Wednesday, February 27, 2019

FLOOD WARNINGS CONTINUE FOR THE MISSISSIPPI AND ST. FRANCIS RIVERS

Flood warnings are continuing for both the Mississippi and St. Francis Rivers until further notice.

According to the National Weather Service, moderate flooding is occurring at New Madrid with Mississippi River levels forecast to slowly rise to a crest of around 43.5 feet Sunday morning. At 7 pm last night, the Mississippi River at New Madrid was at 42.2 feet. The flood stage is 34 feet.

Weather officials say that minor flooding is occurring near Saint Francis on the Saint Francis Rivers. At 6 pm on Tuesday, the river stage was at 22.3 feet, three-tenths of a foot above the flood stage.

Several roads near Wilhelmina, Missouri are flooded. Officials say that recreational areas and large areas of agriculture land near the river have also been flooded.

Motorists are being reminded to never drive through flooded areas as the water may be too deep to allow for safe passage. Also never allow your children to play in or near flood waters.

EARLY MORNING WRECK RESULTS IN DEATH OF AREA MAN

An area man was killed early Tuesday morning in a New Madrid County wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Ridge Starnes, of Portageville, was driving on Interstate 55 at around 4:30 am when his vehicle struck a tractor trailer in the rear.

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

No injuries were listed for the driver of the tractor trailer.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON FAILURE TO REGISTER WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a failure to register warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 20 year old Christopher Amons, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for failure to register as a sex offender.

Officials say that Amons remained in custody as of this morning and his bond has been set at $7,500, cash only.

PAIR OF EARTHQUAKES RECORDED WITHIN 10 MINUTES OF EACH OTHER

A pair of earthquakes was recorded with 10 minutes of each other Tuesday in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the first quake was recorded at 6:52 am Tuesday morning just over four miles east northeast of Steele. The earthquake had a magnitude of 2.2 and a depth of around five miles.

Nine minutes later, a slightly stronger earthquake was felt in Northeast Arkansas. The magnitude 2.4 quake was located around five and a half miles east southeast of Manila and had a depth of over 12 miles.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR THE 2019 OPTIMIST SOCCER SPRING LEAGUE IN POPLAR BLUFF

The deadline to register your children for the 2019 Poplar Bluff Optimist Spring Soccer League is approaching.

Registrations for youth in first through sixth grades will be open until March 1st and the registration fee is $20. Forms are available at the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Office located at 430 North Second Street.

For more information, contact Staci Barker at 718-0959.

SCREENING APPOINTMENTS BEING ACCEPTED FOR POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center is accepting screening appointments for the 2019-2020 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 this Friday, March 1st. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment.

Tuesday, February 26, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Alan Whitmer, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Monday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.

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

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

DRIVER EJECTED WHEN VEHICLE OVERTURNED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A New Madrid man was flown to an area hospital yesterday after he was ejected from his vehicle during a wreck.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on New Madrid County Road 732 at around 4:30 pm when a vehicle driven by 59 year old Ralph Jackson overturned.

Jackson, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected from the vehicle and suffered serious injuries.

Officials say he was flown to a Memphis hospital.

DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON BURGLARY AND STEALING WARRANT

A Dexter man has been taken into custody on a burglary warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 39 year old Darin Pullum was recently arrested on a Stoddard County warrant for burglary 1st degree and stealing.

Pullum’s bond was set at $12,500 and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

CRAPPIE REGULATION CHANGE TO GO INTO EFFECT THIS WEEK AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

A change to crappie regulations is set to go into effect this week at Wappapello Lake.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, as of March 1st, the regulation will be that there is a daily limit of 30 crappie, but not more than fifteen fish can be greater than nine inches in total length.

The new regulation will reportedly increase harvest opportunities for anglers during poor years and also increase the opportunity for anglers to harvest the slow growing Black Crappie.

The change was approved by the Missouri Department of Conservation Commission during their February meeting.

PROJECT AWARDED TO WIDEN HIGHWAY IN GREENE AND LAWRENCE COUNTIES

State officials have given approval to a project to widen a portion of Highway 412 in Northeast Arkansas.

According to Arkansas District 60 State Representative Fran Cavenaugh, the Arkansas Department of Transportation has awarded an over $58 million dollar project to widen Highway 412 from Highway 67 to Highway 141.

Cavenaugh says the purpose of the project is to widen 14.3 miles of Highway 412 from two lanes to five lanes in Greene and Lawrence Counties.

Cavenaugh says that work on awarded projects typically begins within two months, barring unforeseen circumstances.

49TH ANNUAL CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE TO BE HELD IN MARCH

A date has been set for the 49th annual Corned Beef and Cabbage event in Poplar Bluff.

The event has been scheduled for 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday, March 16th at the New Knights of Columbus Hall, located at 2260 Grand Avenue.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children at the door.

Monday, February 25, 2019

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED, IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

One person is dead and another injured following a wreck on Friday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred on US Highway 63 in Lawrence County when a vehicle crossed the center line of the highway and stuck another vehicle head on.

A passenger in the first vehicle, 77 year old Callie Green, of Walnut Ridge, was killed in the wreck. The driver of the first vehicle, 78 year old Chester Green, also of Walnut Ridge, was injured and transported to a Jonesboro hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK NEAR PIEDMONT

A Poplar Bluff man was injured in a motorcycle wreck over the weekend in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 61 year old Jerold Tucker was driving on Route V near Piedmont Saturday morning when he lost control on the wet roadway.

His motorcycle then ran off the side of the road and hit a ditch.

Tucker suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

FUTURE INTERSTATE 57 SIGN UNVEILED IN DEXTER

An event was held on Friday in Dexter to unveil a new sign that shows parts of a Southeast Missouri highway has been designated as a future interstate.

The new “Future Interstate 57” sign was revealed Friday morning at an event held at the Dexter First Baptist Church.

The designation marks US Highway 60 to Poplar Bluff and US Highway 67 south as Future Interstate-57.

Members of both the state and federal government were at the unveiling, including United States Senator Roy Blunt, Congressman Jason Smith, and Missouri Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities in Carter County have arrested an area man on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Justin Molton, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Sunday evening on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

DEXTER WOMAN WINS $100,000 FROM SCRACTHERS TICKET

A $10 lottery ticket purchase led to a $100,000 prize for a Southeast Missouri woman.

According to the Missouri lottery, Sherry Hector of Dexter recently claimed a $100,000 prize on a Missouri Lottery “Money Money Millionaire” Scratchers game.

Lottery officials say that Hector claimed one of 14 total $100,000 prizes available in the game that was introduced last June.

Hector purchased the ticket from a Dexter area business.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff woman has been arrested on multiple drug related charges in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Angela Copeland was taken into custody Saturday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Copeland is also facing charges of possession of a controlled substance – marijuana, driving while intoxicated – drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route ZZ in Stoddard County will be closed for part of this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert pipe under the roadway.

The section of roadway to be closed is located between County Road 651 and County Road 657.

Weather permitting; work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow.

Thursday, February 20, 2019

MULTIPLE ROADS CLOSED AHEAD OF UPCOMING RAINS

Many roads in Southeast Missouri are already closed due to flooding ahead of additional rain that is in the forecast for tomorrow.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, a portion of Route NN in Ripley County has been closed because of flooding.

Also closed are portions of Route DD in Pemiscot County, Route P, Route WW and Missouri Highway 162 in New Madrid County, and Missouri Highways 80 and 77 in Mississippi County.

According to a Hydrologic Outlook from the National Weather Service, rain chances will return and begin to spread across the region tonight and Friday. Showers and thunderstorms will become more numerous and widespread Friday night and Saturday, when the heaviest rain and storm potential exists.

An additional 1 to 3 inches of rainfall is forecast with this next round of rain and storms, however locally heavier amounts, especially where thunderstorms occur, are possible.

GROUNDBREAKING TO BE HELD TODAY AT JOHN J. PERSHING VA MEDICAL CENTER

A groundbreaking will be held today for a new facility in Poplar Bluff.

The groundbreaking of the Learning Resource Center at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center has been scheduled for 2 pm this afternoon at 1500 North Westwood Boulevard.

The public is invited to attend the event, which will also feature Southeast Missouri’s Congressman in the United States House of Representatives, Jason Smith.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

New Day Ministries will be hosting a feed and seed event today in Poplar Bluff.

The event is scheduled for 3 to 5 pm at New Day Ministries, which is located at 703 Franklin Street.

The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per household.

If you would like more information, contact Pastor Nancy Wolverton at 573-718-4578.

POPLAR BLUFF DRAMA CLUB TO HOST IMPROV SHOW THIS WEEKEND

The Poplar Bluff High School Drama Club will be hosting an improv show this weekend.

“Whose Line Is It Anyway: Take 2,” will begin at 7 pm both Friday and Saturday night. Doors will open at 6:30 each night.

The audience will get to participate in helping form the scenes during the show. Tickets will be $5 and come with one suggestion card. Additional cards will be available for a dollar.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR PARAMEDIC PROGRAM

Three Rivers College is accepting applications for their paramedic program.

College officials say that the program has recently been updated to be a hybrid of online curriculum and hands-on training. The new program allows students to only be on campus one day a week.

Applicants to the Paramedic program must submit a copy of their current Missouri EMT-Basic license and their Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider Card, as well as a letter of reference from an Ambulance Director, to be eligible for admission.

Applicants must also complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills with a score of 50% or higher.

Application forms for the paramedic program are available online at trcc.edu/admissions. The application deadline is May 1st.

For more information, contact Tami Cunningham at 573-840-9672.

ROAD WORK TO BEGIN TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route M in Butler County will be reduced to one lane beginning today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform ditch repairs.

MoDOT officials say that the section of roadway to be reduced is located from County Road 475 to County Road 470.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 7:30 am to 3 pm both today and tomorrow.

Wednesday, February 20, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF AREA HIT AND RUN PERSON OF INTEREST IN CUSTODY

A person of interest in a fatal hit and run in the Poplar Bluff area has been taken into custody.

According to authorities, Zack Davis was taken into custody Tuesday morning in Piggott on a probation warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a pedestrian was walking on the southbound shoulder of Highway 53 on February 4th when they were struck by a northbound vehicle.

The victim, 23 year old Wendy Dumas, of Poplar Bluff, was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

INVESTIGATION ONGOING INTO HOMICIDE IN SIKESTON

Authorities in the Sikeston area are investigating a homicide.

Captain Austin Henley with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that the SEMO Major Case Squad has been activated after a 24 year old male was found shot at a location on William Street at around midnight Monday night.

The victim, whose name was not released, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police officials are asking anyone who has information about the shooting to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.

TWO ARRESTED ON FIREARM AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two men have been taken into custody in Butler County on controlled substance and firearm charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 31 year old Jillian Hernandez, of Lapeer, Michigan, and 27 year old Jewayne Shaw, of Poplar Bluff, were arrested Tuesday morning on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance.

Both men are also each facing charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful use of a firearm, and possession of a stolen firearm.

Following the arrests, they were both held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

PAYLESS SHOESOURCE FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY

Payless ShoeSource is filing for bankruptcy.

Earlier this week, Payless ShoeSource announced that the Company and its North American subsidiaries have voluntarily filed for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.

As part of the process, Payless is closing their stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada. The Payless ShoeSource website lists locations in Poplar Bluff, Paragould, and Cape Girardeau among its approximately 2,500 stores.

According to a statement on the Payless ShoeSource website, stores will remain open at this time, and liquidation sales will continue until at least the end of March, with most continuing through the end of May.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE TO HOST LISTENING POST IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Missouri State Representative will be hosting a meeting with constituents later this week in Poplar Bluff.

State Representative Hardy Billington will be conducting a listening post this Friday at the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce.

Billington will be hearing questions and concerns from local residents from 1 pm to 2 pm.

MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Authorities in Southeast Missouri have arrested a Frohna, Missouri man on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Ralph Grebing was arrested shortly after 9:15 pm Tuesday night in New Madrid County.

Grebing is facing a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

TWO MEN WANTED FOR QUESTIONING IN POPLAR BLUFF SHOOTING

The Poplar Bluff Police Department has identified two men who are being sought in connection to a shooting.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, both Michael Fry and Michael Melvin are wanted for questioning regarding a shooting investigation.

Police officials say that both subjects should be considered armed and dangerous. Pictures of both men are available on the KWOC Facebook page.

If you have any information regarding their whereabouts, contact Poplar Bluff Police at 573-785-5776.

SAINT FRANCIS HEALTHCARE ANNOUNCES AGREEMENTS WITH TWO POPLAR BLUFF HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

The Saint Francis Healthcare System has announced agreements with two Poplar Bluff Healthcare providers.

Poplar Bluff Pediatrics will become a Medical Partner with Saint Francis Healthcare System effective March 1st. Poplar Bluff Pediatrics will remain at its current location on Barron Road and patients will still call the same number for appointments, for access to the on-call physicians, or for questions for their doctor.

Saint Francis Healthcare System has also entered into formal discussions regarding Black River Medical Center joining Saint Francis.

Christy Shawan, Chief Executive Officer of Black River Medical Center says the partnership with Saint Francis will provide resources and support in this rapidly changing healthcare environment.

AREA RESIDENTS TOLD TO BE PREPARED FOR UPCOMING RAINY PERIOD

Area residents are being told to be prepared for an upcoming rainy period.

According to a hydrologic outlook by the National Weather Service in Paducah, two rounds of heavy rain are in the forecast for the remainder of the week.

The first round is set to begin later today, and is predicted to last through tomorrow. The heaviest rains will be from far southeast Missouri across western Kentucky.

Rains are expected to pick up again as we head into the weekend, with a combined two to four inches of rainfall expected across much of Southeast Missouri.

Officials say the rains will stress the already swollen and slow to recover creeks, streams, rivers, and tributaries. Drivers should heed all flood signs and warnings if and when they are posted.

CREWS RESPOND TO EARLY MORNING FIRE IN PORTAGEVILLE

Fire crews in Portageville responded to an area fire early Monday morning.

According to Portageville Fire and Rescue, an abandoned trailer was found fully engulfed with a propane tank nearby.

Officials say crews were dispatched to the scene shortly after 3 am.

The incident was closed approximately an hour later and no other structures or property were damaged.

FISH FRY TO BE HELD FOR 18 YEAR VETERAN OF THE HIGHWAY PATROL BATTLING BRAIN CANCER

A fish fry will be held this Friday for an 18 year veteran of the Missouri State Highway Patrol who is battling brain cancer.

Corporal Curt Fox was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2012. It has now returned for a third time and been upgraded to a grade 4 glioblastoma.

A fish fry fundraiser to help Corporal Fox and his family has been scheduled for Friday from 4:30 to 7:30 pm at the Knights of Columbus in Jackson. There will also be a raffle tickets sold for a gun.

For more information, contact Jamie Malugen at 573-979-2181.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL TO HOST FIESTA AUCTION

Sacred Heart School’s 22nd Annual Fiesta Auction has been scheduled for late next month.

Officials say the event will be held on Saturday, March 30th at the Holiday Inn Ballroom in Poplar Bluff.

There will be both a live as well as a silent auction and doors are set to open at 5:30 pm, with dinner beginning at 6.

Tickets will be $25 in advance or $30 if purchased at the door. For more information, call 573-785-5836.

Monday February 18, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE LOOKING FOR PERSONS OF INTEREST IN WEEKEND SHOOTING 

A shooting investigation is underway in Poplar Bluff.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department multiple persons of interest are being sought following a shooting Saturday evening.  

The victim was shot in the arm during the incident and transported to an area hospital.  

The Police Department is trying to identify multiple male subjects who are persons of interest in the investigation.  

A video of the subjects is available on the KWOC Facebook page.

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED, FOLLOWING WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF 

An area man has died following a single vehicle wreck late Friday night in Butler County.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly before midnight Friday night on Highway 53.  

A vehicle driven by 27 year old Skye Pruitt, of Piggott, ran off the left side of the road and overturned, five miles south of Poplar Bluff.  

A passenger in the vehicle, 28 year old Roger Trammell, also of Piggott, was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Andy Moore. Pruitt suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.  

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, Pruitt is facing charges of driving while intoxicated – death of another and careless and imprudent driving resulting in a crash.

EARTHQUAKE REPORTED OVER THE WEEKEND IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS 

Officials with the United States Geological Survey say that a small earthquake occurred over the weekend in Northeast Arkansas.  

The 2.2 magnitude quake was recorded at 2:11 am Sunday morning. 

The earthquake was centered just over nine miles northwest of Pocahontas and had a depth of around nine miles.

MAN PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE OF A SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A single vehicle wreck in Bollinger County has resulted in the death of a Marble Hill man.  

According to authorities, 41 year old Aaron Flessner was driving on Route N Saturday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned twice.  

Flessner was pronounced dead at the scene by Bollinger County Coroner Charles Hutchings.

PIEDMONT MAN FACING DRUG CHARGES 

A Piedmont man is facing drug charges following his arrest over the weekend.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old James Brady was taken into custody Saturday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and tramadol.  

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

Following the arrest, Brady was held at the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF 

New Day Ministries in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event this week.   

The event is scheduled for 3 to 5 pm on Thursday at New Day Ministries, located at 703 Franklin Street.  

The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per household. 

If you would like more information, contact Pastor Nancy Wolverton at 573-718-4578.

Friday, February 15, 2019

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY TO BE IN EFFECT FOR MOST OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI BEGINNING AT NOON

Winter Weather is projected to return to the region today.

According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect from noon today through 3 am tomorrow morning for most of Southeast Missouri.

Weather officials say that mixed precipitation is expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations of up to three inches are expected, generally along and north of a line from Greenville, Missouri to Greenville, Kentucky.

Farther south, ice accumulations averaging around one tenth of an inch are expected.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is advising motorists to limit travel today and throughout the weekend across the state due to the winter weather.

Motorists should plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the afternoon and evening commute home from school and work. Officials say that travel conditions will deteriorate during the evening hours.

ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS BEGINS FLOODFIGHT ACTIVITIES

The United States Army Corps of Engineers in Memphis has announced that floodfight activities have begun following the heavy rainfall the area received over the past week.

The Corps of Engineers has initiated Phase I floodfight activities in the Lower St. Francis and Missouri areas due to high river stages.

During Phase I floodfight activities, personnel deploy to the field and monitor all federal flood control works including levees, flood walls, and pumping stations.

In addition to the activities, the Memphis District has also provided material assistance to local communities and flood control organizations to aid them in their floodfighting efforts.

The items recently provided were two portable pumps to remove water from flooded areas, and eight rolls of plastic sheeting to cover levees and help minimize levee slides and erosion.

OFFICIALS INVESTIGATING ELK POACHING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

State officials are investigating a case of elk poaching in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, two adult elk were shot Friday, February 8th, near the Log Yard area of Shannon County. One of the elk was a 10-year-old bull and the other was an adult cow.

Officials say that no parts of either animal were removed. This is the fifth known elk poaching incident since the elk population was restored to Missouri in 2011.

The MDC is asking anyone with information on this poaching case to call 573-226-3616, extension 226, or Operation Game Thief at 1-800-392-1111.

QULIN MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County arrested an area man yesterday morning on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Robert Taylor, of Qulin, was taken into custody shortly before 9 am on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

KIWANIS CLUB HOSTING 81ST ANNUAL PANCAKE DAY NEXT MONTH

Pancakes are on the menu early next month to help out a local organization.

The Kiwanis Club of Poplar Bluff will be holding their 81st Annual Pancake Day from 6 am to noon on Saturday, March 16th at the Poplar Bluff Junior High cafeteria.

Pancakes, sausage, and coffee will be available at the event and all proceeds go towards the second phase of the Kiwanis Bacon Memorial Park all-inclusive playground.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, contact Meredith Rines at 573-686-3053.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS FIRE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES $5,000 GRANT

A Northeast Arkansas fire department has been chosen for a $5,000 grant.

The Piggott Volunteer Fire Department was one of three departments nationwide to win the Leary Firefighters Foundation 2018 National “Spot-a-Hero” Technology Grant.

The fire department will receive a $5,000 licensing grant for the Rover Incident Response Platform, which works with a fire department’s dispatch system to send alerts to the mobile device carried by first responders.

The Rover Platform provides access to information that tracks responding firefighters, and visually identifies hazards, hydrants, and water sources.

Thursday, February 14, 2019

WOMAN FOUND WITH FENTANYL POWDER IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Cape Girardeau woman was found with Fentanyl powder earlier this week in Stoddard County.

According to the Bernie Police Department, an officer was called to an area business on February 11th for a suspected shoplifter.

At the business, the officer spoke with a woman and asked for her identification. While the woman, later identified as 37 year old Tanya Rankin, was digging around her purse, the officer noticed a white capsule and asked Rankin what it was. She responded that it was Fentanyl.

The officer then placed Rankin under arrest. She was booked into the Bernie City Jail on a charge of possession of a controlled substance with bond set at $7,500.

Bernie Chief of Police Justin Allen tells us that this is the first case of Fentanyl in its powdered form in Stoddard County.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the drug is up to 100 times stronger than morphine and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention said Fentanyl was responsible for more than 28,400 overdose deaths in 2017.

MAN ARRESTED ON COCAINE CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A St. Joseph, Missouri man has been taken into custody in Southeast Missouri on a cocaine charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 47 year old Detrick Hampton was arrested Wednesday evening in New Madrid County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for cocaine.

Hampton also reportedly had a felony Pemiscot County warrant for failure to appear on the original charge of possession of a weapon.

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

AREA MAN SENTENCED TO ALMOST FIVE YEARS IN PRISON IN CONNECTION TO ROBBERY

A Sikeston man has been sentenced to almost five years behind bars in connection to a 2018 robbery.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 40 year old Joshua Kerr was sentenced to 57 months imprisonment on one felony count of interference with commerce by robbery, one felony count of carjacking, and one felony count of possession of ammunition by a felon.

Kerr reportedly admitted to entering a store in July 2018 and demanding the store's cash while carrying a BB pistol that looked like a real handgun. The victim obeyed his commands and gave him money from three cash registers and the change refund bag. Kerr then took the victim’s vehicle and left the store with the cash.

Kerr was later apprehended and found to be in possession of several rounds of ammunition.

Kerr had been previously convicted of distribution of a controlled substance in New Madrid County and possession of a controlled substance in Stoddard County.

TWO DEXTER RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON DRUG RELATED WARRANTS FROM KENTUCKY

Authorities say that two Dexter residents have been arrested on drug related warrants out of Kentucky.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 50 year old John Peters was recently arrested on a warrant for drug trafficking 1st degree and 40 year old Jennifer Hampton was taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Peters bond was set at $50,000, while Hampton’s bond was set at $35,000 and officials say that both remained in jail as of this morning.

DEXTER MAN IN CUSTODY ON FEDERAL WARRANT

An area man is in custody following his arrest on a federal warrant.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 38 year old Johnathan Worley, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a federal warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Officials say that Worley remained in jail as of this morning and no bond has been set.

FISH FRY TO BE HELD FOR 18 YEAR VETERAN OF THE HIGHWAY PATROL BATTLING BRAIN CANCER

A fish fry will be held later this month for an 18 year veteran of the Missouri State Highway Patrol who is battling brain cancer.

Corporal Curt Fox was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2012. It has now returned for a third time and been upgraded to a grade 4 glioblastoma.

A fish fry fundraiser to help Corporal Fox and his family has been scheduled for Friday, February 22nd from 4:30 to 7:30 pm at the Knights of Columbus in Jackson. There will also be a raffle tickets sold for a gun.

For more information, contact Jamie Malugen at 573-979-2181.

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

NUMEROUS ROADS REMAIN CLOSED DUE TO FLOODING

Even though the latest rounds of rainfall have come to an end, officials say that many roads remain flooded in Southeast Missouri.

According to precipitation totals from the National Weather Service, most areas of Southeast Missouri recorded one to four inches of rain from the latest storm system, while the Missouri Bootheel and most of Northeast Arkansas received four to five inches of rainfall.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Highway 142 east of Neelyville in Butler County has been closed due to flooding.

Flooding has also caused the closure of portions of Routes H, K, and NN in Ripley County, Route F in Dunklin County, and Route DD in Pemiscot County, among others.

You can find road conditions online at traveler.modot.org.

CLARKTON MAN TRANSPORTED TO POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL FOLLOWING TWO VEHICLE WRECK

A Clarkton man was injured Tuesday Morning in a wreck in Dunklin County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a vehicle driven by 34 year old Ronald Fowler struck another vehicle in the rear on County Road 229 near Campbell.

Following the wreck, Fowler was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital with serious injuries. No injuries were listed for the driver of the second vehicle.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH CENTRAL METHODIST UNIVERSITY

Officials at Three Rivers College and Central Methodist University have announced an expanded partnership between the two institutions.

The partnership will see a four-year Agribusiness degree and a four-year rodeo team become available to students beginning this fall.

For the new Agribusiness program, students will complete coursework through Three Rivers for three years, earning an Associate of Applied Science in Agribusiness as well as an Associate of Arts in Agriculture before beginning their fourth year with CMU.

All courses will be available at the Three Rivers Poplar Bluff campus and will have components utilizing the TRC farm.

Students on the Three Rivers rodeo team will also now have the opportunity to compete with the newly formed Central Methodist rodeo team after they transfer to CMU. The CMU rodeo team will be based in Poplar Bluff and share the arena at the Three Rivers College farm for practices and training.

POPLAR BLUFF HISTORY TEACHER RECEIVES AWARD

A Poplar Bluff history teacher has won an award for her efforts co-teaching the ‘I’m A Citizen, Too’ summer enrichment class.

Poplar Bluff School Officials tell KWOC News that Junior High American History teacher Kathy Pattillo won the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher award for the middle school grade-span.

The ‘I’m A Citizen, Too’ program teaches students in 5th through 8th grades what it means to be productive citizens to one’s family, community, state, and nation.

Pattillo was recognized earlier this month in Jefferson City at a banquet hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary alongside a teacher at Truman Elementary in Rolla and an educator at Pattonville High School in Maryland Heights.

POPLAR BLUFF AUTHORITIES TRYING TO IDENTIFY MAN IN CONNECTION TO VEHICLE THEFT INVESTIGATION

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are trying to identify a man in connection to a stolen vehicle investigation.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, a vehicle was stolen from the parking lot of M&P Liquor on January 28th. The vehicle was later recovered in Douglas County.

Police officials have released a video that contains a male subject that they are attempting to identify. You can view the video on our Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about the subject’s identity is asked to contact Detective Dan Mustain at 573-686-8632.

AREA RESIDENT SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Southeast Missouri resident was injured Tuesday in a single vehicle wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Savannah Fennell, of Steele, received serious injuries in a wreck on State Highway NN near Gobler.

Fennell’s vehicle reportedly travelled off the left side of the highway, struck a tree, and overturned.

Following the wreck, Fennell was transported to a Dyersberg, Tennessee hospital.

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

FLOOD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR SOME LOCATIONS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A flood warning remains in effect for some locations in southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service, a flood warning is in effect for Butler, Stoddard, New Madrid, Scott, and Mississippi County until 1:45 pm this afternoon.

A flood warning has also been issued for Southeastern Reynolds County in southeastern Missouri until 1:30 pm.

One and one half to two and three quarters inches of rain has fallen across the region in the last 24 hours. The steadier rains will come to an end early today, but officials say it will take quite some time for the high water to recede.

NUMEROUS ROADS CLOSED DUE TO FLOODING

Heavy rains over the past few days have caused numerous roads to be closed in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Highway 142 east of Neelyville in Butler County has been closed due to flooding.

Flooding has also caused the closure of portions of Routes H, K, and NN in Ripley County, Route F in Reynolds County, Route NN in Shannon County, and Route DD in Pemiscot County, among others.

You can find road conditions online at traveler.modot.org.

Multiple schools are also closed today because of flooding. A list of school closings is available on our website.

POPLAR BLUFF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

A Poplar Bluff Elementary School has received national recognition for student achievement on the MAP test.

School officials tell KWOC News that Lake Road Elementary was one of only two Missouri schools to be named a National ESEA Distinguished School during the program's annual conference held earlier this month in Kansas City.

Lake Road was nominated by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for maintaining excellent student performance for consecutive years.

There were a total of 68 educational institutions nationwide to be chosen for the honor.

CARUTHERSVILLE FLOODGATES SET TO CLOSE ON THURSDAY

Officials in the Caruthersville area will be closing area floodgates this week.

The Mississippi River flood stage forecast is causing the St. Francis Levee District to close the floodgates on Thursday.

Area residents are being asked to avoid travelling on the levee.

GROUNDBREAKING TO BE HELD THIS MONTH FOR NEW CENTER AT VA MEDICAL CENTER

A groundbreaking will be held later this month for a new center in Poplar Bluff.

The groundbreaking of the Learning Resource Center at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center has been scheduled for Thursday, February 21st.

The public is invited to attend the event, which will begin at 2 pm.

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS IN RIPLEY COUNTY

A contract has been approved for pavement improvements in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission has awarded an over $320,000 contract to Apex Paving Co., for pavement improvements on Route B in Ripley County from Route 160 to Route 142.

Additional information, including timelines and impact to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

Monday, February 11, 2019

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS THROUGH TUESDAY MORNING

A flood watch is in effect for most of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas through late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, the rain is anticipated to continue through today and tonight and a storm total of two to four inches of rainfall is expected at many locations in Southeast Missouri. In Northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel, three to five inches of rainfall with isolated heavier amounts is expected.

Weather officials say that rainfall runoff is expected to lead to areal flooding issues. River flooding will likely be prolonged, and possibly could worsen with time.

DONIPHAN MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FOUR COUNTS OF FIRST DEGREE MURDER

Sentencing has been scheduled for May after a Southeast Missouri man was found guilty of four counts of murder.

According to Missouri Case Net, on Friday, 26 year old Keith Boyles, of Doniphan, was found guilty on four counts each of 1st degree murder and armed criminal action.

The charges stem from the deaths of Edgar Atkinson, Bonnie Chase, Gladys Piatt, and Loyd Piatt in 2010.

A Sentencing Assessment Report has been ordered and Boyles sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 1st.

TWO PARAGOULD RESIDENTS KILLED IN COLLISION NEAR BEECH GROVE

Two people are dead and a third injured following a wreck Friday morning in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, a vehicle driven by 21 year old Ivan Puello, of Paragould, failed to stop at a stop sign on Highway 141 in Greene County and travelled into the path of an oncoming vehicle.

The wreck occurred shortly before 8 am Friday morning.

Both Puello and a passenger in his vehicle, 21 year old Alexandria Snyder, also of Paragould, were killed in the wreck.

The driver of the other vehicle was injured and transported to an area hospital.

AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR PERSON OF INTEREST IN FATAL HIT AND RUN

Updating a story we brought to you last week, authorities are seeking a man as a person of interest in a fatal hit and run incident near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a pedestrian was walking on the southbound shoulder of Highway 53 on February 4th and was struck by a northbound, white, 1999 Oldsmobile Alero.

Officials say that video surveillance from a business close to the crash scene is being reviewed and a person of interest has been identified as Zack L. Davis.

We have a picture of Davis available on our Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about Davis’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 573-840-9500 or your local law enforcement agency.

POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR HIGH FINISHES IN TOP 15 AT NATIONAL CHEERLEADING COMPETITION

Junior High cheerleaders from Poplar Bluff finished in the top 15 at a national cheerleading competition over the weekend.

According to Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith, the Junior High Competition Cheerleading Team finished in 14th Place of the Large Junior High Squad division at the UCA National High School Cheerleading Competition in Orlando.

The Poplar Bluff High School Competition Cheerleading Team also participated in the competition however did not advance to the finals for Medium Varsity Division 1.

ONE MILE CROSSING REOPENED IN DEXTER

A Dexter railroad crossing has reopened after a train crash last week.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that a strong line of storms pushed through the Dexter area and led to the derailment at one mile crossing on Thursday. A National Weather Service storm survey found straight-line wind damage in Dexter, with estimated peak winds at 90 mph.

According to the Dexter Police Department, One Mile Crossing was reopened on Sunday.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

Two Poplar Bluff residents were taken into custody over the weekend on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Robert Brown and 34 year old Crystal Swafford, were each arrested shortly after 10:30 pm Saturday night on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brown is also facing a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance in a jail facility.

Following their arrests, both were held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

Friday, February 8, 2019

THURSDAY STORMS CAUSE DAMAGE ACROSS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Multiple communities have reported damage following the severe storm system that crossed our area on Thursday.

In Butler County, a grain bin was destroyed and power lines were knocked down in the Broseley area. Highway 51 was also closed for a period of time yesterday.

The Missouri Department of Transportation says that part of Missouri Highway 142 east of Neelyville is closed this morning due to flooding. Also closed are parts of Route H, K, and NN in Ripley County, as well as a portion of Route C in Wayne County.

Officials with the Twin Rivers School District say that there will be no school again today due to the flooding.

According to the Highway patrol, Current River Marine Sales in Doniphan experienced significant damage from straight line winds. Multiple vessels and trailers were damaged and the side door glass to their main building was completely shattered by the strong winds.

TRAIN DERAILS IN DEXTER

A train derailed yesterday morning in Dexter.

According to the Dexter Police Department, the train derailed at one mile crossing and several buildings were damaged in the area. Nearby phone and power lines were also knocked down.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that a strong line of storms pushed through the area and led to the derailment.

No one was injured in the incident.

DRIVERS ASKED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR BLACK ICE THIS MORNING

Area motorists are being asked to be on the lookout for black ice this morning.

Weather officials say that residual moisture from yesterday’s storm system could have frozen overnight on area roadways.

Drivers should be cautious and give themselves some extra time to reach their destination.

CITY OF GREENVILLE TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING NEXT WEEK

The city of Greenville will be hosting a public hearing next week to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a MDNR Recreational Trails Program grant.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the city is proposing to apply for approximately $200,000 in RTP Funding to repair the city trail system along Walnut Street leading to the school.

The hearing will be held at 10 am on Monday, February 11th, at the Greenville City Hall.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Carroll Rainwater at 573-224-3911.

SCAM TARGETING STUDENTS AT BLACK RIVER TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Officials at Black River Technical College are warning students to be careful about a scam that is targeting them on Facebook.

According to officials, a company appearing to be called Fiscal Analytics is promising students a loan forgiveness program.

Drew Garland, BRTC Default Prevention Specialist, says that while other loan forgiveness programs are legitimate, this particular program does not exist.

Students who have any questions about repayment options, are asked to contact Garland at 870-248-4022.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY METH CHARGE

Authorities in Stoddard County say that an area man has been taken into custody on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Donald Newell, of Dexter, was arrested yesterday morning in Stoddard County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Newell was held in the Stoddard County Jail.

Thursday, February 7, 2019

FLOOD WATCH TO REMAIN IN EFFECT THROUGH THIS EVENING

Showers and thunderstorms will continue today resulting in chances of flooding.

According to the National Weather Service, a flood watch remains in effect through this evening for most of Southeast Missouri.

Weather officials say that Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to result in additional rainfall amounts of around an inch of so today, although locally higher amounts cannon be ruled out.

The rain will likely result in flooding of low lying and poor drainage areas, in addition to rising water levels on area rivers, creeks, and streams. Localized flash flooding cannot be ruled out with scattered thunderstorms producing heavier rainfall rates.

A drastic change to very cold arctic air will take place later today and tonight. Wind chill readings by late tonight could be in the single digits or teens.

ILLNESS TO CAUSE ADDITIONAL MISSED CLASSES AT AREA SCHOOLS

Officials at two area schools have cancelled classes for today due to illness.

According to the Portageville Police Department, the Portageville School District will be closed for the rest of the week. Classes will be back in session on Monday.

Piggott Public Schools will also not be in session for today due to widespread illness in the district. According to the Piggott High School Facebook Page, students will need to complete AMI Day 4.

The Twin Rivers School District will also be missing classes today, but that is due to flooding conditions in the district.

AREA AUTHORITIES ATTEMPTING TO LOCATE TWO INDIVIDUALS IN CONNECTION TO AN ALLEGED VEHICLE THEFT

Authorities in Carter County are attempting to locate two individuals.

Carter County Sheriff Richard Stephens tells KWOC News that a man and a woman are being sought in connection to an alleged vehicle theft in the area.

We have pictures of both the man and the woman available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about their identities or whereabouts is being asked to contact Chief Alonzo Bradwell with the Van Buren Police Department at 573-323-4510.

DANCING WITH THE PB STARS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 2019 Dancing with the PB Stars will be held this weekend at the Historic Rodgers Theater in Poplar Bluff.

Local couples will compete Saturday night at 7 pm in various styles of dance while the audience votes on their favorite performances.

Ticket prices are $10 for general admission and $25 for VIP seating. There will also be entertainment by local musicians and performers.

Proceeds from the event will go to benefit Sacred Heart Catholic School.

CITY OF DONIPHAN TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING NEXT WEEK

The city of Doniphan will be hosting a public hearing next week to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a grant.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the city is proposing to construct possible bathrooms, Pickle Ball courts, and park amenities.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund grant is a 50/50 match program, with the City of Doniphan requesting approximately $26,000 in LWCF funds.

The hearing will be held at 2 pm on Monday, February 11th, at the Doniphan Community Center.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Dennis Cox at 573-996-2623.

NEW BENCH INSTALLED AT POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HELP STUDENTS MAKE NEW FRIENDS

A new bench is being installed at Poplar Bluff Middle School to help students make new friends.

School officials say that a Buddy Bench was introduced last week during a school wide positive behavior support assembly held at the Middle School.

Among several scenarios detailed during the assembly, the main rule established is for students to invite classmates who are sitting alone on the Buddy Bench to play.

Guidance counselor Julie Withrow says that the concept of the bench was student-directed. Sixth graders Rachel Eason, Zoë Freeman, and Bailey Taylor approached her with the idea at the end of the last school year.

Wednesday, February 6, 2019

FLOOD WATCH TO GO INTO EFFECT TODAY FOR MOST OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Weather officials say that a flood watch will be in effect for most of Southeast Missouri beginning midday today.

According to the National Weather Service there will be several periods of showers and scattered thunderstorms late today through Thursday. Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to result in rain totals from two to four inches, although locally higher amounts cannot be ruled out.

Officials say the heavy rain will likely result in the flooding of low lying and poor drainage areas.

The flood watch will be in effect from noon today through Thursday evening.

A Hazardous Weather Outlook by the National Weather Service says that strong to perhaps isolated severe thunderstorms cannot be ruled out for this evening and overnight which could include locally damaging wind gusts.

Weather officials say that given the amount of wind shear that will be present, a brief spin up tornado or two cannot be ruled out.

ELLSINORE WOMAN DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN A TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

An Ellsinore woman has died following a wreck yesterday morning in Carter County.

Authorities tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on US 60 at Ellsinore when 90 year old Wilma Miller allegedly pulled into the path of a tractor trailer at around 10:30 am.

Miller was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital where she was pronounced dead. No injuries were listed for the driver of the tractor trailer.

JOINT INVESTIGATION LEADS TO TWO BURGLARY ARRESTS

Two people have been arrested following a joint investigation into burglaries in Ripley and Oregon Counties.

According to the Oregon County Sheriff’s Office, officers from both the Oregon and Ripley County Sheriff’s Offices have been co-operating in the investigation of a series of burglaries from rural areas in both counties.

A traffic stop by the Ripley County Sheriff's Office on February 1st led to the arrests of 30 year old Kyle King and 33 year old Sandy Edwards, both of Alton.

Officials say King is charged with 10 counts of burglary 1st degree and has a $100,000 dollar bond, while Edwards is being held for 10 counts of burglary in the 1st degree and has a $75,000 dollar bond.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED FOR FAILING TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER

Authorities have arrested an area man for failing to register as a sex offender.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 30 year old Chadwick Wilson, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody shortly before 9 pm last night in Butler County.

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

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE AND FIREARM WARRANT

A Dexter man has been taken into custody on a controlled substance and firearm warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 53 year old Ralph Vancil was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Vancil’s bond was set at $7,500, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

TWO TEENAGERS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BOLLINGER COUNTY WRECK

Two teenagers were injured Tuesday afternoon in a Zalma area wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 18 year old Hailey Turner, of Zalma, ran into the back of a tractor trailer on Route C in Bollinger County.

Turner, as well as a 15 year old passenger in her vehicle, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to an area hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF TEACHER RECEIVES FIVE THOUSAND DOLLAR GRANT

A Poplar Bluff teacher recently received a $5,000 grant to receive professional development to help enhance a new robotics program at the Junior High.

School officials say that Hilary Taylor was awarded a $5,000 Learning and Leadership grant through the National Education Association Foundation.

This gave Taylor the opportunity to travel to Michigan, Oklahoma, and Washington in the fall to participate in conferences through Google and the International Society for Technology in Education for the purpose of bringing innovative ideas back to the classroom

Tuesday February 5, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE 

A Poplar Bluff woman has died after being hit by a vehicle in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Wendy Dumas was struck by an unknown vehicle at around 7:39 pm Monday night. Officials say the vehicle ran off the left side of Missouri Highway 53, struck Dumas, and then left the scene. 

The incident occurred approximately three miles south of Poplar Bluff.  

Dumas was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

TWO AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO MISS CLASSES THIS WEEK DUE TO ILLNESS 

Students at two Southeast Missouri school districts will be missing some classes this week due to illness.  

Twin Rivers R-10 Superintendent Jeremy Siebert tells KWOC News, that a combined total of over 100 kids and facility missed school yesterday with flu like symptoms. Siebert says that the school district will be closed until Thursday of this week. 

The Portageville School District dismissed classes early yesterday because of illness in the district. Classes in Portageville will also resume on Thursday.

TWO ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE IN MALDEN 

Two Malden residents have been taken into custody on a controlled substance charge.  

According to the Malden Police Department, on Sunday, officers arrested Richard Brock and Steven Goff, each on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance. 

Both have been transported to the Dunklin County Jail and officials say Brock’s bond has been set at $30,000 while Goff’s bond was set at $25,000.

AREA SCHOOL PUT ON LOCK DOWN BECAUSE OF POLICE CHASE 

An area school was put on lock down yesterday due to a police chase in the area.  

According to a post on the Bernie R-13 Schools Facebook page, the school district was on lock down for a period of time Monday afternoon as a precaution because of a police chase near the town.  

Authorities say the chase started in Qulin and continued from Butler County into Stoddard County before authorities lost the vehicle. 

HEAVY RAINFALL AND FLOODING POSSIBLE THIS WEEK 

Heavy rainfall and flooding will be possible this week in Southeast Missouri.  

According to a Hydrologic Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, several upper air systems will move over the area from Wednesday through Thursday and interact with abundant moisture and a boundary near the Ohio Valley.  

This will likely result in moderate to heavy rainfall across southeast Missouri and a widespread 2 to 4 inches of rain is likely. 

Officials say that the end result will be a risk for considerable flooding in low lying and poor drainage areas. Localized flash flooding cannot be ruled out with some thunderstorms producing heavier rainfall rates.

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO RASH OF BURGLARIES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Authorities say that two people have been arrested in connection to multiple burglaries in Southeast Missouri.  

Over the last two months, members of the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office, Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Advance Police Department, Oran Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the United States Postal Service have been investigating a rash of recent burglaries in Bollinger, Scott, and Stoddard Counties. 

According to the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department, Shawn Yount, of Advance, has been arrested and charged in Bollinger County with six counts of burglary 2nd degree. Yount’s bond was set at $175,000. 

Sidney Scowden of Dexter, was also arrested in reference to the investigation. A warrant for her arrest was issued for six counts of burglary 2nd degree in Bollinger County. Scowden’s bond was set at $75,000. 

Officials say that this is still considered an open and active investigation and Yount is suspected in additional burglaries committed in Bollinger County.

ROAD WORK TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TODAY 

Route E in New Madrid County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert under the roadway. 

The section of roadway to be closed is located between Route D and County Road 646. 

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

Monday, February 4, 2019

DEXTER WOMAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A single vehicle wreck has claimed the life of a Dexter woman.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 73 year old Verda Allstun was driving on Route ZZ in Stoddard County on Friday when her vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, struck a bridge, and overturned in a ditch.

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

MAN RESCUED FROM WATER NEAR NEW MADRID

A man was rescued from waters near New Madrid on Friday.

Officials with the New Madrid Police Department tell KWOC News that at around 4 pm on Friday dispatch received several 911 calls about someone shot on the levee and a possible shooter on the loose.

When officers arrived, they found one man in the water who was holding onto a piece of driftwood and was disoriented from being in the cold water. A deputy jumped in to the water with a life jacket and brought the man to the bank. It was later found that he had no gunshot wounds but was suffering from hypothermia.

Evidence was collected from in and around a car that was on top of the curb at the boat ramp. The car had several bullet holes, and a gun as well as casings was collected from the scene.

Witnesses gave a description of a man who had fled the scene. The man was later located and willingly went to the police station to give a statement.

The man who was in the water was transported to a local hospital for treatment and officials say he is not cooperating with the investigation.

The investigation is ongoing and officials say criminal charges will be sought against one or both of the men.

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED ON MOLESTATION WARRANT

Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested an Arkansas man on a molestation warrant.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 26 year old Dimitri Cavazos, of Manilla, Arkansas, was taken into custody Friday night on a felony warrant out of Shannon County for child molestation.

Following the arrest, Cavazos was held at the Dunklin County Jail.

PIGGOTT MAN HIT BY A VEHICLE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Piggott man was hit by a vehicle Sunday night in Pemiscot County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 27 year old Christopher Pipp allegedly ran into the path of a vehicle on Interstate 55 at around 7:45 pm Sunday.

Pipp suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Dyersburg, Tennessee hospital.

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED FOLLOWING WRECK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

An Illinois woman has died following an early Saturday morning wreck in New Madrid County.

According to authorities, the crash occurred at around 1:30 am Saturday when a vehicle driven by 40 year old Travis Ford, of Thebes, Illinois, struck the rear of another vehicle on Interstate 55.

A passenger in Ford’s vehicle, 22 year old Tianna Ford, of Anna, Illinois, was pronounced dead at the scene. Travis Ford received serious injuries and was transported to a St. Louis hospital.

TWO WAYNE COUNTY RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

Two Wayne County residents were arrested Friday evening on drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Jason Radcliff and 39 year old Jane Radcliff, of Lowndes, were each taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

They are also each facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

Following the arrests, both were held at the Butler County Jail.

DUDLEY MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County say that an area man has been taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 26 year old Bradley Mitchell, of Dudley, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Mitchell’s bond was set at $7,500, cash only.

Friday, February 1, 2019

LILBOURN WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

A Lilbourn woman was arrested yesterday evening in New Madrid County on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Amanda Zimmerman was taken into custody on a felony warrant out of New Madrid County for delivery of a controlled substance.

Following the arrest, Zimmerman was held in the New Madrid County Jail.

NEW THREE RIVERS SPORTS COMPLEX TO OPEN THIS WEEKEND

The opening of the new sports complex on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff is set for this weekend.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the Libla Family Sports Complex has been scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday.

The sports complex is a 60,000-square-foot gymnasium that seats over 3,000 people and is intended to replace the Bess Activity Center as the home of the College’s Raiders and Lady Raiders basketball teams.

The complex is also convertible into a three-court facility suitable for holding practices and regional high school basketball tournaments.

The ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday will be followed by a basketball double-header as both the Lady Raiders and Raiders take on State Fair Community College. The Lady Raiders will tip-off at 5 pm followed by the men’s game at 7 pm.

5TH ANNUAL BADGE OF HONOR BENEFIT RUN SET TO BE HELD IN EARLY APRIL

Registration is ongoing for the 5th Annual Badge of Honor Benefit Run.

The Benefit Run will be held on Saturday, April 6th at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. The event is scheduled to begin at 9 am.

There will be a 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon and anyone who registers by March 1st will receive an event t-shirt and medal.

For more information, go to www.bohbr.com.

OVER TWENTY POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS QUALIFY TO COMPETE IN NATIONAL BETA COMPETITIONS

Over 20 Poplar Bluff students were recently recognized for qualifying to compete at the National Beta Convention in Oklahoma City.

According to Poplar Bluff School Officials, about 100 R-I students participated in the Missouri Junior and Senior conventions held in December in Springfield. Students that placed in the top five in statewide academic and skill contests are eligible to go on to the National Convention in June.

The students who qualified were recognized by the Poplar Bluff Board of Education during their monthly meeting in January.

PIEDMONT TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING EARLY NEXT MONTH

The city of Piedmont will be hosting a public hearing next week to discuss the city’s submission of a grant application.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the city is proposing to construct an extension of the city trail system at Handy Park and is proposing to apply for approximately $90,000 in Recreational Trails Program funding.

The hearing will be held at 2 pm on Monday, February 4th at Piedmont City Hall.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Bill Kirkpatrick at 573-223-7660.

LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE TO CONTINUE NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

The leaf pick up schedule for the city of Poplar Bluff is scheduled to continue next week.

According to city officials, leaves will be picked up in Ward 5 from February 4th through the 22nd.

Leaves may also be disposed of at the landfill located on the east side of the city. To reach the landfill, take Bartlett Street to “F” Street and go under the railroad crossing. Follow the graveled portion of “F” Street around the curve and the disposal is located on the left side of the road. There are signs marking the location.

The site is open for leaf disposal from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday.

For more information, contact the Street Department at 573-686-8646.

Thursday January 31, 2019

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

Two women have been taken into custody in Ripley County on felony drug charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 48 year old Julie Meadors, of Doniphan, and 19 year old McKayla Tyler, of Naylor, were arrested Wednesday afternoon on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and diazepam.  

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

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON WARRANT FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER 

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

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 38 year old Preston Simpson, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for failure to register as a sex offender.   

Officials say that no bond has been set and Simpson remained in jail as of this morning.

EAGLE DAYS EVENT CANCELLED 

Even though the Eagle Days Event originally scheduled for this weekend has been cancelled, officials say there will still be opportunities for area residents to possibly see an eagle.  

The Missouri Department of Conservation announced last week that the Eagle Days event scheduled for Friday and Saturday at MINGO National Wildlife Refuge, Duck Creek Conservation Area and Wappapello Lake had been cancelled due to the federal government shutdown. 

Officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers say that Wappapello will still be staffing their Eagle Watch stations on Saturday from 9am - 1pm.  

Maps of the self-guided "Eagle route" located on Mingo National Wildlife Refuge and Duck Creek Conservation Area will also be available at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center.

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO PURSUIT IN THE BOOTHEEL 

Authorities in the Missouri bootheel were involved in a pursuit while executing a search warrant earlier this week.  

Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that on Wednesday his officers along with Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department, Caruthersville Police, Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, SEMO DTF, and the United States Marshalls executed a federal search warrant and a state issued search warrant in Steele.  

During the course of initiating the search warrants, law enforcement attempted a vehicle stop on a 30 year old male from Steele. The suspect failed to stop for law enforcement and a pursuit was initiated. 

The suspect vehicle was eventually stopped by law enforcement and the driver was apprehended without any further incident. Stanfield says the investigation resulted in the seizure of purported methamphetamine and firearms. 

The suspect was arrested on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance, felon in possession of a firearm, and felony resisting arrest. His name is being withheld pending the filing of formal charges with the prosecuting attorney.

AREA MAN SENTENCED TO A DECADE IN PRISON ON FIREARM CHARGE 

A Southeast Missouri man was sentenced earlier this week on a firearm charge.  

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 49 year old Terry Thornton, of Marston, was pulled over for a traffic violation in September of 2017. During a search of Thornton’s vehicle, officers discovered a Hi-Point 9 millimeter semi-automatic pistol and several bags of marijuana. 

Officials say Thornton had felony convictions for first-degree robbery, first-degree burglary, and first-degree assault. 

Thornton was sentenced on Tuesday to serve 10 years in federal prison following his guilty plea to being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JAZZ FESTIVAL NEXT WEEK 

The Three Rivers College Music Department will be hosting their 28th Annual Jazz Festival next week.  

Jazz performers from schools across Southeast Missouri will be performing live at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center in Poplar Bluff on February 7th and 9th.  

Both nights will feature performances from the Three Rivers College Jazz Band, which will be joined on February 7th by junior high and high school bands from across the region.

The February 9th performance will feature the Southeast Missouri All-District Jazz Band, which consists of the best high school jazz musicians in District 10 of the Missouri Music Educators Association. 

Both shows will begin at 7 pm and admission is free.

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

BITTERLY COLD TEMPERATURES SETTLE IN OVER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A bitterly cold morning is awaiting residents throughout Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service, wind chill values could range anywhere from around zero to negative 20 in Southeast Missouri this morning.

A number of counties are under a wind chill advisory until noon today, including Wayne, Carter, Iron, Madison, Reynolds, and Bollinger Counties.

Officials say that frostbite and hypothermia can occur if precautions are not taken.

For a list of warming center’s available in Southeast Missouri visit our Facebook page.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has also made a website available for finding warming centers in your area at https://ogi.oa.mo.gov/DHSS/warmingCenter/.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR KENTUCKY MAN IN CONNECTION TO VEHICLE THEFT

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are searching for a Kentucky man in connection to a report of a stolen vehicle.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, a black Chevrolet Silverado Z71 was stolen from the parking lot of a Poplar Bluff Rhodes 101 Convenience Store on January 19th.

Police have identified Dalton Norville, of Marshall County, Kentucky, as a suspect in the theft. Norville is believed to be in the company of a runaway juvenile.

We have pictures of Norville and the truck available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about Norville’s whereabouts or the location of the stolen pickup is asked to contact Detective Mustain at 573-686-8632.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS SEW PILLOWCASES TO HELP FOSTER CHILDREN

Junior High students in Poplar Bluff have been sewing pillowcases over the past few months to help foster children.

According to Principal Candace Warren, a group of seventh graders have donated about 100 hand-sewn pillowcases that double as laundry bags to FosterAdopt Connect SEMO.

The sacks were filled with small blankets, fidget spinners, and toiletry items such as wet wipes, deodorant and toothbrushes.

Principal Warren says the charitable deed served as a midyear service project for Team One.

FosterAdopt Connect offers training, advocacy and licensing to families caring for children through the foster system and adoption process.

CONSTRUCTION FORCES TEMPORARY CHANGES TO PARKING AT JOHN J PERSHING VA MEDICAL CENTER

Ongoing construction is forcing some parking changes at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Medical Center’s Facebook page, most of their patient parking is now on the north side of the building to provide more accessible spaces for Veterans while the new urgent care is under construction.

The changes will be temporary while the construction is going on. A map of the new parking areas is available on the Medical Center’s Facebook page and signs will be set up as well.

EARTHQUAKE REPORTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Officials say that an earthquake was recorded early Tuesday morning in Southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.2 quake occurred at 1:44 am Tuesday.

The earthquake was located approximately 10 miles southeast of Sikeston and had a depth of almost 10 miles.

US HIGHWAY 60 IN CARTER COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR REPAIRS

Westbound US Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane through Friday so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can seal cracks in the roadway.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route P to one mile east of Route J.

Weather permitting; work will be performed from 7 am to 3 pm daily, through Friday. Officials say the work-zone may also be set-up overnight.