Tuesday, September 5th, 2017

PORTAGEVILLE TEENAGER KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

  A Portageville teenager was killed in a single vehicle wreck over Labor Day weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Sasha Tallant was driving on an outer road, near Hayti, Saturday morning when her vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.

Tallant was pronounced dead at the scene by Pemiscot County Coroner Jim Brimhall.

  DEXTER MAN ACCUSED OF CHOKING HIS GIRLFRIEND

  Authorities in Sikeston say an area man has been taken into custody after he was accused of choking his girlfriend.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, on Sunday a woman told officers she had been assaulted by 38 year old Rodrick Fisher, of Dexter, and that he had stolen cash from her purse.

The victim also alleged that Fisher choked and pushed her prior to an argument. Officers observed injuries to the victims’ neck consistent with being choked.

Fisher was arrested on charges of felony domestic assault and felony stealing. His bond was set at $20,000 cash or surety.

  MAN ARRESTED MONDAY IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

  A St. Louis man has been taken into custody in Butler County on a felony drug charge.

According to authorities, 59 year old William Kostecki was arrested Monday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Kostecki is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, he was transported to the Butler County Jail.

  TECHNICAL ISSUES CAUSE PROBLEMS WITH TELEPHONE SERVICE IN WAYNE COUNTY

  Some residents in Southeast Missouri had problems with their telephone service on Monday.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, technical issues yesterday caused trouble will both cell phone and landline service.

As of this morning, no information has been released on if service had been restored.

  DEXTER POLICE WARNING AREA BUSINESSES ABOUT A PHONE SCAM

  Dexter police say they have been alerted to a phone scam that targeted an area business.

According to the Dexter Police Department, on Saturday morning, a local, franchised business received a telephone call from a male subject who identified himself as a CEO of the corporation.

The male caller stated that he had received information from "the bank" that this local store had taken and deposited $2500 in counterfeit bills. The "CEO" then advised management that an "emergency deposit" of $2500 needed to be made on a prepaid credit card and that an associate would be by to pick it up.

The "CEO" stated that if management didn't comply, the US Marshals would show up to investigate and/or make arrests.

Dexter police say this is a scam. Anyone who receives a call like this is advised to contact their local law enforcement.

  ALMOST TWO MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS IN BUTLER AND WAYNE COUNTY

  An almost two month long pavement striping project is set to begin today in Butler and Wayne Counties.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, north and southbound Route 67 will have various one mile closures from County Road 521 to Route EE for the pavement striping.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 5 pm daily through Tuesday, October 31st.

  CREWS TO CLOSE WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TODAY FOR REPAIRS

  Route N in Wayne County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from Route 34 to the end of state maintenance.

According to officials, work will take place today from 7 am to 6 pm.

Friday September 1, 2017

HIGHWAY PATROL URGES SAFETY FOR LABOR DAY WEEKENDWith Labor Day weekend upon us, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging everyone to be safe during the holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. over the Labor Day holiday weekend. All available officers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

Troopers throughout the state will also be participating in a special enforcement operation today and September 4th. This operation will include Interstates 29, 44, 55, and 70, and U.S. Highways 60 and 61.

Last year, 20 people were killed and 429 injured in Missouri over the Labor Day holiday in 1,028 traffic crashes. Also, 100 people were arrested by the Highway Patrol for driving while intoxicated during the holiday weekend.

MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES FOLLOWING PURSUIT WITH POLICE A man is facing multiple felony charges following an incident earlier this week in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, shortly before 10:30 pm on Tuesday, officers responded to a brandishing of a weapon call. The complainant said Raymond Mitchell brandished a handgun and threatened to shoot at their home as he drove by.

While officers were still on scene Mitchell drove past the residence again and detectives attempted to stop the vehicle. However, Mitchell failed to yield and a vehicle pursuit began. The vehicle eventually came to a stop and Mitchell was taken into custody.

Officers performed a grid search for any items thrown from the vehicle during the pursuit and located a .40 caliber Taurus pistol.

Officials say that Mitchell has been charged with felony possession of firearm, tampering with physical evidence for a felony, and unlawful use of a weapon. He is also facing charges of resisting arrest, armed criminal action, and assault 4th degree.

His bond was set at $75,000, cash or surety.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEEKING COMMUNITIES HELP IN IDENTIFYING SHOPLIFTING SUSPECT Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in a shoplifting complaint.

The suspect reportedly stole multiple items, including a Bluetooth speaker, from Academy Sports.

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

Anyone with information on the identity of the suspect, or where he can be located, is asked to contact Officer Jeremy Elless at 573-785-5776.

DRIVER EJECTED DURING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR DONIPHAN A Grandin man was injured Thursday in a single vehicle wreck near Doniphan.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 20 year old William Matthews-Tucker was driving on Highway 142 Thursday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.

Matthews-Tucker, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck.

He suffered serious injuries and was taken to a Doniphan hospital.

AREA JUNIOR HIGH EVACUATED ON THURSDAY An area Junior High School was evacuated on Thursday but officials say that all students were safe.

According to the Sikeston R-6 Schools Facebook page, the Junior High was evacuated due to smoke in a classroom.

A transformer had blown in the neighborhood and there was no fire, but for safety reasons the entire school was evacuated.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR ANNUAL BRIDGE BUILDING COMPETITION Registration is open for the 14th annual Missouri Department of Transportation Bridge Building Competition.

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

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

Schools must register by September 5th to participate. The judging for the competition will be held on November 16th in Cape Girardeau.

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

PROGRAM STARTED TO HELP POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS SHOW THEIR SCHOOL SPIRIT A new program is beginning today to help Poplar Bluff students show their school spirit.

Through September 22nd, school officials are taking donations of new or gently used Mules shirts, or other school or spirit wear. Blue collection bins will be set up near the office at each school or you can bring your shirts to any home football game through the 22nd.

Distribution of shirts will then be coordinated with individual schools beginning on September 25th.

Thursday August 31, 2017

FORMER POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT PASSES AWAYA former president of the Poplar Bluff School Board has passed away.

Dale Gaebler died Tuesday at his residence at the age of 78. Gaebler served for nine years in the Missouri Army National Guard and 15 years on the Poplar Bluff School Board.

He had also worked as Transportation Director for the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District as well as being in charge of the Poplar Bluff Mules Football Chain Gang

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 pm tonight at Cotrell Funeral Chapel in Poplar Bluff, with the funeral service scheduled for 10 am on Friday.

Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells us that they plan on honoring Gaebler before the Football game against St. Charles Friday night.

MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK INVOLVING A GARBAGE TRUCK An Arkansas man has been flown to an area hospital following a wreck Wednesday morning in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Bobby Sipes, of Paragould, crashed into the back of a garbage truck on Highway F, near Holland. The wreck occurred shortly before 6 am.

Sipes was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital.

PEOPLES CREEK LOWER CAMPGROUND TO BE OPEN INTO NOVEMBER Officials at Lake Wappapello say that camping season will continue into November this year.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, Peoples Creek Lower Campground will remain open until the week of Thanksgiving.

The last day to make a reservation is November 20th with the 21st being the actual closure day. For more information, or to make a reservation, call 1-877-444-6777 or visit recreation.gov.

MARION TIBBS TO STEP DOWN TODAY AS BUTLER COUNTY ASSESSOR Butler County Assessor Marion Tibbs has announced his retirement.

In a post on his Facebook page, Tibbs says that today is his last day as assessor and it has been a great privilege to serve.

He added that he tried to leave the office better than when he started and he wishes incoming assessor Chris Rickman the best.

Rickman is set to take over the post on Tuesday.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREARU WARNING CONSUMERS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS BEFORE DONATING TO HARVEY RELIEF Consumers are being warned to be on the lookout for fraudulent charities and crowdfunding campaigns that are claiming to be for flooding relief in Texas.

The Better Business Bureau has released some tips to help consumers on evaluating if a charity is legitimate.

The BBB says you should rely on respected experts to evaluate a charity. Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or social media personalities, because they may not have fully researched the listed relief organizations.

Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups. You may want to avoid the middleman and give directly to charities that are working in the region.

Also be cautious when giving online to unfamiliar charities. Be wary of spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization.

We have more information available on how you can assess a charity that you are considering to donate to on our website.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI’S BUSY MONTH OF EARTHQUAKES CONTINUES Southeast Missouri has had a busy month of earthquakes with another one recorded on Wednesday.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.1 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 3:29 pm Wednesday.

The quake had a depth of four and a half miles and was located 3.7 miles south southwest of Lilbourn.

Wednesday August 30, 2017

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR DONIPHANA Fairdealing woman was taken to an area hospital Tuesday morning following a single vehicle wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Tammy Jones was driving on US 160, around 4 miles east of Doniphan, when she ran off the side of the road, struck a tree, and overturned.

Jones suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Doniphan hospital.

BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested a Bernie man on multiple drug related charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 37 year old Michael Winstead was taken into custody Monday morning in New Madrid County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Winstead is also facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance – marijuana.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS PREPARING FOR FOUR DAY WEEKEND Even though the new school year is less than two weeks old students in Poplar Bluff are already preparing for their first four day weekend.

Poplar Bluff R-I Superintendent Scott Dill tells KWOC News that R-1 schools will be dismissed on Friday for a teacher collaboration day, and next Monday for the Labor Day holiday.

The regular class schedule will resume on Tuesday, September 5th.

The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center will also have its first day of school on September 5th.

EROSION WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 67 IN WAYNE AND MADISON COUNTIES Southbound Route 67 in Wayne and Madison Counties is being reduced with a 16-foot width restriction through mid September while contractor crews perform erosion work.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the work zone is located from the Route E to Route F.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 6 pm daily through Friday, September 15th.

BICYCLIST STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE, WOMAN IN CUSTODY A woman has been taken into custody in connection to the death of a bicyclist over the weekend in Sikeston.

Sergeant Jon Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that on Saturday, a bicyclist, identified as 56 year old Donnell Johnson, of Sikeston, was struck and killed by a motor vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle, 27 year old Alonda Harris, also of Sikeston, had allegedly been smoking synthetic marijuana prior to the crash.

She has been charged with felony involuntary manslaughter and her bond was set at $10,000, cash or surety.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information related to the crash is asked to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471- 4711.

WAYNE COUNTY WRECK LEAVES TWO INJURED Two people were ejected from a vehicle in a wreck early this morning in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred at around midnight on Route D, south of Shook.

A vehicle, driven 40 year old Johnny Hagy, of Wappapello, reportedly ran off the roadway and overturned.

Officials say that a passenger in the vehicle, 33 year old Alisha Hagy, also of Wappapello, was seriously injured in the wreck while Johnny Hagy suffered moderate injuries. Both were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

GRANTS AND DONATIONS ALLOW POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO GET 3D PROJECTOR The Poplar Bluff Middle School has a new piece of technology to help bring lessons to life.

A 3DAV rover, valued at over $14,000, was delivered this month to the Poplar Bluff Middle after a string of grants and donations were secured by the STEM department.

School officials say that the rover is a portable 3D projector and theater system built inside a wheeled AV cart. The holoprojected images are transmitted into the classroom through active glasses students are supplied.

STEM teacher Cody Young says that the rover comes with over 3,000 lessons broken down by grade level and he believes it will help improve MAP test scores.

At the end of the last school year, Young landed a 50/50 grant through Tek4Teachers. His former colleague Keri Jameson also wrote a successful grant for $1,500 through the Poplar Bluff Public School Foundation.

The remaining funds came from a business donation, the Parent Teacher Organization, and individual solicitations collected by the Student Council.

MODOT CREWS IN PEMISCOT COUNTY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS The East Outer Road of Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County has been partially closed so Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, work is scheduled to be done from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Thursday, September 7th.

The work zone is located from Route 84 to Route A.

Tuesday August 29, 2017

MAN SHOT IN THE ARM DURING ALTERCATION IN BUTLER COUNTYA man was shot in the arm early Monday morning after he allegedly busted a window in Butler County.

Investigator Randle Huddleston with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department tells KWOC News that the incident occurred early Monday morning.

Randle Huddleston:

Early Monday morning at approximately 4:30 am, Butler County deputies were dispatched to 519 County Road 526 in reference to property damage. Upon arrival Butler County deputies learned that the homeowner had awakened to the sound of somebody breaking the glass out of his front living room window. Homeowner confronted the suspect, identified as Kevin Hayes, 54 years old of Williamsville, Missouri. During the confrontation the homeowner stated he returned in to his residence to retrieve a firearm and again went outside onto his property to confront Kevin Hayes. During that confrontation the homeowner fired several rounds with one of them striking Kevin Hayes in the left arm. Kevin Hayes was apprehended a short time later by Butler County deputies and was transported by EMS to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. Kevin Hayes was then lodged in the Butler County jail with the charges of property damage first, trespassing first. At this time the investigation is still ongoing, still gathering facts. Once the investigation is concluded it will be sent to the prosecuting attorney for his review requesting charges.

POPLAR BLUFF TRANSITION FAIR TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY An event has been scheduled for this week for Poplar Bluff students who are receiving Individualized Education Program services.

All students in grades 7 through 12 who are receiving IEP services are being encouraged to attend the Poplar Bluff Transition Fair from 6 to 8 pm Thursday at Poplar Bluff High School.

School officials say that during the fair, representatives from Vocational Rehab Services, the University of Missouri and others will be on hand to explain how to access the post-graduation training and job placement available to students who have been receiving special education services.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT TO FORCE CLOSURE OF WAYNE COUNTY ROAD THROUGH OCTOBER A Wayne County road has been closed so contractor crews can perform a bridge replacement.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Outer Road from Route 34 to northbound 67 is being closed for the replacement. The work zone is located in the Silva area.

Officials say that the road is scheduled to re-open on Saturday, October 31st.

CRYSTAL LIKE SUBSTANCE AND GUNS FOUND DURING EXECUTION OF A SEARCH WARRANT A Haywood City man has been taken into custody after a search warrant was executed at his residence last week.

According to authorities, the search was conducted Thursday night at the residence of 55 year old Cletus Rhoden, who had been involved in narcotics investigation.

During the search of the residence detectives located four firearms, approximately 30 grams of a crystal like substance, and a large amount of US currency that totaled over $33,000.

Rhoden was arrested and has been charged with delivery of controlled substance except 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child involving drugs.

His bond was set at $100,000, cash only.

KIDS FUN DAY FISHING EVENT SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE Young children in southeast Missouri will get the opportunity for a fun day of fishing next month at Wappapello Lake.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers a Kids Fun Day Fishing Event has been scheduled for children 4 to 14 years old on Saturday, September 23rd at the Lost Creek Recreation Area.

Corps officials say they will provide the supplies including bait, rod, and tackle for the day. Lunch will be provided.

Parents can pre-register their children at the Wappapello Lake Visitor Center as well as the Management Office. For more information call 573-222-8562.

ROAD WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE 25 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can mill the roadway.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the section of Route 25 to be reduced is located from County Road 212 to County Road 220.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 am to 4:30 pm.

Monday August 28, 2017

PUXICO MAN FACING CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGEA Puxico resident has been arrested in Stoddard County on a child molestation warrant.

Few details about the arrest have been released; however the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tells KWOC News that 57 year old John Wiley was recently taken into custody on a warrant for 1st degree child molestation.

Officials say that Wiley’s bond was set at $35,000.

WOMAN ARRESTED OVER THE WEEKEND IN RIPLEY COUNTY ON FELONG DRUG CHARGE A Doniphan woman is facing a felony drug charge following her arrest over the weekend in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Megan Cates was arrested Saturday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Cates is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Cates was transported to the Butler County Jail.

ROAD CLOSURE SET FOR TODAY IN DONIPHAN Motorists in Doniphan are being advised to prepare for delays while travelling today due to a road closure.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, North Grand Avenue will be closed today between Washington and Locust Street.

Police officials say that the closure is for a water line repair.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Route P in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of Route P to be reduced is located from North Route Y to South Route Y.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm daily.

TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER BEING HIT BY A VEHICLE An area teenager suffered serious injuries over the weekend after he was hit by a vehicle in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 17 year old male was struck by an unknown vehicle on a bridge along Missouri Highway 153, around three miles south of Tallapoosa. The vehicle then left the scene.

Officials say the incident occurred at around 5 am Saturday morning.

The teen was seriously injured and taken by a private vehicle to a Sikeston hospital.

DUDLEY MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE COUNTS OF STAUTORY SODOMY An area man was recently arrested in Stoddard County on a statutory sodomy warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 61 year old Leslie Allen Boyer, of Dudley, has been taken into custody on a warrant for two counts of statutory sodomy 1st degree.

Boyer’s bond was set at $25,000 cash.

DEXTER MAN IN CUSTODY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County say a Dexter man has been taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to authorities, 25 year old Tyler George was recently arrested on a warrant for delivery of a controlled substance.

George’s bond was set at $50,000, cash only, and he remained in jail as of this morning.

TWO EARTHQUAKES RECORDED LATE LAST WEEK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI The string of earthquakes that has hit Southeast Missouri over the month continued last week.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.7 magnitude earthquake was recorded Thursday morning around 6 miles south southwest of New Madrid.

On Friday, a 2.8 magnitude earthquake was also recorded; this one centered a little over 3 miles south southwest of Lilbourn.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TODAY Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in New Madrid County today for pavement repairs on Route W.

According to MoDOT, Route W will be reduced to one lane from 7 am to 4:30 pm today for the repairs.

The work zone will be located between Route D and Route 62.

Wednesday August 23, 2017

MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 25 YEARS ON ROBBERY AND FIREARM CHARGESA man has been sentenced to over 25 years in connection to a 2015 Kennett convenience store robbery.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 36 year old Julius L. Jones was sentenced yesterday to 308 months on one felony count of interference with commerce by robbery and one felony count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Jones was one of two men involved in a robbery at a Kennett business on July 1st, 2015. A store manager was shot during the robbery. The two men also shot at Kennett Police officers while attempting to get away.

COMMUNITY ALLIANCE PROGRAM TO BE HELD AT HIGHWAY PATROL TROOP E HEADQUARTERS The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be hosting a Community Alliance Program at the Troop E headquarters in Poplar Bluff.

The program will begin on Tuesday, September 19th and will meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 pm to 9 pm. The program will conclude with an awards banquet on October 31st.

According to Captain Jeffrey Vitale, the program is designed to allow the public to learn more about the Patrol’s purpose and role within the law enforcement community and the curriculum will familiarize participants with many Patrol policies and procedures.

These sessions will cover traffic stops, crash investigations, firearms familiarization, marine operations, and many other aspects of the Patrol.

Applications for the program are being accepted through September 1st and there is no cost to participate.

Anyone interested in participating in the program can contact Sergeant Clark Parrott at 573-840-9500 extension 3532.

ROUTE M IN BUTLER COUNTY TO BE CLOSED STARTING TOMORROW Route M in Butler County will be reduced with a 10-foot width restriction beginning tomorrow so contractor crews can perform chip sealing.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be closed is located from County Road 461 to County Road 441.

Weather permitting, work will performed tomorrow through Friday, September 8th from 6 am to 7 pm daily.

PARAGOULD MAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK A Paragould man was killed in a two vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred at around 12:30 pm Tuesday on Highway 49 when a vehicle crossed the center line of the roadway and struck an oncoming vehicle.

The second vehicle then ran into a building.

The driver of the first vehicle, 70 year old Thomas Hood, has died from injuries he received in the wreck. A passenger in Hood’s vehicle was also injured. No injuries were listed for individuals in the second vehicle.

REGULAR MEETING OF THE POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD TO BE HELD THURSDAY NIGHT The Poplar Bluff R-1 School Board is scheduled to meet this week.

The regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Poplar Bluff Board of Education is set to begin Thursday night at 7 pm.

The meeting will be open to the public and held in the administrative building.

WAPPAPELLO EAGLE RIDERS TO HOLD CHARITY RIDE FOR HEARTS OF RESCUE An area organization will be holding an event next month for charity.

The Wappapello Eagle Riders have scheduled a charity ride for Hearts of Rescue on September 16th.

Registration for the event will begin that morning at 9 am at the Wappapello Eagles and food will be provided after the run. There will also be a silent auction as well. For more information, contact Rosie at 573-300-8925.

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON KIDNAPPING WARRANT

  Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Dexter man on a kidnapping warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 20 year old Michael Love was recently arrested on a warrant for kidnapping 1st degree, armed criminal action, and endangering the welfare of a child.

Love’s bond has been set at $50,000.00 cash only and he remained in jail as of this morning.

  20th ANNUAL BUTLER COUNTY JOB FAIR SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 25TH

  Job seekers in Poplar Bluff will have the opportunity to meet with many different employers at one location this week.

The Butler County Community Resource Council will be holding the 20th Annual Butler County Job Fair on Friday at the Bess Activity Center.

The job fair will run from 10 am to 3 pm.

  OKLAHOMA MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

  An Oklahoma man was taken into custody Monday evening in Butler County on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Austin Rodriguez, of Oklahoma City, was arrested at around 6:30 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Rodriguez was also arrested on misdemeanor marijuana and drug paraphernalia charges.

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

  OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

  An Open House has been scheduled for today at a Poplar Bluff school.

The open house for the Poplar Bluff Senior High School will be held from 5:30 pm to 7 pm tonight.

An open house has also been scheduled for next week at the Early Childhood Center.

That event will take place on Tuesday, August 29th, from 8:30 to 9:30 am for morning students and from 9:45 to 10:45 am for PM students. Parents are asked to bring in their items from the school supply list.

  POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR HIGH AWARDED $500 FOR MATERIALS

  A Poplar Bluff junior high program has been awarded $500 for materials.

School officials tell KWOC News that the Missouri Retired Teachers Foundation awarded the money to the Junior High honors English program for curriculum materials associated with several literary classics, as well as mythology and poetry.

The proposal was written by eighth grade instructor Hilary Taylor and says the curriculum is being restructured with increased rigor. Project-based learning activities cited include modernizing passages and transforming stories into graphic novels, children's books, and scripts.

The foundation awarded a total of $42,000 to teachers in Missouri, six grants per region. This was the first grant awarded to a Poplar Bluff instructor, according to organization representatives

  ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE RECORDED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  Officials say that another earthquake has been recorded in Southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.2 magnitude earthquake occurred Sunday night at approximately 9:44 pm.

The quake was located less than four miles south southwest of Lilbourn and had a depth of approximately 4.9 miles.

  DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED FOR PULL PAVING

  Route TT in Dunklin County will be closed for part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pull paving.

MoDOT officials say that the section of roadway is located between the Arkansas state line and Route 164.

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

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD

  Route P in Pemiscot County will be temporarily closed beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday.

The work zone is located between Route A and Route K and will be open to local traffic only.

Monday August 21, 2017

PARMA MAN SENTENCED TO COMBINED 120 YEARS ON BURGLARY AND ARSON CHARGESA judge in Cape Girardeau County has sentenced a Parma man to over 100 years on burglary and arson charges.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, Edward Lusk had previously pled guilty to six counts of burglary in the second degree, one count of property damage, and one count of arson in the second degree.

On Friday, Judge Benjamin Lewis sentenced Lusk to 15 years on each of the 8 counts. Oliver says that the judge ordered that each sentence would be served consecutive to one another for a combined sentence of 120 years.

The arson and burglaries were located at Dexter area businesses during the summer of 2016.

MOTORISTS ADVISED TO BE CAREFUL DUE TO THE ECLIPSE TODAY The Solar Eclipse will finally occur today and officials are warning motorists to be ready for the increase in traffic due to visitors coming to see the event.

The eclipse will peak here in Southeast Missouri at around 1:20 pm. Everyone is being advised to prepare for extra congestion today and to watch out for increased pedestrian traffic as well. People may randomly park and be walking alongside roads in the hours before the eclipse to get the best viewing.

Anyone planning on viewing the eclipse needs to wear eclipse glasses to avoid damage to their eyes. However you should not wear your eclipse glasses or take photographs while driving.

The Missouri Department of Safety has posted a video with additional information and safety tips about the eclipse which we have available on the KWOC Facebook page.

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN WRECK OUTSIDE OF POPLAR BLUFF Three people were injured Friday in a wreck outside of Poplar Bluff.

According to authorities, the wreck occurred shortly before 5 pm Friday when a vehicle, driven by a Poplar Bluff teenager, pulled into the path of another vehicle on Highway 142, one mile south of Poplar Bluff.

The driver of the second vehicle, 39 year old Daniel Bunyard, of Doniphan, suffered serious injuries in the wreck. Two teenagers in the first vehicle were also injured. All three were taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED EARLY THIS WEEK FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS Eastbound Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

MoDot officials tell us that the bridge is located over the Saint Francis River near Fisk.

Weather permitting; work will be performed today and tomorrow from 6 am to 5 pm each day.

MURDER FOR HIRE INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF CHAFFEE MAN An investigation into a plot to kill a Benton resident has resulted in the arrest of a Chaffee man.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that during the investigation, 24 year old Samuel Lix solicited an undercover state trooper to murder a family member.

On Thursday, Lix was arrested without incident at his residence. The following day, the Scott County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Lix with conspiracy to commit murder - first degree and endangering the welfare of a child. His bond was set at $250,000.

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL TO HOST PUBLIC MEETING TONIGHT TO DISCUSS PROPERTY TAX The Poplar Bluff city council will be holding a public hearing tonight concerning property tax rates.

The hearing will begin at 6:45 pm tonight in the City Council chambers. The hearing is an opportunity for citizens to give input relative to the property tax rates proposed to be set by the City Council.

The hearing will be followed at 7 pm by the regular meeting of the City Council. During the regular meeting, the council is scheduled to review adjustments to the Fiscal Year 2017 city budget, discuss options for City Hall, and take action on multiple ordinances.

PIGGOTT PHONE LINES GO DOWN FOLLOWING AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT The phone lines in Piggott were down for a period of time over the weekend following an automobile accident.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller Tells KWOC News all of the phones in Piggott, including the Clay County 911 system, went down Friday evening due to the automobile accident on Highway 49 near Speers Curve.

The 911 system was restored to normal early Saturday morning and the highway was reopened before 5 am that morning. Information was not available on if there were any injuries in connection to the wreck.

EARLY MORNING WRECK LEAVES SENATH TEENAGER WITH SERIOUS INJURIES A Senath teenager was seriously injured in an early morning wreck over the weekend.

According to the Highway Patrol, the 17 year old male was driving on Highway P in Dunklin County shortly after midnight Saturday morning when his vehicle ran off the road and struck a bridge railing.

The teenager received serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Jonesboro hospital.

Friday August 18, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS ON MURDER AND KIDNAPPING CHARGESA Poplar Bluff man is facing 20 years in prison on a murder charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, 25 year old Edward Weaver was sentenced earlier this week after entering a guilty plea on charges of murder 2nd degree and kidnapping.

Weaver was arrested in August of 2015 in connection to the death of 48 year old Norman Jones, of Poplar Bluff. Jones’s body was found in a car trunk on County Road 355 between Harviell and Neelyville.

Weaver was sentenced to 20 years on each count in the Missouri Department of Corrections. The sentences are to run concurrently.

DONIPHAN POLICE TRYING TO CONTACT POSSIBLE WITNESS TO A CRIME Doniphan Police are trying to get in contact with someone who could be a witness to a crime.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, on Sunday, August 13th, at approximately 10:30 pm, a mid-size white SUV drove by the Vocational School on Spring Street. Police say they are trying to contact the driver of the SUV in reference to them possibly being a witness to a crime

Anyone with information about the vehicle’s driver can contact the Doniphan Police Department at 573-996-7123.

CHILD IDENTIFICATION AND PROTECTION PROGRAM TO BE HELD AT RIPLEY COUNTY KIDS DAY A free program will be held during the Ripley County Kids Day on September 9th that will allow parents to get a kit to help identify their child in case of an emergency.

The Missouri Child Identification and Protection Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide families a proactive means of preparation should their child or teen become missing.

The program will contain digital photographs, digital fingerprints, dental bite impressions, two laminated ID cards, child information, and emergency contacts.

The child’s digital photographs and fingerprints, along with their vital information will be given to their parent or guardian on a mini-CD computer disk.

Officials say the program will be provided free of charge at the Ripley County Fairgrounds from 10 am to 2 pm on September 9th.

For more information, contact Dennis Meyers at 996-6353.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO DEATH OF 15 MONTH OLD CHILD Authorities in Charleston say that a father has been arrested in connection to the death of his 15 month old child.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, on August 2nd, they were notified of the death of a toddler, who was identified as Camron Haynes.

Officials say that preliminary autopsy results indicated injuries that would not occur naturally. During an interview, the father of the child, 32 year old Deriechess Moore, of Charleston, admitted to striking the child while under the influence of a synthetic narcotic.

Moore has been arrested and is currently being held in the Mississippi County Jail on a warrant charging him with murder in the second degree, child abuse, and endangering the welfare of a child. Officials say there is no bond on the warrant.

STUDENTS TO RETURN TO CLASSES TODAY IN CLARKTON AND HOLCOMB A light Friday marks the end of a busy week of school openings in Southeast Missouri.

Only a handful of schools in our listening area will be opening for classes today, including Clarkton C-4 and Holcomb R-3.

Some area colleges will be starting their Fall Semesters on Monday including Central Methodist University, Mineral Area College, and Southeast Missouri State University.

WALK TO END ALZHEIMERS TO BE HELD IN OCTOBER IN POPLAR BLUFF Residents from the Poplar Bluff area will be coming together in October to learn about Alzheimer’s Disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s will take place on Saturday, October 14th at McLane Park in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that participants will complete a 1 or 3 mile walk and will learn about Alzheimer’s disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical studies enrollment and support programs and services from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Walk participants will also join in a meaningful tribute ceremony to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

You can sign up as a team captain, join a team, or register to walk as an individual at alz.org/walk.

Thursday, August 17, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF SUPERINTENDENT SAYS HE IS EXCITED FOR SCHOOL TO BEGIN TODAY

  Students are returning to class today in Poplar Bluff and school administrators say that are excited for school to begin.

We spoke with Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill ahead of today’s school opening.

“Today is the day of days, the first day of school, and we are extremely excited to have our kids back. It's been a long summer up here at the school and we're excited to have all of our kids come back to us today. You know it was nice to have the luxury of just working on school stuff this summer.

The facilities are great and we're so thankful to the community for entrusting those to us but at the core of everything I do I'm a teacher and so it was really nice to focus on teaching and learning this summer and sharpen our efforts there to ensure that we were ready to go academically for the kids this fall. The main thing, I would just ask this of everyone involved, just be patient give yourself extra time understand the traffic will be heavy these first couple weeks probably but particularly Thursday and Friday the traffic will be rough.

Our buses, the routes we have planned out, those are approximations. We hope that we hit that schedule, but I would ask that everyone is patient. We know that there's probably going to be some problems out there tomorrow, we anticipate that, and we will adjust accordingly. But we want to do the best we can and our primary goal is to get the kids to school safe and then get them back home just as safely.

One of our main focus areas for this school year has been the reinvigoration of our professional learning communities and simply put that means that we are recommitting ourselves to the good work of recognizing that we are a public school and we openly embrace every student that walks through our door.

And for our purposes all means all and we want to ensure that all of our students are learning at high-levels. So we will commit ourselves to doing whatever it takes to ensure that happens for all of our kids as we move through this school year.”

  POPLAR BLUFF, TWIN RIVERS, AND DONIPHAN TO BEGIN CLASSES TODAY

  Numerous schools around Southeast Missouri will be opening their doors to students today.

Schools beginning class today include Advance R-4, Bloomfield R-14, Campbell R-2, Cooter R-4, Crowley Ridge State School, Current River State School, Doniphan R-1, Hayti R-2, Kennett, North Pemiscot R-1, Poplar Bluff R-1, Senath Hornersville, Shady Grove State School, and Twin Rivers R-10.

On Friday, both Clarkton and Holcomb will be beginning their school year.

  TWO POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

  Two Poplar Bluff residents have been taken into custody on meth and marijuana charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on Wednesday 44 year old Bridgette Alcala and 41 year old Randy Stegall were each arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Both Alcala and Stegall are also facing charges of possession of marijuana 11 to 35 grams and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrest, both were held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Department.

  AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING BURGLARY AT STEELE PHARMACY

  Authorities in Steele are investigating a burglary at an area business.

Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that during the early morning hours of August 15th, officers were dispatched to Greene Pharmacy in reference to a burglar alarm being activated.

Officers arrived on scene and found the front door had been forced open. Stanfield says that pharmaceutical drugs and several hundred dollars’ worth of change were taken during the burglary.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol and Pemiscot County Sheriff Department are assisting the Steele Police Department with the investigation and anyone who might have information is asked to call Steele Police at 573-695-3411.

  TWO STORE MANAGERS SENTENCED ON FEDERAL CHARGES INVOLVING FOOD STAMP FRAUD

  Two Sikeston residents have been sentenced on federal charges involving food stamp fraud.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 63 year old Larry White Senior, and 35 year old Erica White were sentenced Wednesday on charges of misusing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Officials say that Larry White was manager of Stop-n-Go Fish Market in Sikeston, and his daughter Erica White was manager of Stop-n-Go Mini Mart Store in New Madrid.

Both admitted that they illegally redeemed up to $549,000 in SNAP benefits between December 2010 and March 2014 by exchanging SNAP benefits for cash and other items.

Both pled guilty in May to multiple felony counts of unauthorized use of SNAP benefits and conspiracy.

Larry White was sentenced to 33 months in prison, while Erica White was sentenced to 1 year and 1 day in prison.

  STARS AND STRIPES MUSEUM TO HOST PROGRAM ON MISSOURI POOR FARMS

  The Stars and Stripes Museum and Library in Bloomfield will be hosting a program later this month about Missouri Poor Farms.

The program, by Dr. Courtney Kisat, Assistant Professor of History and Secondary Social Studies Education Program Coordinator at Southeast Missouri State University, is free and open to the public.

Dr. Kisat has visited many genealogy rooms throughout Missouri and conducted research on Poor Farms in Missouri. The program has been scheduled for 6:30 pm on Monday, August 28th.

The Stars and Stripes Museum also recently celebrated their 75,000th visitor on Wednesday, August 2nd.

Wednesday, August 16, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ELLSINORE AREA WRECK

  A Poplar Bluff man was transported to an area hospital Tuesday morning following a two vehicle wreck in Carter County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred shortly after 8 am Tuesday when a vehicle, driven by 54 year old Thomas Baldridge, of Ellsinore, failed to yield to another vehicle while crossing US 60 and struck the vehicle.

The driver of the second vehicle, 47 year old Monty Woolard, of Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. Baldridge received moderate injuries in the wreck.

  CLEARWATER, GREENVILLE, AND PUXICO AMONG SCHOOLS OPENING TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  Students across Southeast Missouri are preparing to return to school over the next few weeks, with some schools beginning class today.

Numerous school districts will be opening today in our listening area, including Bunker R-3, Charleston R-1 Clearwater R-1, East Carter County R-2, East Prairie R-2, Greenville R-2, Iron County C-4, Puxico R-8, Sikeston, South Iron County R-1, Southern Reynolds County R-2, and Westwood Baptist Academy.

Thursday will mark another big day for school openings with Poplar Bluff, Twin Rivers, and Doniphan all beginning classes.

  FESTUS MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND WEAPON CHARGES

  Authorities in Wayne County have arrested a Festus man on drug and weapon charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 41 year old Travis Sterling was arrested Tuesday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Sterling is also facing a charge of unlawful use of a weapon while in possession of a controlled substance.

Following his arrest, Sterling was held at the Wayne County Jail.

  TWO EARTQUAKES RECORDED TUESDAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  Two earthquakes shook parts of Southeast Missouri yesterday.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the first earthquake was recorded shortly before 9 am Tuesday. The magnitude 2.9 quake was centered east of Portageville on the Missouri side of the Mississippi River.

The next earthquake was recorded approximately three and a half hours later around six miles north of New Madrid. That quake had a magnitude of 2.3.

  TWO JUVENILES ARRESTED FOLLOWING REPORTS OF VANDALISM IN SIKESTON

  Two juveniles have been arrested in connection to reports of vandalism in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, officers responded to several reports of property damage beginning on Friday of last week and continuing over the weekend.

Graffiti was spray painted on vehicles and buildings with the total amount of damaged estimated to be around $5,600.

On Monday, two Sikeston juveniles, ages 13 and 14, were interviewed and arrested in connection to the case.

  DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER CAMPAIGN TO BEGIN ON FRIDAY

  Law enforcement officers across Missouri will be participating in a impaired driving campaign beginning on Friday.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign will run from August 18th through September 3rd.

MoDot officials tell KWOC News that Last year, 189 agencies statewide participated in the campaign and made 308 DWI arrests.

  WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

  Route C in Wayne County will be closed today while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section Route C to be closed is located from Route E to Route 34.

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

Tuesday August 15, 2017

ROMBAUER WOMAN IN CUSTODY ON FIRST DEGREE MURDER CHARGEA woman who was involved in a deadly shooting in Rombauer earlier this month is now facing a 1st degree murder charge.

According to Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs, a warrant has been issued charging 51 year old Judith Kimbrell, of Rombauer, with murder 1st degree and armed criminal action.

Dobbs says the warrant was served yesterday and Kimbrell was taken into custody.

Kimbrell allegedly shot and killed her brother, 48 year old Mike Leslie, during a domestic altercation on August 2nd.

FOUR ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO BURGLARY IN POPLAR BLUFF Four women have been arrested in connection to a burglary complaint in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Captain Dave Sutton with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, who said the incident occurred early Sunday morning.

DAVE SUTTON:

On Sunday morning at around 1 a.m., officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of Cleveland Street in reference to a burglary complaint. The residents complained that three adult females and one juvenile female forced their way into the home and Essence Ross-Munoz punched her. The residents were able to push the attackers back through the door and locked them out. Once they were locked out, the female suspects broke glass out of the bedroom windows. The female suspects were located nearby were taken into custody. Diana Nolen, 18 of Poplar Bluff, was booked in on charges of burglary 1st degree, assault 3rd degree, and property damage second degree and she was lodged in the Butler County Jail. Alana Ross-McDonald was booked in on charges of burglary 1st degree, assault 3rd degree, and property damage second degree and she was lodged in the Butler County Jail. Essence Ross-Munoz was booked in on charges of burglary 1st degree, assault 3rd degree, and property damage second degree and she was lodged in the Butler County Jail. The juvenile female was released to the Butler County Juvenile office.

NEW MADRID AND PORTAGEVILLE AMONG SCHOOLS OPENING TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Students across Southeast Missouri are preparing to return to school over the next few weeks, with some schools beginning class today.

Malden R-1 is one of multiple schools opening their door’ to students today.

Coming up on Wednesday, numerous schools will be starting classes in our area including Clearwater, East Carter, Greenville, and Puxico.

AUTHORITIES ASKING FOR DRIVERS TO BE PATIENT WITH SCHOOL STARTING THIS WEEK School is scheduled to begin this week in Poplar Bluff and authorities are asking area drivers to be patient.

Corporal Richard Knapp with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that drivers should give themselves extra time to reach their destination.

RICHARD KNAPP:

So with school starting this Thursday in Poplar Bluff School District we’re just asking everyone to be patient, be mindful of the schools and surroundings. We do have a couple locations that have high traffic volume, the high school being one of them, so just allow yourself extra time in the mornings to get there in a timely manner. You will see some heavy, heavy traffic volume. We ask that when you enter the high school, when you come down the hill, that the drop off is going to be in front of the school by the flagpole and the drop-off will be located between the crosswalks. So when you come down the hill you'll see the first crosswalk and after you pass that you'll pull up to the furthest car in front of you and that's where you will unload your students at that time. In the afternoon the schools let out at 3 o’clock, you will come down the hill and you will make that left right there in front of the gym and you'll start lining up behind the schools, directly behind the school buses. We’ll have people out there to help monitor the traffic and we don't ask that you get there super early, if you can time it getting there 10 minutes before 3, but it does take some time once the bell rings, we've got to load the buses, and that takes about 8 to 10 minutes, and then once the buses are on their way then it's followed up by parent pick-up. Then come around to the front of the school and pick up right at the flagpole at the same spot. Be mindful that we do have students crossing in crosswalks. You'll see myself out there and some other staff members so be looking for those people in the crosswalks when they give you the stop sign or if they hold her hand up, just be mindful that there are several students walking across the road. At the middle school location that's another one of our high volume traffic areas and if you remember from last year, or for those of you that are new this year of having students at the middle school, you will come in off of Highland right there across from Steak and Shake and you will take the first entrance to the right and then you'll come in at entrance and you'll circle right around to the front of the school. There is two lanes of drop off and there will be staff members out there to help guide you on where you need to stop and let your children out. Now when you exit the middle school it's very important that all vehicles turn to the right on Highland, it’s unfortunate that we can't turn you to the left and get you right back out to 67 because what will happen is all that traffic will get stop backed up at the light and then we'll have a backup in the school therefore it's going to take longer to drop children off. And on these first couple days of school like always we have extra officers on duty that are monitoring the schools, their traffic issues, they are going to be out there helping out, so if you see a police officer giving you directions and you're like no I can't go that way the only reason we're giving you that direction it is to help clear things up and it is the best way we can figure out to relieve the traffic issue.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR MEN IN CONNECTION TO FORGERY CASE The Poplar Bluff Police Department is trying to find multiple men in connection to a forgery case.

According to the police officials, the men are wanted for questioning in the case and their identity is currently unknown.

Pictures of the two men are available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who knows the identity of the men or their whereabouts is being asked to contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776, extension number 1360.

OZARK BORDER WARNS OF SCAM IN VAN BUREN AREA The Ozark Border Electric Cooperative says they have received reports of a scam in the Van Buren area.

The Cooperative’s Facebook page says there have been recent reports of customers and businesses receiving calls from individuals impersonating Ozark Border, stating they have not paid their electric bill and attempting to collect payment for their unpaid bill over the phone.

The post would go on to say that information customers are given from the impersonators was not and is not being given to them from Ozark Border employees, nor has their system been hacked.

Anybody who receives a call like this is being advised to not provide the individuals with any personal information and call Ozark Border immediately at 573-785-4631.

Monday August 14, 2017

AUTOPSY TO BE HELD TODAY FOR MAN FOUND DEAD IN CURRENT RIVERThe Ripley County Sheriff tells KWOC News that a Doniphan man was found dead Sunday in Current River.

According to Sheriff Mike Barton, 42 year old James Hough had last been seen with his girlfriend Thursday evening when they went swimming just down river from the Doniphan boat ramp. She never seen him go underwater and just thought he left the area without her.

After not being able to locate Hough, she reported him missing to the Doniphan Police Department Friday night.

Hough’s body was recovered Sunday by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Patrol about 200 yards down river from the city boat ramp.

Barton says that at this time there is no evidence of foul play. An autopsy has been scheduled for this morning.

FISK RESIDENT ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY A Fisk resident was taken into custody Sunday in Butler County on a meth charge.

According to authorities, 32 year old Michael Ryan was arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Ryan is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

BUSY WEEK OF SCHOOL OPENINGS TO BEGIN TODAY A light Monday marks the beginning of a busy week of school openings in Southeast Missouri.

Only a handful of schools in our listening area will be opening for classes today, including Naylor R-2.

Malden R-1 is one of many schools that will be opening on Tuesday.

PARAGOULD MAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK A Paragould man has died after he struck a bridge with his vehicle in Northeast Arkansas.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that a vehicle, driven by 66 year old Lonald Gramling, struck a concrete bridge railing on the bridge over Big Creek multiple times before coming to rest on the shoulder of Highway 226.

The wreck occurred Sunday morning, shortly after 6 am.

Gramling was pronounced dead at the scene.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on multiple drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Dustin Dunn, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody over the weekend on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Officials say that Dunn was arrested early Saturday morning and held in Butler County.

TWIN RIVERS NINTH GRADE ORIENTATION SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT Incoming students to Twin Rivers High School are being encouraged to attend the orientation scheduled for tonight.

According to Twin Rivers High School Counselor Christina Miller, the ninth grade orientation will be held at 7 pm this evening at the High School cafeteria.

The orientation is for all incoming ninth grade students and their parents or guardians. Miller says that important information will be distributed during the meeting.

ROUTE E IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BE CLOSED EARLY THIS WEEK Route E in Wayne and Bollinger Counties will be closed early this week while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of road to be closed is located from Route P to Route TT.

According to officials, work will take place from 7 am to 5 pm both today and tomorrow.

Friday, August 11, 2017

SEARCH WARRANT SERVED AT HORNERSVILLE RESIDENCE LEADS TO ARREST OF TWO

  Two people have been taken into custody following the execution of a search warrant earlier this week in Dunklin County.

According to authorities, multiple agencies participated in the execution of the warrant Tuesday in Hornersville.

During the search, officials reportedly found a weapon, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.

Two people, Michael Dempsey, of Hornersville, and Latisha Harmon, of Senath, have been arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance.

  DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED ON A FELONY WARRANT

  A Doniphan man has been taken into custody on a felony warrant.

Few details about the incident have been released, but according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Kerry Murphey was arrested Thursday evening on a felony Ripley County warrant for sexual misconduct with a student by a teacher.

Following the arrest, Murphey was held at the Wayne County Jail.

  NEW MADRID AND PORTAGEVILLE AMONG SCHOOLS OPENING TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  Students across Southeast Missouri are preparing to return to school over the next few weeks, with some schools beginning class today.

Schools districts opening their doors to students today include New Madrid County R-1 and Portageville.

Coming up on Monday, a handful of schools will be starting classes in our area including Naylor R-2.

  TWIN RIVERS SCHOOL DISTRICT TO HOLD REGISTRATION NEXT WEEK

  Parents in the Twin Rivers School District will have the opportunity to register their children for school next week.

According to Twin Rivers High School Counselor Christina Miller, Twin Rivers will be registering new students Tuesday, August 15th and Wednesday, August 16th, by appointment only.

Parents will need to bring their student’s immunization record, three proofs of residency in the Twin Rivers School District, birth certificate, and proof of guardianship if applicable.

Miller says that if you have any questions or would like to register, you should contact the campus where your child will be enrolling.

  LASER TAG SHOWDOWN SET BETWEEN THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS

  A showdown is set for early September between Police and Firefighters in Poplar Bluff.

The first annual Guns and Hoses Laser Tag Contest between the Poplar Bluff Police Department and the Poplar Bluff Fire Department has been scheduled for 2 pm on September 10th at Hydro Adventures.

Proceeds from the event will go to Shop with a Hero.

If you would like more information, call 573-727-9322.

  STUDENTS IN THE CAMPBELL SCHOOL DISTRICT HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A FREE HAIR CUT ON MONDAY

  Students in the Campbell School district are being given the opportunity to get a free haircut before school begins.

The Campbell R-2 School District will be working with area cosmetologists to provide students with back to school haircuts on Monday, August 14th from 3 to 6 pm at the Campbell Elementary Cafeteria.

The school district Facebook page says that the haircuts will be available to school-aged children in the Campbell R-2 school district.

During the event, officials will also be giving away school supplies that were donated during the stuff the bus event for students to help prepare for the first day of school.

  FOOD DRIVE PROMOTION UNDERWAY AT SIKESTON JAYCEE BOOTHEEL RODEO

  The Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo is underway and officials say that efforts are being made to help a local pantry.

The Rodeo is collecting nonperishable food items to present to the Bulldog Pantry. Children ages 3 to 13 who bring 10 or more nonperishable items to the Bulldog Pantry table in front of the ticket office will receive a voucher for $10 off his or her next Rodeo ticket purchase during the 2017 season.

Those who bring items on Saturday will receive $10 off that night’s ticket purchase.

The Bulldog Pantry is a local resource for disadvantaged children in Sikeston public schools. The organization relies heavily on donations to provide students with school supplies, clothing and food.

Items requested include canned goods, oatmeal, Pop-Tarts, cereal, fruit cups, and applesauce. The food must not be expired.

Thursday, August 10, 2017

TAX MEASURES APPROVED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY, KENNETT, AND CARUTHERSVILLE

  While Tuesday brought the failure of tax measures in Butler County, other Southeast Missouri communities were able to get voter approval for tax increases.

Voters in Caruthersville, Kennett, and Dunklin County all approved sales tax measures on Tuesday. Kennett voters also passed a use tax measure as well.

The closest of the four votes was the sales tax vote in Kennett, which passed by approximately 32 votes.

  STUDENTS TO RETURN TO SCHOOL TODAY IN MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES

  Students across Southeast Missouri are preparing to return to school over the next few weeks, with some schools beginning class today.

A number of school districts are starting today including, Bernie, Chaffee R-2, Dexter R-11, Kelso C-7, Leopold R-3, Neeylville R-4, Richland R-1, and Ripley County R-4.

Additional schools will begin classes on Friday, including New Madrid County R-1 and Portageville.

  METHAMPHETAMINE AND A GUN FOUND DURING SEARCH OF RESIDENCE IN CLAY COUNTY

  Two people have been placed into custody following the execution of a search warrant in Clay County.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that on Tuesday, deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Department along with officers with the Corning Police Department and members of the Green County Sheriff’s Department SRT team executed a search warrant at a Corning residence.

Officers reportedly located approximately 10 to 11 grams of suspected methamphetamine along with multiple items of drug paraphernalia used in the ingestion and sale of methamphetamine.

Officers also located and seized a .380 semi-automatic pistol, a small amount of jewelry that had been reported stolen by another individual, a vehicle believed to be used in the transportation of illegal narcotics, and over $3,000.

Both occupants of the residence, identified as Kevin Hensley and Chelsey Elenberg were arrested on scene and are facing numerous charges including possession of controlled substance - methamphetamine with intent to distribute along with an added enhancement for being within 2000 feet of a school, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, and theft by receiving.

WOMAN IN CUSTODY IN STODDARD COUNTY ON $100,000 BOND

  A Dexter woman is in custody on a $100,000 cash bond in Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 28 year old Ashley Nichole Roper was recently arrested on three warrants for identity or attempted identity theft.

Officials say that the total bond was set at $100,000 cash and Roper remained in jail as of this morning awaiting extradition to Tennessee.

  BERNIE OFFICIALS SAY FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT SELLING BOOKS IS NOT PART OF CHILD TRAFFICKING SCHEME

  There has been some social media chatter in the Bernie area about a foreign exchange student that police say is unwarranted.

According to the Bernie Police Department, the student is going door-to-door selling children's books for Southwestern Advantage.

Some social media members are reportedly sharing information claiming the individual as being part of a Russian child trafficking scheme, which police say is not true.

The Bernie Police Department has conducted a thorough back ground check of the student and the company and both are legitimate and currently possess a valid peddlers License in the City of Bernie.

  POPLAR BLUFF CROSS COUNTRY TEAM TO HOLD PANCAKE BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER THIS WEEKEND

  The Poplar Bluff Cross Country team will be attempting to raise money this weekend with the aid of pancakes.

Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that the team will be hosting a pancake breakfast fundraiser this Saturday at the Junior High Cafeteria.

The breakfast is scheduled to run from 7:30 am to 10:30 am. The cost is $5 per person and all proceeds will benefit the Cross Country team.

  DRIVERS REMINDED TO BE AWARE OF CHANGING TRAFFIC PATTERNS WITH SCHOOL STARTING

  Drivers across Southeast Missouri are being reminded that with many schools starting traffic patterns are going to change.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the changes will be due to school buses and parents taking their children to school joining other motorists on the road and affecting the morning and afternoon commutes.

Whatever route you drive, expect this additional traffic and prepare by allowing extra time to reach your destination.

Missouri law states that on a two-lane road, if a school bus is stopped and displaying warning signals while loading or unloading children, drivers must stop when meeting and following the bus. However, it is only necessary to stop on a four-lane highway when following the bus.

When you see a stopped school bus, remember to stay alert as children may not be aware of traffic and dart unexpectedly into the roadway.

Parents are also encouraged to talk to their children about riding a bus, walking, or driving to school in a safe manner.

Wednesday August 9, 2017

USE TAX MEASURES DEFEATED IN BOTH POPLAR BLUFF AND BUTLER COUNTYUse tax measures were defeated in both Poplar Bluff and Butler County on Tuesday.

The Butler County measure was soundly defeated with 1,502 no votes compared to 1,017 yes votes. The city of Poplar Bluff vote was much closer however, with only 12 more no votes than yes votes. The tally in Poplar Bluff was 448 no votes and 436 yes votes.

KWOC News caught up with Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs after the results were announced and got his thoughts on the results.

MARK DOBBS:

It’s no doubt very disappointing, you work daily, yearly, to try to pull a rabbit out of the hat funding wise to try to keep up with an ever-shrinking tax base, an ever shrinking 911 tax base. Every year it's just a little harder to make ends meet. The sum total of it is people get laid off, services get lost, and it's as simple as really as simple as that. I mean, I get both sides of it, that taxes are tough, nobody likes taxes, I don't like taxes, but you know it cost money for services so it's disappointing for us, but we're all professionals, so we’ll go back to the drawing board and do what we've always done and continue to do a good job. You know as far as Butler County I wasn't all that surprised in the numbers there. It’s certainly disappointing for the city only to miss it by 12, that’s tough. There are so many professionals, who work hard and you want to see keep their job you want to see them keep working. You want to be able to deliver the services that people need, but you can't do it with no funds. It's like always you just have to find a way to do more with less and less becomes more. Less grows every day, just every time you turn around there's less to get things done with but we'll just have to make do like we always have, whatever that takes.

STUDENTS TO RETURN TO SCHOOL TODAY IN BELL CITY Students across Southeast Missouri are preparing to return to school, with some schools beginning class today.

Only a handful of school’s are opening today including Bell City R-2.

Many more are scheduled to start classes tomorrow, including Bernie, Chaffee, Dexter, and Neeylville.

Wednesday August 9, 2017

USE TAX MEASURES DEFEATED IN BOTH POPLAR BLUFF AND BUTLER COUNTYUse tax measures were defeated in both Poplar Bluff and Butler County on Tuesday.

The Butler County measure was soundly defeated with 1,502 no votes compared to 1,017 yes votes. The city of Poplar Bluff vote was much closer however, with only 12 more no votes than yes votes. The tally in Poplar Bluff was 448 no votes and 436 yes votes.

KWOC News caught up with Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs after the results were announced and got his thoughts on the results.

MARK DOBBS:

It’s no doubt very disappointing, you work daily, yearly, to try to pull a rabbit out of the hat funding wise to try to keep up with an ever-shrinking tax base, an ever shrinking 911 tax base. Every year it's just a little harder to make ends meet. The sum total of it is people get laid off, services get lost, and it's as simple as really as simple as that. I mean, I get both sides of it, that taxes are tough, nobody likes taxes, I don't like taxes, but you know it cost money for services so it's disappointing for us, but we're all professionals, so we’ll go back to the drawing board and do what we've always done and continue to do a good job. You know as far as Butler County I wasn't all that surprised in the numbers there. It’s certainly disappointing for the city only to miss it by 12, that’s tough. There are so many professionals, who work hard and you want to see keep their job you want to see them keep working. You want to be able to deliver the services that people need, but you can't do it with no funds. It's like always you just have to find a way to do more with less and less becomes more. Less grows every day, just every time you turn around there's less to get things done with but we'll just have to make do like we always have, whatever that takes.

STUDENTS TO RETURN TO SCHOOL TODAY IN BELL CITY Students across Southeast Missouri are preparing to return to school, with some schools beginning class today.

Only a handful of school’s are opening today including Bell City R-2.

Many more are scheduled to start classes tomorrow, including Bernie, Chaffee, Dexter, and Neeylville.

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO BURGLARY IN POPLAR BLUFF AREA A man has been arrested in connection to a burglary in the Poplar Bluff area.

K9 Officer Bo Skinner with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department said that the man was found Tuesday afternoon.

BO SKINNER:

On Tuesday afternoon at approximately 2:30 in the afternoon I Deputy Skinner was dispatched to a residence near Highway 67 and M in Butler County in reference to a suspicious subject. I was advised that the subject had entered a residence and the homeowner contacted him as he was entering the residence. She inquired as to why he was there and he said he was coming into the residents to charge his cell phone. The suspect was contacted later north of the location on South Westwood Boulevard. Suspect was identified as 32 year old Nicholas Beros. Upon initial contact with Mr. Beros, I began speaking with him. While conducting a once warrants check, he granted permission to search the camouflage backpack that he had on his back. At that time I located two hypodermic syringes and a marijuana pipe with burnt residue inside the pipe. Mr. Beros was placed in custody at that time for possession of narcotics paraphernalia. I was then advised that a city investigator was en route to the location to make contact with Mr. Beros. I continued searching inside the bag at which time I located numerous cell phones, a laptop computer, and other electronic items. There were zip drives. I also located a key from the Butler County highway department that had an individual vehicle number on the key ring. It was later discovered that this item was possibly related to a burglary that had occurred inside the city limits and that the Poplar Bluff City Police Department was currently investigating. Mr. Beros was then transported and booked in the Butler County jail for the charges of burglary first, possession of a controlled substance, possession of narcotics paraphernalia.

We also spoke with Detective Andy Cleaveland with the Poplar Bluff Police Department who says that Beros was possibly connected to several area burglaries.

ANDY CLEAVELAND:

The Poplar Bluff Police Department's been looking at the suspect Nicholas Beros as possibly being involved in several burglaries in the downtown Poplar Bluff area. I heard the suspect's name Nicholas Beros come across the radio as being part of a pedestrian check that he was being checked by Butler County Sheriff Department. I proceeded to the area they were at. When I arrived there at the scene Mr. Beros had actually been found to be in possession of some drug paraphernalia and several other items. One of those items that was in his possession was a bag that had stolen property from the veterans commission where we just had a burglary on Monday afternoon. We had looked at that property determined that to be stolen property in that incident. We determine that Nicholas Burroughs was in possession of stolen property. He was brought to the Butler County Sheriff's Department where I conducted an interview on him, Subsequent to that interview he confessed to the burglary at the Juvenile Center, the veterans commission there at 614 Lindsay Street in Poplar Bluff. As a result of this investigation and the subsequent confession from Mr. Beros he will be charged with second-degree burglary for this offense.

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF Three people were injured in a wreck Tuesday evening near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred shortly before 5:30 pm on Business 60, two miles east of Poplar Bluff.

A vehicle, driven by a 17 year old Poplar Bluff male, had reportedly failed to yield and was struck by a vehicle. The second vehicle was driven by 52 year old Steven McLaughlin, of Poplar Bluff.

McLaughlin was seriously injured in the wreck and taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

The teenage driver received moderate injuries and a child passenger in his vehicle suffered minor injuries during the wreck.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 153 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the bridge involved is located between Main Street and Marsh Street.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 3 pm.

Tuesday August 8, 2017

SHOTS FIRED DURING DOMESTIC INCIDENT IN BUTLER COUNTYA Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple charges following an incident on Saturday in Butler County where shots were fired.

KWOC News spoke with Butler County Sheriff’s Deputy Travis Huddleston who said that the victim reported that the suspect had fired a shotgun at her.

TRAVIS HUDDLESTON:

On Saturday morning, at around 10 am, our office was notified of a dispute in the 3000 block of Highway 53 where shots had been fired at the victim. Deputies responded to the area, made contact with the victim who advised a family member’s boyfriend had shot a shotgun at her from approximately 30 foot away while she was inside of a building. We made contact with the suspect, later identified as William Crutchfield, of Poplar Bluff, he was subsequently taken into custody and transported to the Sheriff's Department for unlawful use of a weapon and assault 2nd degree with a firearm and booked on those charges and probable cause statement sent to the prosecutor's office.

MANY TAX ISSUES ON BALLOTS ACROSS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Voters in multiple Southeast Missouri communities will be voting on tax issues during today’s election.

Ballots in Poplar Bluff, Kennett, and Butler County will all include use tax issues today.

Residents in Caruthersville, Charleston, Kennett, and Dunklin County will be voting on sales tax issues.

You can find your polling place and what issues will be on your ballot and www.GoVoteMissouri.com.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction through early next month as contractor crews perform bridge maintenance.

According to MoDOT, the section of road to be reduced is located between County Road 306 to County Road 220.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Friday, September 1st from 5 am to 5 pm daily.

SLEEPING MAN LEADS TO METH DISCOVERY IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS A Paragould man was taken into custody over the weekend after he was found by police officers sleeping in a vehicle.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that on Sunday, Clay County Deputies made contact with a vehicle at a Piggott convenience store. The driver of the vehicle, 45 year old Anthony Coleman, was asleep behind the wheel and difficult for officers to awaken.

While speaking with the officers, Coleman reportedly appeared very confused. Coleman then handed officers a small piece of copper that he was holding. The officers inspected the piece of copper and discovered two taped up bags inside containing suspected methamphetamines.

Coleman was taken into custody and is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance without a prescription.

Following the arrest, he was transported to the Clay County Detention Center.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY BURGLARY WARRANT A Poplar Bluff man has been arrested in Butler County on a felony burglary warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old Gordon Stroud was arrested Monday morning on a felony warrant out of Butler County for burglary 2nd degree.

Stroud also had a misdemeanor warrant for fraudulent use of a credit device.

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

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMAN ORIENTATION TO BE HELD TOMORROW MORNING We are just over a week away from school starting in Poplar Bluff and school officials are reminding incoming High School freshmen to attend orientation tomorrow.

The 2017 PBHS Freshman Orientation will be held from 8 am to noon on Wednesday. Registration will begin at 7:30 am outside of the gym.

This is a student only event, where the new freshmen will get to meet their advisory class, learn the layout of the campus, receive their class schedule, and participate in other activities.

Students in grades 10 through 12 will receive their schedules during MacBook deployment on Thursday and Friday of this week. Parents and students must attend a session of deployment to pay the $35 insurance fee, sign the usage agreement, and pick-up the MacBook and charger.

The new school year will begin in the Poplar Bluff School District on Thursday, August 17th.

RAILROAD CROSSING REPAIRS TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROUTE 49 IN WAYNE COUNTY A portion of Route 49 in Wayne County will be temporarily closed so railroad crews can perform railroad crossing repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route 49 will be closed from 6 am to 6 pm both today and tomorrow for the repairs.

Officials say the work zone will be located from County Road 421 to County Road 424.

Monday August 7, 2017

DEATH OF BUTLER COUNTY MAN BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN DUE TO DROWNINGA Butler County man who was reported missing last week is believed to have drowned.

According to Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs, the body of 41 year old Thomas Mayabb, of Fisk, was found Wednesday afternoon in the Black River, six and a half miles south of Dan River Access.

Mayabb had been reported missing earlier last week.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that an autopsy was performed Friday and no signs of trauma were found.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that an autopsy was performed Friday and no signs of trauma were found.

TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY A Malden teenager was badly injured yesterday in a single vehicle wreck in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 17 year old female was driving a vehicle on Missouri Highway 25 when the vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a tree stump, and overturned.

The girl received serious injuries and was taken to a Stoddard County hospital.

VOTERS TO DECIDE ON BUTLER COUNTY AND POPLAR BLUFF USE TAX TOMORROW Voters in Poplar Bluff and Butler County will each be voting on use tax issues during Tuesday’s election.

The local use tax, if passed, will be collected by major out of state mail order and internet companies which do business in Missouri for all mail order and internet purchases from Poplar Bluff and Butler County.

The use tax would be the same rate as the local sales tax, 2.25 percent for Poplar Bluff, and one percent for Butler County.

Each measure also states that if the local sales tax rate is reduced or raised by voter approval, the local use tax rate shall also be reduced or raised by the same action.

The measures also say that a use tax return shall not be required to be filed by anyone whose purchases from out-of- state vendors do not in total exceed two thousand dollars in any calendar year.

You can find your local polling place online at www.GoVoteMissouri.com.

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL TO MEET TONIGHT The Poplar Bluff City Council will be meeting tonight with multiple items up for discussion.

Some things to be discussed include the Final Change Order for the Walking Trails Grant Project, bids received for Shelby Road, Phase 2, and a cooperative purchasing agreement between the City and the Houston-Galveston Area Council for purchases.

There are also multiple items to be voted on including, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute a grant agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency relative to a grant for the Fire Department and an ordinance on a contract with Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission to administer the FEMA Firefighters grant.

The meeting will begin at 7 pm at the City Council Chambers.

RANDEL SPARKS PLEADS GUILTY TO LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT Sentencing has been set for October for a Poplar Bluff man after he pled guilty to multiple felony charges last week.

According to Missouri Case Net, on Friday, Randel Sparks pled guilty to the felony charges of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution.

Sparks was allegedly one of two drivers involved in the wreck that killed Heavenly Hafford on December 9th, 2015.

His sentencing was set for October 20th.

AUTOPSY PERFORMED ON MAN WHO DIED FOLLOWING DOMESTIC INCIDENT IN ROMBAUER An autopsy has been performed on a man who died last week following a domestic incident in Rombauer.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 48 year-old Mike Leslie, was involved in a domestic altercation with his sister, 51 year old Judith Kimbrell, on Wednesday.

During the altercation, Kimbrell allegedly retrieved a firearm from the bedroom, confronted Leslie, and fired one round, striking him in the stomach area. Leslie was dead when officers arrived on scene.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that an autopsy was performed on Leslie Friday which confirmed that he died due to the gunshot wound.

SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR HORNERSVILLE LEAVES MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES Authorities say a Hornersville man was involved in a single vehicle wreck over the weekend.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 24 year old Tyler Gozell’s vehicle overturned Sunday afternoon after striking a ditch off of Missouri Highway 164.

Gozell was taken to an area hospital with serious injuries.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Route AB in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane for most of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

MoDOT officials say that the work zone is located from Route 25 to Route N.

Work is scheduled to take place today through Thursday from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm daily.