Thursday April 6, 2017
MISSISSIPPI COUNTY SHERIFF ARRESTED BY THE FBI NOW FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGESThe sheriff of Mississippi County has been arrested on several felony charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers assisted the FBI in arresting Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson on Wednesday afternoon.
A Spokesperson for Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC news, Hutcheson is facing charges in two separate cases. In the first case, Hutcheson faces seven counts of forgery and seven counts of tampering with computer data.
In the second case, Hutcheson is charged with second degree assault, first degree robbery, and false declaration. Hutcheson was transported to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's Department, where he bonded out Wednesday afternoon.
Coroner Terry Parker is now serving as acting sheriff.
ATHLETE PHYSICALS SCHEDULED FOR JULY IN POPLAR BLUFF Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High student athletes can get a free physical done in July at the High School.
Physicals will be conducted beginning at 5:30 pm on Thursday July 20th for athletes in the 7th and 8th grades, beginning at 6:30 for 9th and 10th grades, and beginning at 7:30 for 11th and 12th grades.
First practice dates have also been set for Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High fall sports.
The first practice day for high school athletes is Monday, July 31st. Junior High athletes will follow two week later, on Monday, August 14th.
FIRST CHURCH OF GOD IN POPLAR BLUFF TO HOLD EASTER EGG HUNT THIS WEEKEND A Poplar Bluff Church is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt this weekend.
The hunt will begin at 3 pm Sunday at the First Church of God, located at 3482 South Westwood Boulevard. Church officials say that kids up to 12 years old can participate in the egg hunt, games, and door prizes.
A $100 gift card will also be given away at the event.
ADVANCE WOMAN INJURED FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK An Advance woman was injured Wednesday morning following a single vehicle wreck in Scott County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Neeley Bollinger’s vehicle ran off the side of Route 91, struck a road sign, and then a ditch.
Bollinger suffered moderate injuries in the wreck and taken by ambulance to St. Francis Hospital in Cape Girardeau.
GAYLA FRITTS NAMED POPLAR BLUFF R-1 TEACHER OF THE YEAR The Poplar Bluff High School communications arts teacher has been named the R-I district Teacher of the Year.
Gayla Fritts received the award during the annual luncheon held last week.
Fritts was also named the secondary grade span Teacher of the Year, while sixth grade instructor Kathy Pattillo was named Middle School Teacher of the Year. O'Neal reading interventionist Jessica Thurston was chosen as the elementary Teacher of the Year.
A full list of the teacher of the year recipients is available on our website.
On the building level: Building trades teacher Joe Cochran was named the Technical Career Center TOY, Gayla Fritts - Senior High TOY, Eighth grade teacher Julie Gambill - Junior High TOY, Kathy Pattillo - Middle School TOY, Interventionist Amber Foster - O'Neal TOY, First grade instructor Abby Hanner - Oak Grove TOY, Third grade instructor Teresa Hefner - Lake Road TOY, Reading interventionist Jessica Thurston - Eugene Field TOY, Special education instructor Tanya Pullum - Kindergarten Center TOY, Preschool teacher Lori Tibbs - Early Childhood Center TOY.
VFW RIDERS POKER RUN SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY The VFW Riders District 15 West and Lake Wappapello United Methodist Church will be teaming up for a Poker Run on Saturday.
Registration for the event will begin at 9 am at the Lake Wappapello United Methodist Church on D Highway. The run will begin at 11 am.
All proceeds from the event will go to the VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff and Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.
For more information, contact VFW Post 3416 at 573-222-9687.
9TH ANNUAL CAROLINE PERKINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH The 9th Annual Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser has been scheduled for later this month.
The event will be held from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday, April 14th, and 6 am to noon on Saturday, April 15th at the Old Lone Hill School Building at the end of Highway F off Highway 160.
There will be a large multi-family indoor yard sale as well as a bake sale and a raffle for a homemade quilt.
All proceeds from the event go to fund the Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship.
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
POPLAR BLUFF VOTERS CHOOSE DAVIS AND BLACK FOR CITY COUNCIL
Voters in Poplar Bluff have decided who will be sitting on the Poplar Bluff City Council.
On Tuesday, voters chose Steven Davis and Ron Black for the two at large seats.
In Neelyville, James Collier won the race for Ward 1 Alderman by two votes and Kevin Bynum was elected Mayor.
According to officials, 2,997 people voted in Butler County during Tuesday’s election for a turnout of 11.48 percent.
ROBERTSON AND SCOTT REELECTED TO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD
Multiple area school boards held elections yesterday in Butler County
For the Poplar Bluff School Board, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott were both reelected and will be joined by Jerrod Murphy for three-year terms.
In the Twin Rivers School District voters in Butler County favored David Dugger, Billy Watson, and Roger Baxter for the three board seats. Baxter led Robert Thurman by only 14 votes and results from Stoddard County for the race were not available.
In Neelyville, the three school board board seats will be filled by Paul Petty, Dean Fisher, and Shane Eaker.
MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOT FIRED IN POPLAR BLUFF
A man was taken into custody following an incident Tuesday morning in Poplar Bluff.
According to authorities, 29 year old Kenneth Maple Jr., of Poplar Bluff, was arrested in connection to an alleged shot being fired outside an area residence.
Maple was transported to the Butler County Jail.
GIBSON MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY
Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested a Gibson man on a felony meth charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old George Odom was arrested Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance – alprazolam.
Odom is also facing a charge of driving while intoxicated.
Following the arrest, Odom was held at the Dunklin County Jail.
LEADWOOD WOMAN FACING FLEEING CHARGE
A Leadwood woman is facing a fleeing charge following her arrest Tuesday morning.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Shawnna Evans was arrested shortly before noon Tuesday in Ripley County on a felony charge of resisting arrest by fleeing.
She is also facing a hindering prosecution charge.
Evans was transported to the Doniphan Police Department following the arrest.
PERIODIC LANE CLOSURES TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY
The Missouri Department of Transportation says that periodic lane closures are scheduled to begin today in Butler County.
The closures will be due to the construction of the trail in the Route W area. The trail project is part of the Local Public Agencies Program.
The section of Route W affected is located from Business 67 to McLane Park in Poplar Bluff. Lane reductions will be in place as contractor crews pour concrete in the area.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, April 14th from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
SEATS ON THE POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL UP FOR ELECTION
Seats on the Poplar Bluff City Council, as well as other city posts throughout Butler County, are up for election today.
Two Three year terms are being decided for at large seats on the Poplar Bluff City Council. Ron Black, Steven Davis, and Robert Lee Smith are all candidates for the two at large seats.
Voters in Neelyville will be selecting an alderman and a mayor today. James Collier, Kim Elliott, and John Knowles are all running for the Neelyville Ward 1 Alderman position.
Neeylville voters will also choose between Kevin Bynum, Linda Harris, and Lee McComb Jr. for Mayor.
MULTIPLE SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS TO BE DECIDED TODAY
Multiple area school boards will be holding elections today in Butler County.
For the Poplar Bluff School Board, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers William Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are all vying for one of the three three-year terms.
In Twin Rivers, the candidates for three board seats are Roger Baxter, David Dugger, Brian Love, Keith Parker, Robert Thurman, and Billy Watson.
In Neelyville, five people are running for three board seats, Wayne Dye, Shane Eaker, Dean Fisher, Preston Gill, and Paul Petty.
For the East Carter School Board, voters will choose three of Johnathan Collins, Stonie Croy, James Gore, George Meyers, and John Walker.
In the Doniphan School District, there are nine candidates for the three board seats, Brandon Armstrong, Stephan Burke, Denver Jackson, Jason Johnson, Joshua Killian, Rocky Moe, James Maple, Robert Morrow, and John Wright.
SENATH MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK
A Senath man was flown to a Memphis hospital Monday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Dunklin County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Stacy Rice was driving an ATV on County Road 531 when he struck a pothole and overturned.
Rice was seriously injured in the wreck and taken to Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis.
A passenger on the ATV suffered minor injuries.
MISSOURI OFFICIAL BEGINS AUDIT OF PEMISCOT COUNTY HOSPITAL
The Missouri State Auditor is conducting an audit of a Southeast Missouri hospital.
Last week, Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway announced the start of an audit of the Pemiscot County Memorial Hospital in Hayti.
Galloway says that the goal of the audit is to identify key factors impacting finances for the Pemiscot County Hospital.
The audit will occur as part of a series of audits of county hospitals, which will focus on financial and operating best practices for acute care facilities that are critical to individuals who live and work in rural communities.
Individuals with information on the audit may contact the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline by calling 800-347-8597.
POPLAR BLUFF ROTARY CLUB TO HOST SPAGHETTI DAY TODAY
The Poplar Bluff Rotary Club will be hosting a spaghetti day later today.
The event is scheduled for 11 am to 1 pm and 5 to 7 pm on April 4th at 1st Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff.
Tickets will cost $5.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON BUSINESS 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY
Business 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane starting today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The section of Business 60 to be reduced is located from Route AD to Two Mile Road.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.
INTERSTATE 55 TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPARIS
Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The work zone is located from mile marker nine to mile marker ten.
Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be performed from 7 am to 5 pm.
Monday April 3, 2017
QULIN WOMAN AIR LIFTED TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING HEAD ON COLLISIONA Qulin woman has been taken to a Memphis hospital after she was involved in a wreck over the weekend.
According to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle pulled into the path of a freightliner shortly after 10:30 am Saturday on Highway 53 in Butler County.
The driver of the vehicle, 78 year old Dorothy Kinney was seriously injured in the wreck and taken by Air Evac to Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis.
No injuries were listed for the driver of the freightliner.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest Friday night.
According to the Highway Patrol, 20 year old Colton Cowan was taken into custody shortly before midnight Friday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Cowan is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
COUNTERFEIT MONEY REPORTEDLY BEING USED IN THE SIKESTON AREA Authorities say that counterfeit money is reportedly being used in Southeast Missouri.
According to the Miner Police department, they have received information about the usage of counterfeit $20 dollar bills in the Sikeston area.
Chief Griggs says that they are informing area businesses about the situation.
BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SET FOR TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY Route N in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.
The work zone will be located between County Road 240 and Route 51 south.
Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7:30 am to 4 pm.
JUVENILE TURNS HIMSELF IN TO AUTHORITIES IN CONNECTION TO SIKESTON SHOOTING A juvenile has turned himself in to authorities in connection to a Sikeston shooting.
Sergeant Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC NEWS that a victim was struck by a bullet on March 26th and taken to Missouri Delta Medical Center.
The victim was treated and released.
Witnesses reported that after they heard the shots, they observed a male suspect running away from the scene holding a small black handgun.
On Thursday, a sixteen year old Sikeston juvenile turned himself in when he was brought to Sikeston DPS by his mother.
The Scott County juvenile office was contacted and responded to Sikeston DPS headquarters where he was interviewed and later transported to the Mississippi County Juvenile Detention Center.
FIRE TRUCK OVERTURNS NEAR BLOOMFIELD Three people were injured when a fire truck crashed Sunday afternoon near Bloomfield.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the fire truck ran off the side of Highway M at around 2:40 pm Sunday and overturned.
The driver, 27 year old Jason Patterson, of Bloomfield, and two passengers suffered minor injuries and were taken to a Dexter hospital.
DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County say that a Dexter man was recently taken into custody.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 56 year old Ruben Prunty was arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance.
His bond was set at $50,000 cash.
ROUTE N IN BUTLER COUNTY SCHEDULED TO BE CLOSED TODAY AND TOMORROW A portion of Route N in Butler County will be closed today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform culvert replacement.
According to MoDot, the closure will be located between County Road 243 and County Road 232.
Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 8 am to 3:30 pm each day.
Friday March 31, 2017
BERNIE POLICE ATTEMPTING TO IDENTIFY PERSON OF INTEREST IN AREA BURGLARYPolice in Bernie are trying to identify a man in connection to an area burglary.
According to the Bernie Police Department, the burglary occurred at a business in the city.
Pictures of the person of interest have been posted on the Bernie Police Department Facebook page. Anyone who has information about the identity of the man is asked to contact Sergeant Eddie Mays at 293-4454.
SUSPECT TASED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO FIGHT WITH OFFICERS IN STEELE A Steele man is facing charges after he allegedly attempted to fight with police officers.
According to the Steele Police Department, on March 25th officers responded to an area business in reference to a shoplifter. When they arrived, they attempted to arrest the suspect, who has been identified as 35 year old Lawrence Arender.
The suspect resisted arrest and began to fight with officers. An officer deployed his taser and Arender was subsequently detained. Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield received minor injuries while attempting to arrest Arender.
A warrant was issued charging Arender with shoplifting, resisting arrest, and assault on a law enforcement officer.
RIVER CLEAN UP SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND The 2017 River Cleanup event has been scheduled for this weekend on streams and trails at Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
The event will be held from 9 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow, with registration beginning at 8 am each day. At 5 pm Saturday evening there will be a meal and entertainment for participants at the Alley Spring Pavilion sponsored by the Ozark Heritage Project.
For more information, contact Cathy Runge at 573-323-4806.
TWO PEOPLE PLEAD GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Two people have pleaded guilty to manslaughter charges in connection to a fatal wreck last October.
According to authorities, Robert Huffines, of Holcomb, and Lea Mamino, of Collinsville, Illinois, both pleaded guilty Thursday to charges including manslaughter and fleeing.
Both Huffines and Mamino had been involved in a pursuit with police that crossed from Southeast Missouri to Northeast Arkansas. As the pursuit entered Rector, a deputy’s patrol car collided with another vehicle unrelated to the pursuit.
84 year old Sadine Dixon was killed in the collision. The deputy was injured and taken to an area hospital.
SUBSTANTIAL AMMOUNT OF METHAMPHETAMINE SEIZED IN STEELE Authorities in Steele are reporting that a substantial amount of methamphetamine was seized yesterday.
Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that 29 year old Justin Rash, of Steele, was arrested Thursday on a federal warrant charging him with distribution of methamphetamine.
During the arrest officers located and seized a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine.
Stanfield says that multiple agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, U.S Marshal Service, Caruthersville Police, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and Pemiscot County Sheriff Department participated in the arrest.
WHOLE KIDS OUTREACH SPRING FESTIVAL SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND Preparations are underway for the annual Whole Kids Outreach Easter Egg Hunt and Spring Festival.
Officials tell us that the festival is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 1st, with the egg hunt beginning at 11 am. Children will need to bring their own Easter Baskets.
There will also be games, prizes, pony rides, and a free lunch.
Whole Kids Outreach is located on Highway 21, five miles south of Ellington. For more information, call 573-663- 3257.
Wednesday March 29, 2017
SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE OVERNIGHT TONIGHT
Southeast Missouri is facing another possible round of severe weather tonight.
KWOC News spoke with Rick Shanklin, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, who says the chances of severe thunderstorms will start at around midnight.
RICK SHANKLIN:
Thunder storm chances will be increasing across Southeast Missouri this evening and that will include a chance of severe thunderstorms from around midnight through the overnight hours and into Thursday morning. Currently the risk across Southeast Missouri is at the slight level, that's a level 2 of 5. We’re watching that closely there is some possibility if the dynamics change or increase that that could be upgraded a bit across Southeast Missouri later today. The threats for Southeast Missouri include large hail and damaging thunderstorm winds which is perhaps the greatest chance or greatest risk for this event and also there is some possibility with this given the strong wind fields of a few tornados so we'll have to watch that very closely as well. The main thing is staying safe of course during this and all severe weather potential events across our region that means number one staying informed that includes ensuring you have a way to receive alerts such as a weather radio and having fresh batteries in that weather radio is critical, power outages are not uncommon during severe weather events, sometimes the power grid is taken out before the storm gets to you. A cell phone with text alerting capability is another good way to receive alerts and I would really encourage everybody to have a couple of ways to receive alerts especially for these overnight events as we know the likelihood of someone being hurt or killed in overnight events is considerably greater than it is during the day time actually two and a half times as likely between midnight and 6 a.m.
PARAGOULD WOMAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION
A Paragould woman has died from injuries she received Tuesday in a head on collision.
Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 8 am Tuesday on Highway 412 in Greene County.
A vehicle driven by 20 year old Kayla McNamara reportedly crossed over the middle turning lane and struck a trash truck head on.
Officials say McNamara was killed in the wreck.
GREENVILLE MAN FACING FELONY FIREARM CHARGE
Authorities in Wayne County have arrested a Greenville man on a felony firearm charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Jimmy Smith was taken into custody shortly before 9:30 pm Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of a firearm.
Smith is also facing a felony charge of driving while revoked.
PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE ROAD CLOSURE TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY
Route H in Stoddard County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert under the roadway.
The work zone will be located from Route ZZ to County Road 660.
Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3:30 pm.
POPLAR BLUFF BASKETBALL PLAYER CHOSEN AS MISSOURI’S NOMINATION FOR SPIRIT OF SPORT AWARD
A Poplar Bluff High School basketball player has been selected as Missouri’s nominee for the National High School Spirit of Sport award.
Freshman Savannah Hicks was diagnosed last year with atrial septal defect, which is a hole between the two upper chambers of the heart.
On November 22nd, she received successful open-heart surgery at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital in St. Louis. She played her first game of the season six weeks later on January 6th.
Dr. Kerwin Urhahn, the executive director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, nominated Hicks for the award because she exceeded expectations, overcame challenging circumstances, and displayed exemplary sportsmanship.
Tuesday March 28, 2017
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN GETS PROBATION ON ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD CHARGEA Poplar Bluff woman was sentenced earlier this month on a charge of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child.
According to Missouri Case Net, Vanessa May was sentenced to 5 years supervised probation with a suspended seven year prison sentence.
May, along with Michael West, was arrested last May after their 12 year old son was reportedly found kept in an empty bedroom with concrete floors and no lighting.
The child had numerous suspicious scars and bruises and medical evaluations found evidence of severe physical abuse, suggestive of torture, with the risk of serious complications to include death.
According to Case Net, West was sentenced in January to six years incarceration in the Missouri Department of Corrections.
MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TESTING SUSPENDED IN MALDEN Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process has been suspended at the Malden Driver Examination Station until further notice.
According to Captain Jeffrey N. Vitale, the motorcycle skills testing is being offered on Fridays in Poplar Bluff at 10 am, when pavement is dry.
Vitale says written examinations and Class E and Class F skills tests will still be offered in Malden as normally scheduled.
ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD FORUM SCHEDULED TODAY Candidates for the Poplar Bluff School Board will gather today to answer questions from the public.
The annual school board forum, hosted by Missouri NEA and MSTA, has been scheduled for today in the Middle School Library.
Five candidates, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers Bill Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are vying for three-year terms on the Board of Education.
The public has been invited to participate and submit questions for the school board candidates.
BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS IN RIPLEY COUNTY THROUGH EARLY MAY Route 142 in Ripley County will be reduced with a 10 foot width restriction through early May as contractor crews replace the bridge rails.
The bridge involved is located between Route N and County Road E-30 over Logan Creek.
According to MoDOT work will be performed today through Friday, May 5th. The work zone will be set-up for 24-hours a day.
DONIPHAN MAN AIRLIFTED TO POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK A Doniphan man was injured Monday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Ripley County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Christopher Walsh was taken by Air Evac to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center after his vehicle ran off of US 160, struck an embankment and tree, and then overturned.
Walsh suffered serious injuries in the wreck.
WOMAN ARRESTED ON TRAFFICKING DRUGS CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Over 10 ounces of meth was found during a traffic stop over the weekend in New Madrid County.
According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, deputies conducted the stop Sunday near Marston.
During the traffic stop, deputies located approximately 13 ounces of methamphetamine. The driver, Tara Birdwell was arrested and charged with felony 1st degree trafficking drugs.
Her bond was set at $50,000 cash.
ALMOST SIX MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced with an 11 foot width restriction over almost six months as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone will be located from Route 412 to County Road 410.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, September 15th from 7 am to 7 pm daily.
POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT TO BE HONORED AS ONE OF TOP 100 SCHOLARS IN MISSOURI A Poplar Bluff High School student will be honored next month among the 100 top scholars in the state from the graduating Class of 2017.
Senior Humza Siddiqui will be honored as a part of the Missouri Scholars 100 Program during a luncheon in Columbia sponsored by the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.
Qualifying students in the program must complete the "academic decathlon," which includes multiple criteria, including a score of at least 29 points on the ACT or 1900 on the SAT, a cumulative GPA of at least 3.75, being in the top 10 percent of their class, no more than 20 absences throughout their high school career, and participation in a significant community service project.
Monday, March 27, 2017
PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI UNDER RISK FOR SEVERE WEATHER TODAY
Another storm system is crossing Southeast Missouri today and weather officials say that severe weather is a possibility.
According to the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are possible, mainly this afternoon and evening, with the approach and passage of a cold front.
Much of Southeast Missouri has at least a slight risk for severe storms today, with some areas in the extreme Southeast corner of the state showing an enhanced risk.
The primary threat will be damaging winds, with large hail being the secondary threat. Officials say that a tornado or two is not out of the question.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE STILL SEARCHING FOR ARMED AND DANGEROUS MAN
Authorities in Poplar Bluff are continuing to search for an armed and dangerous man.
Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that the Poplar Bluff Police Department is seeking the whereabouts of Daniel Bright, who is wanted for questioning regarding a burglary that took place on March 4th.
Several firearms were reportedly taken from a residence during the burglary.
Whiteley says Bright is known to be armed and dangerous and has an active warrant for his arrest for a parole violation and for failure to appear in the Poplar Bluff Municipal Court.
Anyone with any information of Bright’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department or their local law enforcement agency.
TWO AIR LIFTED TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER VEHICLE OVERTURNS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY
Two Poplar Bluff residents have been air lifted to a Memphis hospital after a vehicle they were in overturned near Holcomb.
Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 3 pm Saturday afternoon on Missouri Highway 25.
A vehicle, driven by a 17 year old female from Poplar Bluff, reportedly ran off the road, struck a ditch, and overturned.
Two passengers in the vehicle, 20 year old Demarcus Leech and a 16 year old female, were seriously injured and taken by Air Evac to Region One Health in Memphis. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Twin Rivers Medical Center.
93 YEAR OLD BLOOMFIELD MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR THE WAPPAPELLO DAM
A 93 year old Bloomfield man was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital Sunday following a wreck.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Walter Butler ran off the side of Route T before striking an embankment and parked vehicle near the Wappapello Dam in Wayne County.
Butler was seriously injured and transported by Air Evac to St. Francis Medical Center.
CLUBB MAN SUFFERES SERIOUS INJURIES IN WRECK NEAR SILVA
An area man has serious injuries after hitting a tree over the weekend in Wayne County.
According to authorities, 36 year old Timothy Allen, of Clubb, was driving on Highway 34, near Silva, when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and struck a tree. The wreck occurred shortly after 5 pm Saturday evening.
Allen suffered serious injuries and was air lifted to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.
DONIPHAN MAN FACING METH AND RESISTING ARREST CHAREGS
A Doniphan man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest over the weekend.
According to the Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jered Lloyd was arrested Saturday evening on felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Lloyd also reportedly had a warrant out of Ripley County for 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle.
Following the arrest, he was held at the Doniphan Police Department.
DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT
A Dexter man was recently taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 43 year old George Pulliam Jr. was arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.
His bond was set at $15,000, cash only, and he remained in jail as of this morning.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55
Southbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.
The section of roadway to be reduced is located from mile marker three to mile marker one.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 7 am to 5 pm daily.
Friday, March 24, 2017
WOMAN REPORTED MISSING OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY
A Wayne County woman who is a double amputee has reportedly been missing since February.
Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch tells us more about the situation.
“2/27/17, Rebecca “Becky” Alsup was reported missing to our department, she was last seen in the Williamsville, Missouri area. The last reported contact with Becky with a friend on 2/15 of 17. She could have possibly been in the Poplar Bluff area.
Becky is a double amputee and has prosthetic legs but she also uses a wheelchair. Becky’s age of disappearance is 34 years old. She is a white female, hair brown, eyes brown, she’s 5’6, 125 pounds.
Anyone with information is asked to please contact the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at 573-224-3219 or the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 573-840-9500”
We have a picture of Rebecca Alsup available on our Facebook page.
TWO WRECKS OCCUR WITHIN FIVE MINUTES ON US 67
Two people were injured following two wrecks Thursday evening in Butler County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the first wreck occurred when 19 year old Destiny Kline, of Poplar Bluff, allegedly pulled her vehicle into the path of a vehicle.
Kline suffered moderate injuries, while no injuries were listed for the driver of the second vehicle, 32 year old Jimmie Reed, of Fredericktown.
Less than five minutes later, an oncoming vehicle driven by 45 year old Charles Phillips, of Farmington, struck Reeds vehicle, which was still in the roadway from the previous wreck.
Phillips received minor injuries.
ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO STOLEN FIREARMS
A Sikeston man is facing charges in connection to stolen firearms.
According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, on Tuesday, detectives received information that 23 year old Anthony Price was in possession of firearms stolen from a home earlier this week.
Officers located Price and began a foot pursuit. During the pursuit, Price allegedly threw down a camo gun case which contained a stolen firearm. Additional stolen firearms and accessories were recovered during the search of an area residence.
Price has been charged with stealing a firearm, felony unlawful possession of a firearm, and felony resisting arrest. His bond was set at $15,000 cash only.
2.4 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
An Earthquake caused some shaking Thursday in the Marston area.
According the United States Geological Survey, a 2.4 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 4:15 Thursday afternoon.
The earthquake located around three miles Northwest of Marston and had a depth of approximately four and a half miles.
TWO ARRESTS MADE DURING ST. PATRICK’S DAY CRACKDOWN IN DEXTER
Authorities in Dexter tell KWOC News that two arrests were made during a crackdown held around the St. Patrick’s Day holiday.
According to the Dexter Police Department, 66 contacts were made during the crackdown, which ran from March 16th to March 19. Two arrests were made, one was a fugitive who was apprehended and the other was a drug arrest.
Officer’s also issued 1 stop sign violation, 9 speeding violations, 10 seat belt violations, 2 driving while suspended/revoked violations, and 2 uninsured motorists violations, in addition to 57 verbal warnings.
Thursday March 23, 2017
CAMPBELL MAN SENTENCED IN CONNECTION TO AREA ROBBERYA judge has sentenced an area man in connection to multiple armed robberies.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office in Cape Girardeau, 23 year old Alexander Whisnant, of Campbell, was sentenced Wednesday to over 12 years in prison on multiple charges, including armed robbery.
Whisnant was arrested last August in connection to robberies at multiple area businesses, including Motel 6 and Holiday Inn.
VEHICLE OVERTURNS INTO WATER FILLED DITCH IN STODDARD COUNTY An Essex woman has moderate injuries following a wreck last night in Stoddard County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Myrna Sprinkles was driving on Route AB at Birds Corner when her vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a tree, and overturned into a water filled ditch.
Following the wreck, Sprinkles was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.
TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO ARREST OF KENNETT MAN A traffic stop led to the arrest of a man Tuesday in Kennett.
Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News, that officers conducted the stop shortly before 11 pm Tuesday night.
While investigating the traffic stop, officers arrested John Rogers, of Kennett, for possession of a controlled substance.
Following the arrest, Rogers was held at the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the State Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
FOUR INJURED IN WAYNE COUNTY WRECK Four people, including two children, were taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital Wednesday following a wreck in Wayne County.
According to authorities, the wreck occurred on County Road 407 when a vehicle ran off the side of the road, became airborne, struck a tree, and overturned.
The driver, 21 year old Samantha Gurney, of Poplar Bluff, and a passenger suffered moderate injuries. Two children in the vehicle received minor injuries.
SIKESTON MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE A Sikeston man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Wednesday night.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Gary Curry was arrested at around 10:40 pm in New Madrid County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and driving while revoked.
Curry is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE IN RIPLEY COUNTY Route O in Ripley County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace two pipes under the roadway.
The work zone will be located at the Carter and Ripley County line.
Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3 pm.
DATE SET FOR INAUGURAL BERNIE COMMUNITY EGG HUNT A date has been set for the upcoming Inaugural Bernie Community Egg Hunt.
According to officials, the event will begin at 2 pm on April 1st at the Bernie City Park. The egg hunt is open to the community and there will be areas designated for specific age groups.
Businesses and churches can donate eggs by dropping them off at the Bernie Police Department or City Hall through the end of today. Donations need to include the name of the business or church, a description of contents inside the eggs, and contact information.
For more information, contact Marisa Farmer at 573-614-9228.
Wednesday March 22, 2017
ANOTHER ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO ASSAULT IN WAYNE COUNTYA woman who was being sought in connection to an assault last month in Wayne County has been arrested.
Officials with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that Tabitha Gallaher has been apprehended and is in custody.
Gallaher was wanted in connection to a violent crime involving an elderly man in early February. Three other people have been charged in connection to the incident.
MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES AFTER ALLEGEDLY RUNNING OVER BUSINESS OWNER A man is facing multiple charges in connection to an incident on Saturday.
According to Missouri Case Net, 68 year old Joseph Hunter, of New Madrid, has been charged with 1st degree assault, endangering a corrections employee by knowing causing the person to come in contact with bodily fluid, stealing, and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in a physical injury.
According to authorities, Hunter, allegedly ran over a business owner as he was driving away from a restaurant after not paying a bill.
He was later taken into custody. While in custody he also allegedly used a bloody towel to slap an officer.
THREE ON THREE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD FOR PBHS STUDENT ROTARY CLUB The Interact Club, the Poplar Bluff High School student Rotary Club, will be hosting a three-on-three basketball tournament next month.
The tournament has been scheduled for 1 pm on Saturday, April 1st, in the gymnasium.
The cost is $75 per team, with all proceeds going toward a summer field trip for the club to tour Civil Rights landmarks.
Teams can consist of up to four members and participants must be 14 years of age or older. First place players will receive Beats headphones.
If you would like to sign up, email club sponsor Stephen Patty at stephenpatty@pb.k12.mo.us.
TENNESSEE MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE IN CARTER COUNTY A Tennessee man was taken into custody Tuesday morning in Southeast Missouri on a felony drug charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Randy May, of Memphis, Tennessee, was arrested in Carter County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
May is also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, failure to drive on right half of roadway, and driving while suspended.
Following the arrest, May was transported to the Carter County Jail.
METH ARREST MADE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested a Caruthersville woman on a controlled substance charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Misty Gibson was taken into custody Monday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Following the arrest, Gibson was held at the New Madrid County Jail.
NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD BEING REDUCED FOR SHOULDER REPAIRS Route 153 in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane through the end of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.
The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 162 to Route J.
Weather permitting, work will continue through Friday from 7 am to 3:30 pm each day.
Tuesday March 21, 2017
TWO FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN STODDARD COUNTYTwo people were found dead Monday following a fire at a residence in Advance.
According to Stoddard County Coroner Kenny Pope, the deceased have been identified as 43 year old Andrea Carlisle and 41 year old Herscheal Stephens, both of Advance.
Autopsies have been scheduled for Wednesday. A cause for the fire was not available.
MALDEN MAN FACING STATUTORY SODOMY CHARGE A Malden man is scheduled to appear in court this morning following his arrest on Sunday.
According to the Malden Police Department, officers arrested 44-year-old Chad Wayne Cobb for the charge of statutory or attempted statutory sodomy in the 1st degree.
Cobb’s initial arraignment has been scheduled for 9 am this morning in Dunklin County.
ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD FORUM SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK Candidates for the Poplar Bluff School Board will gather next week to answer questions from the public.
The annual school board forum, hosted by Missouri NEA and MSTA, has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 28th, in the Middle School Library.
Five candidates, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers Bill Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are vying for three-year terms on the Board of Education.
The public has been invited to participate and submit questions for the school board candidates.
REYNOLDS COUNTY CITY IS HAVING WATER PROBLEMS A city in Reynolds County is having water problems.
According to a post on the Reynolds County Courthouse Facebook page, the city of Centerville did not have water Monday afternoon while work was being done on the water lines. This will cause the Reynolds County Courthouse to be closed today.
Centerville R-1 will also reportedly not have classes today.
SLIGHT TO MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE STORMS TODAY FOR FAR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Far Southeast Missouri is under a slight to marginal risk of severe storms for today.
According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, the risk is mainly this afternoon and evening. Large hail will be the primary hazard with the storms, with damaging winds also possible.
Otherwise, heavy rain and lightning are also possible.
WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE Authorities in Wayne County have taken a Park Hills woman into custody on a felony meth charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jennifer Cash was arrested Monday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine.
She is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, Cash was transported to the Wayne County Jail.
SHOULDER REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Route J in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.
The section of Route J to be reduced is located from Route 153 to Route 62.
Weather permitting, work will performed from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily through Friday.
POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT LAUNCHES NEW APP The Poplar Bluff School District has launched a new app.
According to the school district, the app has many features including academic calendars, sports schedules, lunch menus, bus routes, and a parent tool.
The free app is currently available on the Apple iOS and Android stores.
Monday March 20, 2017
MARIJUANA AND APPROXIMATELY $10,000 FOUND IN VEHICLEAuthorities in Poplar Bluff say a man was taken into custody last week after marijuana and around $10,000 were found in his vehicle.
Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that a patrolman made contact with 35 year old Lee Marvin Hamilton, of Poplar Bluff, last Wednesday after Hamilton had attempted to elude the officer.
During the contact, assisting officers detected the odor of marijuana emitting from Hamilton’s vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 17 grams of marijuana, three tablets of Alprazolam, which is a schedule four controlled substance, and approximately $10,000 in U.S. currency.
Hamilton was arrested and faces charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute. He was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.
MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUTNY ON METHAMPHETMINE CHARGE Authorities arrested a Fredericktown man early Sunday morning in Butler County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 21 year old Oliver Isaac was taken into custody at around 12:20 am on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Following the arrest, Isaac was transported to the Butler County Jail.
BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD Route 51 in Butler County will be temporarily closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.
The work zone will be located between Greason and 1st Street.
Weather permitting, work will performed today and tomorrow from 7 am to 5 pm each day.
TORNADO SIREN OUT OF SERVICE IN CAMPBELL Officials in Campbell say that the tornado siren there is out of service.
According to the Campbell Fire Department Facebook page, the siren is having electrical problems and will be out of service until further notice.
The post says the siren will be fixed as soon as possible.
MANHUNT LEADS TO ARREST OF RECTOR MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE AND KIDNAPPING Updating a story we brought to you last week, a manhunt has resulted in the arrest of a Rector man.
Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that 35 year old Heath Miller was taken into custody at approximately 4 pm Saturday.
The arrest came after an extensive manhunt in Ripley and portions of Carter County. Troopers were alerted that Miller had reportedly forced his way into a home in the Grandin area and he was arrested without incident.
The Highway Patrol says Miller is charged in Dunklin and Ripley counties with 1st degree rape, 1st degree kidnapping, 1st degree assault, and armed criminal action. He is being held in the Ripley County Jail without bond.
WOMAN ARRESTED IN WANYE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES A Lowndes woman is facing multiple felony charges following her arrest Friday in Wayne County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Chelsie Fortner was arrested Friday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and endangering the welfare of a child.
Fortner also reportedly had a warrant out of Wayne County.
SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE THIS WEEK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Weather officials say that we could be seeing severe weather again this week in Southeast Missouri.
According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, a chance of thunderstorms will enter the forecast today and tonight. The primary storm hazards should be heavy rain and lightning.
The best chance of thunderstorms, including the chance of strong storms, however comes Tuesday afternoon and evening, across far southeast Missouri and southwest Kentucky, where a Marginal Risk of severe storms exists.
Damaging winds and large hail are the severe weather hazards that potentially may occur. Otherwise, heavy rain and lightning are expected.
STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH APRIL FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT Route H in Stoddard County will be closed through April as contractor crews replace a bridge.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located between County Road 659 and County Road 667.
Weather permitting, the bridge will be closed beginning today and will re-open on Monday, May 1st.
Friday, March 17, 2017
AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE AND KIDNAPPING
Authorities in Southeast Missouri are looking for a man who has been charged with kidnapping and rape.
Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol says that authorities are searching for 25 year old Heath Miller, of Rector, Arkansas. Miller has warrants for his arrest from Dunklin and Ripley counties, charging him with 1st degree rape, 1st degree kidnapping, and 1st degree assault.
Miller is also suspected of breaking into a home in Ripley County Monday evening and stealing a handgun.
Miller is described as being 5 feet 10 inches tall, with brown hair and blue eyes and weighing 218 pounds.
Parrott says Miller should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. If you see him, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol or call your local law enforcement agency.
Homeowners in the Grandin area are also being encouraged to keep their doors, outbuildings and vehicles locked.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEEKING ASSISTANCE IN FINDING MAN IN CONNECTION TO A BURGLARY
Police in Poplar Bluff are asking the community for assistance in locating a man in connection to a burglary.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Daniel Bright is wanted for questioning in regards to a burglary and also has multiple active warrants for his arrest.
Anyone with information regarding Bright’s whereabouts can contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776 extension 1360.
HEAVY DOWNPOUR POSSIBLE WITH INCOMING STORM SYSTEM
Thunderstorms will be possible today and weather officials say this could bring a chance of heavy rainfall.
According to a hazardous weather outlook issued by the National Weather Service, chances of thunderstorms are forecast for Southeast Missouri today and into the early evening.
The outlook says that a brief heavy downpour and sporadic lightning will be the primary concerns for today.
MAN’S BODY FOUND AT CEMETERY IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
An inmate was found dead Thursday in Northeast Arkansas.
According to authorities, the body of 22 year old Christopher Daniels was discovered Thursday afternoon at a cemetery in Paragould.
An investigation into the death has been started by the Arkansas State Police.
CITY OF POPLAR BLUFF TO HOLD PUBLIC AUCTION THIS WEEKEND
The City of Poplar Bluff has announced that a public auction will be held this weekend in downtown Poplar Bluff.
The city will be auctioning off excess equipment, including vehicles, office equipment, computers, televisions, and more. A listing of items to be auctioned off is available on the Poplar Bluff City Hall Facebook page.
The auction is set to begin at 10 am Saturday morning in the parking lot across from the Black River Coliseum.
BULLET AND STAB PROTECTIVE VESTS DONATED TO POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT
Two Poplar Bluff K-9 officers will be getting new protective vests thanks to a donation from Perrigo Animal Health.
The donation of twenty-five bullet- and stab-protective vests was done in partnership with Vested Interest in K9s, a nonprofit organization that provides bullet- and stab-protective vests to police departments nationwide.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the donation will go to benefit K-9 officers Kane and Loco.
Thursday March 16, 2017
PERRYVILLE WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTYA Perryville woman is facing multiple charges following her arrest in Stoddard County.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 41 year old Tonya Lang was arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
Officials say that further charges are pending. Lang remained in jail as of this morning and her bond has been set at $25,000.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY East and Westbound ramps from Route 60 in Stoddard County will be closed tonight as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the two on-ramps from Route 60 to Route 25 east and westbound will be closed.
Weather permitting, work will take place tonight from 6 pm to 6 am.
POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS TO BE OUT OF SCHOOL ON FRIDAY Students in Poplar Bluff are preparing for a three day weekend.
Poplar Bluff R-1 School District Superintendent Scott Dill tells KWOC News that R-1 schools will not be in session on Friday for a teacher collaboration day.
The regular class schedule is set to resume on Monday, March 20th.
HIGHWAY PATROL TO CONDUCT ENFORCEMENT OPERATION ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY State troopers in Southeast Missouri will be participating in an enforcement operation on St. Patrick’s Day.
Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that members of Troop E will be conducting a Selective Traffic Enforcement Program operation on March 17th.
Vitale says the goal of the operation is to detect hazardous moving, speed, and other violations that contribute to traffic crashes. Troopers will also be aggressively enforcing the seat belt and child restraint laws on all roadways within Troop E.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD TO BE HELD TONIGHT The Poplar Bluff School Board is scheduled to meet tonight.
The regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Poplar Bluff Board of Education is set to begin tonight at 7 pm.
The meeting will be held in the administrative building.
NEW DAY MINISTRIES TO HOST FEED AND SEED EVENT TODAY New Day Ministries in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event today from 3 to 5 pm.
The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per person per family. New Day Ministries is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff.
If you would like more information, contact Pastors Vernon and Nancy Wolverton at 573-718-4578.
Wednesday March 15, 2017
TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG AND GUN CHARGES IN POPLAR BLUFF
Authorities in Butler County have arrested two people on felony gun and drug charges.
Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 55 year old David Wallace and 49 year old Sherry Huffine, both of Poplar Bluff, were taken into custody Tuesday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Both Wallace and Huffine are also each facing a charge of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana.
MAN CONVICTED IN CONNECTION TO KENNETT STORE ROBBERY
A man has been convicted on multiple felony charges in connection to the robbery of a Kennett convenience store.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 36 year old Julius Jones was found guilty of one felony count of Interference with Commerce by Robbery and one felony count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence.
In July of 2015, Jones was involved in a robbery at Curt’s Grocery in Kennett.
The jury deliberated for approximately 45 minutes before finding Jones guilty on both counts. He now faces a maximum punishment of life imprisonment and a $250,000.00 fine.
His sentencing has been scheduled for May 15th.
SIKESTON POLICE INVESTIGATING BURGLARY
Authorities in Sikeston are investigating a burglary at an area business.
Sergeant Jon Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that on Monday, officers responded to an alarm sounding at Re-Armm Inc. Officers checked the building and discovered evidence of forced entry.
Once inside officers found that the firearm display case had been damaged and several firearms were missing.
Anyone with information about the burglary is being asked to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.
CLASSES CANCELLED IN CHARLESTON DUE TO ILLNESS
Classes have been cancelled in a Southeast Missouri school due to student illnesses.
According to the Charleston R-1 Facebook page, school has been cancelled for both today and tomorrow.
Officials say that Parent Teacher Conferences and Kindergarten Enrollment have been cancelled as well in addition to the CMS Food Bank food distribution.
FOUR TORNADOS TOUCHED DOWN IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LAST THURSDAY
The National Weather Service has confirmed that four tornados touched down during the storms last Thursday in Southeast Missouri.
Weather officials say that two of the tornados were in New Madrid County, with one also recorded in the Broseley and Bernie areas. One of the New Madrid County tornados has been classified as EF-2, while the other three were EF-1.
No fatalities or injuries were reported in connection to the tornados; however several homes and structures were damaged or destroyed.
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT
A Poplar Bluff woman has been taken into custody in Stoddard County.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 31 year old Kelly Royer was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.
Royer’s bond was set at $15,000 and she reportedly remained in jail as of this morning.
POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT TO CONTINUE TOMORROW MORNING
Poplar Bluff Kindergarten enrollment is scheduled to continue tomorrow.
Enrollment will be held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday. Officials say that no appointment is necessary.
Parents are asked to bring a birth certificate, shot record, proof of residency and social security card, if possible. For more information, call the Kindergarten Center at 573-785-4905.
WRESTLER AND SWIMMER NAMED POPLAR BLUFF ATHLETES OF THE MONTH
A Poplar Bluff High School wrestler and swimmer have been named as athletes of the month for February.
The Mules Booster Club has named wrestler Josh Lewis and swimmer Taylor Norwood for the honors.
Senior Josh Lewis has a season record of 40 wins and 4 losses and a career record of 116 wins and 47 losses. This year he was the SEMO Conference champion and the Class 4, District 1 champ. He is also the Tiger Classic champ for the past two years; and a three-time state qualifier, according to his coach, David Sievers.
Junior Taylor Norwood was the first in Southeast Missouri to hit a state cut in every swimming event last school year, according to her coach Beth Lewis. A three-time conference MVP, she has gone undefeated in all of her individual swims and holds eight school records and numerous meet records.
She has also been named All State in the 200 individual medley and the 100 fly all three seasons of her high school career.
Tuesday March 14, 2017
HARVIELL MAN FACING FELONY METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE
Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Harviell man on a felony meth charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Jeremy Riggs was taken into custody early this morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.
Riggs is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
POPLAR BLUFF RADIO SHACK TO CLOSE
The Poplar Bluff Radio Shack is shutting down.
Radio Shack disclosed last week that the company is closing approximately 200 stores as a part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy announcement.
According to the Radio Shack website, the Poplar Bluff store is closing and has an inventory clearance sale underway.
A date was not given for when the closing will be complete.
REGISTRATION UNDERWAY FOR YOUTH VOLLEYBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF
Girls in third through sixth grade have less than one week left to get signed up for youth volleyball.
Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation is accepting registrations for youth girls volleyball through March 17th. The registration fee is $10.
You can find registration forms online atwww.PoplarBluff-MO.gov or at the Parks
Department office on North Second Street.
FREEZE WARNING IN EFFECT THROUGH THURSDAY MORNING
The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Warning for all of Southeast Missouri.
According to the NWS, hard freezes are expected both tonight and tomorrow night with temperatures falling to the mid to low 20’s.
These temperatures can cause damage to plants or fruit trees that are blooming ahead of schedule. Anyone with these types of plants are advised to take necessary precautions.
The freeze warning is in effect through 10 am Thursday morning.
DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT
A Dexter man has been arrested on a controlled substance warrant.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old James Robinson was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.
No bond has been set and Robinson reportedly remained in jail as of this morning.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
An Interstate 55 southbound on and off ramp in New Madrid County is being reduced as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
According to MoDot the ramps affected are located at the Marston exit at mile marker 40.
Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be done today and tomorrow from 7 am to 5 pm each day.
CHILI SUPPER TO BE HELD THIS EVENING AT O’NEAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The O’Neal Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization will be holding a chili supper this evening at the school.
The supper will include a bowl of chili, hot dog, drink, and cookie for $5. There will also be a silent auction with multiple items and a raffle for a handmade quilt made by a teacher and students.
The chili supper has been scheduled for 4:30 pm to 7 pm tonight.
Monday March 13, 2017
MAN FACING CHARGES AFTER CRASHING INTO A HOUSE IN BUTLER COUNTY
Officials say that a Butler County man is facing charges after he crashed his vehicle into a house Sunday afternoon.
According to authorities, 41 year old Thomas Yingling, of Broseley, hit the home after he ran a stop sign at Cravens Road and Business 67 in Butler County.
Yingling, who suffered minor injuries in the wreck, is reportedly facing charges of driving while intoxicated, possession of drug paraphernalia, careless and imprudent driving resulting in an accident, and felony possession of a controlled substance.
TWO WOMEN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO WAYNE COUNTY INVESTIGATION TAKEN INTO CUSTODY
Updating a story we brought to you last week, authorities have arrested two women who were sought in connection to an investigation in Wayne County.
According to authorities, 45 year old Saundra Peppers and 20 year old Tabitha Peppers, both of Piedmont, were taken into custody Saturday afternoon.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, both women were being sought following an investigation that resulted in the arrest of multiple people last week.
TWO ARRESTED ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY
Two Poplar Bluff men were taken into custody over the weekend in Butler County on gun and drug charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Darnell Webb and 29 year old Derek Brooks were each arrested Saturday morning on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance - hydrocodone, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Following the arrests, both men were held at the Butler County Jail.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY
East and Westbound ramps to Route 60 in Stoddard County will be closed this week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the two on-ramps from Route 25 to Route 60 east and westbound will be closed.
Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m on the eastbound ramp and from 6 pm to 6 am on Tuesday and Wednesday on the westbound ramp.
DEPUTY AND SUSPECT SHOT DURING EXECUTION OF SEARCH WARRANT IN WYATT
A Mississippi County deputy and a suspect were both shot last week during the execution of a search warrant.
Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that deputies with the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Department executed the search warrant for a narcotics investigation Friday morning at a residence on Pecan Street in Wyatt.
When the deputies entered the residence, 36-year- old Johnathan Lee Jones, of Wyatt, allegedly began shooting toward the deputies and the deputies returned fire. During the exchange of gunfire, both the suspect and one deputy were struck.
The deputy and Jones were transported to local hospitals for treatment of their injuries; and both have undergone surgery. The deputy is in stable condition; while Jones is in critical, but stable condition.
Parrott says Jones has been charged with assault first degree, unlawful use of a weapon, and armed criminal action.
At the request of the Mississippi County Sheriff, the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is investigating the officer-involved shooting.
ELLSINORE MAN FACING FELONY CHARGE OF ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD
Authorities in Butler County have arrested an Ellsinore man on multiple felony charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Stanley Vest was taken into custody Saturday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and two counts of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Vest is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following his arrest, he was transported to the Butler County Jail.
ROAD REDUCTCIONS SCHEDULED FOR EARLY THIS WEEK IN CARTER AND SHANNON COUNTIES
Eastbound US 60 in Carter and Shannon Counties will be reduced to one lane while Missouri Department of Transportation crews continue to cut brush and trim trees along the roadway.
This section of road is located from Route P in Carter County to Route W in Shannon County.
Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 am to 5 pm each day.
ORAN EAGLES WIN STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
The Oran Eagles are State Basketball Champions.
The Oran boys basketball team won the Class Two finals on Saturday 70 to 63 over the Crane Pirates.
Oran’s Jacob Shoemaker scored 33 points to help the Eagles finish the season 23 and 8.
Following this past weekend, there is only one team remaining in Southeast Missouri with a chance to win a state title. The Dexter Lady Bearcats have advanced to the state Semi-finals in Class 4. The Lady Bearcats will take on St. Pius X, out of Kansas City, this Thursday in Columbia.
Friday March 10, 2017
MULTIPLE FUNNEL CLOUDS SPOTTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI DURING THURSDAY NIGHT STORMSThere have been multiple reports of damage across Southeast Missouri following Thursday night’s storm system.
According to the National Weather Service, funnel clouds were spotted last night in Carter and Butler Counties.
Multiple trees and power lines were down around Poplar Bluff. A trained spotter in Stoddard County says that a house had severe damage and several grain bins were damaged as well.
Part of Highway 25 between Bernie and Malden was closed due to utility poles and debris on the roadway. Officials in New Madrid also encouraged residents to stay off of roadways due to debris in numerous areas of the town.
There were also multiple reports of power outages due to the storms as well as hail.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT STRING OF WAYNE COUNTY ARRESTS Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, authorities in Wayne County have released additional information about multiple arrests that were made earlier this week.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, the arrests were made after undercover investigators made buys from the individuals. The drugs consisted of prescription medications, which included morphine and hydrocodone, as well as methamphetamine.
The SEMO Drug Task Force, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Piedmont Police Department also participated in the arrests.
Two women are still being sought in connection to the investigation. Anyone who has information on the whereabouts of Saundra Marie Peppers or Tabitha Marie Peppers is asked to contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department at 573-224-3319.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 412 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The work zone is located from County Road 431 to the Kennett city limits.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 3:30 pm today.
FREEZE WARNING TO BE IN EFFECT TONIGHT Temperatures are expected to drop tonight ahead of expected snow on Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, a freeze warning will be in effect overnight tonight for all of Southeast Missouri and parts of Northeast Arkansas. The warning says that cold Canadian high pressure will surge southeastward across the area, setting the stage for a hard freeze overnight.
We also have chances of snow beginning in the overnight hours tonight, with snow likely during the day on Saturday. Saturday night we have chances of snow mixed with freezing rain.
After a break on Sunday, the NWS says we have a chance of snow showers again on Monday.
TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGES Two Poplar Bluff residents were arrested Thursday morning in Butler County on methamphetamine related charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Regina Ethridge and 21 year old Dustin Sullivan were taken into custody shortly after 7 am on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Both are also facing a felony charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.
DEXTER WOMAN ARRESTED ON DRUG DISTRIBUTION WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County say a Dexter woman has been taken into custody on a drug related warrant.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 55 year old Bernice Lutes was recently arrested on a warrant for distribution of drugs.
Her bond was set at $25,000.
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS THIS WEEKEND It is again time for your clocks to spring forward.
Daylight Saving Time will begin at 2 am Sunday morning. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed Saturday night. It is also a good time to remember to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors.
Daylight Saving Time will come to an end on Sunday, November 5th.
Thursday March 9, 2017
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN KILLED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECKA Poplar Bluff woman died Wednesday afternoon following a two vehicle wreck in Butler County.
Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that the wreck occurred at 11:05 am, one mile south of Poplar Bluff at Missouri Route 53 and County Road 306.
A vehicle, driven by 39 year old Joseph Hawkins, of Portageville, reportedly turned into the path of another vehicle.
Two people in the second vehicle, 40 year old Kenneth Hughes and 59 year old Leanna Eastwood, both of Poplar Bluff, were injured in the wreck.
Hughes was taken by Air Evac to Regional One Health with serious injuries. Eastwood was taken to Poplar a Poplar Bluff hospital where she died at around 2 pm.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEEKING ASSISTANCE IN FINDING NON COMPLIANT SEX OFFENDER Authorities in Poplar Bluff are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a non-compliant sex offender.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Dallas Wayne Harris is wanted for failure to register as a sex offender. According to the Missouri Case Net, Harris pled guilty to two counts of 1st degree child molestation in 2006.
Anyone with information on Harris’s whereabouts is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency.
SOME AREA EMERGENCY SYSTEMS AFFECTED BY NATIONWIDE AT&T OUTAGE Some local emergency systems were affected by a nationwide AT&T outage last night.
According to the New Madrid Police Department, the outage affected AT&T mobile devices and kept some AT&T customers from being able to reach emergency services via 911.
Dunklin County Emergency Communications also reported being affected by the outage, which lasted for a few hours.
RIPLEY COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLSOED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Route CC in Ripley County will be temporarily closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace two pipes under the roadway.
According to MoDot, Route CC will be closed from 7:45 am to 4 pm today.
The work zone will be located from Route 21 to the end of state maintenance.
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI UNDER MARGINAL RISK FOR SEVERE WEATHER TONIGHT Southeast Missouri is in line for another round of showers and possibly thunderstorms today and weather officials say there is a chance for severe weather as well.
The National Weather Service says that the Storm Prediction Center has Southeast Missouri in a slight risk for severe thunderstorms late this afternoon and this evening.
The main concern will be hail and locally damaging winds.
The Paducah office of the NWS also says that a storm damage survey conducted this week concluded that an EF-1 tornado touched down in northern New Madrid County and moved into Mississippi County on March 1st.
The tornado was on the ground for roughly 15 miles and had peak winds of 100 mph.
FOUR ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO BUST OF THEFT RING IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Four people have been arrested in connection to the bust of a theft ring in Northeast Arkansas.
Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that recently there have been several big item thefts around rural Greene County.
Carter says that most of the items have been recovered and returned to the owners.
Three people were taken into custody on charges of felony theft of property, Michael Schuler, Wesley Schuler, and Christy Lamar. A fourth person, Jason McDaniel, was arrested on a charge of felony theft by receiving.
EIGHT ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON DISTRIBUTION WARRANTS Eight people were taken into custody Wednesday in Wayne County on felony distribution of a controlled substance warrants.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the first arrest occurred at 8:45 am, with the last arrest happening at 9:21 pm.
The eight people arrested were:
42 year old Celena Walk, of Piedmont, 40 year old Brandy King, of Wappapello, 34 year old Kimberly Meinhardt, of Piedmont, 44 year old George McMullin, of Piedmont, 45 year old Michelle Miller, of Piedmont, 66 year old Larry Strickland, of Wappapello, 51 year old Cheryl Glass, of Wappapello, and 36 year old Donald Rice, of Piedmont.
CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY Route H in Carter County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert pipe.
The section of Route H affected will be located from County Road 339 to Twin Pond Road.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 am to 2 pm.