Thursday, June 8, 2017

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER OPENING TODAY IN VAN BUREN

  The Federal Emergency Management Agency is opening a Disaster Recovery Center today in Van Buren.

The center will be available seven days a week between 7 am and 7 pm at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center.

The center offers in-person support to individuals and businesses in any of the 27 counties included in the Missouri federal disaster declaration for flooding and severe storms that occurred between April 28th and May 11th.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other agencies will be at the center to discuss assistance and to help anyone who needs information or assistance filing an application.

  AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING TWO FIRES IN POPLAR BLUFF

  Authorities are investigating two fires that occurred Wednesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

One of the fires was located at a house on Stella Street while the other was at a house on Main Street. Both houses were vacant.

According to authorities, both fires were intentionally set.

  DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TO BE HELD TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

  The Poplar Bluff Public Library will be holding an event today to assist individuals and families who sustained damage or losses due to the flooding and severe storms register for disaster assistance.

The Library will have a room available from noon to 7 pm with several computers and an Emergency Management staff member will be present to help direct individuals to the website DisasterAssistance.gov.

You can also register for disaster assistance by calling the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), from 6 am to 10 pm seven days a week.

  MAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN IRON COUNTY

  A Colorado man was flown to a hospital yesterday after he was involved in a motorcycle wreck.

According to the Highway Patrol, 53 year old Kevin Neu, of Castlerock, Colorado, was driving a motorcycle on Route KK in Iron County when the vehicle ran off the side of the road, overturned, and ejected him.

Neu received moderate injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

  OFFICIALS SAY GREENVILLE RECREATION AREA CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC

  People are being asked to avoid the Greenville Recreation area.

According to a post on the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook page, the area is closed to all traffic, including boat and pedestrian traffic.

The Corps of Engineers is asking for everyone to be patient while the cleanup effort is ongoing.

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN STEALING CASE

  Police in Poplar Bluff are seeking the public’s help in locating a man.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department has posted pictures of the man online who is a suspect in a stealing case.

The pictures are available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone with information on suspect’s identity is asked to contact Patrolman Jeremy Elless at 573-785-5776 extension1376.

  BRIDGE REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

  Route D in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge involved is located between County Road 737 and County Road 751.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

Wednesday June 7, 2017

ARREST MADE IN FATAL POPLAR BLUFF FIREAuthorities say that an arrest has been made in connection to a fatal fire Sunday night in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Poplar Bluff Deputy Police Chief Don Trout, who says that an area woman has admitted to setting the fire.

DON TROUT:

On Sunday evening at approximately 11:40, Poplar Bluff Police and Fire personnel responded to 712 Poplar Street in reference to a structure fire. Upon arriving Officers found the residence engulfed in flames. Additionally, it was learned that one resident of the structure, described as a three unit apartment building, was still inside. Fire Department personnel began working to extinguish the blaze and were able to extract Tommy Younger, 57, of Poplar Bluff, from his apartment.

Younger was transported to an area medical facility for treatment of injuries sustained from the fire. During the afternoon hours on Monday, Younger succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at an area hospital.

During the on scene investigation, by Missouri State Fire Marshal personnel, it was determined that the fire was intentionally set.

Through witness interviews, Tara Maxfield, 41, of Poplar Bluff, was believed to be a person of interest in setting the fire. Maxfield was later located and transported to the Poplar Bluff Police Department for questioning.

She ultimately admitted to setting the fire and is cooperating with the investigation. Maxfield was placed under arrest and is currently being held, pending application of warrants for charges of Arson 1st Degree, Murder 2nd Degree and Assault 1st Degree.

During the course of the investigation the Major Case Squad was activated and personnel from the Highway Patrol, the Missouri State Fire Marshall’s Office, Police Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Office participated in the investigation.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BUSES TO REQUIRE REPAIRS BEFORE BEING ALLOWED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced the results of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Division's 2017 annual school bus inspection program.

As a part of the program, buses found to have no defective items are rated as "approved.” Buses having one or more defective items which do not constitute an immediate danger are rated as "defective.” Buses with any defective items which constitute an immediate danger are rated as "out-of-service.”

In Butler County, Poplar Bluff R-1 had 33 of the district’s 43 buses presented listed as approved. Eight were rated as defective and two as out of service.

Neelyville R-4 had five of 14 buses rated as defective, with the remaining nine approved. Twin Rivers R-X had all 15 of their buses approved.

Over 90 percent of buses statewide were rated as approved. Around seven and a half percent were listed as defective and around two percent were rated as out of service.

ARKANSAS GOVERNOR SUBMITS FORMAL FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson has submitted his formal request for a federal disaster declaration.

The request submitted on Monday requested the declaration for 31 counties including Baxter, Clay, Independence, Izard, Lawrence, and Mississippi.

Hutchinson says that severe storms and flooding in late April and early May devastated 31 counties and caused more than $13 million in damage. He declared the affected counties as state disaster areas last month.

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY Two people were taken into custody Tuesday morning in Butler County on felony drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Anthony Timbush and 26 year old Brittany Lakin, both of Poplar Bluff, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and tramadol.

Officials say that Lakin is also facing a charge of felony tampering with physical evidence.

Following their arrest, both were held at the Butler County Jail.

ELLINGTON MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY FIREARM CHARGE An Ellington man is facing a felony firearm charge following his arrest Tuesday afternoon.

According to authorities, 35 year old Bryan Martin was taken into custody on a felony charge of unlawful possession of a firearm shortly after 3:30 pm in Wayne County.

Following the arrest, Martin was transported to the Wayne County Jail.

POLICE SEEKING PUBLIC’S HELP IN FINDING MULTIPLE PEOPLE Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s assistance in locating multiple people.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, they are searching for two men following a theft at a local business. Pictures of the two men are available at the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about their location is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

Tuesday June 6, 2017

MAN DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFFA man has died from injuries he received in a fire at a Poplar Bluff residence.

Detective Joey Woodruff with the Poplar Bluff Police Department says the fire occurred at an apartment on Poplar Street Sunday night and appears to have been set intentionally.

JOEY WOODRUFF:

On Sunday night, Patrolman Lemonds responded to an address in the 700 block of Poplar Street to assist the fire department with a structure fire.

At Patrolman Lemonds’ arrival, he observed the front porch of the residence completely engulfed in flames. Lemonds found a man sitting in a second story window of the apartment. The man was able to jump to safety and advised Patrolman Lemonds there was possibly still someone inside the residence.

Firefighters with the Poplar Bluff Fire Department located another man inside the residence during a search of the building. The individual inside the residence was located in the ground level of the apartment. The man was transported to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Emergency Room for treatment.

Members of the Poplar Bluff Police Department’s criminal investigations division along with the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire had been intentionally set and they are currently investigating the incident further.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 785-5776.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that the man found in the home died on Monday. He has been identified as 57 year old Tommy E. Younger, of Poplar Bluff.

Moore says that an autopsy has been scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF HIS GRANDFATHER IN A POPLAR BLUFF FIRE A Poplar Bluff man is in custody on murder and arson charges following the death of the man’s grandfather in a house fire over the weekend.

Investigator Brandon Lowe with the Butler County Sheriff’s Office tells us more about the incident.

BRANDON LOWE:

On Sunday morning at around 3:30 a.m. the Butler County Fire Department was dispatched to 150 Mozart Lane in regards to a house fire. Once they arrived on scene there was three subjects that were transported by ambulance to North Campus ER. Once the fire department and the fire marshal begin investigating the fire it was discovered that the residence had been intentionally set on fire, at which time, I investigator Brandon Lowe, was called out to the scene and begin investigating further. Once on scene I made contact with the fire marshal who advised me that the fire had been intentionally set in different locations inside the residence. After leaving the scene I responded to North Campus ER to speak with the subjects. Once at the ER I was advised that a male subject identified as 29 year old white male Brett Payne, from Poplar Bluff, had left. At which time we were able to obtain an address for Mr. Payne, we went, made contact with him. During the course of the interview with Mr. Payne, it was discovered that Edward James, a 66 year old white male, from Poplar Bluff, who had been transported to North Campus ER had succumbed to injuries sustained during the house fire. At that point Mr. Payne was placed under arrest. Mr. Payne is currently incarcerated in the Butler County Jail on the charges of murder first, arson first, with a bond of $250,000 cash only. The third subject that had been transported to north campus from the residence was later released from the hospital. An autopsy on Edward James will be conducted on Wednesday morning.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN’S TRIAL ON MURDER AND ELDER ABUSE CHARGES PUSHED TO AUGUST The preliminary trial for a Poplar Bluff woman on charges of murder and elderly abuse has been pushed to August.

According to the Butler County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the trial for Judy Smothers had been set for yesterday but is now scheduled for August 21st.

Smothers is facing felony charges of 2nd degree murder and 2nd degree elder abuse in connection to the death of her mother Theresa Smothers who died of neglect, malnourishment, and dehydration late last year.

The case will be heard by Judge Thomas Swindle.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY A Poplar Bluff man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for child pornography.

KWOC News spoke with Detective Joey Woodruff with the Poplar Bluff Police Department who said that the investigation into the case began in October of 2016.

JOEY WOODRUFF:

On October 6th, 2016, an investigation was opened after Detectives with the Southeast Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force at the Poplar Bluff Police Department received a cyber tip report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reporting a Facebook account had uploaded one image of confirmed child pornography to his account.

The account holder was identified as fifty year old Leslie Bryan Clark of Poplar Bluff.

On October 7th, 2016, Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department made contact with Clark at his residence in the 700 Block of North Riverview in Poplar Bluff. Digital Items were seized and forensic examinations were performed by the Southeast Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force laboratory.

During the examinations, several hundred images and videos of confirmed child pornography were discovered on Clark’s electronic devices. Clark admitted to actively downloading child pornography from the internet and provided detectives with numerous websites in which he obtained the contraband.

On November 9th, 2016, Leslie Bryan Clark was arrested on a federal indictment issued by the Eastern District of Missouri United States District Court in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

On April 12th, 2017, Leslie Bryan Clark was sentenced to 120 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons followed by 15 years of supervised release.

ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS TO HOLD INFORMATIONAL MEETING TODAY The United States Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake will be holding two informational meetings today to discuss the recovery and reopening of facilities that were affected by the near record reservoir levels.

The meetings will be held today at 10 am and 2 pm at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center in Wappapello. A third meeting is scheduled for today at 7 pm at the Greenville City Hall.

Personnel from the Wappapello Lake Management Office and the St. Louis District Office will present a formal talk on the 2017 events and will be available to answer questions and receive input from the public regarding upstream and downstream issues and the reopening of campgrounds and recreation facilities.

FEMA TEAMS IN CARTER COUNTY Teams with the Federal Emergency Management Agency have come to Southeast Missouri.

According to the Carter County Emergency Management Agency, FEMA representatives assigned to Disaster Survivor Assistance teams arrived in Carter County Monday to begin helping individuals apply for assistance.

Disaster Survivor Assistance representatives can be identified by FEMA photo identification badges.

Teams have also gone to Ripley County.

Anyone affected by the storms and in one of the declared counties can still register for assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) between 6 am and 10 pm.

Monday June 5, 2017

PRESIDENT TRUMP APPROVES DISASTER DECLARATION FOR MISSOURIPresident Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration that makes federal disaster assistance available to the state of Missouri to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from April 28th to May 11th.

Federal funding is available to affected individuals in 27 counties including Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Oregon, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, and Shannon counties.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area can apply for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

Federal funding is also available to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding in 46 counties. A full list of those counties is available on our website.

(Barry, Barton, Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Cedar, Christian, Cole, Crawford, Dade, Dallas, Dent, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Maries, McDonald, Miller, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Pike, Pulaski, Ralls, Reynolds, Ripley, Shannon, St. Louis, Stone, Taney, Texas, Washington, Wayne, Webster, and Wright counties.)

FOUR VEHICLES INVOLVED IN WRECK NEAR DONIPHAN Two people were injured in a wreck involving four vehicles on Friday near Doniphan.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 1:45 pm Friday on Missouri Highway 21.

A vehicle driven by 20 year old Dalton Cuculich, of Doniphan, allegedly crossed the centerline of the road and struck two vehicles before running off the road and down an embankment.

One of the vehicles struck by Cuculich ran off the side of the road then overturned after being struck by another vehicle when returning to the roadway.

The driver of that vehicle, 50 year old Stephen Cullison, of Ellsinore, suffered moderate injuries. The driver of the second vehicle to strike Cullison’s vehicle, 46 year old Mary Ridgon, of Doniphan, also suffered moderate injuries.

DEXTER WOMAN ARRESTED ON MARIJUANA WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area woman on a marijuana warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 21 year old Serena Sanders, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Sanders was also arrested on a warrant for possession of marijuana with intent to sell.

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FIREARM CHARGES IN KENNETT Two people were arrested last week in Kennett on drug and firearm charges.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Thursday officers arrested 21 year old Demetrus Hyles, of Hayti, and 21 year old Demarcus Leech, of Poplar Bluff, for possession of marijuana over 35 grams and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Officials say that both were transported to the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the State Prosecutor's Office.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE A Dexter man was taken into custody over the weekend on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Heath Moore was arrested Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Moore was transported to the Stoddard County Jail.

MISSOURI SECRETARY OF STATE TO BE IN POPLAR BLUFF THIS WEEK TO DISCUSS VOTER ID LAW Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft will be in Poplar Bluff later this week to discuss the new Voter ID law.

On Wednesday, Ashcroft will be at the Butler County Courthouse at 11 am.

The stop is a part of Ashcroft’s week-long, statewide Voter ID Informational Tour, which he says will allow him an opportunity to share clear and accurate guidance to Missourians about the new voter ID law and assist anyone who needs to register to vote.

Ashcroft will also be stopping on Wednesday in Caruthersville at 1:30 pm. That appearance will be at the Caruthersville Library.

Friday, June 2, 2017

OFFICIALS SAY TORNADO FORMED NEAR POPLAR BLUFF LAST WEEKEND A tornado reportedly formed near Poplar Bluff during last weekend’s storms.

According to the National Weather Service, an EF-0 tornado began Saturday night near the intersection of Highway PP and County Road 429. The tornado continued for two and a quarter miles before ending along Misty Meadow Road, roughly four and a quarter miles northwest of Poplar Bluff.

Weather officials say the tornado had peak winds of 85 miles per hour and a width of 85 yards.

There were several trees uprooted and minor structural damage to at least two homes due to fallen trees. At least six homes received shingle damage along Forest Meadow Drive.

  KENNETT MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY WRECK A Kennett man was flown to an area hospital yesterday following a wreck in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on US 412 at County Road 527 when 21 year old Donaldo Rodriguez-Valdez, of Senath, allegedly pulled his vehicle into the path of another vehicle, driven by 50 year old Timothy Mouhalif, of Kennett.

Mouhalif suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Jonesboro hospital. Rodriguez-Valdez received minor injuries and was taken to a Kennett hospital.

  MAN FOUND WITH CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE IN GREENE COUNTY A man was recently found with crystal methamphetamine in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, on Wednesday evening, deputies arrested Michael Reed on felony warrants.

A probation search was also conducted and nine grams of crystal methamphetamine, several smoking pipes, and digital scales were found.

Following the arrest, Reed was transported to the Greene County Detention Center.

  ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY CANCELLED FOR MISSING ST. LOUIS COUNTY MAN Updating a story we have been following for you this week, an Endangered Person Advisory for a missing St. Louis County man has been cancelled.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old William Kunes Jr. was located at a hospital in Huntsville, Alabama.

The Advisory was issued for Kunes after he went missing from Winchester on May 27th.

Authorities previously stated that he may be in Southeast Missouri.

  VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MASS FATALITY EXERCISE Officials in Butler County are seeking actors and volunteers for the upcoming Missouri Mortuary Operations Response Team Mass Fatality Exercise.

According to the Butler County Emergency Management Agency, they need 15 volunteers for each of two shifts on Saturday June 10th. The first shift will begin at 8 am and the second will begin at 12:30 pm.

The exercise is for the Victim Information Center which is where families and friends of victims report their missing loved ones.

The exercise scenario will be a mass fatality incident with a large number of deceased and injured. The exercise will be simulated to create an environment to support the bereaved.

For more information, contact Maddy Winters at 573-714-4197.

  OFFICE OF HEALTHCARE INSPECTIONS ISSUES REPORT ON POPLAR BLUFF VA MEDICAL CENTER The Department of Veterans Affairs has issued a report on Opioid Management Practice Concerns at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff.

The office of the Inspector General conducted an inspection to evaluate allegations regarding opioid management practices at the facility.

The report substantiated allegations of poor management of long-term opioid pain therapy for 10 patients as well as allegations that opioid prescriptions were written for patients without documentation of an opioid risk stratification tool.

The report also issued recommendations, including having the Facility Director ensure that relevant providers complete timely patient evaluations; receive education on dual short acting opioids and tapering of opioids; and review Veterans Health Administration recommendations regarding the use of opioid risk stratification tools along with other recommendations.

Here is the full report from the Office of Veteran's Affairs

  MODOT SAYS PUBLIC HEARING COULD BE HELD FOR UPCOMING BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS IN WAYNE COUNTY The Missouri Department of Transportation says that area residents have the opportunity to look over plans for an upcoming bridge project in Wayne County.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission is planning on improving the bridge over Black River on Route 49 which is located approximately a quarter of a mile south of Mill Spring.

Construction could begin as early as summer 2018. As construction is underway, Route 49 will be closed to through traffic in the vicinity of the bridge.

Maps, plans, and other information prepared by MoDot will be available for public inspection at the MoDot Sikeston District Office. Anybody affected by the project may request that a public hearing be held in regard to the proposed improvements.

Thursday June 1, 2017

US 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY WAS TEMPORARY BLOCKED YESTERDAY FOLLOWING WRECKA tractor trailer wreck in Butler County caused the temporary closure of part of US 67 yesterday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, southbound US 67 was blocked due to an overturned tractor trailer with hazardous material.

The incident was located north of US 60. The Highway Patrol has not released if there were any injuries in connection to the wreck.

ENDANGERED ST. LOUIS COUNTY MAN NOW BE HEADED TOWARDS BOSTON AREA Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a missing man from St. Louis County could be heading towards Massachusetts.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, information has been received that 49 year old William Kunes Jr. may be en route to an unknown location in Boston.

An Endangered Person Advisory was issued for Kunes after he went missing from Winchester on May 27th.

Authorities previously stated that Kunes may be in Southeast Missouri.

ROUTE 49 IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THROUGH EARLY OCTOBER Road crews will be in Wayne County through early October for a bridge replacement on Route 49.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located south of Route CC over McKenzie Creek.

Shoulder work began earlier this week and once a temporary bypass is built, the road will be reduced to one lane with signals.

Officials say that work will continue until Sunday, October 1st.

DONIPHAN WOMAN WINS $100,000 FROM SCRATCHERS TICKET A Doniphan woman has her friends to thank for winning one hundred thousand dollars.

According to the Missouri Lottery, on May 11th, Pamela McKinney was visiting with a couple of friends while one friend was working at a Doniphan business. While talking, her friends noticed there was only one ticket left in the “$100,000 Jackpot” Scratchers game, and they told her she should premier-pharmacy.com buy it.

The ticket ended up being worth the top prize of $100,000.

McKinney said she and her husband plan to use the prize money to pay bills. She said she isn’t sure what they will do with the remainder of the prize.

TWO MEN BEING QUESTIONED IN CONNECTION TO AMBER ALERT More information has come in about the abduction of a teenage girl in the Dent County area.

An Amber Alert was issued yesterday morning for 13 year old Trinity Lewis who was reportedly abducted from a location in Salem. She was found safe Wednesday morning.

Two males have also been located and are being questioned according to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT IS UNDERWAY IN STODDARD AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES Route W in New Madrid and Stoddard County will be closed through late this month so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway is located from Route 62 to Route Z.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Thursday, June 22nd.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STUDENT ELIMINATED IN SECOND ROUND OF SCRIPPS NATIONAL SPELLING BEE A Southeast Missouri girl has been eliminated from the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Emily King, of Cooter, was eliminated in the second round of the spelling bee after spelling Toile (twal) incorrectly.

King was one 32 spellers eliminated in the second round, which included a total 291 contestants.

Only forty students remain for the finals which are scheduled to begin this morning.

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

AMBER ALERT ISSUED FOR ABDUCTED SALEM GIRL

  An Amber Alert was issued early this morning for a teenage girl who was abducted in Salem.

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children the alert is for 13 year old Trinity Lewis.

She was reportedly abducted from 723 County Road 6090 in Salem. The suspect vehicle is a two tone, extended cab pickup. The vehicle was occupied by two unknown male suspects.

Lewis is described as a white female, five foot three inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was wearing shorts and a shirt and was carrying a yellow and white drawstring bag.

Anyone with information on Lewis’s location is asked to contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241 or their local law enforcement agency.

  ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY ISSUED FOR MAN BELIEVED TO POSSIBLY BE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  An Endangered Person Advisory was issued yesterday afternoon for a man who is believed to possibly be in Southeast Missouri.

The St. Louis County Police Department issued the advisory for 49 year old Williams Kunes(KOO-ness), Jr.

Officials say that Kunes is epileptic and possibly suffering from psychotic episodes. He left suicide notes at multiple locations at his residence, which is not typical behavior for him.

Kunes is described as white male, five foot eight inches tall, weighing 140 pounds, with red hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. He also has a scar on his left temple.

A vehicle he may be in is described as a Blue 2012 Mazda 4 with a Missouri License plate of YK9G82 that was last seen in Winchester.

Based on information received from the public, authorities believe that Kunes may be in the southeast Missouri area, or may have left the state en route to an unknown location in Florida.

He may also be with 78 year old Donald Strand.

Anyone with information on Kunes whereabouts should contact their nearest law enforcement agency.

  ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY

  An Ellington woman was injured Tuesday in a single vehicle wreck in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 53 year old Dayna Silva was travelling on Highway 67 when her vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

Silva suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

  BELL CITY CUBS WIN CLASS ONE STATE BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

  Bell City used a hot start yesterday to win a state championship.

The Cubs scored four runs in the first inning and three runs in the second and sixth innings in their 10-0 win over Wellsville High School at the Missouri Class 4 State Baseball Final.

This is the third consecutive state championship in Baseball for Bell City.

  O’NEAL ELEMENTARY COLLECTED OVER 900 CANNED GOODS FOR CHILD CONCERN CENTER

  Students at O’Neal Elementary recently collected over 900 canned non perishable goods for a local nonprofit.

According to school officials, the can drive was for the Child Concern Center of Poplar Bluff.

The nonprofit, which serves low-income families, depleted its food bank supplies while providing relief during the historic flood.

Officials say that each grade level brought in canned goods over the course of a week and a half.

The second grade brought in the most items with 377, winning a Popsicle party on Friday, May 26th.

  TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FIREARM CHARGES

  Two people were recently taken into custody in Kennett on drug and firearm charges.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Monday officers arrested 36 year old Timothy Bogle, of Caruthersville, and Jennifer Bell, of Hayti, for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Both were held at the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the state prosecutor's Office.

  TWO MONTH LONG BRIDGE REPLACEMENT BEGINS TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

  Route ZZ in Dunklin County will be closed through July as contractor crews perform a bridge replacement.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that the work zone will be located between Route NN and the end of state maintenance.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Saturday, July 29th from 6 am to 7 pm, daily.

Tuesday May 30, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING A Poplar Bluff resident has died following an accidental shooting.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that the incident occurred at around 1:30 pm Sunday afternoon at a residence on 5^th street.

Moore says that the victim has been identified as 23 year old Madrian Cooper.

We will keep following this story for you and bring your more information as it becomes available.

DAMAGING WINDS AND LARGE HAIL HIT SOUTHEAST MISSOURI OVER THE WEEKEND

Winds with speeds of up to 80 miles per hour caused damage across Southeast Missouri Saturday night.

According to the National Weather Service, there were many observations of large hail and damaging winds reported throughout the region, including wind speeds upwards of 70 to 80 mph and some hailstones measuring golf ball sized and slightly higher.

Officials say that the roof was blown off of a building connected to the movie theater in Dexter. Several homes sustained roof damage as well.

Trees were reported down in multiple counties, including Butler, Carter, and Wayne Counties. A trained spotter also reported seeing a funnel cloud in Butler County, at around 8:19 pm Saturday night.

The National Weather Service also says that multiple rounds of storms over the same locations resulted in some flooding issues as well. Rainfall totals of one point five to three plus inches were observed from Carter County east into southern Scott County.

WILLIAMSVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES

A Williamsville man was arrested Saturday in Butler County on gun and drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Michael Ward was taken into custody on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and unlawful use of a firearm.

Ward is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana.

POPLAR BLUFF MULES BASEBALL TEAM ELMINATED IN STATE QUARTERFINAL

The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team was eliminated from the state championship tournament on Friday.

The Mules fell to Vianney 1-0 in the state quarterfinal. Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that this was the best finish in program history.

The Bell City Baseball team will be playing for a state championship today at 1:30 pm against Wellsville High School. The Bell City Cubs won their semi-final matchup against Hurley High School yesterday 3-1.

ONE FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN KENNETT

Authorities in Kennett are searching for a man in connection to a shooting.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly before 10 am Monday reports were made of a subject that had been shot at an area residence.

At the residence, officers located one person who had sustained injuries during the incident. The victim was taken by helicopter to The Med in Memphis where he is currently listed as stable.

A suspect in the case has been identified as 29 year old Braylon

“Toto” Johnson. He is described as five foot six inches tall, weighing 140 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Officials say that Johnson should being considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of Johnson is urged to contact the Kennett Police Department as soon as possible at 573-888-4622.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER ALMOST 40 GRAMS OF METH FOUND IN CLAY COUNTY

Two people were taken into custody Friday after Clay County authorities found methamphetamine in a vehicle

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that at around 3 pm Friday, deputies pulled over a vehicle in Piggott and made contact with the occupants, identified as 35 year old Donald Grider and 28 year old Barrett Russell.

Deputies gained consent to search the vehicle and located around 39.9 grams of meth along with a loaded syringe, a set of digital scales, a baggie containing numerous oxycodone pills, and several hundred dollars’ worth of U.S. currency.

Miller says that both suspects were held on numerous drug and traffic violations.

PIEDMONT MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Piedmont man was flown to a St. Louis area hospital over the weekend following an ATV wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old George Sutton was driving on County Road 152 in Iron County Sunday night when his ATV overturned while he was attempting a turn.

Sutton, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck and suffered serious injuries.

ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route JJ in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pull paving.

Officials with MODOT tell us the road will be closed between Route D and the Stoddard County line.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Friday, May 26, 2017

MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO PLAY IN STATE QUARTER-FINAL TODAY

  The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team is heading to St. Louis this morning ahead of their State Quarter-final later today.

The Mules will be playing the Vianney Golden Griffiths today for the chance to advance to the Class 5 State Semi-Finals against Fort Zumwalt West next week in O’Fallon.

First pitch is scheduled for 2:30 pm and will be broadcast live here on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC as well as online at KWOC.com.

Sikeston was eliminated in their Class 4 quarterfinal yesterday after losing to Lutheran South 5-4.

  SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS ARE UNDER AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE STORMS THIS WEEKEND

  Weather officials say that the holiday weekend is bringing with it a greater chance of severe weather.

Both Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas are under an enhanced risk of severe weather for Saturday.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, thunderstorms are forecast throughout the region Saturday through Sunday evening.

Any storms that develop through that time period may become severe, but the greatest threats will be late Saturday into Saturday night, and possibly again along the cold front Sunday afternoon and evening.

Any individual storm would pose a threat of very large hail to go along with damaging winds and possibly a few tornadoes. In addition, heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding where multiple storms train over the same locations.

  MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST MAN FOR FAKE MEMORIAL

  The Missouri Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against a Farmington man, alleging that that the man misled donors when soliciting donations for a memorial to honor fallen law enforcement officers.

Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC News that Terry Lemons is accused of soliciting donations from businesses in southeast Missouri to raise awareness of law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty through a portable memorial.

As part of his solicitations he used the fictitious name of “Thin Blue Line Tahoe” and falsely claimed it was a nonprofit corporation.

Hawley says Lemons actually used the funds to make his personal Chevrolet Tahoe look like a police patrol vehicle complete with radar equipment, shotgun, emergency lights, and a computer. He used the rest of the funds on personal purchases.

Those who may have contributed money to Lemons are urged to contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 888-392-8222.

  TRUCK HIT BY A TRAIN IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  A man reportedly refused medical attention after his vehicle was hit by a train yesterday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the incident occurred Thursday afternoon in Clay County.

The truck was going over the train tracks when it was hit by the train.

  HIGHWAY PATROL ENCOURAGES DRIVERS AND BOATERS TO HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

  Memorial Day weekend is upon us and the Missouri State Highway Patrol wants local drivers and boaters to remember to put safety first.

Captain John Hotz tells us that every available trooper will be on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists during the long holiday weekend.

Hotz says that motorists should know where work zones are located along your route, pay attention while you are driving, and buckle up. If you are planning time on or near the water, make sure you wear a life jacket as well.

Motorists or boaters in need of assistance or who want to report a crime can use the Highway Patrol's Emergency Assistance number at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone.

  MISSOURI STATE VETERANS CEMETERY TO HOLD MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

  The Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield has announced they will be holding their annual Memorial Day Program again this year.

The ceremony is set to begin at 1 pm Monday at the Committal Shelter Plaza at the Cemetery.

The Keynote Speaker for this year’s program will be the Veterans Cemetery Directory, Kenneth Swearengin.

Officials say that families and friends of those interred, as well as the general public, are invited to attend.

For more information, call 573-568-3871.

  TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE AT YOUR HOTEL WHILE ON VACATION

  Today we are finishing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation by focusing on hotel safety.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that once you arrive, you should place all of your luggage in your room; do not leave anything in your vehicle.

Once you’re in your room, unpack your luggage. Arrange all your belongings so that you will notice if anything is missing. Also try to keep a daily check of all your belongings.

Do not leave valuables in your room when you are not there; take them with you. You can also place your extra cash, jewelry, or valuables in the hotel safe.

Also remember to use the door viewer to identify anyone requesting entry into your room. Do not open the door if you do not believe the person has a legitimate reason for being in your room.

DRIVERS URGED TO USE CAUTION IN THE AREA OF THE 100 MILE YARD SALE THIS WEEKEND

  The annual 100 mile yard sale is this weekend and the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging motorists to use caution.

The yard sale spans from Jackson to Kennett along Missouri State Highway 25 and will run through Memorial Day on Monday.

Traffic Engineer Craig Compas tells us that there will be more traffic and congestion along the highway this weekend than any other.

MoDOT will have message boards in place along the route to alert drivers of the unusual traffic patterns and promote safe driving.

Thursday, May 25, 2017

MINER WOMAN INVOLVED IN FATAL WRECK NEAR BERNIE A Miner woman has died following a wreck yesterday afternoon in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 51 year old Jennifer Wamble was driving on Route U, three miles west of Bernie, when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road, overcorrected, ran off the ran off the left side of the road, and then overturned.

Wamble was ejected during the wreck and pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Deputy Coroner Aaron Mathis.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR REQUESTS FEDERAL DISASTER DECELERATION

  Missouri Governor Eric Greitens has issued a request for a federal disaster declaration following the flooding that recently struck the state. Yesterday, the Governor requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration for Missouri that would provide federal assistance to a total of 51 counties.

Based on joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted by the State Emergency Management Agency, Federal Emergency Management Agency and local officials, the Governor is requesting Individual Assistance for 37 counties, which would allow eligible residents to seek federal assistance with temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles and other qualifying expenses as a result of the flooding.

The Governor is also requesting that the U.S. Small Business Administration assist businesses, homeowners, and renters in the 37 counties with low-interest loans.

Based on joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted by SEMA, FEMA and local officials, Governor Greitens has also requested Public Assistance for 45 counties, in order to allow local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement costs for damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.

A full list of counties included in the request is available on our website.

The 37 counties for which Individual Assistance is being requested are: Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Christian, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Greene, Howell, Iron, Jasper, Jefferson, Laclede, Madison, Maries, McDonald, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Pemiscot, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Ripley, Ste. Genevieve, St. Louis, Shannon, Stone, Taney, Texas, Wayne, and Wright.

The 45 counties for which Public Assistance is being requested are: Barry, Barton, Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Cedar, Christian, Cole, Crawford, Dade, Dallas, Dent, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Maries, Miller, McDonald, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Pike, Pulaski, Ralls, Reynolds, Ripley, Shannon, Stone, Taney, Texas, Washington, Wayne, Webster, and Wright.

  KENNETT MAN RECEIVES 20 YEAR SENTENCE IN CONNECTION TO CONVENIENCE STORE ROBBERY

  A Kennett man received a 20 years sentence yesterday in connection to a robbery at an area convenience store.

The United States Attorney's Office has announced that 37 year old Antonio Brown was sentenced on one felony count of interference with commerce by robbery and one felony count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a crime of violence.

On July 1st, 2015, at around 10 pm, two men wearing facemasks entered Curt’s Grocery Store in Kennett and immediately fired their handguns at the store’s manager. The clerk was struck by four rounds fired by the two men.

The men then took a money bag from behind the counter, the cash from the cash register, the money from the clerk’s person, and two firearms from the store. As they left the store, one of the robbers fired a shot at the cashier, narrowly missing her.

Brown was later taken into custody. Another participant in the robbery, Julius Jones, was convicted following a two day trial earlier this year.

  POPLAR BLUFF CLASS OF 2017 TO GRADUATE TONIGHT

  The Poplar Bluff Class of 2017 will be receiving their diplomas tonight.

The commencement ceremony for this year’s senior class will take place at 7 pm.

The ceremony will be held at the Black River Coliseum.

  POPLAR BLUFF TECHNICAL CAREER CENTER’S BUILDING TRADES PROGRAM COMPLETES 38TH HOUSE

  Poplar Bluff students have finished the construction of a house.

The three-bedroom/two-bath, 1,694-square-foot house, which includes a two-car garage, is the 38th house constructed by the Building Trades program of the Technical Career Center.

TCC Director Charles Kinsey tells KWOC News that the TCC has maintained its tradition over the decades of constructing a full house that is up to code and completed under professional carpentry standards.

The home is expected to go out for bid next month for opening by the school board during the July 20th meeting.

  POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN THEFT FROM POPLAR BLUFF CAR DEALERSHIP

  Police in Poplar Bluff are searching for a suspect in connection to a theft case from a local car dealership.

We have pictures of the suspect that are currently available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on the identity or whereabouts of the suspect is asked to contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776.

  TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR VEHICLE SAFE WHILE ON VACATION

  Continuing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation, today we are going to focus on how to stay safe in and around your vehicle.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that you should always lock your vehicle after entering or leaving it and remember to park in well-lighted areas.

Always place valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Do not leave wallets, checkbooks, or purses in your vehicle. When returning to your vehicle, always check the backseat before entering.

You should also not stop for hitchhikers. If you want to help, call for assistance for them.

Coming up tomorrow we will finish our series with tips on staying safe while at your hotel.

  OFFICIALS PROVIDE UPDATE ON WAPPAPELLO LAKE

  Yesterday, officials provided an update on Wappapello Lake.

As of 10 am yesterday, the lake stage was at 382.17 NGVD, with the inflow at 980 and the discharge at 9,800 cubic feet a second.

As we reported to you yesterday, the Redman Creek Recreation Area and Boat Ramp are now open. In addition, people have also been launching from the Sundowner, Chaonia Landing, and Allison Cove boat ramps at Lake Wappapello State Park.

The Greenville and Peoples Creek Lower Campground are still closed, however the Redman Creek and People Creek Upper Campgrounds are open to campers.

Officials say that the Kids Fun Day, originally scheduled for June 3rd has been cancelled. The Wappapello Woodland Expo will be held on July 8th.

For more information, call the management office at 573-222-8562.

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

KENNETT WOMAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

  A Kennett woman has died in connection to a wreck Tuesday afternoon in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 76 year old Darlene Crawford, was travelling east on the Highway 412 bypass near Paragould when she ran onto the shoulder, hit a guardrail, and then struck a vehicle head on. The second vehicle was then hit from behind by another vehicle.

Officials say that Crawford was killed in the wreck. No other injuries were listed.

  MULES BASEBALL TEAM ADVANCES TO STATE QUARTERFINALS

  The Poplar Bluff Mules Baseball team will be travelling to St. Louis later this week to play in the Class 5 state quarterfinals.

Following a lightning delay of almost 90 minutes yesterday during the State Sectional game, the Mules defeated Rockwood Summit 2-1.

Due to Thursday’s graduation, the State Quarterfinal game at Vianney has been pushed back to Friday. The game is scheduled to begin at 2:30 pm.

The Sikeston Bulldogs advanced to the Class 4 State Quarterfinal with their 11-2 win over Festus. They will play Lutheran South on Thursday.

Bell City and Eminence will face each other in the Class 1 State Quarterfinal today at 4 pm. Also today, South Pemiscot will take on St. Vincent in the Class 2 Quarterfinal and Portageville will face West County in the Class 3 Quarterfinal.

  EARLY MORNING WRECK RESULTS IN SERIOUS INJURIES FOR ESSEX MAN

  A man was taken to an area hospital early Tuesday morning following a single vehicle wreck in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly before 2:30 am on US 60, east of Fisk.

23 year old James Montgomery, of Essex, reportedly ran off the side of the roadway and struck the guardrail.

He was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital with serious injuries.

  TIPS FOR KEEPING SAFE WHILE ON THE ROAD DURING VACATION

  Continuing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation, today we are going to focus on what you can do to stay safe while on the road.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that you should try not to carry large amounts of cash while on vacation and instead use traveler’s checks. If you must carry large sums of money do not openly display it and also don’t take more credit cards than you will need.

Don’t leave any tickets in open view as officials say they are as valuable as cash. Males are advised to carry their wallets in an inside pocket or the front pocket of their pants while females should carry their purses under their arm with a firm grasp.

Remember to make sure your luggage is locked and labeled with your name and telephone number. You can also take pictures of your luggage so airline personnel can identify it if it is lost.

Coming up tomorrow we will go over tips on how to keep your vehicle safe during your vacation.

  OFFICIALS OPEN REDMAN CREEK RECREATION AREA AND BOAT RAMP

  Officials at Wappapello Lake say that a local recreation area has been opened.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Redman Creek Recreation Area and Boat Ramp are now open.

Cleanup is still ongoing and the lake is still very high so officials are asking everyone to use caution in the area.

  FOUR POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS RECEIVE AWARDS FROM THE MISSOURI STATE HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

  Four Poplar Bluff students have received awards of excellence from the Missouri State High School Activities Association.

Sierra Sievers and Joseph Hardimon were named Missouri Good Sports at the Junior High, while Katie Sliger and Adam Vincent received the annual award at the Senior High.

School officials say the award goes to multi-sport student athletes who display exemplary sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity.

  DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING CHASE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  A Doniphan man has been taken into custody following a high speed chase in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the motor of 43 year old James Laroux’s motorcycle caught on fire during the chase, which began in Randolph County before moving into Clay County.

Laroux was arrested on a fleeing charge, among others.

  PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT BEGINNING TODAY IN BUTLER AND RIPLEY COUNTIES

  Route 142 in Ripley and Butler Counties will be reduced to one lane with a 10.5 foot width restriction through the end of July as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route E to Route H.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Monday, July 31st from 6 am to 6 pm each day.

Tuesday May 23, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF RESTURAUNT SUFFERS SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE IN MONDAY MORNING FIRE  A Poplar Bluff restaurant was destroyed by fire yesterday.

According to authorities, the Fazoli’s on North Westwood Boulevard caught fire sometime early Monday morning.

The building is being called a complete loss and there were no one was injured during the incident.

MEETING TO BE HELD TONIGHT TO DISCUSS T HIGHWAY

 Area citizens will be holding a meeting tonight to discuss T Highway.

Many area residents have been wondering why a bridge is not being put in to replace the section of the highway that has washed away twice recently due to overflow from the spillway.

A meeting will be held to discuss this section of the highway from 5 to 6 pm tonight at the VFW Hall on Highway D, north of the Wappapello Lake.

TIPS FOR HAVING YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS KEEP YOUR HOME SECURE WHILE YOU ARE ON VACATION

Continuing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation, today we are going to focus on how you can ask your friends and neighbors to keep your home secure while you are away.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that residents ask several neighbors to keep an eye on your residence while you are away.

If you can, arrange for a neighbor to pick up your deliveries, including mail, newspaper, and any other packages, as well as for someone to maintain your yard.

You can ask for a neighbor to park in your driveway while you are gone. If you leave your car at home, park as you normally would.

The reason for these suggestions is so that your home will appear to be occupied, even though you are gone.

You should also leave your vacation address and telephone number with the neighbors so you can be reached in case of an emergency.

Coming up tomorrow we will go over tips on how to stay safe while on the road to and from your destination.

MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO PLAY IN SECTIONALS TODAY

The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team will be hosting their state sectional this afternoon.

The Mules will be playing the Rockwood Summit Falcons for the opportunity to advance to the state quarterfinals later this week.

First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 pm and will be broadcast live here on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC.

Sikeston will also have their state sectional today at noon against Festus. Bell City, Eminence, South Pemiscot County, and Portageville all advanced to the State Quarterfinals in their respective classes yesterday.

DONIPHAN MAN FLOWN TO SPRINGFIELD HOSPITAL AFTER HITTING TREE

 A Doniphan man was seriously injured Monday morning following a wreck in Ripley County.

According to a report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Ezra Hopkins was driving on Highway C, around 13 miles north of Briar, when he struck a tree in the roadway.

Hopkins suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Springfield hospital.

DONIPHAN POLICE DEPARTMENT SAYS WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY HAS NOT BEEN BREACHED

 Rumors have been spreading online about the Doniphan Wastewater Treatment Facility that officials say are untrue.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the wastewater treatment plant was not breeched by the recent flooding nor has it ever been flooded.

The Police Department says that flood waters can and do contain many contaminants from various sources including many harmful bacteria, both naturally occurring and from septic systems that were destroyed along the river.

Riverfront Park in Doniphan is closed until further notice due to elevated E. Coli counts.

The City of Doniphan will continue testing the soils in Riverfront Park and will advise the public when conditions appear to be safe.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE FROM SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION

 A Missouri State Representative from Southeast Missouri has announced her resignation.

Tila Hubrecht announced Monday that she is stepping down as representative from Missouri’s 151^st District, effective June 2^nd.

She says that there should be enough time for the Special Session work to be concluded as well as for the Governor to call for a special election.

Hubrecht has served as the Representative for the 151^st District, which covers all of Stoddard County and parts of Western Scott County, since 2014.

She says that she is returning to nursing.

BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS UNDERWAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 34 in Wayne County is being reduced with a 10 foot width restriction so contractor crews can perform bridge improvements.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation say that the bridge is located over Bear Creek, just west of Route M.

Weather permitting, work is being performed from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Thursday, June 8^th.

Monday, May 22, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN KILLED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

  An area woman was killed Friday morning in a head on collision in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when two vehicles collided on County Road 452.

One of the drivers, 59 year old Devora Kingery, of Poplar Bluff, was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Andy Moore.

The other driver, 25 year old Daniel Hendrickson, also of Poplar Bluff, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

  MISSOURI GOVERNOR ERIC GREITENS SPEAKS IN POPLAR BLUFF

  Missouri Governor Eric Greitens made a trip to Southeast Missouri over the weekend which included a stop in Poplar Bluff.

Greitens spoke on Saturday at the Black River Coliseum first about the state and community’s response to the recent flooding.

"We were down, we’re down in Carter County, saw what happened to the Carter County Courthouse, went through Van Buren, this is a town that was hit hard.

What we saw in Van Buren, and we saw throughout Southern Missouri, is we saw people come out. We did this differently than we had done before, when we got the warning that a flood was about to happen, we went out and ahead of time we put out our swift water rescue teams and we let them know, be ready to save lives, be ready to save lives. And the fire and mutual aid, the state emergency management agency, we went out there, and what we saw.

Even after these tremendous floods, we saw resilience, we saw strength, we saw power, we saw people who in the face of hardship and the face of difficulty said we are going to come back even stronger."

Greitens also spoke about the special session of the Missouri Legislature that he called last week.

"Now here’s the situation we’ve got right now, and it’s really straightforward. Right now, we have a company that wants to come to Southeast Missouri and make steel. And they are willing to bring hundreds of quality jobs here. And this is the thing, if we do this right, steel is just the beginning. It is a tremendous opportunity here, we were just down at Noranda, how would you like to open the Noranda plant again?

But what we had, what we had and Don explained this situation perfectly, we had a couple of politicians who for their own personal, pitiful, petty, political reasons, their own political privileges, wanted to put that ahead of jobs for the people. And what they did, was they ran out the clock.

So what I did, talked with a couple of folks about this, said you know what, they figured they could run out the clock and go home and go on vacation, so what we did is we cancelled their vacations and we’re bringing them back to work so they can do their job."

Greitens called the special session for the steel mill bill, which had stalled when the legislative session ended.

The proposal would allow the state Public Service Commission to approve special electric rates for aluminum smelting and steel-works facilities, which require a lot of electricity.

Some senators expressed concerns about creating special exemptions for particular companies.

  ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING CHASE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  One person has been taken into custody following a pursuit early Sunday morning in Northeast Arkansas.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that the incident began at around 12:35 Sunday morning when a vehicle refused to stop for a routine traffic stop in Piggott.

Piggott Police continued to pursue the vehicle until it wrecked on County Road 344. The occupants of the vehicle then fled on foot through a wooded area.

One subject, 33 year old Larry Green, of Malden, was found and taken into custody. Officers were not able to locate the second occupant of the vehicle

Miller says that Green is being held at the Clay County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing on charges of fleeing, possession of a controlled substance, and reckless driving, along with other charges.

  TIPS FOR SECURING YOUR HOME WHILE ON VACATION

  With Memorial Day coming up this weekend, that means vacation season is here. Today we are beginning our five part series on how to keep you, your family, and possessions safe while on vacation.

Today and tomorrow we are going to focus on how to secure your home while you are away.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that residents need to make sure all of the locks on the doors and windows in your home function properly. You should also leave the shades and blinds on doors and windows in a position that you would normally have them.

Officials say that you should try to shades and blinds on doors and windows in a position that you would normally have them and also have timers for lights, television, or radios so they turn on and off at the appropriate times.

You can also consider taking valuables that you cannot live without to a safety deposit box.

Coming up tomorrow we will go over how you can have your neighbors assist you with home security while you are on vacation.

  PEDESTRIAN INJURED FOLLOWING HIT AND RUN NEAR CAMPBELL

  A Portageville man was injured in a hit and run incident Friday afternoon in Dunklin County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the incident occurred 2 miles north of Campbell on Missouri Highway 53 at approximately 2:30 pm Friday.

A vehicle struck 38 year old Allen Summers on the shoulder of the Highway and then left the scene. Summers suffered moderate injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

No information was available about the vehicle that struck Summers.

  RIDESHARING APP UBER ANNOUNCES EXPANSION TO POPLAR BLUFF

  A popular ridesharing company has expanded to Poplar Bluff.

Uber announced on Friday that that it will begin operating in the city following the passage of a statewide ridesharing regulation earlier this year.

Riders use the Uber app to connect to a driver and request a ride.

The company says they partner with pre-screened local drivers who use their own personal vehicles to transport riders.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

  Route WW in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane through the end of the month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from Route J to Route 60.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, June 1st from 6 am to 5 pm daily.

  ROAD CLOSURE SET FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

  Route UU in New Madrid County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be closed is located from Route D to County Road 784.

Work is scheduled to be done today from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm.

ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY ISSUED FOR TWO MISSING CHILDREN

The Reynolds County Sheriff’s Department has issued an Endangered Person Advisory for an incident that occurred last night in Ellington.  

According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Department, 13 year old William Winchester Beecher and 8 year old Austin Lee Beecher were last seen at approximately 8:10 pm on Thursday night.

A witness stated that they saw a green General Motors type truck driving slowly in the area at about the time the children were last seen.

William Beecher is described as a white male, 4'9" tall, weighing 110 pounds, with brown hair, brown eyes, and a scar on his left wrist. He may be wearing a dark blue shirt, blue jeans and pull on boots.

Austin Lee Beecher, is a white male, 4'1" tall, weighing 100 pounds, with red hair, blue eyes, freckles and buck tooth. He may be wearing a red shirt, blue jeans and pull on boots.

Anyone having any information related to the whereabouts of the two children should immediately dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Department at 573-648-2491.

Friday May 19, 2017

GOVERNOR ERIC GREITENS TO SPEAK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI THIS WEEKENDMissouri Governor Eric Greitens will be speaking in Southeast Missouri this weekend.

Greitens will be speaking at the location of the old Noranda facility in New Madrid on Saturday beginning at 9:30 am. Butler County Republican Central Committee Chairman Eddy Justice says that Greitens will also be speaking at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff at 12:30 pm on Saturday.

The topic will be the special session of the Missouri Legislature he called yesterday to discuss the steel mill bill, which had stalled when the legislative session ended.

The proposal would allow the state Public Service Commission to approve special electric rates for aluminum smelting and steel-works facilities, which require a lot of electricity.

Some senators expressed concerns about creating special exemptions for particular companies.

STEELE MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON MULTIPLE COUNTS OF CHILD MOLESTATION A Steele man is facing multiple charges following his arrest Thursday evening in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Darryl Herron was arrested on four counts of 1st degree child molestation, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, and ten counts of possession of child pornography videos.

Following the arrest, Herron was held at the Pemiscot County Jail.

MULTIPLE ROUNDS OF THUNDERSTORMS AND POSSIBLE HEAVY RAINFALL ARE EXPECTED FOR THIS WEEKEND We could be seeing more rain this weekend according to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service.

Weather officials say that multiple rounds of thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall are expected for this weekend.

A few strong storms will be possible throughout the period, but the greater concern will be heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding.

Officials say that the flash flooding threat will build with each round of storms.

WOMAN FLOWN TO AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY A woman was flown to an area hospital yesterday following a wreck in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 2 am Thursday morning near Lodi.

53 year old Lindwood Mitchell, of Greenville, reportedly hit a tree after he ran off the side of County Road 212, overcorrected, and lost control.

A passenger in the vehicle, 29 year old Lyndsay Mitchell, suffered moderate injuries and was taken by Air Evac to St. Francis Hospital.

VEHICLE SEARCH LEADS TO METH ARREST IN GREENE COUNTY A woman has been taken into custody after drugs was allegedly found in her vehicle earlier this week.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Crystal Tedder was arrested Wednesday night after a deputy discovered the meth during a search of her vehicle.

Carter says Tedder was arrested for possession of crystal methamphetamine.

KENNETT SOFTBALL TEAM TO PLAY IN STATE SEMIFINAL TODAY The Kennett High School Softball team will be playing in the State Semi-finals today in Springfield.

Kennett, who have a 21 and three record for the season, will be taking on Strafford High School beginning at 5 pm. Strafford is 23 and 1.

The winner will advance to the State Championship game on Saturday against the winner of the second semi-final between Purdy and Lincoln high schools. The final will begin at 1 pm Saturday at Killian Sports Complex in Springfield.

Thursday, May 18, 2017

PARAGOULD MAN FOUND DEAD ON RAILROAD TRACKS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  A Paragould man has been found dead in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Office, the body of 74 year old Marvin Jones was found on area railroad tracks shortly after 5 am Wednesday morning.

Jones had been reported as being possibly missing on Tuesday.

An investigation into Jones death is ongoing, and officials say his body is being sent to the Medical Examiner in Little Rock.

  FALLING TREE KILLS SIKESTON MAN

  A man has died following an incident yesterday in Sikeston.

According to the National Weather Service, a wind gust caused a rotten tree to fall over Wednesday afternoon. The tree reportedly struck and killed 41 year old Richard Flye, of Sikeston.

Three other people were injured in the incident.

  MAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

  A man has been arrested in Pemiscot County on a child pornography charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Damien Bennett, of Caruthersville, was arrested Wednesday afternoon on ten counts of felony possession of child pornography videos.

Following the arrest, Bennett was held at the Pemiscot County Jail.

  FIVE PEOPLE INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN RIPLEY COUNTY

  Five people, including three children, were taken to area hospitals following a single vehicle wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred at around 2 am Wednesday morning on Missouri Highway 21.

A vehicle, driven by 31 year old Ashley Barnett, of Doniphan, reportedly ran off the roadway and struck a culvert. Two adult passengers suffered moderate injuries, while three children in the vehicle received minor injuries.

All five were taken to hospitals in either Poplar Bluff or Doniphan.

  TWO EAST PRAIRIE RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON GUN AND METH CHARGES

  Two East Prairie residents were taken into custody Wednesday morning on gun and drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 39 year old Charlie Reynolds and 37 year old Bethany Carden, were each arrested on felony charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Both Reynolds and Carden are also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, both were transported to the Mississippi County Jail.

  FEES FOR VITAL RECORDS WILL BE WAIVED IN FLOOD AFFECTED COUNTIES

  Missouri officials say that fees will be waived for residents who lost select documents during the recent flooding.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has announced that fees will be waived for replacement of Missouri birth, death, marriage, and divorce records for persons whose documents were lost or destroyed in the flooding.

For more information, go online to health.mo.gov.

  COFFEE WITH A COP EVENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

  A Coffee with a Cop event has been scheduled for this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

Area residents will be able to join local Police Officers for coffee and conversation on Saturday at Myrtle's Place Back Alley BBQ in downtown Poplar Bluff.

The event is scheduled for 8 am to 10 am Saturday morning.

  12 ARRESTS MADE AS A PART OF A ROUND UP IN SIKESTON

  Multiple agencies participated in the arrest of 12 people Wednesday as a part of a warrant round up in Sikeston.

Officials with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tell KWOC News that the Scott County Sheriff, New Madrid County Sheriff, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Air National Guard, Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms assisted in the round up.

Officials say that the arrest warrants were the result of an ongoing investigation that has occurred within the city over the past few months.

Tyce Cody-Robbery/Assault Darius Cody-Robbery/Assault Robert Jones-Robbery/Assault Eric Greer-Marijuana Possession Sheila Farmer-Possession of Controlled Substance Tina Ervin-Possession of Controlled Substance Lawrence Strickland-Federal Arrest Warrant for Weapons Violation Rebecca Powell-Possession of Controlled Substance Jessica Lepior-Possession of Controlled Substance Bethany Carden-Possession of Controlled Substance Gary Foote-Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute Melanie Buckley-Possession of Controlled Substance

Wednesday May 17, 2017

DONIPHAN PARK CLOSED DUE TO E-COLI Officials in Doniphan have announced that an area park has been closed due to e-coli.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, as a result from recent flooding, E-Coli counts from the soil samples taken at Riverfront Park are at levels that may not be considered safe.

Officials say that the park is closed until further notice and that soil samples will be tested continually until results are at safe levels.

MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL CALLS FORMER MISSISSIPPI COUNTY SHERIFF A DANGER TO THE COMMUNITY

The Missouri Attorney General is calling for bail to be revoked for the former Mississippi County Sheriff.

Attorney General Josh Hawley asked the Circuit Court of Mississippi County yesterday to revoke former Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson’s bond in the pending criminal case against him.

The Attorney General’s Office charged Hutcheson with 18 criminal counts last month, including robbery, illegal surveillance, and forgery.

Hawley also asked that Hutcheson be jailed or barred from interfering in the Attorney General’s investigation into the death of Tory Sanders at the Mississippi County jail on the night of May 5^th.

In a statement released yesterday, Hawley said “The facts more than establish that Cory Hutcheson has violated the terms of his bail and is a danger to the community.”

TWO ARRESTED FOR METH IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Two people were taken into custody Tuesday afternoon in Dunklin County on a meth charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 44 year old Kevin Morgan, of Senath, and 30 year old Cassidy Turner, of Arbyrd, were arrested shortly before 4 pm on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, both were transported to the Dunklin County Jail.

TWO INJURED IN WRECK NEAR FAGUS

Two Illinois residents were injured Tuesday evening in a wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 30 year old Mickey Gregory, of Wayne City, Illinois, ran off of Missouri Highway 51 and overturned approximately a half mile south of Fagus.

Gregory suffered moderate injuries. A passenger in the vehicle, 37 year old Terry Owen, also of Wayne City, was seriously injured and flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Two people were reportedly shot Tuesday in New Madrid County.

According to authorities, the incident occurred in Howardville.

One of the people shot was taken to a Memphis hospital and the other was taken to an area hospital. Both victim’s injuries are not believed to be life threatening.

MOTORISTS ASKED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR MOWERS

Missouri motorists are asked to be careful when approaching mowers along Missouri’s highways.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, major and minor routes will be mowed in three cycles through September. On rural two-lane roads, crews may use a protective "follow" truck to alert motorists they are approaching slow-moving mowers.

Motorists are asked to be alert for trucks and tractors with lights flashing and moving slowly, around 2 to 5 mph. When you approach one of these vehicles, slow down and focus on the road ahead of you.

Also, be prepared to stop or drive very slowly behind a "follow" truck, especially approaching a hill or curve on a two-lane road.

Tuesday May 16, 2017

FLOOD DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS TO BE CONDUCTED IN WAYNE AND IRON COUNTIES Missouri Governor Eric Greitens has announced that flood damage assessments will be conducted in two additional counties in Southeast Missouri.

Teams of local, state and federal disaster specialists will conduct joint damage assessments of flooding and severe storm damage in six more Missouri counties, including Wayne and Iron, as the Governor prepares to make a request for a federal major disaster declaration.

Last week, Governor Greitens said that assessments would be conducted in numerous counties throughout the state, including many in Southeast Missouri.

Those affected by the flooding and severe storms are encouraged to report damage to their local emergency management officials and to document losses, including photographing damage and retaining receipts.

Individuals and business owners should also notify their insurance companies of damage and not wait for damage assessments.

More information is available online at mo.gov/flood.

SEMO BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER TO BE IN VAN BUREN TODAY

The SEMO Business Development center will be holding an event today in Van Buren.

During the event, area business owners will get the opportunity to receive counseling on requirements for FEMA applications and on options available through Small Business Administration.

According to the Van Buren Area Chamber of Commerce, the event will begin at around 9 am today at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center.

ROUTE 60 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be performed today through Thursday from 6 am to 5 pm each day.

The work zone will be located between Route 51 and Route WW.

SANDBAGS AVAILABLE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Butler County officials say that sandbags are still available for anyone who needs them.

According to the Butler County Emergency Management Agency, sandbags that were filled, but ended up not being needed, are available at the area in front of Robertson Contractors at 1909 South Westwood in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that area residents are welcome to take as many as they wish, as long as they are not for resale.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT WANTS AREA RESIDENTS TO KEEP THEIR PETS OUT OF THE HEAT

With summer approaching and temperatures getting near 90 degrees today, the Poplar Bluff Police Department is asking area residents to keep their pets safe.

The PD has released some tips to protect your pets during the summer months. You should never leave your pet in a parked car. Even with the window cracked, temperatures inside the car quickly rise to dangerous levels.

You should not exercise with your pet when it's too hot and also don't take your pet to crowded events.

If your pet is going to be outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of water.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route 153 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge repairs.

According to MoDot, the section of roadway to be reduced is located between County Road 433 and Main Street in White Oak.

Weather permitting, work will take today from 8 am to 3 pm.

OVER $6,000 RAISED FOR POPLAR BLUFF PUBLIC SCHOOL FOUNDATION

Poplar Bluff school officials say that over $6,000 was raised last week during an area golf tournament.

The money was raised for the Poplar Bluff Public School Foundation during the 18th annual golf tournament held on Monday, May 8, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course.

Officials say that the tournament allows the nonprofit organization to continue to finance innovative classroom projects not included in the district's operational budget, as well as to fund student scholarships.

Monday May 15, 2017

PATTERSON MAN KILLED IN WRECK ON HIGHWAY 67A Patterson man has died following a wreck Friday morning on Highway 67 in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Denton Deering was driving on the highway at around 7:25 am Friday, when he struck the rear of a freightliner. Deering was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital where he was pronounced dead.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the freightliner.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY FLEEING CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody over the weekend on a felony fleeing charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 26 year old Alan Patrick was arrested shortly before 1:30 am Saturday on a felony charge of resisting arrest by fleeing.

Patrick is also facing charges including failure to drive on the right half of the roadway and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.

Following the arrest, Patrick was held at the Butler County Jail.

MULTIPLE AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICES MOVED DUE TO FLOODING Multiple area law enforcement officials have had to move to temporary locations following the flooding.

Carter County Sheriff Richard Stephens tells KWOC News that the Carter County Sheriff's Office has transferred all operations to a new temporary facility that is located at 101 Highway W in Van Buren.

The offices are in two mobile trailers that are marked by Sheriff's Office signs.

The Ripley County Sheriff’s Department and Doniphan Police Department have also moved to temporary locations.

MEMPHIS CORPS OF ENGINNERS LOWERS FLOODFIGHT RESPONSE LEVEL IN SOUTHEAST MISSORUI The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Memphis has announced they will be lowering the floodfight activation levels in Southeast Missouri due to falling Mississippi River levels.

Officials say that at the Phase one floodfight activation level, a reduced number of Corps of Engineers personnel will remain deployed in the field and monitor all federal flood control works including levees, flood walls and pumping stations.

According to the National Weather Service, the St. Francis River remained at a minor flood stage this morning at Patterson, Fisk, and St. Francis. The Mississippi River was also at the minor flood stage at New Madrid and Caruthersville.

In Northeast Arkansas, the Black River remained at the minor flood stage this morning at Pocahontas and Black Rock.

ONE DEAD AFTER VEHICLE OVERTURNS MULTIPLE TIMES AND EJECTS DRIVER IN PEMISCOT COUNTY A single vehicle wreck has claimed the life of a Portageville man.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred Sunday evening near Wardell.

A vehicle, driven by 56 year old Steven Fisher, reportedly ran off of the east outer road and overturned multiple times. Fisher was ejected during the wreck and later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR MAN IN CONNECTION TO INCIDENT AT AREA BUSINESS Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man in connection to an incident at an area business.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Friday, an unknown suspect exited Walmart with a shopping cart containing an unpaid for lawn mower.

The suspect refused to stop for employees and citizens who attempted to detain him and was reportedly driving a Dodge Ram pickup with possibly a Wisconsin license plate.

Pictures of the man and the truck are available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone with information on the identity or whereabouts of the subject is asked to contact Lieutenant Ralph Jefferson at 573-785-5776, extension 1305.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON STATUTORY SODOMY WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Dexter man on a sodomy warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 71 year old Robert Phillips was recently arrested on a warrant for statutory sodomy – deviate sexual intercourse with a person less than 12 years of age.

Phillips reportedly posted a $25,000 bond and has been released.

MAGNITUDE 2.9 EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Did you feel the earthquake that hit Southeast Missouri over the weekend?

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.9 earthquake was recorded shortly before 8 am Sunday morning.

The earthquake was located around three and a half miles south of Lilbourn and had a depth of approximately eight and a half miles.

Friday, May 12, 2017

MULTIPLE AGENCY RESOURCE CENTER MOVING TO CARTER COUNTY TODAY

  A Multi Agency Resource Center will be set up today and tomorrow in Carter County.

According to the Carter County Emergency Management Agency, the center will be held at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center from 11 am to 7 pm both days.

Visitors will be able to meet with case workers at the center who will help identify potential community resources to aid in their recovery.

Cleaning supplies, water, and snacks will also be available.

Families with flood-related needs who are unable to visit a center are urged to call the American Red Cross of Southern Missouri at 1-866-206-0256.

  FLOOD RELIEF BENEFIT TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

  A Flood Relief Benefit has been scheduled for this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The benefit will be held on Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm at the First Baptist Church Parking Lot. Organizers say that three local non-profits will receive the funds and supplies gathered from the event to serve residents in Poplar Bluff, Doniphan, Ellington, and Van Buren.

The three non profits are The Bread Shed, Whole Kids Outreach, and the South Central Community Action Agency. Organizers say there will be food, a silent auction, as well as entertainment, and the event is being sponsored by First Choice Insurance and the Bank of Missouri.

  AMERICORPS TEAMS BEING DEPLOYED TO VAN BUREN FOR FLOOD RECOVERY SUPPORT

  Additional help is coming to Van Buren to help provide flood recovery support.

On Thursday, the Missouri Department of Economic Development announced that the Corporation for National and Community Service is dispatching several teams of AmeriCorps volunteers to help those affected by the recent flooding in Van Buren.

AmeriCorps volunteers are working with local community action agencies to assist residents with debris removal and cleanup as well as neighborhood cleanup and general support to families in need.

Those in need of service, interested in volunteering or interested in donating to help with the recovery efforts should contact The United Way at 211helps.org.

  MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN CARTER COUNTY WRECK

  An East Prairie man received serious injuries Thursday morning in a wreck in Carter County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 21 year old Joel Rodriguez-Abrego allegedly drove onto the shoulder of Highway 60 and struck a parked vehicle near Ellsinore.

Rodriguez-Abrego was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital.

  MAN ARRESTED ON SEXUAL ABUSE WARRANT IN STODDARD COUNTY

  A Campbell man has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a sexual abuse warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 67 year old Richard Fortman, of Campbell, was recently arrested on a warrant for 1st degree sexual abuse.

Few details about the warrant have been released, but Fortman’s bond has been set at $12,500 cash only and he remained in jail as of this morning.

  FIREARMS STOLEN FROM MULTIPLE RESIDENCES IN CLAY COUNTY

  Authorities in Clay County are investigating multiple reports of stolen firearms.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that they recently received a report of a residential burglary at a residence in Nimmons. Items taken from the residence included various firearms and other miscellaneous valuables.

The Sheriff’s Department also received report of a break in on County Road 401 near Rector. Various firearms were taken from the residence.

Miller says that deputies are actively investigating both incidents. If anyone has any information they are asked to contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Department at 870-598-2270.

  POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

  Authorities have arrested a Poplar Bluff woman on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Amanda Lacey was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – alprazolam.

Lacey was also arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance – marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

She was held at the Butler County Jail.

  ONE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO CHARLESTON SHOOTING INCIDENT, SHOOTER STILL AT LARGE

  An arrest has been made in connection to a shooting incident earlier this week in Charleston; however authorities say that the shooter is still at large.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, on Monday they received several calls of gun shots being fired in the 700 block of Gail Street.

A description of a vehicle involved in the shooting was given to responding officers and the suspect vehicle was stopped a short time later. A firearm was recovered from the vehicle.

Investigators at the scene determined that a male suspect had fired several rounds at another male in an area where children were present. The shooter then got in the back of a truck and was taken away from the scene. The driver of the truck, 41 year old Shanika Ingram, of Charleston, has been taken into custody.

Authorities say Ingram is charged with assault 1st degree and hindering prosecution.

The case is still under investigation and more charges are expected.