting Poplar Bluff schools.

DON TROUT:

 The curfew violations for juveniles or curfew ordinances is during normal school hours and that is defined Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The provisions that allow for a juvenile to be out is when accompanied by a parent or when engaging in duties of employment or when upon an emergency errand. If we come in contact with or see a juvenile out during school hours we will make contact with them and if they don't meet any the criteria for a acceptable reasons for being out we will contact their parents and refer them to the juvenile office. The progression for the traffic for schools is getting better. The high school still has a considerable amount of delays in the mornings, but it is getting better and we can see that. It's just the sheer volume of traffic. The same with the Middle School. It’s much better than it was last week but there's still a lot of parents dropping their children off and picking them up. And 67 along Highland Drive is still a congested spot in the mornings and afternoons. The three way stops have been very beneficial for the children crossing. Also the speed, it seems like the Public's really accepted the sign, following it very well. We will continue to monitor traffic on Harper Street and continue to monitor the sign. One thing to keep in mind about the middle school is there has been another grade added. It’s fourth, fifth, and sixth grade now so I mean that's where a lot of the extra congestion is coming from.

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT ROBBERY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

 

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, three male suspects are being sought in connection to an alleged robbery at a convenience store in Dunklin County.

According to authorities, one of the suspects pointed a gun at a clerk at Lucky Mart convenience store during the robbery. The suspects took almost $480 in cash and over $50 worth of cigarettes.

The robbery occurred at around 9 pm Tuesday night.

 

VAN BUREN STORE FACING ALMOST $100,000 IN PENALTIES FROM OSHA

 

A store in Van Buren is facing penalties of almost $100,000 following citations from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

On August 4th, inspectors reportedly found blocked exits and other hazards at the Dollar General store in Van Buren. The store now faces one repeated, one serious citation, and one other-than-serious safety citation and proposed total penalties of $97,988.

According to OSHA, more than 100 safety and health violations have been found since 2010 at Dollar General stores nationwide.

The company has 15 business days to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

 

DEXTER MAN IN CUSTODY ON BURGLARY AND DOMESTIC ASSAULT WARRANT

 

A Dexter man is in custody this morning following his arrest on a burglary warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old Diego Pastor Moreno was recently taken into custody on a warrant for burglary and domestic assault.

Officials with the Sheriff’s Department say that Moreno remained in jail as of this morning and no bond has been set.

 

POPLAR BLUFF CITY HALL TO TEMPORARLY MOVE TO LOCATION ON VINE STREET

 

A date has been set for the temporary relocation of the Poplar Bluff city hall offices.

It was announced earlier this week that the offices will be moved to a location on Vine Street on September 16th.

The offices will open on September 19th.

 

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

 

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing a Butler County road today for a pipe replacement.

According to MoDOT, Route HH will be closed today from 7 am to 3:30 pm for the project.

The work zone will be located between County Road 342 and County Road 214.

Superintendent addresses district staff for first time

convocation-slider1

More than 700 Poplar Bluff R-I certified and classified employees attended the district's back-to-school convocation on Monday, Aug. 29, at the Black River Coliseum. In his first state-of-the-schools address, Superintendent Scott Dill, who comes by way of Houston, Mo., called the community's investment in its infrastructure and school facilities “astounding” ...read more

Source: Poplar Bluff Mules

Wednesday September 7, 2016

KWOC TO HOST 9/11 REMEMBRANCE PROGRAM  

Today’s Talk KWOC will be bringing you a special remembrance program on Friday ahead of the 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.

KWOC will be broadcasting live on 93.3 FM, 930 AM, and online at KWOC.com from 7 am to 9 am at Baldwin Ford in Poplar Bluff.

We will be joined by area first responders during the broadcast along with the Butler County EMA director, Superintendent of Poplar Bluff R-1 Schools,  and representatives from the American Red Cross.

 

AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR SUSPECTS IN CONNECTION TO ROBBERY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

 

Authorities in Dunklin County are searching for multiple suspects in connection to an alleged robbery.

Few details about the incident are available, however according to authorities the robbery occurred in Dunklin County at a business on Highway F.

We will keep following this story and bring you updates when they become available.

 

SIX INJURED IN THREE VEHICLE WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY

 

Multiple people were taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital Tuesday evening following a three vehicle wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Route W, near Business 67. A vehicle driven by 30 year old Francisco Heredia-Hicks, of Poplar Bluff, allegedly pulled into the path of another vehicle and was struck in the side. Heredia-Hicks’ vehicle then struck another vehicle in the side.

Officials say that six people suffered minor injuries in the wreck and were taken to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

 

MALDEN MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL WITH SERIOUS INJURIES IN CONNECTION TO SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

 

A Malden man suffered serious injuries Monday afternoon after he was involved in a single vehicle wreck near Tallapoosa.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell us that a vehicle driven by 65 year old Delmes Traughber ran off of Highway 153 and struck a bridge rail shortly before 1 pm Monday.

Traughber was seriously injured in the wreck and taken by Air Evac to a Memphis hospital. His current condition was not available.

 

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO ARREST IN SCOTT COUNTY

 

A rural Sikeston man has been taken into custody in connection to the execution of a search warrant Monday night.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that 43 year old Joseph Johnson was arrested after deputies and investigators with the Sheriff’s Office located a controlled substance and items commonly used to ingest the controlled substance in a residence east of Sikeston.

Johnson was taken to the Scott County Jail and charged with possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

His bond was set at $10,000.

 

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO CONTINUE TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

 

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be back in Butler County today to perform maintenance on several bridges on Route 142.

MoDot officials say the bridges are located between Route EE and Route HH. During the repairs, Route 142 will be reduced to one lane in the work zones.

Work will be performed today from 7 am to 4 pm.

 

 

Tuesday September 6, 2016

ADVANCE WOMAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION  

An Advance woman has died following a head on collision Sunday evening.

According to authorities, the collision occurred on Highway 91, around 3 miles north of Advance. A passenger in one of the vehicles, 75 year old Mary Fox, was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

A 12 year old passenger was seriously injured in the wreck and taken by Air Evac to a St. Louis hospital. The two drivers involved received moderate injuries.

 

GRANDIN WOMAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF CARTER COUNTY Authorities have arrested a Grandin woman in Carter County on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Holly Lavender was taken into custody Monday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.

Lavender is also facing additional charges of possession of a controlled substance and no valid registration.

 

MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY GUN CHARGES A man was taken into custody over the weekend in Wayne County on multiple felony gun charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 57 year old Dave Johnson, of Vinita Park, Missouri, was arrested Saturday morning on felony charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a stolen firearm.

Following the arrest, Johnson was held in Wayne County on a 24 hour hold.

 

BUSINESS 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE Business Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane both today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The work area is located between 11th Street and Route 53 over Pike Creek.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today and tomorrow from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

 

SUSPECT IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SIKESTON STABBING A Mathews man has been taken into custody in connection to a stabbing early Friday morning in Sikeston.

Officials with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tell us that officers responded to an area hospital Friday morning in reference to a person who had multiple stab wounds. The victim was identified as 31 year old Steven Vanvickle, of Sikeston.

The victim told police that he had given a ride to 37 year old Christopher Harrigan, of Mathews. When the duo arrived at the destination, Harrigan allegedly became aggressive and began punching and hitting the victim. Vanvickle told police that is when he believes he was stabbed.

The victim is in stable condition and recovering from his wounds.

Officials say that warrants were issued for Harrigan for assault 1st and armed criminal action. He was later taken into custody in New Madrid.

 

COLLISION INVOLVING TRAIN LEADS TO FOUR DEATHS Four people have died after a vehicle and train collided Friday afternoon in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 19 year old Maura Peters, of Dexter, drove into the path of a train on County Road 732, 1 mile south of Dexter.

Peters was pronounced dead at the scene, as were two other people in the vehicle, 20 year old Hailey Laws and 1 year old Weston Crider, both of Bloomfield. Another passenger, Bryson Umfleet, who was under 1 year old, was later pronounced dead at a Kennett hospital.

19 year old Vidalia Mace, of Bloomfield, received serious injuries and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

 

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE INVESTIGATING REPORTED LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT Police in Poplar Bluff are investigating a report of a woman who left the scene of an accident.

According to officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the incident occurred Sunday at the Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market on Oak Grove Road.

A white female driving a white passenger vehicle reportedly left the scene after she struck another vehicle parked on the lot.

Photos from the incident are available on the Poplar Bluff Police Department facebook page.

Anyone with information related to this incident is being asked to contact Officer Dustin Barks at 573-785-5776.

 

CARTER COUNTY ROAD CLOSED TODAY Route Z in Carter County will be closed beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform a cold mix overlay.

The section of roadway affected is located from Route 103 to County Road 217.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7:30 am to 5 pm.

Friday, September 2nd, 2016

   

 

TROOPERS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TO PARTICIPATE IN LABOR DAY ENFORCEMENT PROJECT

Highway Patrol troopers in Southeast Missouri will be out in force over the Labor Day holiday weekend in an effort to promote safety and to reduce the number of traffic crashes.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol in Poplar Bluff, tells us that for today and Labor Day, Troop E officers will be taking part in a peak travel crash reduction enforcement program.

This means that Troop E will assign a trooper every 20 miles on Interstates 55 and 57, along with other selected secondary roads.

Vitale says the objective of the project is to place a trooper in close proximity of motorists who may need assistance and to enforce aggressively all traffic violations which may contribute to unsafe traveling conditions.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON HYDROCODONE RELATED CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple charges in connection to his arrest early Thursday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Nathan Merchant was taken into custody on charges of possession of a controlled substance – hydrocodone, driving while intoxicated, and possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana.

Merchant is also facing multiple traffic violations following the arrest.

 

HAYWOOD CITY MAN FACING WEAPONS CHARGES OUT OF SCOTT COUNTY

A Haywood City man has been taken into custody on weapons charges out of Scott County.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that 43 year old Freddie Banks Senior has been charged with two counts of felony unlawful possession of a firearm.

Walter says that his office began investigating a domestic violence case Tuesday involving Banks. During the investigation detectives discovered that Banks had three felony convictions, and currently possessed a hand gun, and a rifle inside his residence.

A search warrant was obtained and resulted in the recovery of both firearms along with a shotgun that was allegedly stolen out of New Madrid County.

 

25 MILE YARD SALE BEGINS TODAY ON T HIGHWAY

The beginning of Labor Day weekend also marks the start of the annual 25 mile yard sale at Wappapello Lake.

The yard sale will be held on T Highway today through Monday.

Anyone who will be travelling in the area is reminded to be careful while driving and to be aware of the increased pedestrian traffic.

For more information, call 573-222-8562.

 

QULIN LION’S CLUB TO HOST DINNER THIS WEEKEND

The Qulin Lion’s Club has announced that they will be holding a dinner this weekend.

The dinner will be held from 11 am to 1 pm on Sunday and will feature fried chicken, potatoes, salad, and more. Desserts and drinks will also be provided.

Adults will be able to enter for $8. The dinner will cost $5 for children 5 to 12 years old and children under 5 get in for free.

 

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route 142 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane next week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge involved is located between Route 67 and County Road 275.

Weather permitting, work will be performed Tuesday, September 6th and Wednesday, September 7th from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

Thursday September 1, 2016

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL TODAY The school year is beginning this morning for students in Poplar Bluff and motorists are being reminded that this is going to cause a change in road conditions.

Here is Poplar Bluff Deputy Chief Donnie Trout with more:

DONNIE TROUT:

With today being the first day of school, the Police Department will have extra officers on, have them at various locations, every school. The Middle School, 4th 5th and 6th Grade Center, we will have extra officers there just to monitor, make sure everything goes all right there. It's a new location; new students to that location and parent drop-off will be a little different this year than it has been in the past. People that will be traveling in the area around the middle school please take extra caution cause we will have 4th, 5th, and 6th graders walking to school that normally aren't in those areas. Please be vigilant and watch for children. We recently had the city install a stop sign at Harper Street and Ida Street, a 3 way stop with a crosswalk. There will be children walking to school in that area. I will most definitely have an officer in that area monitoring the stop sign and cross walk to make sure the children are safe. Start times for the school this year the senior high will start at 7:45 and end at 3 p.m. The Junior high will start at 7:30 and end at 2:50. The middle school will start at 7:30 and end at 2:35, all elementary schools will start at 8:30 and end at 3:50. Parent drop off for the Middle School the parents will come in from Highland Drive. After the teacher parking lots, as soon as you enter the lot it becomes one-way and vehicles can park along waiting to drop the children off in front of the school. From the Harper Street entrance it will be buses only, that is where they will come into the middle school and leave the middle school. I will ask again motorists in the area to please be cautious and pay attention to children walking. This is something that's quite a bit different than we've had in the past. However, we will make the transition and everybody will and everything will flow fine hopefully after a couple days. I mean look at the school system that we have now and the buildings and the schools these children get to go to. I think it's a great opportunity for the community.

Bus Routes have also changed with the shuffling of school grounds, you can find more information online at popalrbluffschools.net.

 

TWO DONIPHAN MEN CHARGED WITH MURDER

 

Two men have been taken into custody on multiple charges, including 1st degree murder.

According to Missouri Case Net, 59 year old Michael Harris and 29 year old Matthew Bruce, both of Doniphan, have been charged with 1st degree murder, armed criminal action, abandonment of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution.

The charges stem from the death of Jonathan Tarvin in April. Both Harris and Bruce are scheduled to appear in a Ripley County courtroom on September 7th.

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR BERNIE Two people have been seriously injured in connection to a motorcycle wreck Wednesday night.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when the motorcycle failed to negotiate a curve on Highway ZZ near Bernie, ran off the side of the road, and ejected both the driver and a passenger.

The driver, 31 year old David Colove, of Dexter, was taken by ambulance to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. The passenger, 28 year old Haley Middleton, of Caruthersville, was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital by AirEvac.

 

TWO ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two people are facing a felony drug charge following their arrest Wednesday afternoon.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell us that 25 year old Andrew Brittingham, of Fisk, and 21 year old Wendy Dumas, of Poplar Bluff, were taken into custody shortly before 3 pm Wednesday in Butler County.

Both were arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for hydrocodone and then transported to the Butler County Jail.

 

GREENVILLE MAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WAYNE COUNTY WRECK A Greenville man was flown to a St. Louis hospital Wednesday following a single vehicle wreck in Wayne County.

According to authorities, 46 year old Ralph McAtee was ejected from his vehicle after it struck the rear of a second vehicle, ran off the side of Route E, and overturned.

McAtee suffered serious injuries and was taken by Air Evac to St. John’s Mercy in St. Louis. No injuries were listed for the driver of the second vehicle.

 

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR TWO SUSPECTS IN CONNECTION TO ATTEMPTED THEFT AT AREA BUSINESS Poplar Bluff Police are searching for two suspects in connection to an attempted theft at an area business.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on August 26th, two suspects believed to be working in concert exited Wal-Mart with a cart full of merchandise. The female fled from the store in a green Ford Windstar minivan while the male reentered the store.

Employees said the items amounted to around $340.

Pictures of the two suspects are available on the Poplar Bluff Police Department Facebook page. Anyone who has information on the suspect’s identities is asked to contact Detective Mustain at 573-785-5776.

 

CARTER COUNTY ROAD CLOSED TODAY Route Z in Carter County will be closed beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform a cold mix overlay.

The section of roadway affected is located from Route 103 to County Road 217.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7:30 am to 5 pm.

Wednesday August 31, 2016

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO MULTIPLE VEHICLE THEFTS  

Two Naylor residents are facing charges in connection to multiple vehicle thefts.

According to authorities, 38 year old Rhonda Huber and her son, 19 year old Kyle Burnett, were each arrested on charges including stealing a motor vehicle and tampering with a motor vehicle.

The two were allegedly involved in vehicle thefts last week in Neelyville and Poplar Bluff.

 

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED ON MANUFACTURING MARIJUANA CHARGE

 

Authorities in Wayne County have arrested a Piedmont man on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old David Harrison was taken into custody Tuesday night on a felony charge of manufacturing a controlled substance for marijuana.

Harrison is also facing a misdemeanor drug paraphernalia charge.

 

UNITED STATES SENATOR ROY BLUNT MAKES TOUR OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

 

One of Missouri’s United States Senators conducted a tour of Southeast Missouri yesterday just over two months ahead of the November election.

One of his stops was at Rice Trailers in Harviell. KWOC caught up with the Senator and asked him about his time in Poplar Bluff.

ROY BLUNT:

 I’ve been coming to Poplar Bluff and Southeast Missouri a long time. I like it I think that the message of more jobs and less government is the right message for now, the right message for the future, certainly the right message for people listening to your radio station. You look at what's going to happen in world food demand, when you look at how well located we are to take advantage of that, Rice trailers providing the jobs they do for four dozen families makes a big difference, but the opportunity is out there where we're going to see a big part of the world economy double in a very short period of time. World food demands going to double in 35 or 40 years. Nobody's better positioned in that than we are and it's way beyond production and agriculture. It's that, it’s food processing, it’s food marketing, it’s transportation, it’s people needing more and better trailers, it's great opportunities to drive the economy and something that people have to have every single day.

Blunt is running for reelection this November against the Democratic challenger, Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander.

 

ILLINOIS MAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

 

An Illinois man was killed Monday afternoon in a motorcycle wreck in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 59 year old William Smith, of Cairo, Illinois, was ejected from his motorcycle after he ran off the side of US 60/62 in Mississippi County.

He was later pronounced dead at a Sikeston Hospital.

 

ADVANCE TEENAGER ARRESTED FOR DISTRIBUTION OF MARIJUANA WARRANT

 

An Advance teenager has been taken into custody on a distribution warrant.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell us that the 17 year old male was arrested on a warrant for distribution of marijuana.

The teen’s bond was set at $20,000 and he remained in jail as of this morning.

 

SECRETARY OF STATE NOMINEE JAY ASCRAFT CAMPAIGNS IN POPLAR BLUFF

 

The Republican nominee for Missouri Secretary of State was campaigning Tuesday in Poplar Bluff.

While speaking with KWOC News, Jay Ashcroft said that visiting Southeast Missouri is important for anyone who is running for state office.

JAY ASHCROFT:

 I love coming down to Southeast Missouri and Poplar Bluff and I think it's important for anybody that's running Statewide to go over the entire State. Last year I campaigned in every county in the state I'd love to do that again before the general election, because public service is a privilege bestowed by the people and if you can't take the time to go out and meet the people you certainly don't deserve it. We call this our election Integrity tour because we thought it was too long to say Jay Ashcroft’s Missouri Secretary of State election integrity and jobs tour, but those are the two big things. Election Integrity to make sure that people's votes count and it's the will of the people made known on Election Day. Making sure we don't have fraud in voting or misleading ballot language and then it's jobs and creating Economic Opportunity and getting the state out of the way to allow people to be the best that they can be. If we work together to elect individuals that understand that the role of government is to secure and promote individual freedom and liberty then we will have a much better state. We’ll have greater opportunity both for ourselves our children and their generation and that's what government should all be about.

Ashcroft will challenge Democrat Robin Smith for the Missouri Secretary of State position in the November General Election.

Tuesday August 30, 2016

SUSPECT ARRESTED IN MOTEL AND CONVIENCE STORE ROBBERIES

 

Butler County authorities tell us that a suspect has been taken into custody in connection to the robberies at Motel 6 and Holiday Inn as well as multiple convenience stores.

We spoke with Investigator Wess Popp with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department about the arrest.

WESS POPP:

 On Monday morning at approximately 2:45 a.m. an individual entered into Heartland Express located at M Highway and South 67 to commit a robbery. The suspect held a silver revolver on the clerk and had her open up the drawer and hand him the money that was within. The suspect then fled to where his vehicle was parked on the Northbound Lane of 67 and M. When the suspect left the business the clerk got a hold of 911 Butler County Sheriff's Department where two deputies were dispatched along with Poplar Bluff City officers. The two Butler County officers were on opposite ends of Heartland Express planning on meeting there which left the suspect very little time to get away, he never made it to the car. When they arrived they came up on the car and looked and found the suspect laying down in the grass on top of the money that he had stolen from Heartland Express along with socks that he had over his hands and a nylon mask that he had over his face. The suspect was identified as 23 year-old Alexander Trent Whisnant, from Campbell. The suspect was taken into custody, brought back to the Butler County Sheriff's Department where he was interviewed, advised his rights. The suspect admitted to the two Motel 6 robberies, the Holiday Inn robbery, the armed robbery at Casey's in Ripley County, along with his part here in Heartland Express. The money that the suspect stole from each location was just a little bit over $200 with Heartland Express a little over 400. The suspect is currently in jail facing charges of four counts of armed robbery in Butler County, one count of armed robbery in Ripley County, armed criminal action on all five, as well as stealing.

Investigator Popp would go on to add, Whisnant’s bond has been set at $500,000.

 

NEW POPLAR BLUF SCHOOL BUS ROUTES RELEASED Poplar Bluff students will return to school this week and the many changes in the Poplar Bluff School District has resulted in changes to school bus routes.

School officials say that the new bus routes for the upcoming school year are now available online at poplarbluffschools.net.

Anyone with questions can contact the Transportation Department at 573-785-5801.

 

DEXTER MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK One person has died following a single vehicle wreck Monday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 64 year old James Fingers, of Dexter, ran off of Highway 51 and hit a tree near Puxico.

Officials say that Fingers was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two passengers in the vehicle were seriously injured. One was flown to a St. Louis hospital while the other was taken by ambulance to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

 

MISSING NEW MADRID COUNTY GIRL FOUND SAFE A girl who went missing yesterday in New Madrid County has been found safe.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, an endangered person advisory was issued for the 14 year old girl after her mother arrived home and found her missing along with her cellular device.

The advisory was cancelled after the teenager was found safe in Clinton, Missouri.

 

1.5 MILLION DOLLAR GRANT TO HELP CREATE BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM IN DONIPHAN The Doniphan R-1 School District will be using recently awarded grant money to create new a school program.

Doniphan Schools have been awarded a $1.5 million dollar grant from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for a new before and after school program.

School officials say that the programs will give students opportunities to learn, with curriculum including math and art as well as a hands-on rocket science & robotics program.

It was not announced when the programs will begin.

 

UNITED STATES SENATOR ROY BLUNT TO BE MAKING MULTIPLE STOPS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TODAY One of Missouri’s United States Senators will be making multiple stops today in Southeast Missouri.

Senator Roy Blunt will be speaking with area residents at 9 am this morning at Rice Trailers in Harviell. He will be following that up with a stop at the Mule Barn in Dexter at 10:30 am.

Blunt is also scheduled to be visiting with residents in Sikeston and Charleston during his tour today.

 

 

Monday August 29, 2016

GRAND JURY TO DECIDE IF CHARGES SHOULD BE FILED AGAINST BEN RESSELA Grand Jury will hear evidence in connection to Ben Ressel’s alleged role in an incident that killed a 13 year old Poplar Bluff girl last December.

13 year old Heavenly Hafford was struck by two vehicles on December 9th last year. Both vehicles allegedly left the scene of the incident where Hafford was killed.

A special prosecuting attorney has requested that a grand jury be convened in the case.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MOTEL ROBBED SATURDAY MORNING A Poplar Bluff motel was robbed Saturday morning by a man with a weapon.

According to the Butler County Sheriff's Department, the man broke into the Motel 6 on Highway 67 and took over $200 from the cash drawer before escaping.

The suspect is around 5 feet, 11 inches tall and weighs approximately 150 pounds.

This Motel 6 was also the victim of a robbery on July 30th. The robbery is under investigation.

 

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STRING OF BURGLARIES IN DEXTER Authorities in Stoddard County say a warrant has been issued for a Southeast Missouri man in connection to a string of burglaries in Dexter.

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver tells us that 49 year old Edward Lusk, of Dexter, allegedly committed 23 separate crimes in connection with the burglaries of eight Dexter businesses from July 10th to August 25th.

Lusk is facing charges including 2nd degree arson, 2nd degree burglary, 1st degree property damage, and resisting arrest.

The Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department is reporting that Lusk has been taken into custody.

 

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT A Dexter man was recently arrested on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 62 year old Raymond Louis Webber the Third was taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Webber’s bond was set at $15,000 cash.

 

POLICE INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY IN DONIPHAN A convenience store in Doniphan was reportedly robbed over the weekend.

According to authorities, a man dressed in black pulled out a weapon at a Casey’s General Store in Doniphan early Sunday morning and demanded money.

The man left the scene with an undetermined amount of cash.

Police are investigating the incident and anyone with more information is asked to contact the Doniphan Police Department.

 

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED IN RIPLEY COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES An Arkansas man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Saturday afternoon in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Jebiadiah Lamberth, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, was taken into custody on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest.

Lamberth is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Lamberth was transported to the Doniphan Police Department.

 

ORAN MAN ACCUSED OF ASSAULTING WOMAN AND ATTEMPTING TO PULL HER THROUGH BROKEN WINDOW An Oran man is facing charges after he allegedly assaulted a woman on Saturday.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that a woman told deputies that she and 42 year old year old Mark Gordon had been involved in an argument inside a vehicle when Gordon began striking her in the head and face while she was driving. The victim also stated that there were two children in the vehicle.

When they arrived at a residence, Gordon allegedly broke out the driver’s side window and attempted to pull the victim through the window. He also struck her in the head, face, and body. Gordon eventually stopped and went inside.

Deputies found Gordon and took him into custody. Walter says Gordon has been charged with the felony domestic assault 2nd degree and misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance.

 

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Route N in Butler County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today from 8 am to 3 pm between County Road 239 and County Road 241.

Friday, August 26, 2016

   

MANHUNT LEADS TO ARREST IN DEXTER A Thursday manhunt in Dexter has resulted in the arrest of a burglary suspect.

According to the Dexter Police Department, the manhunt was for Edward Lusk, who was a suspect in the burglary of Small Wonders Day Care in Dexter.

Officials say Lusk was arrested at an area residence following a manhunt that lasted most of the early afternoon. He was booked on a parole absconder warrant. Other charges stemming from the burglary are pending.

 

 

THREE ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METH CHARGES Three people were each arrested Thursday night in Wayne County on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Leslie Patterson, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, resisting arrest by fleeing, and 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

Two other people were arrested at the same time, 37 year old Paul Lutes, of Silva, and 24 year old Dylan Merritt, of Greenville. Both men are facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and hindering prosecution.

 

 

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO BEGIN THIS WEEKEND BUSINESS 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY Northbound Business Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane beginning this weekend so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform routine bridge repairs.

The bridge involved is located between 11th Street and Route 53 over Pike Creek.

Weather permitting, work will be performed Sunday through Tuesday, August 30th from 6 pm to 7 am daily.

  REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ANNUAL BRIDGE BUILDING COMPETITION Registration is open for the 13th annual Missouri Department of Transportation Bridge Building Competition.

The competition challenges high school juniors and seniors in Southeast Missouri to design and construct the most efficient model bridge using limited materials including 15 pieces of balsa wood, thread and glue.

The lightest bridge to carry the greatest load will ultimately be declared the winner. Prizes will also be awarded for the most aesthetic bridge and to the winner of the electronic bridge competition.

Schools must register by September 6th to participate. The judging for the competition will be held on November 17th in Cape Girardeau.

More information and registration forms are available online at MoDot.org.

 

 

REAL MEN RALLY SCHEDULED FOR EARLY OCTOBER AT PALACE OF PRAISE IN POPLAR BLUFF The Palace of Praise church in Poplar Bluff will be hosting the Real Men Rally on October 1st.

The event will include a bike and car show, vendor booths, exhibits, competitions, and a chuck wagon dinner.

Advanced tickets are available for $10. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit RealMenRally.com.