Thursday, May 24, 2018

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SHANNON COUNTY WRECK

A Springfield man was seriously injured in a wreck Wednesday afternoon in Shannon County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a freightliner was crossing an intersection in Birch Tree when a vehicle, driven by 23 year old Bryon Heard, struck the rear of the trailer and became lodged underneath. 

Heard suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Columbia hospital. 

TWO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOLS TO PLAY IN STATE BASEBALL SEMIFINALS

Two Southeast Missouri schools will be sending baseball teams to the Missouri state semifinals. 

In Class 3 the Malden Green Wave defeated the West County Bulldogs Wednesday 4 to 3 in the State Quarterfinals yesterday. The Green Wave will face Holden High School next Tuesday in O’Fallon. 

In the Class 1 Quarter-final, Oran beat Eminence 16 to 0 to book their place in the State Semifinals. The Eagles will next play on Wednesday against Green City High School. 

OKLAHOMA WOMAN ARRESTED FOR COCAINE IN STODDARD COUNTY

An Oklahoma woman has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a felony drug charge. 

According to authorities, 25 year old Atrice Perry, of Oklahoma City, was arrested early this morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – cocaine. 

Perry was also arrested on charges of possession of marijuana and no valid operator’s license. 

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION CEREMONY TO BE HELD TONIGHT

The Poplar Bluff High School Class of 2018 will be receiving their diplomas tonight. 

The PBHS Graduation Ceremony will be held tonight at 7 pm at the Black River Coliseum. 

On Friday, the 4th Quarter will come to an end for students in the Poplar Bluff School District and schools will be dismissed early, starting with the Middle School at 11:30 am, followed by the Junior High at 11:40 am, the High School at 11:45 am, the Kindergarten Center at 12:30 pm, and ending with the Elementary Schools at 12:45 pm. 

MISSOURI STATE VETERANS CEMETERY TO HOLD MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

The Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield will be holding its annual Memorial Day Program next week. 

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 Retired Colonel Jack Jackson from the US Marine Corps. 

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.

CITY OF FISK UNDER BOIL WATER ORDER

A Butler County city has been placed under a boil water order. 

According to Mayor John Murray, the city of Fisk is under a boil water order until further notice. 

Butler County Water District #104 has also issued a Boil Water Advisory due to low water pressure. 

For more information, contact the Fisk City Hall at 573-967-3810.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

ARKANSAS PRIMARY RESULTS

The incumbent Arkansas Governor will be challenged by a former Teach for America executive in November’s election. 

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson won the Republican primary in his re-election bid yesterday, while Democrats elected Jared Henderson for their nomination. 

For a seat on the Arkansas Supreme Court, Justice Courtney Goodson and Department of Human Services Chief Counsel David Sterling were the top two candidates in a heated three-person race. They both will advance to a runoff in the November general election. 

According to unofficial results from the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office, in Greene County, Sheriff David Carter won the Republican nomination for Sheriff over Shanon Anthony. In Randolph County, Chris Winebaugh defeated Larry Rogers for the Democratic nomination for Sheriff. 

FIRE LEADS TO ARREST IN KENNETT

An arrest has been made in connection to a weekend fire in Kennett. 

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly after 4 am Saturday morning officers were dispatched to a residence on Harris Street in reference to a fire. 

At the scene officers learned that a subject had set the victims clothing on fire in a yard near the house which lead to the house becoming involved in the fire. 

Officials say that 33 year old Sidney Harris, of Kennett, was later arrested for arson 1st degree and held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor’s office.

MOTORISTS ASKED TO USE CAUTION IN THE AREA OF THE 100 MILE YARD SALE

It is almost time for the annual 100 mile yard sale in Southeast Missouri. 

The Memorial Day weekend event will run along Route 25 from Jackson to Kennett through May 28th. 

Missouri Department of Transportation Traffic Engineer Craig Compas says that people should remember that there’s more traffic and more congestion along Route 25 this weekend than any other and drivers should be alert and look for pedestrian traffic. 

Message boards will be in place along the route to alert drivers of the unusual traffic patterns and promote safe driving.

KENNETT RESIDENT FACING ASSAULT AND TRESPASSING CHARGES OUT OF DUNKLIN COUNTY

A Kennett resident is facing multiple charges, including assault, following her arrest earlier this week. 

According to the Kennett Police Department, shortly after 7 am Monday, officers were dispatched to an area residence in reference to an assault. 

Upon arrival, officers arrested 29 year old Kayla Roberts for assault 3rd degree, trespassing, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia as well as an active probation/parole violation warrant. 

Officials say that Roberts was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center on the warrant and was placed on a twenty-four hour hold pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor’s office regarding the new charges.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on a felony meth charge. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Darrell Dugger was arrested Tuesday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. He is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Following the arrest, Dugger was held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office. 

SIKESTON MAN SENTENCED ON FIREARMS CHARGE

A Sikeston man was sentenced earlier this week on a felony firearms charge. 

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 21 year old Marquan Green was sentenced Monday to 87 months on one felony count of possession of stolen firearms, and ordered to pay restitution of over $6,000.

Earlier this year, Green admitted to breaking into a firearms business in Sikeston and stealing twelve firearms. The incident occurred in March of 2017. 

INTERSTATE REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Northbound and Southbound Interstate 55 in Scott and New Madrid Counties will be reduced with a 14 foot width restriction through early next month as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone is located from mile marker 66 to mile marker 49.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 6 am to 7 pm daily through Saturday, June 2nd.

Tuesday May 22, 2018

ARREST MADE IN BUTLER COUNTY HOMICIDE

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, an arrest has been made in a homicide investigation in Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that the investigation began Sunday afternoon.

MARK DOBBS: 

Sunday around 3 o’clock, our officers received a call and responded to the area of County Road 612 in eastern Butler County in reference to a black male laying on the edge of the roadway who was apparently deceased and was apparently the victim of a homicide. Since then the major case squad has been activated, consisting of the Butler County Sheriff's Office, Poplar Bluff Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control, as well as the Butler County coroner's office. In the early morning hours, we did arrest one suspect, one person of interest, he's being held on an unrelated charge and unrelated parole absconder warrant out of Michigan. That individual’s name is Demetrion Lafayette, age 30, He shows or claims a Poplar Bluff address however he's not necessarily a long-term resident here. At this time it’s believed that the motivation was misunderstanding over sales of illegal narcotics, it is believed both the victim and the suspect were at least medium level dealers of illegal narcotics. They had a misunderstanding. The suspect is being held without bond on a Michigan charge. And we anticipate that being that a murder charge being filed on him at some point in the very near future. The victim schedule for an autopsy the preliminary appearance of it is that he most likely died of gunshot wounds however that something that the autopsy will have to review. At this time investigation continues members of the major case Squad are continuing to follow up leads and shore up the case and make a good criminal case and get a clear understanding of what it is exactly that took place out at the scene.

KWOC News will continue following this story and bring you further updates as they become available.

2018 ARKANSAS PREFERENTIAL PRIMARY ELECTION TO BE HELD TODAY

Voters across Arkansas will be heading to the polls today.

The 2018 Preferential Primary will be held today with both state and local primary races to be decided.

According to Arkansas Secretary of State Mark Martin, polls close tonight at 7:30 pm. Voters can find their polling location at sos.arkansas.gov.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED OVER NEXT FEW DAYS FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route CC in Stoddard County will be closed over the next few days so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

According to MoDOT, Route CC will be closed from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily today through Thursday. 

The work zone will be located from Route HH to Route A.  

STEELE MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 16 YEARS IN CONNECTION TO AREA ROBBERY

A Steele man has been sentenced for his role in a 2016 convenience store robbery.

According to the United States Attorney's Office, 40 year old Ryan Sandson was sentenced to 200 months on one felony count of interference with commerce by threat or violence and one felony count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Sandson reportedly admitted that he and Anthony Jackson made a plan to rob a business in Caruthersville on September 21st, 2016. Sandson provided the pistol and was to serve as the getaway driver.

Sandson illegally possessed the pistol as he had previously been convicted of the felonies of carjacking, aggravated robbery, and burglary.

Jackson took the pistol inside the store, threatened the clerk and stole approximately $800. He was sentenced in February to 135 months imprisonment.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN INTERSTATE 55

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

According to officials, the work zone will be located between County Road 820 and Route 80.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 4 pm.

DEXTER STUDENT GIVEN CONGRESSIONAL AWARD

A Dexter student was presented a Congressional Award this past weekend.

On Saturday U.S. Representative Jason Smith presented a Congressional Award to Matthew Agey of Dexter. The award is the highest honor given by Congress to a youth who excels in a number of areas including personal development, public service, physical fitness and exploration.

Smith tells KWOC News that Agey gave more than 100 hours in voluntary public service in his community, including assisting at 4H and Sons of the American Legion events as well as helping raise money for Wreaths across America and local cancer organizations.

Monday May 21, 2018

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

A homicide investigation is underway in Butler County.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that 32 year old Jermaine Johnson, of Poplar Bluff, was found dead with gun shout wounds Sunday in the area of County Roads 620 and 612 in Butler County.

The major case squad has been activated for the investigation and Moore says that an autopsy has been scheduled for this afternoon in Farmington.

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO SIKESTON SHOOTING

A man is being sought in connection to a shooting at a Sikeston business.

Sergeant Jon Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that on Saturday, May 12th, patrol officers observed what appeared to be a disturbance break out at West Side Liquor. The officer heard one gunshot and observed vehicles fleeing the scene.

While officers were investigating they learned a subject had arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his abdomen.  The victim is expected to make a full recovery.

Sergeant Broom says that 29 year old Lonnie Bell, of Sikeston is wanted in connection to the shooting. Bell has an active warrant for his arrest for assault 1st, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. His bond is set at $100,000, cash only.

Anyone who has information on Bell’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Sikeston DPS or their local police department.

TEENAGER ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

A teenager was arrested Friday in Stoddard County on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 18 year old Keri Williams, of Oran, was taken into custody on felony charges of forgery and hindering prosecution. She is also facing a charge of possession of marijuana.

Following the arrest, Williams was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

WATER TO BE SHUT OFF THIS MORNING IN CLARKTON FOR REPAIRS

Some residents in Clarkton may be without water for part of today due to repairs.

According to the Clarkton Fire and Rescue Facebook page, the water will be shut off at 8 am this morning to repair two water leaks.

A timetable for when the water will return was not released.

ONE DEAD, FOUR INJURED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY WRECK

A Caruthersville man has died from injuries he received in a Friday evening wreck.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 6 pm Friday on Missouri Highway 84 in the Hayti area.

A vehicle driven by 30 year old Ricky Mitchell, of Caruthersville, reportedly crossed the center line of the highway and struck another vehicle head on.

The driver of the second vehicle, 27 year old William Hayes, also of Caruthersville, was later pronounced dead at a Pemiscot County hospital.

Three children in Mitchell’s vehicle were seriously injured in the wreck and transported to a local hospital.

Mitchell suffered minor injuries and was arrested later Friday on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter and three counts of assault second degree.

BROSELEY MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY RESISTING ARREST CHARGE

A Broseley man is facing a felony resisting arrest charge following his arrest over the weekend.

According to the Highway Patrol, 55 year old Darryl King was taken into custody Saturday afternoon on a felony charge of resisting arrest by fleeing along with a felony charge of driving while revoked.

Officials say that King was transported to the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

BERNIE RESIDENT FACING CHARGES OF STATUTORY RAPE AND STATUTORY SODOMY

A Bernie resident was taken into custody last week on a statutory rape charge.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 32 year old Garrette Mason was recently arrested on one felony count of statutory rape 2nd degree and two felony counts of statutory sodomy 2nd degree.

Mason’s bond has been set at $50,000, cash only.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

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

The section of Route CC to be closed is located from Route 114 to Route HH.        

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 am to 3:30 pm.

Friday, May 18, 2018

MALDEN MAN FACING CHARGES OF BURGLARY AND STEALING

Authorities in Malden say that an area man was in custody earlier this week on a felony Dunklin County warrant. 

According to the Malden Police Department, on Wednesday officers arrested 38 year old Christopher Ellison, of Malden, on a felony Dunklin County warrant for the charges of Burglary 2nd and Stealing.

Ellison was held at the Malden City Jail on a $75,000 bond. 

REPORT OF AN UNWANTED GUEST LEADS TO DRUG ARREST IN KENNETT

A report of an unwanted guest led to a drug arrest Wednesday in Kennett. 

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence Wednesday evening in reference to an unwanted guest.

At the residence, 31 year old Charles Reeves, of Gobler, was arrested on an active warrant issued by the Missouri Probation and Parole office. During the arrest, officers located several loose prescription medication pills and narcotic paraphernalia on Reeves. 

He was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center on the warrant as well as on a twenty-four hour hold pending the filing of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia charges. 

MULTIPLE EVENTS SCHEDULED FOR KIDS TO PARKS DAY THIS WEEKEND AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers tell us that multiple activities have been scheduled for the 2018 Kids to Parks day this weekend at Wappapello Lake. 

The free event has been scheduled for 9 am to noon on Saturday at the Redman Creek Recreation Area. 

There will be a variety of fun water safety and recreational themed games and activities with prizes also being awarded. 

For more information, call the Wappapello Lake Management office at 573-222-8562. 

DEXTER WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON BURGLARY AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANTS

A Dexter woman has been taken into custody on multiple warrants in Stoddard County. 

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 19 year old Taylor Pullam was recently arrested on two felony Stoddard County warrants. 

One of the warrants was for burglary with a $10,000 bond set, while the other was for possession of a controlled substance and had a bond set at $5,000. 

Officials say that Pullam remained in jail as of this morning. 

SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES

A Sikeston man was arrested last night on a felony meth charge in Scott County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Jared Townsend was taken into custody at around 8:30 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Townsend was also arrested on a felony charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and was held at the Sikeston Department of Public Safety.  

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK BEGINS ON SATURDAY

National Safe Boating Week kicks off on Saturday and state officials want boaters to arrange for a thorough inspection of their vessel prior to taking it out on the water. 

Colonel Sandra Karsten, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that the Patrol’s marine operations troopers will be available to inspect the required equipment on your boat to make sure you’re in compliance with state law.

On Saturday, boaters can get their vessel inspected from 8 to 10 am at the Van Buren River Front Boat Ramp, and from 9 am to 11 am at the Redman Recreational Boat Ramp and Doniphan City Boat Ramp. 

Thursday May 17, 2018

TWO VEHICLE WRECK NEAR ADVANCE LEAVES ONE DEAD, TWO INJURED

Authorities say that one person is dead and two are injured following a wreck Wednesday morning near Advance.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 5:30 am on Route C, two miles west of Advance.

A vehicle driven by 29 year old Jacob Bates, of Puxico, was attempting a pass when he struck another vehicle.

Bates was pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Kenny Pope.

Two people in the second vehicle were injured, one seriously, and taken to area hospitals.

OVER 250 PEOPLE WITHOUT POWER THIS MORNING FOLLOWING STORMS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A storm system that tracked through Northeast Arkansas last night resulted in over 250 people being without power this morning.

According to Entergy Arkansas, 264 customers in the Corning and Rector areas were still without power as of 4 am this morning. A flood advisory was also in effect for part of the night in Northeastern Randolph County where two inches of rain had fallen.

In Southeast Missouri, Butler County EMA Director Robbie Myers reported to the National Weather Service that a land spout had occurred along State Highway HH in Butler County that resulted in power lines being down along with damage to the tin roof of a shed.

DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a felony warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 29 year old Jeremy Jarrell, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a Stoddard County felony warrant for possession of a control substance.

Officials say that Jarrell’s bond was set at $5,000, cash only.

POCAHONTAS MAN KILLED IN TWO VEHICLE WRECK

One man has died following a two vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 26 year old Dennis Young, of Pocahontas, was driving on Highway 63 in the Hoxie area when he crossed the center line and struck a semi head on.

Officials say that Young was killed in the wreck. No injuries were listed for the driver of the semi. 

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO STABBING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An arrest has been made in connection to a stabbing last week in Southeast Missouri.

Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that on May 10th, officers responded to an area residence where they found a victim who was bleeding profusely from a stab wound on his arm.

The victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment and later released.

Stanfield says that 44 year old Arnold Hill, of Steele, has been taken into custody and is facing charges of assault 1st degree and possession of a controlled substance. His bond was set at $25,000, cash only.

NO ONE HURT IN SIKESTON BUSINESS FIRE

There were no injuries reported following a business fire early Wednesday in Sikeston.

Sergeant Jon Broom tells us that shortly before 1 am yesterday, a patrol officer with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety located fire and smoke coming from the roof of Joy’s Bridal in downtown Sikeston.

Broom says that fire crews were able to extinguish the fire within 30 minutes, but remained on scene until 5 am checking for fire and completing salvage and overhaul.

The business received moderate damage to the roof and second floor as well as smoke damage throughout the building. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO FORCE CLOSURE OF PART OF A WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TODAY

A portion of Route C in Wayne County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

Officials say that the bridge is located between County Road 225 and Route E.

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

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

MAN SHOT BY OFF DUTY NEW MADRID COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPUTY RESERVE

No charges will be filed following a shooting incident involving a sheriff’s deputy reserve in New Madrid County. 

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, at approximately 8:40 pm Monday, New Madrid County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a call of a person shot at a residence in Marston. 

At the scene, deputies found a 42 year old male in the yard with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The male was transported to a hospital where he remains in stable condition.  

During an investigation, deputies learned that an off duty New Madrid County Sheriff's Deputy Reserve shot the 42 yr old male.

Officials say that it was determined through an investigation by the Highway Patrol that the off duty New Madrid County Sheriff's Deputy Reserve acted in self defense during an altercation and no charges will be filed.

TWO ARRESTED ON FELONY WARRANTS IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two people were recently taken into custody on felony warrants in Stoddard County. 

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 55 year old Robert Lutes, of Dexter, and 27 year old Sara Davis, of Malden, were each arrested on a Stoddard County felony warrant for possession of a control substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Officials did not say if the two arrests were connected. 

Lutes bond was set at $12,500, while Davis’s bond was set at $3,500 and officials say both remained in jail as of this morning. 

MOBILE FOOD PANTRY SET FOR THIS WEEKEND IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Mobile Food Pantry will be held this weekend in Butler County. 

The pantry has been scheduled for 7 am this Saturday at Twin Rivers General Baptist Church. 

Attendees should bring a box or laundry basket. 

Twin Rivers General Baptist Church is located at 6300 Missouri Highway 51.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER SCREENINGS TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center is accepting screening appointments for the 2018-2019 school year. 

If you are a parent in the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District and have a child who will be three or four years old on July 31st, you can call 573-785-6803 for more information about having your child screened. 

The next screenings will be held by appointment only on Thursday, May 24th. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment. 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS UNDERWAY ON ROUTE 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY

Eastbound and Westbound Route 60 in Stoddard County are being reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

Officials say the work zone is located from Route 51 to Route 114.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily through this Friday.  

CREWS TO BE IN PEMISCOT COUNTY FOR REPAIRS ON INTERSTATE 55

There will be various lane closures on northbound and southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County through next week so contractor crews can perform pavement repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the closures will be located between the Arkansas State Line and mile marker 17.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 7 pm daily through Friday, May 25th.

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

MAN KILLED AFTER COLLISION WITH FREIGHTLINER IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A Pocahontas man has died after being involved in a wreck with a freightliner Monday evening in Randolph County. 

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that 35 year old Michael Garrett was travelling north on Highway 67 in the Pocahontas area when he crossed the center line and struck a freightliner head on. 

Officials say that Garrett was killed in the wreck. The driver of the freightliner was not injured. 

PEDESTRIAN DIES AFTER BEING STRUCK BY MULTIPLE VEHICLES NEAR FREDERICKTOWN

A pedestrian has died after being struck by multiple vehicles last night in Madison County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old John Girard, of Fredericktown was hit by two vehicles while walking on Business 67, one mile south of the city. 

Girard was pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic at 9:17 pm. 

SIKESTON MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON STODDARD COUNTY FELONY WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County say they have arrested a Sikeston man on a felony warrant. 

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 21 year old Kevin Ray Jobe was recently arrested on a Stoddard County felony warrant for possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. 

Officials say that Jobe’s bond was set at $15,000, cash only. 

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS TO PERFORM PIRATES OF PENZANCE JR. THIS WEEKEND

Poplar Bluff choir students will be putting on multiple performances this weekend. 

The Poplar Bluff Junior High School Choir will be performing "Pirates of Penzance Jr." this Friday and Saturday at the Kay Porter Theater.

Each performance is scheduled to begin at 7 pm.

Tickets are $5 and may be purchased by calling 573-785-5602.

MULTI WEEK ROAD PROJECT UNDERWAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

A multiple week road project is underway in Butler County. 

Route FF in Butler County is being reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction so contractor crews can perform an asphalt overlay of the roadway.

The section of roadway affected is located between Route 51 and Route CC.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm, daily through Friday, June 8th. 

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE ROAD CLOSURE TODAY NEAR PIEDMONT

Route B in Wayne County will be closed today as crews replace a pipe under the roadway. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route B will be closed today from 8 am to 3 pm. 

The work zone will be located about four and a half miles south of Piedmont.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN DUNKLIN AND STODDARD COUNTIES

Route H in Dunklin and Stoddard Counties is being reduced to one lane this week as crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation perform pavement repairs

According to MoDOT, the work zone is located from Route U to Route J.     

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

Monday, May 14, 2018

SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK CLAIMS LIFE OF EMINENCE WOMAN

A single vehicle wreck over the weekend resulted in the death of an Eminence woman. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 20 year old Hailey Barton was driving on Highway 19 Saturday evening in Shannon County when her vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned. 

Barton, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected from the vehicle. She was later pronounced dead by Shannon County Coroner Tim Denton. 

PARAGOULD WOMAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Northeast Arkansas woman has died following a wreck Saturday in Lawrence County. 

According to the Arkansas State Police, a motorcycle driven by 43 year old Michael Robertson, of Paragould, collided with a vehicle that had attempted to make a U-Turn in front of it on US Highway 63 at around 2:45 pm Saturday afternoon. 

A passenger on the motorcycle, 48 year old Cynthia Robertson, also of Paragould, was killed in the wreck. Michael Robertson was injured and taken to a Memphis hospital. 

MAN ARRESTED ON FIVE COUNTS OF SODOMY OR ATTEMPTED SODOMY

Authorities in Steele say that a Caruthersville man has been arrested following a joint investigation by the Steele Police Department and Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department. 

Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that 51 year old Johnny Lacey was recently arrested on a Pemiscot County warrant charging Lacey with five counts of sodomy or attempted sodomy 1st degree.

Stanfield says that Lacey was incarcerated at the Pemiscot County Jail with no bond set.

ADVANCE MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON SEXUAL MISCONDUCT WARRANT

An area man has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a sexual misconduct warrant. 

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 52 year old Steve Conde, of Advance, was recently arrested on a warrant for sexual misconduct 1st degree and harassment.

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

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR POWE

Two people have been flown to area hospitals after a wreck Saturday night in Stoddard County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Route H, near Powe, when a vehicle, driven by 37 year old Michael Lucas, of Rector, was travelling north in the southbound lane and struck another vehicle head-on.

Lucas, along with the driver of the second vehicle, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and were each flown to area hospitals. A passenger in the second vehicle received moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a local man on a felony meth charge. 

According to the Highway Patrol, 25 year old Cory Ireland, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested Sunday morning on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and three counts of felony endangering the welfare a child. 

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

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

NUMEROUS ROAD PROJECTS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be throughout Butler County today for various road projects. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route CC in Butler County will be reduced to one lane from 7 am to 11:30 am for pavement repairs. The work zone is located from Route U to Route 53.

Route 53 in Butler County will also be reduced to one lane today from the Dunklin County Line to County Road 327 as crews perform pavement repairs. Work is scheduled to take place from 12:30 pm to 4 pm.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECTS ON HIGHWAYS 67 AND 60 TO BEGIN TODAY

Pavement repair projects on both US Highways 67 and 60 are scheduled to begin today in Butler County. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, southbound Route 67 will be reduced to one lane, just south of Route MM, from 7 am to 4:30 pm. 

The other project will see eastbound Route 60 reduced to one lane from 8 am to 4:30 pm, just east of Route DD. 

CONSTRUCTION OF TEMPORARY BYPASS IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BEGIN THIS MORNING

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation say that contractor crews will soon begin work to replace the deck of the Route HH Bridge over McKenzie Creek in Wayne County.

The bridge is located between Industrial Drive in Piedmont and County Road 357.

Construction of a temporary bypass was set to begin this morning. Once the temporary bypass is in place, traffic will shift to utilize the bypass and work to replace the bridge deck will begin. 

Officials say that the project is anticipated to be completed on August 23rd, weather permitting.

Friday May 11, 2018

TEACHER ARRESTED FOLLOWING INVESTIGATION IN SIKESTON

A teacher in Sikeston has been taken into custody following an investigation into possible contact with a student.

Sergeant Jon Broom tells KWOC News that on March 19th, Sikeston Public School administrators contacted the Sikeston Department of Public Safety to report concerns a teacher may have had inappropriate contact with one of their students.

An investigation into the allegations lead to authorities serving a warrant on Wednesday for 47 year old Greg Heuring, of Benton, on the charges of felony sexual contact with a student and two counts of misdemeanor assault 4th degree.

His bond was set at $25,000.

THREE ARRESTED ON HEROIN CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Three people were taken into custody Thursday night in Butler County on a heroin charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 56 year old Douglas Herzog, of Poplar Bluff, as well as 45 year old Lesley Willard and 40 year old Jessica Castleman, of Williamsville, were each arrested at around 8:15 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – heroin.

Herzog is also facing a charge of felony possession of controlled substance in a correctional facility for marijuana.

Officials did not release if the three arrests were connected.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECTS ON HIGHWAYS 67 AND 60 TO BEGIN ON MONDAY

Pavement repair projects on both US Highways 67 and 60 are scheduled to begin Monday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, southbound Route 67 will be reduced to one lane, just south of Route MM, from 7 am to 4:30 pm.

The other project will see eastbound Route 60 reduced to one lane from 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday, just east of Route DD.

SCOTT COUNTY DEPUTY ARRESTED FOLLOWING ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

A Sheriff’s Deputy in Scott County has been arrested following allegations of sexual misconduct.

Scott County Sheriff Wes Drury tells KWOC News that his office received a report about the alleged misconduct at approximately 2:30 am Thursday morning.

Sheriff Drury says that he contacted the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control and requested them to take over the investigation.

At approximately 1 pm Thursday a deputy was taken into custody.

Drury says that more information will be available once formal charges have been filed.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METH AND PARAPHERNAILA CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on meth and paraphernalia charges.

According to authorities, 42 year old Bruce Scarbrough was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Scarbrough is also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

Following the arrest, he was held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN STODDARD COUNTY WRECK

A Cape Girardeau man was seriously injured in a wreck Thursday afternoon in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 78 year old James McCalahan was driving on Missouri Highway 25 when he attempted a left turn and was struck by another vehicle on the driver’s side door.

McCalahan suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to an area hospital. A passenger in both his vehicle and the second vehicle received moderate injuries.

Thursday May 10, 2018

WOMAN FOUND WITH HEROIN IN BUTLER COUNTY ENTERS GUILTY PLEA

A St. Louis woman has pled guilty to a heroin charge in connection to her January arrest in Butler County.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 26 year old Danielle Nicole Siller pled guilty Tuesday to one count of conspiracy to possess heroin with intent to distribute.

In January, Siller was stopped for speeding in Butler County. During the stop, a Highway Patrol Trooper searched the vehicle after observing several indicators of drug activity and located approximately one ounce of heroin.

Officials say that Siller admitted that she and the sole passenger in the vehicle had traveled to Texas for the purpose of obtaining several ounces of heroin to sell in the St. Louis area, but were only able to procure the amount recovered.

Siller’s sentencing has been scheduled for August 7th and she faces a maximum punishment of 20 years of imprisonment and a fine up to $1,000,000.

DONIPHAN MAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF BUTLER COUNTY

A Doniphan man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Wednesday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Bobby Arnold was taken into custody at around 7:15 am Wednesday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following his arrest, Arnold was held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Route C in Wayne County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform bridge maintenance.

This bridge involved in the maintenance is located between County Road 225 and Route E.

Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 5 pm.

HARVIELL WOMAN ARRESTED FOR DRUGS AND PARAPHERNALIA IN BUTLER COUNTY

An area woman was arrested on drug and paraphernalia charges Wednesday in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 37 year old Deborah Worley, of Harviell, was taken into custody Wednesday morning on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Worley is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and was held at the Butler County Jail.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THREE RIVERS ENDOWMENT TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT

The 6th annual Three Rivers Endowment Trust Golf Tournament has been scheduled for Friday, June 15th at the Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff.

The four-person scramble tournament will begin with check in and lunch at noon, followed by a shotgun start at 1 pm. There will also be a reception beginning at 5:30 pm.

According to officials, all proceeds from the event will go to benefit the Three Rivers Annual Fund, which funds special projects and helps make a difference in the lives of TRC students.

Player registration is $135 for individuals and $550 for teams. Anyone interested in registering should contact Michelle Reynolds at 573-840-9077.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE 25 IN STODDARD COUNTY

Northbound Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone will be located from Business 60 to Route 60.

MoDOT officials say that work will take place from 7:30 am to 4 pm.

POPLAR BLUFF ELEMENTARY ONE OF EIGHT IN MISSOURI NAMED AS GOLD STAR SCHOOL

An elementary school in Poplar Bluff was one of eight schools across the state to be named as a Gold Star School.

According to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Lake Road Elementary School was chosen for the program, which recognizes schools that perform at high academic levels or that perform at high levels while serving a significant proportion of disadvantaged students.

Richland Elementary in Essex was also chosen as a Gold Star School.

The Missouri Gold Star Schools program uses the same criteria for nomination as the National Blue Ribbon Schools program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. Recipients of the state’s award were nominated for national Blue Ribbon recognition.

Wednesday May 9, 2018

BROSELEY WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Broseley woman is facing multiple charges following her arrest Tuesday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Kami Maddox was taken into custody shortly after 8 am yesterday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Maddox is also facing charges of possession of marijuana, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and 2nd degree child endangerment.

Following the arrest, she was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

AREA MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CHILD MOLESTATION WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County say an area man has been taken into custody on a child molestation warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 42 year old Chad Anderson, of Morehouse, was recently arrested on a warrant for 1st degree child molestation.

Anderson’s bond was set at $125,000 and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route AC in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to MoDOT, the closure will be located from County Road 223 to Route AA.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 7:30 am to 4 pm.

SIKESTON MAN KILLED IN BOATING ACCIDENT

A Sikeston man was killed in a boating accident on Tuesday.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 52 year old Michael Price was operating a vessel on a Mississippi County lake when he struck an underwater obstruction and fell overboard.

Price was recovered by a witness and transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.

THEFT REPORT LEADS TO DRUG BUST IN KENNETT

Two people were arrested earlier this week after reportedly being found in possession of drugs in Kennett.

According to the Kennett Police Department, a stop was conducted on a vehicle early Monday morning following a report of a theft.

During the stop, officers located an undisclosed amount of methamphetamine, synthetic marijuana, prescription medication, and a firearm.

30 year old Brittany Neel, of Kennett, and 35 year old Brandon Douglas, of Jonesboro, were arrested for felony stealing and possession of a controlled substance. Douglas was also arrested for unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Officials say both Neel and Douglas were held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor’s office.

POPLAR BLUFF SOPHOMORE TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHOLARS ACADEMY THIS SUMMER

A Poplar Bluff High School student will be participating in a prestigious statewide academy this summer.

Sophomore Ross Dare has been selected among 330 sophomores statewide to participate in the Missouri Scholars Academy.

Selection to the three-week residential program held at the University of Missouri campus in Columbia is based on PSAT scores, grade point average, an IQ test, student essays, and letters of recommendation.

Dare is the first Poplar Bluff High School student in several years to achieve the honor, according to the Counseling Department.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

AREA MAN ARRESTED FOR ENTICEMENT OF A CHILD

Authorities have arrested a Marquand man for enticement of a child. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old George McCain was arrested Friday following an investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Digital Forensic Investigative Unit.

Information received by authorities indicated that McCain was communicating with a child by use of the Internet and the communication had been sexual in nature.

On Friday, investigators located McCain in Fredericktown after he had traveled to a convenience store to meet the child.

McCain has been formally charged with one count of enticement of a child and his bond was set at $75,000.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL FBLA CHAPTER RECOGNIZED AT STATE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

The Poplar Bluff High School Future Business Leaders of America Chapter was recently recognized at the Missouri State Leadership Conference. 

According to advisor Crystal Huddleston, the PBHS FBLA earned chapter of the year for going the extra mile and participating in multiple community activities. 

Senior Adeesh Mishra also placed first in client leadership at the conference in Springfield, qualifying for the National FBLA competition this summer in Baltimore.    

MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Qulin man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Monday night. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Johnny Lewis was arrested at around 10 pm Monday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Lewis is also facing charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident.

MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT IN STODDARD COUNTY

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a controlled substance warrant. 

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 37 year old Tommy Shely, Jr., of Dexter, was recently taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance. 

Shely’s bond has been set at $15,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

WAPPAPELLO LAKE’S PRESCHOOL PLAY DAY SET FOR THIS THURSDAY

An event this week will help children get a head start on how to be safe around water. 

The US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake will be hosting a free preschool play day this Thursday. 

There will be two sessions of ranger led activities for children ages two to six. Each session will have group games, arts & crafts, songs, stories, and playground fun with a water safety theme. 

To register your child for the event, call the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562 and ask for Erin Snuggs.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN MISSOURI

Driver examination stations will be closed today in Missouri. 

State officials say that the stations will be closed today in observance of Truman Day. 

Normal operations are set to resume on Wednesday. 

Monday May 7, 2018

RECTOR MAN KILLED IN CLAY COUNTY WRECK

A Rector man was killed in a single vehicle wreck over the weekend in Clay County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 57 year old Alberto Escandon-Martinez was driving on Highway 119, south of Rector, Saturday night when his vehicle ran off the roadway and struck an embankment.

Officials say that Escandon-Martinez died in the wreck while a minor in the vehicle was injured and transported to a Memphis hospital.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING STABBING IN KENNETT

An investigation is ongoing in Kennett following a reported stabbing.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that early Thursday morning officers were dispatched to the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in reference to an assault.

Few details about the incident have been released, but police say that a subject in the ER had been stabbed and was subsequently flown to a Memphis hospital for treatment.

The incident is under investigation and no further details have been released.

LOCAL USE TAX TO BE DISCUSSED AT POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT

A possible use tax is on the agenda to be discussed tonight during the Poplar Bluff City Council meeting.

The meeting will begin at 7 pm at the Black River Coliseum.

One of the items on the agenda for tonight is a discussion about the City of Poplar Bluff authorizing and directing the submission of a ballot proposition for Poplar Bluff voters to consider imposing a local use tax at the same rate as the local sales tax for purchases from Out-of-State vendors that exceed two thousand dollars.

The vote would be held during the municipal election on August 7th.

The City Council will also review a request from the Planning Department to approve a residential subdivision featuring 14 lots located at 1637 Barron Road.

ROUTE H IN DUNKLIN AND STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK

Route H in Dunklin and Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route U to Route J.   

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

TWO MEN EACH ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY SATURDAY NIGHT

Two men were each arrested on a meth charge shortly before 10:30 pm Saturday night in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Cody Shearin, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Troopers also arrested 19 year old Jesse Killian, of Dexter, on warrants out of Poplar Bluff and Dexter and a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Following their arrests, both men were transported to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office. 

KENNETT POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN BUSINESS BURGLARY

Authorities in Kennett are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in connection to a burglary at an area business.

According to the Kennett Police Department, shortly before 9 am on Friday, officers were dispatched to Shaker’s bar on Second Street in reference to a burglary. At the scene, officers learned that someone had entered the building without permission and stolen several items.

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

Anyone who has information regarding the identity of the suspect is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department at (573)-888-4622.

TWO FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two men are each facing a felony meth charge following their arrest last week in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, both 32 year old Joshua Trokey, of Cadet, and 28 year old Curry Brawley, of Poplar Bluff, were taken into custody early Friday morning on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

Each man is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

BUTLER COUNTY TORNADO SIRENS TO BE TESTED TODAY

Authorities in Butler County will be testing the tornado sirens today.

According to Butler County Emergency Management Director Robbie Myers, the sirens are scheduled to be tested today at noon.

Myers says that the tests will be conducted every month on the first Monday. 

Friday, May 4, 2018

TWO POPLAR BLUFF ROADS TRANSITION TO TWO WAY STREETS TODAY

Two roadways in Poplar Bluff will no longer be for one way traffic starting today. 

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the one-way portions of Main Street and Broadway Street in downtown Poplar Bluff are now both two-way streets.

According to officials, the transition occurred at 6 am this morning. 

CONSOLIDATION DATE FOR KENNETT HOSPITAL PUSHED UP A MONTH

Updating a story we brought to you earlier this week, the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett will be consolidating operations with the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center earlier than originally expected. 

The Kennett hospital will now no longer offer inpatient, emergency room, or outpatient services after June 30th.  

The hospital has also received notice that after May 17th, it will no longer have obstetric/gynecologic physician coverage and will no longer provide planned, inpatient childbirth services. 

THREE FROM POPLAR BLUFF SELECTED FOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S SENIOR SERVICE AWARD

Three people from Poplar Bluff have been selected for the 2018 Lieutenant Governor’s Senior Service Award. 

Lieutenant Governor Mike Parson tells KWOC News that the award promotes and highlights the positive accomplishments Missouri’s senior citizens provide to their local communities. 

John Holland, Earl Pennington, and Calvin Williams, of Poplar Bluff, were among the 90 total winners chosen this year across the state.

Other local winners include John Cook from Wappapello, Barbara Gatewood of Doniphan, and James Geohagen from Kennett.  

NO ONE INJURED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY SHOOTING INCIDENT

No one was injured during a shooting incident earlier this week in New Madrid County. 

According to authorities, people were inside a residence in Parma when shots were fired at the residence. 

There was no information available on if any arrests have been made in connection to the incident. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing a felony meth charge following his arrest Thursday night. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old Dale Dover was arrested at around 9 pm Thursday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

He is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Following his arrest, Dover was held at the Butler County Jail. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOARD MEETINGS TO MOVE TO THE BLACK RIVER COLISEUM

Council meetings in Poplar Bluff will be held at a new location beginning next week.

According to officials, effective Monday May 7th, council meetings, municipal court, and any board meetings that were previously held at 101 Oak Street will now be held at the Black River Coliseum 

The entrance for the chamber, board meeting rooms, and court is across from the Independent Living Center on Cedar Street.

ALMOST MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 172 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with an 11 foot width restriction this month as contractor crews overlay the road with asphalt.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation the work zone is located between Route 67 and State Park.

Weather permitting, work will performed today through Thursday, May 31st from 6 am to 6 pm daily.

Thursday May 3, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY METH CHARGE

An area woman has been taken into custody on a felony meth charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 51 year old Jill Bieri, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested at around 7:30 pm Wednesday night on a charge of felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Bieri is also facing a misdemeanor charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and was held in the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 15 YEARS IN PRISON ON CHILD PORONGRAPHY CHARGE

A Caruthersville man has been sentenced to over 15 years in prison on a child pornography charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 42 year old Darryl Herron pled guilty in January to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.

The investigation began in April 2017 after law enforcement officials discovered Herron was uploading images and videos consisting of child pornography to a cloud storage account and seized his mobile phone.

A sexually explicit image of a juvenile was found during an examination of the phone. At his guilty plea hearing Herron admitted that he used his phone to take the photograph.

Herron was sentenced Tuesday to 200 months in federal prison.

TWO IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT OPERATIONS PLANNED FOR THIS MONTH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that the agency is planning two operations this month for Southeast Missouri.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Highway Patrol, says that sometime during the month of May, Troop E officers will be conducting two impaired driving enforcement operations in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

An exact date or location for the two operations was not announced.

15 ARRESTS MADE DURING WARRANT ROUND UP IN SIKESTON AREA

A warrant round up yesterday in the Sikeston area resulted in numerous arrests.

Sergeant Jon Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety says that a total of 15 people were taken into custody during the operation which began at around 6 am Wednesday.

A majority of the arrests were for possession or delivery of a controlled substance.

Broom says that the Scott County Sheriff, Cape Girardeau Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, ATF, and SEMO Drug Task Force assisted with the round up and the Missouri National Guard also assisted with supplying air coverage.

The following persons were arrested;

Bobby Lee Moore of Sikeston Possession of Controlled Substance

Katarious Harrington of Sikeston Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Eddie Moore of Sikeston Fail to Register as a Sex Offender

Thomas Wiley Jr. of Sikeston Unlawfully Receiving Public Assistance

Milas Walker of Sikeston Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Kenneth Hodgkiss of Sikeston Forgery/Identity Theft

Deadrian Armstrong of Sikeston Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Daniel Springer of Sikeston Possession of a Controlled Substance

Theresa Miller of Sikeston Possession of a Controlled Substance

Samantha Wilkinsons of Sikeston Unlawfully Receiving Public Assistance

Cody Vanover of Benton, MO Assault 2nd/Armed Criminal Action/Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident

William “Jessie” Oakes of East Prairie, MO Possession of Controlled Substance

Melissa Randol of Cape Girardeau Unlawfully Receiving Public Assistance

Rachel Ervin of Cape Girardeau Possession of a Controlled Substance

Christopher Messmer of Jackson, MO Possession of a Controlled Substance

MAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG REALTED CHARGES

Authorities in Pemiscot County have arrested a Bonne Terre man on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Leo Mattingly was taken into custody Wednesday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Mattingly is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following his arrest, Mattingly was held at the Pemiscot County Jail.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER RECEIVING METHAMPHETAMINE IN THE MAIL

Two people in Northeast Arkansas have been taken into custody after they received methamphetamine through the mail.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Gregory Farndsen and Ashley Helzer-Farndsen were arrested after information was gathered about a controlled substance being sent to them in the mail numerous times.

Carter says the Sheriff's Department stood by with a search warrant while US Postal Inspectors delivered the package.

Deputies then entered the home and seized a 30 gram block of crystal methamphetamine.

Wednesday May 2, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Poplar Bluff man was killed in a single vehicle wreck late last night in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 28 year old Derek Sieben was driving on US 160 near Ringo Ford when his vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck an embankment, became airborne, and then struck another embankment.

Sieben was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Andy Moore.

FIVE MEN FOUND GUILTY OF BURGLARY IN POPLAR BLUFF AREA

Five men have been found guilty of a burglary in the Poplar Bluff area.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that Demarlon Richardson, of Poplar Bluff, and Germonde Brunner, Arlandus Howard, Norlando Jackson, and Antywan Seawood, of East St. Louis, Illinois, were found guilty of the burglary of a federally licensed firearms dealer known as Instapawn.

The burglary occurred on February 28, 2017, when the five men stole over 60 firearms. Howard was found guilty by a jury and the other four men entered guilty pleas.

Officials say the maximum term of imprisonment for the crime is ten years.

ST. LOUIS MAN DROWNS IN IRON COUNTY

A St. Louis man has died following an incident Tuesday afternoon in Iron County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, at around 3:20 pm 24 year old Rashad Moungo reportedly fell from a rock cliff into water at Elephant Rocks State Park.

Moungo submerged in the water and never resurfaced.

Officials say he was pronounced dead by Iron County Coroner Tim Harbison at around 5:25 pm.

DONIPHAN MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR KIDNAPPING AND FIREARM CHARGES

A Doniphan man has been sentenced in connection to an incident in March of last year.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 36 year old Heath Miller was sentenced yesterday to 25 years on one felony count of kidnapping and one felony count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

At his plea in January, Miller admitted that on March 8, 2017, he entered the home of his victim in Kennett and shocked her with a stun gun. Miller sexually assaulted the victim in her home, and then took her and her child from Kennett to Ripley County.

At that location, the victim managed to get away from Miller and escape with her child.

Miller was captured ten days later after he had broken into a cabin and stole a handgun.

SENATOR ROY BLUNT TO VISIT SIKESTON THREE RIVERS CAMPUS TODAY

United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Sikeston today to tour the city’s Three Rivers College campus.

Blunt will be visiting with students and talking about the importance of Pell Grants, a federally funded needs-based program that helps students pay for a college education.

The Pell Grant program was expanded this year to provide grants for Summer classes, as well as the Fall and Spring semesters.

Three Rivers College officials say this will allow qualifying students to continue taking classes in the summer and finish their degrees faster.

For more information about Pell Grants and information on applying for financial aid, visit trcc.edu/financialaid.

CITIZENS IN PARAGOULD WARNED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR COUNTERFEIT MONEY

Residents in Paragould are being warned to stay on the lookout for counterfeit money.

According to the Paragould Police Department, there have been numerous reports of phony $20 bills being circulated in the city, more specifically at weekend yard sales.

All citizens who plan on hosting a yard sale should be aware of these bills and need to vigilantly inspect any bills they accept for payment.

Should an attempt be made to pay you with one of these bills, do not accept it and make a report to your local authorities.

We have pictures of the counterfeit bills being used available on the KWOC Facebook page.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route H in Stoddard County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route U to Route J.

Work is scheduled to take place both today and tomorrow from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

KENNETT HOSPITAL TO CONSOLIDATE WITH POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL THIS SUMMER

The Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett will be consolidating operations with the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center this summer. 

According to State Representative for Missouri District 150, Andrew McDaniel, PBRMC plans to maintain local access in Kennett for primary care and select diagnostic imaging and lab services after July 31st and those services are currently set to be held in the Plaza medical office building on the Twin Rivers campus.

After July 31st, the Kennett hospital will no longer offer inpatient, emergency room, or outpatient services. 

MULTIPLE AREAS IN CLAY COUNTY TO BE WITHOUT POWER FOR PART OF TODAY

Multiple communities in Clay County will be without power for part of this afternoon. 

According to the Clay County Electric Cooperative, there will be a planned outage beginning at 1 pm today in all areas served by the Blooming Grove Substation. The Cooperative says that the maintenance is to improve service reliability. 

The areas to be without power include Knob east to Trammelville, Highway 141 to McDougal, and everything feeding east towards Fagus and St. Francis.

Anyone whose power has not been restored by 4 pm is asked to call 1-800-521-2450.

ALLEY SPRING PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE CLOSED AT OZARK NATIONAL SCENIC RIVERWAYS

A pedestrian bridge in Southeast Missouri has been permanently closed. 

According to Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the pedestrian bridge over the Jacks Fork River along Highway 106 at Alley Spring is permanently closed and the Jacks Fork River beneath and adjacent to the bridge is temporarily closed to all visitor use. 

The closure includes all activities such as swimming, floating, fishing and gravel bar use within 100 feet of the bridge, but does not affect the highway bridge.

An emergency inspection recently performed by a Federal Highway Administration bridge engineer determined the stability of the pedestrian bridge has been compromised and has now created a safety hazard to anyone nearby.

Officials say that the Alley Spring pedestrian bridge is scheduled for removal as soon as possible, but that will likely occur later in 2018. The pedestrian bridge and adjacent section of the Jacks Fork River will remain closed until demolition is complete and the hazard is removed.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ART SHOW SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

Students at Poplar Bluff High School will be holding an art show tonight. 

The Poplar Bluff High School Art Show is scheduled for 6 to 8 pm tonight in the cafeteria. 

There will be multiple performances including the choir students singing, the drama club performing monologues and skits, and English students reading poetry. 

There will also be student artwork on display and snacks prepared by the advanced foods class.

ROUTE N IN RIPLEY COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route N in Ripley County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under the roadway. 

The section of Route N to be closed is located approximately 2 miles south of Route 142.

Work is scheduled to take place from 7:30 am to 4 pm.

HIGHWAY PATROL’S ANNUAL BUOY AUDIT BEGINS TODAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced that their annual buoy audit will begin today. 

Colonel Sandra Karsten, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that the Highway Patrol’s Water Patrol Division manages thousands of buoy permits, which must be maintained by the individual permit holders.

The annual audit involves verifying the permit holder still owns the property associated with the permit, ensuring the buoy is placed properly, and confirming the buoy displays the correct markings. 

The buoy must also be well maintained and the markings must be visible to boaters. Buoys which are not in compliance with the permit requirements are subject to revocation.

For more information, call 573-751-5071.

Monday, April 30, 2018

MAN SHOT OVER THE WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

A man was shot over the weekend in Butler County. 

The incident occurred Saturday at Bacon Park in Poplar Bluff where the victim had been shot in both of his legs.
    
An investigation is underway and no information has been released about a possible suspect or motive in the shooting.  

OFFICER INJURED DURING PURSUIT IN KENNETT

An officer was injured during a foot pursuit Saturday in Kennett. 

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that at approximately 2:30 pm Saturday, officers were dispatched to an area residence in reference to a stolen bicycle. Upon arrival, the suspect was present and provided the officers with the name of an individual who had outstanding warrants. 

As officers attempted to arrest the subject on the warrants, he fled and a foot pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, the suspect allegedly caused injury to one of the officers attempting to subdue him and was eventually apprehended in a back yard. 

Officials say the suspect, identified as 37 year old Tyson Pulliam, of Kennett, was arrested on two warrants and transported to the Dunklin County Justice Center. 

He was placed on a twenty-four hour hold pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor’s Office for resisting arrest for a felony, assault 4th degree on a law enforcement officer, and two counts of property damage.

The injured officer was treated and released by medics. 

WRECK NEAR PUXICO LEAVES MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

One person was flown to an area hospital following a wreck over the weekend in Stoddard County. 

According to authorities, the wreck occurred Sunday morning at around 8:40 am on Missouri Highway 51, four miles north of Puxico. 

A vehicle, driven by 74 year old William Wills, of McGee, reportedly made a left turn in the path of another vehicle and was hit. 

Wills suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital. The driver of the second vehicle received moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

TWO PEOPLE INJURED IN WRECK INVOLVING SCHOOL BUS NEAR WAPPAPELLO

Two people were injured in a wreck involving a school bus Friday afternoon near Wappapello. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the school bus was backing down Barrett Road in Wayne County at around 3:46 pm Friday when it backed into a Pontiac Sunfire. 

The Sunfire received extensive damage while two people inside the vehicle suffered minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

No one inside the school bus was injured during the incident. 

DEXTER WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A Dexter woman is facing multiple drug related charges following her arrest Sunday night. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Beverly Scott was taken into custody shortly after 11 pm Sunday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Scott is also reportedly facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

VAN BUREN WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR A BUTLER COUNTY WARRANT

Authorities in Carter County say than an area woman has been arrested on a felony warrant. 

According to authorities, 25 year old Mary Mitchem, of Van Buren, was taken into custody Sunday evening on a felony Butler County warrant for sale of a controlled substance. 

Following her arrest, Mitchem was transported to the Butler County Jail. 

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An earthquake shook parts of Southeast Missouri Sunday evening. 

Officials with the United States Geological Survey tell KWOC News that a magnitude 2.0 earthquake was recorded at 6:23 pm Sunday, a little over six miles east northeast of Portageville. 

Officials say the earthquake had a depth of over nine miles. 

Friday, April 27, 2018

ATV WRECK LEAVES AREA MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

An area man was badly injured yesterday in an ATV wreck in Shannon County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 76 year old Gerald Derryberry, of Birch Tree, was driving the ATV on Shannon County Road 464 at around 5 pm Thursday when the vehicle ran off the road and overturned. 

Derryberry was ejected during the wreck and suffered serious injuries. Officials say he has been flown to a Springfield hospital. 

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT

Area residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused or expired medication tomorrow. 

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is one of several area organizations that will be taking part in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.

Participants must simply bring their medications to the Police Department for disposal. They cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills and patches. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

For more information, or to find a collection site near you, go to www.dea.gov. 

BUFF UP THE BLUFF SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

This year’s Buff up the Bluff event is set for this weekend and the Poplar Bluff City Hall wants to remind area seniors that items can be picked up. 

Items can be picked up for ages 65 and older on Saturday, only if prior arrangements have been made by calling 573-686-8622. 

Officials say this will be the only way to be included in the curbside pickups.

Items that cannot be included in the pickup include limbs, brush, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, tires, and paint.

There is also a one pick-up truck load limit. 

MASS CASUALTY TRAINING EVENT SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Three Rivers College has scheduled its bi-annual mass casualty training event for next week. 

The event will be held from 8 to 11 am on Wednesday, May 2nd in the Bess Activity Center on the Poplar Bluff Campus of Three Rivers College. The training helps prepare students in participating programs for a mass casualty emergency such as a natural disaster or terrorist attack. 

Students from several fields of study will participate in the training, including nursing, EMT, LPN, and Paramedic students. The training will also receive support from local hospitals and ambulance services.

In keeping with the training’s focus on realism, the students themselves will coordinate much of the event, with students serving in leadership, command, and control positions. 

The college is also keeping the type of “disaster” under wraps, so that students have no chance to prepare beforehand.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL RECEIVE NATIONAL RECOGNITION

Two Poplar Bluff Schools have been selected as award winners as a part of the Capturing Kids' Hearts program. 

Lake Road Elementary and Poplar Bluff Junior High were selected among only four schools in Missouri and 123 in the United States as national showcase award winners under the program, which teaches processes in order to increase students' connectedness with both peers and adults on campus. 

Junior High first piloted the initiative during the 2013/14 school year. Now a district-wide practice, Lake Road began implementation in 2016.

NEW TOOL RELEASED TO HELP RURAL MISSOURIANS ACCESS BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES

Missouri Governor Eric Greitens has announced the launch of a new tool to help members of rural communities find and access the network of business and community development resources.

Greatens tells KWOC News that the Missouri Rural Resource Guide will serve as a directory for resources in six categories:  Infrastructure, Community Development, Community Services, Business Development, Workforce Education, and Governance. 

Organizations can request to be added directly on the site which can be found at ruralresources.ded.mo.gov.