Tuesday, April 30, 2019

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED, IN WAYNE COUNTY WRECK

Authorities in Wayne County say that an area man has died following a single vehicle wreck over the weekend.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 43 year old Anthony Portzelt, of McGee, was driving a vehicle on Route P Sunday evening when the vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned.

Both Portzelt and a passenger were ejected from the vehicle during the wreck.

Portzelt was pronounced dead at the scene by Wayne County Coroner Gary Umfleet.

The passenger, a 29 year old female from Zalma, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS TO APPEAR IN COURT THIS WEEK ON MULTIPLE CHARGES

Two Poplar Bluff residents are scheduled to appear in court this week on warrants for multiple charges, including robbery.

According to Missouri Case Net, warrants were issued on Monday for both Ty Farris and Kelsie Armor. They are each facing felony charges of robbery 1st degree, stealing $750 or more, and armed criminal action in connection to an incident on Sunday.

Bond was set for each Farris and Armor at $100,000 cash only and their initial arraignment has been scheduled for Thursday morning.

FORMER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SHERIFF SENTENCED FOR FRAUD AND IDENTITY THEFT

A former sheriff in Southeast Missouri has been sentenced for fraud and identity theft.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 35 year old Cory Hutcheson, of East Prairie, was sentenced Monday for illegally monitoring the location of other law enforcement officers and civilians without a warrant by entering mobile telephone numbers into a law enforcement database.

For a three year period, including after being elected Sheriff of Mississippi County, Hutcheson uploaded false and fraudulent documents to a law enforcement database to obtain the location of over 200 mobile phone users.

Hutcheson submitted thousands of requests and obtained the location data of hundreds individual phone subscribers without valid legal authorization, and without the consent or knowledge of the targeted individual. He was required to resign as Sheriff of Mississippi County in November 2018.

On Monday, Hutcheson received a sentence of 10 months, 6 months to be served in the Bureau of Prisons and 4 months home confinement.

FARM TRACTOR OVERTURNS IN NEW MADRID COUNTY INJURING DRIVER

A farm tractor overturned Monday morning in New Madrid County resulting in injuries to the driver.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 49 year old Morehouse man was driving the tractor on Route HH, near Matthews, when the vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned.

The driver was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital with moderate injuries.

CONSERVATION OFFICIALS SAY THAT SOCIAL MEDIA POST SAYING THAT MUSHROOM HUNTING IS BEING BANNED IS NOT TRUE

Missouri conservation officials are warning mushroom hunters to not believe everything they see on social media.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, a recent post making the rounds on social media is saying that the state is banning mushroom hunting on all public hunting grounds and is implementing a gathering license.

Officials say that the post is fake and that the MDC is not banning mushroom hunting on public lands or implementing a gathering license.

If you would like more information on mushroom hunting, visit nature.mdc.mo.gov.

TWO THREE RIVERS STUDENTS NAMED TO ALL-MISSOURI ACADEMIC TEAM

Two students at Three Rivers College have been named to the All-Missouri Academic team by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Rebekah Hill was named to the Second Team, while Joshua Webb was chosen for the third team.

Officials say that students are selected based on the extent to which they meet the definition of the word “scholar.”

Students from each of Missouri’s 25 Phi Theta Kappa chapters apply to be on the team and only 42 total students were selected this year. Each student received a cash scholarship and a medallion from the Missouri Community College Association.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ATTEMPTING TO IDENTIFY SUBJECT IN A SHOPLIFTING INCIDENT

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in identifying a subject in connection to a shoplifting incident.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officials are attempting to identify a male subject regarding a shoplifting incident at Academy Sports.

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

Anyone who has information on the subject’s identity is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-686-8632.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT UNDERWAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Route HH in Pemiscot County has been closed so contractor crews can replace a bridge.

This bridge is located over Drainage Ditch #84 between Route 153 and County Road 282.

Weather permitting, the bridge is anticipated to be closed through Thursday, August 1st.

Monday April 29, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON TRAFFICKING CHARGE, 53 GRAMS OF METH SEIZED 

Law enforcement officials seized over 50 grams of methamphetamine during a drug arrest on Friday.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Brandon Hart, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Friday morning on a felony 1st degree trafficking charge. Officials reportedly seized 53 grams of meth.  

Hart is also facing felony charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of alprazolam. 

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

CHILD SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ATV WRECK 

An 11 year old child was injured Friday night in an ATV wreck in Iron County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred shortly after 7 pm on Blacks Road near Des Arc.  

The child lost control of the vehicle, ran off the roadway, and was ejected.  

Officials say she was flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

TWO PUXICO AREA PARKS TO BE CLOSED AT NIGHT 

Officials in Puxico say that two area parks will be closed at night.  

According to the Puxico Police Department, South Park and Houck Park will be closed at 8 pm daily due to property damage at the parks.  

Officials say the closures will continue until further notice.

DATE SET FOR REOPENING OF GREENVILLE CAMPGROUND 

A date has been set for the re-opening of an area campground.  

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake tell KWOC News that the grand re-opening of the Greenville Campground has been scheduled for 2 pm on Tuesday, May 21st.  

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be followed by a historical guided tour of Memory Lane led by Corps of Engineers volunteer Leon Fox.  

Camping will be available to the public beginning May 20th. Reservations can be made starting May 13th by calling 1-877-444-6777.  

Officials say that the re-opening is the result of an effort to update and restore aging facilities after a straight line wind storm caused severe damage, requiring the sites closure two years ago.

STOLEN PURSE LEADS TO RECOVERY OF ITEMS STOLEN FROM VARIOUS BUSINESSES IN PORTAGEVILLE 

A stolen purse led to the recovery of items stolen from various businesses in the Portageville Area.  

According to the Portageville Police Department, Saturday morning officers responded to a local restaurant in reference to a purse being stolen from a vehicle parked in the parking lot. 

Two suspects were later located and they reportedly admitted to stealing items from various businesses in Portageville. 

Officials say that all items were recovered and returned to the businesses. 

The suspects, whose identities were not released, were arrested and each charged with three counts of misdemeanor stealing.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH EARLY AUGUST 

Route AA in New Madrid County will be closed for over three months as contractor crews replace the bridge over the North Cut Ditch.  

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the bridge is located 5 miles north of Route 80, between County Road 802 and County Road 807, near Matthews.   

The bridge closed at 6 am this morning with completion anticipated on Thursday, August 1st.

Friday, April 26, 2019

OVER TWO MILLION DOLLAR LOTTERY TICKET SOLD IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Someone in Southeast Missouri may be over two million dollars richer and not even know it.

According to the Missouri Lottery, a ticket sold in Piedmont for Wednesday night’s Missouri Lotto drawing matched all six numbers to win the 2.1 million dollar prize.

Officials say that the winning Lotto ticket was purchased at Piedmont Gas Mart with the number combination of 6, 20, 26, 30, 40, and 42.

May Reardon, executive director of the Missouri Lottery, says that the winner should sign the back of the ticket and keep it in a safe place until you are ready to claim your prize.

Lotto prizes can be claimed at any of the Lottery’s four offices, which are located in St. Louis, Springfield, Jefferson City and Kansas City.

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 this weekend.

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

Participants must simply bring unused, unwanted, or expired medications to the Police Department for disposal. 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.

FOUR VEHICLES INVOLVED IN WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two people were injured Thursday evening in a four vehicle wreck in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 5 pm on US 160 near Route C.

A Ford truck struck the back of a Dodge truck, causing the Dodge to strike the back of a GMC Terrain. The Dodge then crossed the center line of the highway and had a front end collision with a Chevrolet car.

The drivers of the Dodge and the Chevrolet both suffered moderate injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

41ST ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE BLACKPOWDER RENDEZVOUS TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The 41st Annual Old Greenville Blackpowder Rendezvous has been scheduled for this weekend.

The event, presented by the Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club and the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, will be held from 9 am to dark on Saturday and 8 am to 3 pm on Sunday at the Greenville Campground.

There will be multiple events and entertainment options available and admission is free to the public.

For more information, call 573-300-9595.

SIX FREE HEPATITIS A CLINICS TO BE OFFERED NEXT WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Six free Hepatitis A clinics will be offered next week in New Madrid County.

According to the New Madrid County Health Department, on Wednesday, May 1st, there will be a clinic at the Gideon Community Center from 9 to 10:30 am, at the Risco Community Center from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, and at the Portageville Community Center from 2 to 4 pm.

On Thursday, May 2nd, clinics will be held at the Morehouse Community Center from 9 to 10 am, the Matthews City Hall from 10:30 to 11:30 am, and at the Lilbourn City Hall from 2 to 3 pm.

Anyone who has questions or would like more information can call 573-748-5541.

MULES FOOTBALL TEAM TO HOST PANCAKE BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will be serving pancakes next month to help raise money for new uniforms.

The Mules Football team will be hosting a pancake breakfast from 7:30 to 10:30 am on Saturday, May 11th, at First Baptist Church.

Officials say that the event will be free; however, donations will be accepted with proceeds going toward the cost of new uniforms.

Thursday April 25, 2019

UNITED STATES SENATOR TO VISIT POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS 

A United States Senator will be visiting a Poplar Bluff business later this week.  

Senator Roy Blunt will be holding a press conference on Friday beginning at 12:15 pm at Mid-Continent Steel and Wire. 

Mid-Continent Steel and Wire is the nation’s largest nail manufacturer and was recently granted tariff exclusions by the U.S. Department of Commerce.  

MAJOR DISASTER DECELERATION REQUESTED FOR THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES 

Missouri Governor Michael Parson has requested that President Trump approve a major disaster declaration for 13 counties in the state, including three in Southeast Missouri.  

Governor Parson tells KWOC News that the declaration is for Missouri to provide federal assistance in response to devastating flooding that began March 11th. Southeast Missouri counties in the declaration request include Pemiscot, New Madrid, and Mississippi counties.  

Governor Parson is requesting public assistance for the 13 total counties, so local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies may seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement costs for damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. 

The Governor said he expects the request to be expanded to include additional counties once floodwaters recede and full damage assessments can be conducted. 

The Governor is also requesting that the U.S. Small Business Administration assist businesses, homeowners, and renters in these counties with low-interest loans. Those affected by the flooding are encouraged to continue documenting losses by photographing damage and retaining all receipts.

SIDEWALK PROJECT UNDERWAY IN DEXTER 

New sidewalks are being put along a Dexter roadway and city officials want motorists to be prepared for road closures.  

According to the City of Dexter Facebook page, motorists are being asked to take alternate routes when possible as new sidewalks are installed in the One Mile Road area. 

Contractors will continue to work on the project for the next few weeks and will have portions of the road closed at different times.

ZALMA WOMAN INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A Zalma woman was badly injured in a single vehicle wreck Wednesday afternoon.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Victoria Overbey was driving on Missouri Highway 51 in Bollinger County when her vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and overturned.  

Overbey was reportedly not wearing a safety device and suffered serious injuries.

AREA WOMAN IN CUSTODY FOR DELVIERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area woman on controlled substance warrants.  

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 44 year old Kristine Marie Sparkman, of Dexter, was recently arrested on two warrants for delivery of a controlled substance.  

Her bond was set at $50,000, cash only, and officials say she remained in custody as of this morning. 

20TH ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY 

The 20th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament will be held on Friday. 

The tournament is scheduled to begin at noon at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Lunch will be served at 11 am. 

All proceeds from the event will go to support the foundation.  

If you would like to enter a team or would like more information contact Carla Thompson, at 573-785-7751, extension 9.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED FOR ASPHALT OVERLAY 

Route U in New Madrid County will be reduced with a 10-foot width restriction for over a month while contractor crews perform asphalt overlay. 

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that the work zone will be located between Route D and Route 61. 

Weather permitting, work will be performed from 7 am to 7 pm daily through Thursday, May 30th.

Wednesday April 24, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING SEX CRIME CHARGE  

An area man is facing a sex crime charge.  

According to Missouri Case Net, a warrant was issued Tuesday for 43 year old Shaun Thompson, of Poplar Bluff, on a felony charge of 1st degree sexual conduct with a nursing facility resident or vulnerable person.  

Thompson was arrested by the Butler County Sheriff’s Office and his bond was set at $25,000, cash or surety.  

He is also not to be on the premises of any school or correctional facility, and can have no contact with the victim.

DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES 

Authorities in Ripley County have arrested a Doniphan man on multiple drug charges.  

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol arrest report, 31 year old Kevin King was arrested Tuesday morning on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.  

Following the arrest, King was transported to the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office.

FUNDRAISERS ALLOW FOR EXPANSION OF POPLAR BLUFF PLAYGROUND 

Fundraising efforts have allowed for the expansion of the playground at a Poplar Bluff school.  

School officials say the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center was able to significantly expand its playground last week with equipment designed for gross motor skill development. 

Three sets of monkey bars and a balance beam have been added along with other pods. 

Principal Jessica Thurston tells us that money was generated over the course of a couple years through events including the annual Fall Festival and Stonie Sausage fundraiser.

TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR GREENVILLE 

An area teenager was badly injured Tuesday in a single vehicle wreck.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred shortly before 8:30 pm on US Highway 67 near Greenville.  

Officials say that a 16 year old Poplar Bluff female was driving a vehicle that travelled off the side of the roadway and overturned.  

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

PIEDMONT RESIDENT TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Piedmont resident on a controlled substance warrant.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, 34 year old Kristina Hicks was recently taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Bond was set at $15,000, cash only, and officials say Hicks remained in custody as of this morning.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE TRYING TO IDENTIFY FEMALE IN CONNECTION TO SHOPLIFTING  

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are trying to identify a female in connection to a shoplifting incident.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the incident occurred in early January at Academy Sports.  

A video of the woman is available on the Poplar Bluff Police Department Facebook page.  

Anyone who has information on the identity of the woman is asked to contact Detective Dan Mustain at 573-686-8632.

OVER MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES 

Route D in Dunklin and New Madrid Counties will be reduced with a 10-foot width restriction through late next month as contractor crews overlay the pavement.  

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 25 in Malden to Route 61 in Lilbourn. 

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

Tuesday April 23, 2019

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER INJURED, FOLLOWING DUNKLIN COUNTY WRECK 

A Southeast Missouri woman has died following a wreck Monday morning in Dunklin County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle crossed the center line of US Highway 412 and struck another vehicle.  

The driver of the second vehicle, identified as 51 year old Sherry Ganus, of Cardwell, was pronounced dead at the scene.  

The driver of the first vehicle suffered minor injuries and was transported to a Paragould hospital.

REWARD MONEY OFFERED IN CONNECTION TO PARMA FIRE INVESTIGATION 

Authorities in New Madrid County are offering reward money for information in connection to recent fires inside the county.  

Officials with the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that an arson investigation was started following fires last week at the home of former Parma City Mayor, Tyus Byrd and the Parma City Hall. 

The City of Parma if offering a $15,000 reward for information that leads to the conviction of the person responsible for the arson. The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office is also offering a reward of up to $5,000 for the information that leads to the conviction of the person responsible. 

Anyone with information in connection to the fires is asked to call 573-748-6633.

DRIVERS ASKED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR STRIPING CREWS 

Motorists are advised to be cautious of striping vehicles that will be running throughout Southeast Missouri.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, crews will be striping two-lane roadways in the spring and fall and working on freeways and expressways in June, July and August.  

Most of the striping is done during daylight hours. However, crews may work at night on interstate highways and other high volume divided highways. 

To help reduce the impact to traffic, striping in cities will also take place overnight from 6 pm to 4 am. Weather permitting, the striping crews are scheduled to be in Poplar Bluff from May 5th through the 8th and in Kennett, Dexter, and Malden from May 12th through the 16th.  

Drivers should be prepared to slow down significantly when coming up behind a slow-moving caravan of MoDOT striping trucks. The striping trucks move between 8 mph and 12 mph when work is underway. The trucks will have flashing lights as well as boards with flashing arrows and signs.

LIFE SENTENCE HANDED DOWN IN STODDARD COUNTY STATUTORY RAPE CASE 

A sex offender in Stoddard County is set to spend the rest of his life behind bars.  

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver tells KWOC News that David Madsen was sentenced Monday to life imprisonment by Presiding Circuit Judge Robert Mayer on the charge of Statutory Rape in the First Degree.

A jury deliberated for only 15 minutes before reaching a guilty verdict during Madsen’s trial in February.  

Oliver says that Madsen had been a registered sex offender prior to this charge.

KENNETT MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 16 YEARS FOR METH AND FIREARM CHARGES 

A Kennett man has been sentenced to over 16 years imprisonment on meth and firearm charges.  

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, in January, methamphetamine and two firearms were located by officers during the execution of a search warrant at the residence of 32 year old Tyler Kennedy. 

Kennedy has also admitted to possessing methamphetamine and a firearm during a traffic stop in June 2017. 

Officials say that Kennedy was recently sentenced to 200 months imprisonment on two felony counts of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and one felony count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

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 this weekend.  

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is one of several area organizations that will be taking part in the National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27th from 10 am to 2 pm. 

Participants must simply bring unused, unwanted, or expired medications to the Police Department for disposal. 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.

Monday, April 22, 2019

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR MAN SUSPECTED OF PLACING SKIMMING DEVICE ON DEXTER ATM

Authorities in a Southeast Missouri town are searching for someone who is suspected of placing a credit and debit card skimming device in the city.

According to the Dexter Police Department, a local bank reported on Thursday that someone placed the device on an ATM machine.

Officials say that during the investigation, it was revealed that the device was placed on and removed from the ATM on April 3rd.

The bank has contacted their compromised customers and made them aware of the situation.

Pictures of the suspect are available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information regarding the suspect’s identity is asked to contact the Dexter Police Department at 573-624-5512.

DONIPHAN MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN RIPLEY COUNTY WRECK

A Doniphan man was flown to an area hospital Friday morning following a two vehicle wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Missouri Highway 142 at Highway 21 when a vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle at an intersection.

The driver of the second vehicle, a 59 year old Doniphan man, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

MISSOURI STATE AUDITOR TO INVESTIGATE CITY OF PARMA

A Southeast Missouri city will be audited by state officials.

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway announced last week that she will accept a request by the City of Parma to audit questionable financial activity.

Galloway says the State Auditor's office was contacted through the Whistleblower Hotline about concerns related to the city operations under the mayor. After an investigation, the allegations were found to be credible.

The mayor lost reelection earlier this month and a new mayor and city council member were sworn in last week.

Fire officials responded to several fires in the area last week including at the home of the former mayor, the city hall, and the police department.

TWO PEOPLE ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN WAYNE COUNTY

Authorities in Wayne County have arrested two area residents on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Christopher Burgess and 20 year old Angela Burgess, both of Piedmont, were each taken into custody Friday afternoon on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of marijuana – less than 10 grams.

Christopher Burgess is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, both were held at the Wayne County Jail.

TWO AREA LIBRARIES RECEIVE GRANT MONEY

Two area libraries have been chosen to receive long term grants.

Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft tells KWOC News that 27 libraries across the state have received grants totaling over $570,000.

The Carter County Library will receive $20,000 to provide early literacy programs to reach at-risk children and their families.

The Ripley County Library will get over $15,000 to replace numerous computers in the facility that are near end of life.

TWO EJECTED FROM VEHICLE IN WRECK NEAR BUNKER

Two people were seriously injured Friday in a single vehicle wreck near Bunker.

According to Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle, driven by 40 year old Rickey Holt, of Bunker, traveled off the side of Highway TT in Reynolds County and overturned at around 8 pm Friday.

Holt and a passenger in the vehicle were ejected during the wreck and both suffered serious injuries.

The passenger was flown to a St. Louis hospital, while Holt was transported by ambulance to a Salem hospital.

DRAINAGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 53 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route 53 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane both today and tomorrow so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform drainage repairs.

Official say the work zone will be located from Route HH to County Road 202.

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

TWO WEEK ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Route B in Ripley County will be reduced with an 11 foot width restriction through the end of next week as contractor crews overlay the roadway.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 160 to Route 142.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, May 3rd, from 7 am to 5 pm daily.

Friday, April 19, 2019

NO FOUL PLAY IN YOUNG CHILD’S DEATH

An autopsy has shown that no foul play was involved in a young child’s death Thursday in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 2 pm yesterday, authorities received a 911 call from an employee an area preschool who said there was a one year old child who was unresponsive and that CPR was in progress.

A patrolman took over CPR from at the scene until the arrival of EMS personnel. EMS transported the child to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that an autopsy was performed last night in Farmington.

Results show that there was no foul play, accident, or external causes for the child’s death. Moore says that at this time it appears that the death was due to natural causes.

SUSPECT AT LARGE FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A shooting is under investigation in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, one person was injured in the incident that occurred Thursday in the Maynard area.

A search is underway for a suspect in the shooting.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS QUALIFY FOR NATIONAL FBLA COMPETITION

Two area students have qualified to participate in a national Future Business Leaders of America competition.

According to the Poplar Bluff High School Facebook page, this week Jillian Page and Lauren McDonough received 4th place in Business Ethics at the Missouri FBLA Conference in Springfield.

The achievement will allow the girls to advance to the National FBLA conference that will be held this summer in San Antonio.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE AWARDS TWO FACULTY MEMBERS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING

Two instructors at Three Rivers College will be recognized at a banquet next week.

Kristy Niblock, Assistant Professor of Social Science, has been selected by the college as the 2019 recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Carol Davis, Adjunct Instructor of Communication and Languages, was named by the college for the Adjunct of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching.

They will both be honored at a Teacher of the Year Banquet scheduled for April 24th.

DRUGGED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY IN MISSOURI

State officials want area drivers to be aware of the danger of drive under the influence of drugs.

According to preliminary 2018 data, 78 people were killed and 142 more were seriously injured in Missouri traffic crashes that involved at least one drug-impaired driver.

The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety wants to remind motorists of the various options available to get everyone home safe. Designating a sober driver, calling a cab or using public transportation are just a few of those options.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, law enforcement will be out in full force today and tomorrow to crack down on drugged driving offenders.

KIDS MARATHON FOR ST. JUDE SCHEDULED FOR EARLY MAY

An event will be held in early May to help promote good lifestyles for children.

The St. Jude Kid’s Marathon and One Mile Fun Run has been scheduled for Saturday, May 4th on the campus of Three Rivers College. The event is a kid’s only run to promote an active and health lifestyle and is open to kids through 8th grade.

The registration fee is $15. Registration forms are available here at River Radio or you can go online to eventbrite.com or Facebook.

For more information, call Miranda at 573-718-2875.

Thursday April 18, 2019

FIRE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN PARMA 

Crews responded to two separate fires earlier this week in New Madrid County. 

Fires broke out overnight Tuesday night at the home of the former mayor of Parma on as well as at the Parma City Hall.  

An investigation into both fires is underway.

WOMAN FACING CHARGE OF HAVING NARCOTICS INSIDE A JAIL FACILITY 

A woman was taken into custody Wednesday night in Butler County on multiple felony charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Heidi Best, of Chaffee, was arrested on felony charges of possession of narcotics inside of a jail facility and possession of a controlled substance – klonopin.  

Best is also facing a charge of driving while intoxicated.

REPAIRS TO POSSIBLY CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE 114 IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.  

The section of Route 114 to be reduced is located from Route 25 to Route 60.       

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

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC TEAM QUALIFIES FOR STATE TOURNAMENT 

An area academic team will be participating for the chance at a state championship.  

The Poplar Bluff High School Academic Team recently defeated Oakville High School 2-0 in their state sectional match up.  

The win allowed the academic team to advance to the Class 4 State Tournament. Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that a total of eight teams will participate in the class 4 tournament.

FLOOD WATCH TO BE IN EFFECT THROUGH FRIDAY MORNING 

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a flood watch for much of Southeast Missouri through Friday morning.  

According to weather officials rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches should be widespread across much of the area through tonight. Locally higher amounts up to 4 inches are also possible. 

Rains of this magnitude in a short period of time may result in flooding of low lying and poor drainage areas. Flash flooding is also possible in locations that receive locally heavier rain associated with thunderstorms. 

Officials are encouraging anyone who is living in an area prone to flooding to be prepared to take action in case flooding develops.

MALDEN MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY 

A Malden man has been arrested in Stoddard County on multiple drug related charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Danny Raymer was taken into custody shortly after 7 pm Wednesday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Raymer was also arrested on charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, and consuming alcohol while operating a motor vehicle.  

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

DRIVER FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL AFTER HITTING A TREE 

A Lilbourn woman has been flown to an area hospital after hitting a tree in New Madrid County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 24 year old Ja’Linda Long was driving on Interstate 55 when her vehicle travelled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.  

The wreck occurred at around 5:15 am Wednesday morning.  

Long suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

TENNESSEE MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON STALKING AND HARASSMENT CHARGES 

Authorities say a Tennessee man was recently taken into custody in Stoddard County.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 32 year old Matthew Parrish, of Portland, Tennessee, was arrested on multiple warrants, two counts of violation of a protection order for an adult, harassment 1st degree, and stalking 1st degree.  

Parrish’s bond was set at $20,000, cash only and officials say he remained in custody as of this morning.

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

DEXTER POLICE DEPARTMENT SEARCHING FOR MISSING WOMAN

Authorities in Dexter are trying to locate a missing woman.

According to the Missouri Information Analysis Center, Crystal Marie Brown-Hart was last seen on April 9th in Dexter and Poplar Bluff.

She was driving a black four door Mitsubishi Lancer, possibly bearing a Missouri Registration of XB2 D3M.

Brown-Hart is described as a white female, 39 years old, four feet 11 inches tall, weighing 100 pounds. We have a picture of her available on our Facebook page.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Dexter Police Department at 573-624-5512.

MURDER CONVICTION UPHELD FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN

A conviction has been upheld for a Southeast Missouri man in the death of a state trooper over a decade ago.

On Tuesday, the Missouri Supreme Court announced that it has affirmed Lance Shockley’s conviction of first degree murder for the death of Patrol Sergeant Dewayne Graham outside his home in Carter County in March of 2005.

Shockley had requested a new trial due to claims of ineffective counsel in his trial among other things.

Testimony at the trial indicated Graham was killed because he was investigating Shockley for involuntary manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident.

JOB HIRING EVENT FOR POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS SCHEDULED FOR LATER THIS MONTH

Poplar Bluff Schools will be hosting a job hiring event later this month and is looking for local employers to participate and conduct preliminary job interviews with graduating seniors.

School officials say that the event has been scheduled for 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on Friday, April 26th in the Poplar Bluff High School Auxiliary Gymnasium.

Students enrolled will be on track to complete courses in auto collision, auto service, building trades, computer graphics and print technology, computer maintenance and repair, cosmetology, culinary arts, health occupations, HVACR and welding through the TCC; as well as in agriculture, business/marketing, and family and consumer sciences through the High School.

Participants will have their resumes on hand, and be prepared to be interviewed for job openings.

The event is a collaboration between the Technical Career Center and the High School

BUTLER COUNTY OFFICIALS TO HOST MEETING NEXT MONTH

Butler County officials will be hosting a public meeting early next month.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the meeting has been scheduled for 9:30 am on May 1st at the Butler County Courthouse Commission chambers.

The meeting is to discuss the county’s submission of an application for the 2019 Community Development Block Grant program.

The county is proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, and pave County Road 639 in Broseley. The project is estimated to cost $240,000.

The county is proposing to apply for approximately $180,000 in CDBG Funding and will also provide approximately $32,000 of in-kind work and approximately $28,000 cash as a local match.

For more information on the project, contact Presiding Commissioner Vince Lampe at 573-686-8050.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN BUTLER COUNTY TODAY FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS

Route W in Butler County will be reduced today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform bridge repairs.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the bridge to be repaired is located over Black River between Marble Hill Road and Ravenwood Street.

Work will be performed today from 7 am to 4:30 pm.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE 67 IN WAYNE COUNTY

Northbound Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced today while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

Officials say that the section of roadway to be reduced is located between County Road 216 and County Road 212.

Work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 2 pm.

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

BELL CITY MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHILD PORNOGRAPHY RELATED CHARGES

A warrant was served last week on a Southeast Missouri man for multiple child pornography charges.

According to Missouri Case Net, the warrant was served Thursday to Troy Kennedy, of Bell City, by the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office.

Kennedy is facing felony charges of promoting child pornography 1st degree and three counts of possession of child pornography.

Missouri Case Net says that no bond was allowed.

GREENVILLE MAN FACING METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST

A Greenville man is facing a felony drug charge following his arrest Monday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Daniel Walls was taken into custody at around 10 am yesterday in Wayne County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Officials say that Walls is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

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

OVER 200 ATHLETES PARTICIPATE IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS IN POPLAR BLUFF

Over 200 athletes from area schools and agencies were in Poplar Bluff last week for the Special Olympics.

The annual Southeast Missouri Games were held on Friday at Fred M. Morrow Stadium on the Poplar Bluff Junior High campus.

The event served as a qualifier for the state competition scheduled to take place next month in Springfield.

Students from the High School, Junior High, Middle School and O'Neal Elementary all represented Poplar Bluff during the event.

Leading up to the games, each of the participating buildings held school-wide pep rallies to cheer on the student athletes.

CARTER COUNTY AUTHORITIES ARREST AREA WOMAN ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

Authorities in Carter County have arrested an area woman on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 48 year old Angela Griffin, of Ellsinore, was taken into custody Monday afternoon on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Griffin is also facing charges of failure to display valid license plates and no insurance.

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO VEHICLE BREAK-INS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS.

Paragould police say that an arrest has been made in connection to numerous vehicle break-ins.

Officials with the Paragould Police Department tell KWOC News that in the last few weeks, residents in the Walnut Valley and Donlee Ridge subdivisions have experienced several car break-ins resulting in thefts of property.

An investigation led to an arrest warrant being obtained for Joseph Tongusi.

Tongusi was later arrested without incident in Jonesboro. He was found in possession of meth, as well as a handgun that was identified as having being stolen three days before.

Tongusi’s vehicle was searched and officials identified numerous items from cases in Paragould as well as Jonesboro.

Officials say that the arrest closes approximately eleven cases in Paragould, and the suspect faces approximately thirty separate charges from the Paragould Police Department.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO HOST SPRING RECITAL

The Three Rivers College Music Department will be hosting their spring music recital tonight.

The recital, titled “Imagine: The Future,” has been scheduled for 7 pm at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

According to the college, students will be performing instrumental and vocal solos from a wide variety of classical music and Broadway show tunes.

Admission to the event is free.

Monday April 15, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY 

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

According to authorities, 63 year old Danny Parker, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Sunday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Parker is also facing charges of possession of marijuana – less than 10 grams, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.  

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

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY 

A Poplar Bluff woman was arrested over the weekend in New Madrid County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 53 year old Donna Watson was taken into custody Sunday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

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

Authorities also arrested 57 year old Michael Plaskie, of Whitewater, for felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

CITY OF ELLSINORE TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING TODAY 

The City of Ellsinore has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing this evening.  

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant. 

City officials are requesting funds for the construction of a public safety building to house the police department, fire protection district, and ambulance district. The total project cost is estimated at $530,000. 

The block grant portion of the project is approximately $500,000 and the city proposes to contribute approximately $30,000. 

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5 pm today at the Ellsinore City Hall. For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Wayne Ogden at 573-322-5333.

NEW MAYOR TO BE ELECTED AT POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT 

Two special meetings of the Poplar Bluff City Council will be held tonight before the regularly scheduled meeting.  

The first meeting will begin at 6 pm and will see the city council taking action on two issues; the first will be an ordinance accepting a bid for the Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade project. The second issue is a resolution appointing Nevada Young as City Clerk, effective July 1st. 

The second special meeting will begin at 6:45 pm and will have the City Clerk swear in the newly elected City Council members. The new council will then hold a vote to decide a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.  

The regular meeting of the city council will then follow at 7 pm.

TWO TEENAGERS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MATTHEWS AREA WRECK 

Two area teenagers were injured Sunday night in a single vehicle wreck near Matthews.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 16 year old female from Sikeston was driving on Missouri Highway 84 when her vehicle ran off the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned.  

The driver and a 15 year old passenger in the vehicle each suffered serious injuries in the wreck. The driver was flown to a Memphis hospital while the passenger was taken by ambulance to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

FOOD AND SANITATION SCHOOL OFFERED THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF 

A course about food safety and hygiene has been set for this week in Poplar Bluff.  

Food and Sanitation School will be held on Thursday from 9 am to 11:30 am and 1 pm to 3:30 pm in meeting room one of the Black River Coliseum.  

According to the Butler County Health Department, the course is being offered free of charge.

Friday April 12, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF AREA BUSINESS SET TO CLOSE 

A Poplar Bluff area store will soon be closing its doors.  

Fred’s, Incorporated announced on Thursday that they will be closing 159 stores, including locations in Poplar Bluff, Paragould, and Cape Girardeau.  

The company intends to close all of the impacted stores by the end of May.

TWO PEOPLE INJURED IN A THREE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF 

Two people were injured Thursday morning in a three vehicle wreck near Poplar Bluff.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the first vehicle was stopped on Highway 53 to make a left hand turn. The second vehicle was waiting behind the first vehicle, when the second vehicle was hit from behind by the third vehicle. The second vehicle then struck the first vehicle.  

The incident occurred shortly before 9:30 am Thursday, approximately two miles south of Poplar Bluff.  

The driver of the third vehicle, 76 year old Arthur Daugherty, of Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries in the wreck, while the driver of the second vehicle received moderate injuries. They were both transported to Poplar Bluff area hospitals.

LAKE ROAD ELEMENTARY CHOSEN FOR NATIONAL HONOR FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW 

A Poplar Bluff school has been chosen for a national honor.  

Lake Road Elementary has been named a Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase School for the second year in a row.  

The award, given by the Flippen Group, recognizes and celebrates schools and districts that go the extra mile each day, building an environment where students are relationally connected and eager to learn. 

Lake Road is one of only 202 schools nationwide to receive the award, and one of only four in Missouri.

FARMERS URGED TO OPERATE FARM EQUIPMENT IN A SAFE MANNER 

With spring time comes planting season for many area farms. This will result in an increase of farmers using farm machinery on area roadways.  

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding farmers to make sure that any farm equipment being driven on Missouri roadways is properly marked with lights and a “slow-moving vehicle” emblem. 

If traffic accumulates behind you on a road where it is difficult to make a safe pass, you should pull off onto the side of the road in a level area, so the vehicles can go by. 

If possible, never travel on roadways at dawn or dusk when it is more difficult for drivers of other vehicles to see.  

However, Missouri law allows agricultural machinery and implements to be operated on state highways between the hours of sunset and sunrise for agricultural purposes provided such vehicles are equipped with the required lighting.

POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR HIGH STUDENT RECIEVES TITLE OF JUNIOR YOUTH OF THE YEAR FOR MISSOURI 

A student at Poplar Bluff Junior High has been chosen as a “Junior Youth of the Year” for the state of Missouri.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Junior High School Facebook Page, Emma King earned the title after representing the Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff at a two-day competition held in Jefferson City for students ages 10 to 13.  

School officials say that each student was interviewed, wrote several essays, and presented a 3-minute speech in front of seven judges.  

King was also presented with a proclamation from State Senator Doug Libla.

REORGINIZATION ANNOUNCED FOR CORNING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 

A Northeast Arkansas School District has announced some changes that will go into effect for the next school year.  

According to Corning Public School Superintendent Kellee Smith, Central Elementary School will be reorganized. Students in third and fourth grade will be relocated to Park Elementary, while fifth and sixth grades will be relocated to a newly formed Corning Middle School. 

The middle school will be housed in the Corning Junior High building.  

Smith says that the decision was based on declining enrolment.  

Administrators are working to finalize all of the transition details. When the plans are complete, a public meeting will be held to address any questions parents have.

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO BURGLARIES IN NUMEROUS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES 

A joint investigation into numerous burglaries in several Southeast Missouri counties has resulted in an arrest.  

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Department, over the past several months multiple business burglaries have occurred in Stoddard, Bollinger, Scott, Cape Girardeau, and Perry Counties. 

25 year old Eric Maldonado, of Cape Girardeau, has been arrested for burglary and stealing, with more charges expected to be filed by Stoddard, Bollinger, Perry, and Scott Counties. 

Officials say that a total of 18 burglaries in the multi county area have been cleared as a part of the joint investigation.

BUFF UP THE BLUFF SET FOR THIS WEEKEND 

Spring is here and that means it is time for Spring Cleaning.  

This year’s Buff up the Bluff event is set for this Saturday.  

The Poplar Bluff Leaf Disposal Site will be accepting items from 8 am to 3:30 pm. The site is located southeast of Twin Towers and signs will be posted. Proof of city residency is required.  

The materials to be accepted at the site include: 

BULKY ITEMS AND NON-GARBAGE SOLID WASTE  

BULK METAL ITEMS: 

(Refrigerators, Freezers and Air Conditioners MUST have compressors removed before bringing to site). If compressors aren't removed, items will not be accepted!!! 

No Loads of asphalt shingles.

No Trash from business or construction sites. NO PAINT. (empty paint cans ok.)  

OTHER BULKY ITEMS: 

Furniture, Carpeting, Construction Materials 

LIMBS AND BRUSH:             (NO LIMBS, BRUSH PICKED UP FOR ELDERLY)

Limbs and brush will be accepted at clean-up site, no logs or stumps, no wire or metal, must be of manageable size. These items will have to be unloaded by individuals bringing to clean-up site. 

TIRES

Tires will be accepted by Ozark Foothills Recycling with the following charges:

Passenger - $3.00         Large Truck - $7.00 (IF ON RIMS THE CHARGE IS DOUBLED) 

LEAVES:

Leaves will be placed in a separate pile from all other materials. Each person bringing leaves will be responsible for removing them from the vehicle and containers. No plastic bags or foreign material may be left at leaf disposal site.”

EARLY CHILDHOOD RESOURCE FAIR SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF 

An early childhood resource fair will be held this weekend in Poplar Bluff.  

The Silly Saturday event is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm Saturday at the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College.  

The fair will feature entertainment, games, crafts, and activities for children up to eight years old as well as resource information for parents.

Thursday, April 11, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MURDER CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing a murder charge in connection to a shooting in the Thayer area.

Officials with the Thayer Police Department tell KWOC News that on Tuesday night authorities received a report of multiple gunshots and a male bleeding.

The victim, identified as 39 year old Daniel Carroll, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

An investigation into the incident led to the arrest of 25 year old Kahlil Gregory Omar Smith, of Poplar Bluff, on charges of Murder 1st Degree and Armed Criminal Action.

Smith was transported to the Oregon County Jail and his bond has been set at one million dollars.

ALLEGED ABDUCTION IN POPLAR BLUFF LEADS TO MULTI-STATE SEARCH, NO ARRESTS MADE

Police officials tell KWOC News that they were contacted about a possible abduction in the Pershing Street area on Wednesday as well a report of shots being fired.

Poplar Bluff Police Lieutenant Josh Stewart says that subjects advised police that a female was at an area residence when a vehicle arrived with three males.

One of the males then allegedly exited the vehicle, barged into the house, assaulted the female, and drug her to a separate vehicle. Both vehicles then left the area with four or five shots allegedly being fired from one of the cars.

Police tracked one of the vehicles into Arkansas and both the man and woman were located between Truman and Marked Tree. The female told authorities that she was fine and had not contacted police.

Stewart says that no arrests have been made since the woman told authorities she was fine and had not been abducted. Officials also did not find any corroborating evidence to support that a firearm had been discharged or was in the men's possession.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN FACING STATUTORY RAPE CHARGE

An investigation by the SEMO Cyber Crimes Task Force has led to the arrest of a Southeast Missouri man on a statutory rape charge.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, in February, the Task Force received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, regarding a potential sexual relationship between a 29 year old male and a 15 year old female.

The information indicated that the two communicated through Facebook and had met in person on multiple occasions.

The man, identified as 29 year old Bryan Lindley, of Benton, along with the teenager and her mother were located at a residence in rural Scott County.

Interviews with the three revealed that Lindley was carrying on an intimate relationship with the 15 year old female.

Lindley was arrested and transported to the Scott County Jail where he is currently being held on a $50,000 bond for the charge of Statutory Rape.

POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENT SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Poplar Bluff resident was seriously injured earlier this week in a single vehicle wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Ernest Luellen, of Poplar Bluff, was driving on Highway 51 near Qulin Tuesday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck an embankment, and overturned.

A passenger in the vehicle suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. Luellen suffered minor injuries.

NO STUDENTS INJURED FOLLOWING WRECK INVOLVING A SIKESTON SCHOOL BUS

Officials with the Sikeston R-6 school district say that no one was injured after a school bus was involved in a wreck on Wednesday.

According to the school district, Sikeston R-6 bus number 16 was involved in an accident Wednesday afternoon on Pine and Malone.

The bus was carrying senior high students along with fifth and sixth grade students at the time of the wreck. The students were all moved to another bus to finish out their scheduled bus route.

COUNTERFEIT MONEY REPORTED IN THE QULIN AREA

Qulin city officials are advising area residents to check their money.

According to the City of Qulin Facebook page, there have been recent reports of counterfeit money being circulated in the area.

Officials say residents should check for anything that looks abnormal on the front and back of the bills. You can also use a Counterfeit Detector Pen.

Anyone who has questions can go to the Qulin City Hall.

CULVERT PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF RIPLEY COUNTY ROAD

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

The work zone will be located 3 miles south of the Route 142 Junction.

Work is schedule to take place today, weather permitting, from 8 am to 3 pm.

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

JACKS FORK RIVER REOPENED FOLLOWING BRIDGE REMOVAL

Officials have reopened a portion of the Jacks Fork River at Alley Spring.

The river had been closed due to flooding in April 2017 and February 2018 that caused structural damage to a pedestrian bridge, making it unsafe for visitors below and prompting an emergency closure of the river beneath the bridge.

The bridge has been completely removed, allowing floaters and river users to safely enjoy the Jacks Fork River beneath the Highway 106 vehicle bridge.

The National Park Service and Federal Highway Administration are working together on the construction of a new pedestrian bridge at Alley Spring in the future. No timeline for completion of the project was available.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON BURGLARY AND STEALING WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an East Prairie woman on a burglary warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 39 year old Nancy Ann Sylvester was recently taken into custody on a warrant for 2nd degree burglary and stealing $750 or more.

Her bond was set at $5,000 and officials say she remained in custody as of this morning.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY

A public meeting has been scheduled for today in Carter County.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, members of the Carter County Transportation Advisory Committee will be meeting with the general public beginning at 10 am this morning at the Carter County Courthouse in Van Buren.

The meeting is about transportation issues and priorities within the county.

For more information, contact Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.

MOTORISTS ADVISED TO BE SAFE WITH AN INCREASE OF FARM VEHICLES ON THE ROAD

We are fully into spring and officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol are advising motorists to be safe with the increase of farm machinery on the road.

Motorists are being asked to stay alert for slow moving farm equipment. When you come up behind a tractor or other farm machinery, slow down, and be patient. Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic. Never pass on a hill or curve.

Collisions commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn. Watch the farmer’s hand and light signals closely.

Highway Patrol officials say there were 171 Missouri traffic crashes involving farm equipment in 2017. In those crashes, five people were killed and 40 were injured.

Coming up tomorrow we will cover tips for farmers who will be driving their farm equipment on area highways.

CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGING MISSOURIANS TO PICK UP LITTER TO BEGIN THIS WEEKEND

The Missouri Department of Transportation is encouraging area residents to pick up litter.

Missouri’s 17th annual No MOre Trash! Bash will begin this weekend and focuses on “spring cleaning” the outdoors by asking residents to pick up litter throughout the state from April 15th through May 15th.

Trash Bash activities in April will also include educational efforts in schools, community events, Earth Day celebrations, and more.

In 2018, over 65 thousand bags of litter and several truckloads of debris were picked up during the spring No MOre Trash! Bash.

Volunteers are needed across the state to participate in this year’s litter cleanup activities. For more information and to learn how to participate, visit NoMoreTrash.org or call 1-888-ASK-MODOT.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route F in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

MoDot officials say the section of roadway to be closed is located from Route J to County Road 424.

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

Tuesday April 9, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TRYING TO IDENTIFY INDIVIDUALS IN CONNECTION TO INVESTIGATION 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, during the early morning hours of March 31st, two individuals forced entry into a residence on the 400 block of Lester Street.  

Officials say that a hidden camera inside the residence was able to take photos of both of the individuals.   

We have the photos available on our Facebook page.  

Anyone who has information regarding the identity of the individuals is asked to contact Detective Dan Mustain at 573-686-8632.

CITY OF QULIN TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING TODAY 

The City of Qulin has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing this evening.  

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant and the city is interested in obtaining all citizens’ input on community development needs. 

City officials are proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, overlay, and pave sections of First, Second, Fourth, Fifth, and Connecticut streets. The project is estimated to cost over $282,000. 

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5 pm today at the Qulin City Hall. For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Glen Sedrick at 573-328-4488.

KINDERGARTEN TEACHER CHOSEN AS POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT TEACHER OF THE YEAR 

A teacher at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center has been chosen as the Poplar Bluff School District’s teacher of the year.  

Officials say that Amanda Summers was selected as the district wide teacher of the year. Summers has taught at the Kindergarten Center since 2012 after gaining several years experience as a second grade teacher in Poplar Bluff. 

The annual Teacher of the Year luncheon was held last week, recognizing a teacher from each of R-I's 10 buildings. Of the top teachers, a teacher of the year is selected to represent the elementary, middle school and secondary grade spans.  

Of those grade-span winners, Summers was selected as the district-wide teacher of the year. We have a full list of the winners available on our website. 

Amanda Summers: Kindergarten Center, elementary grade-span and district Teacher of the Year 

James Hunt: middle school grade-span and Middle School Teacher of the Year 

Meg Daniels: secondary grade-span and High School Teacher of the Year 

Denni White: Technical Career Center Teacher of the Year 

Britney Stahl: Junior High Teacher of the Year 

Christie Risinger: O'Neal Teacher of the Year 

Becky Ingle: Oak Grove Teacher of the Year 

Kasi Aldridge: Lake Road Teacher of the Year 

Jennifer Morin: Eugene Field Teacher of the Year 

Traci Durham-Allen: Early Childhood Center Teacher of the Year

DELAY ANNOUNCED FOR THE OPENING OF THE SHELBY ROAD EXTENSION 

Poplar Bluff Residents are going to have to wait a little while longer for the new Shelby Road extension to be available.  

Poplar Bluff officials say that the opening of the new extension has been delayed so that crews can install new fencing along the roadway.  

The delay is expected to be four to six weeks.

TWO ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANTS IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Two men have been taken into custody in Stoddard County on controlled substance warrants.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 37 year old Cody Miller, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.  

Authorities have also arrested 25 year old Trenton Arnold, of Bell City, on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Officials say that Miller and Arnold each remained in jail as of this morning on a $7,500 bond. It was not released if the two arrests were connected.

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Did you feel the earthquake that hit parts of Southeast Missouri on Monday? 

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.1 magnitude earthquake was at around 12:09 pm Monday afternoon.  

The earthquake was centered around 37 miles east southeast of Poplar Bluff and had a depth of just over two miles. 

Monday April 8, 2019

ONE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOLLOWING DRUG BUST IN REYNOLDS COUNTY 

Authorities in Reynolds County have arrested an area man in connection to a narcotics investigation.  

According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Department, last week a search warrant was obtained for a Bunker residence as a part of an investigation by the South Central Drug Task Force.  

The search warrant was served on Wednesday and officers seized approximately two pounds of marijuana, 115 grams of suspected Psilocybin mushrooms, a quantity of suspected LSD, 15 firearms, and United States currency. 

40 year old Rickey Holt Jr., of Bunker, was arrested and incarcerated pending warrant applications. A second suspect was identified during the investigation and officials say charges will be requested.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ACCEPTING SCREENING APPOINTMENTS FOR HALF DAY PROGRAM 

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 screening for new incoming students will be held by appointment only on Wednesday, May 22nd. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment.  

WORK TO BEGIN TODAY TO REPLACE A BRIDGE ON ROUTE 53 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

Work is scheduled to begin today to replace the Route 53 bridge over Malarial Ditch in Dunklin County.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located between Route J and County Road 101, just east of the Butler/Dunklin County line.  

As construction is underway, traffic will utilize a temporary bypass with an 11-foot width restriction. Officials say that work will continue through Monday, July 1.  

AREA TEENAGER FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A Portageville teenager was badly injured in a single vehicle wreck over the weekend.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 16 year old female was driving on New Madrid County Road 363 Saturday afternoon when her vehicle slid on the gravel road and overturned.  

The teenager suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR BURGLARY WARRANT 

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

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 35 year old Thomas Lubish, of Dexter, was recently taken into custody on a warrant for Burglary 2nd.  

Lubish’s bond was set at $17,500, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO POSSIBLY CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55 

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with a 12-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance. 

MoDOT officials say the section of roadway to be reduced is located between mile markers 15 and 16.5. 

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

Friday, April 5, 2019

TARIFF EXEMPTIONS GRANTED FOR MID CONTINENT STEEL AND WIRE

A Poplar Bluff business has been granted an exemption from steel tariffs.

Mid Continent Steel and Wire announced on Thursday that the U.S. Department of Commerce has approved exclusions from Section 232 tariffs for the company. The exclusions cover close to nine-tenths of the volume of imported steel that Mid Continent uses.

Mid Continent, maker of Magnum Nails, applied for the exemptions from the 25 percent tariffs, on June 18th, shortly after Section 232 duties were extended to cover Canada and Mexico, a major source of raw material for the nail manufacturer.

In its requests, Mid Continent showed that U.S. steelmakers could not provide the volume of raw material that the manufacturer required.

A news release from the company says that the tariffs had a damaging effect on Mid Continent's business – in large part because the company's foreign competitors could make nails abroad and export them to the U.S., free of the Section 232 duties. Mid Continent's manufacturing workforce fell from more than 500 to less than 300.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle Thursday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle was making a left turn onto the Highway 67 North ramp at Business 67 when the vehicle struck a 25 year old Poplar Bluff man. The incident occurred shortly after 5 am.

The man suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle.

WATER PROBLEM TO CAUSE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT TO MISS CLASSES TODAY

An area school district will not be having classes today because of water problems.

School has been cancelled for today in the Corning School District. A post on the school district’s website says that the closure is due to a water line problem at Park Elementary School.

The post says that schools will be using Friday as AMI Day 2 and teachers will be available according to plans sent home earlier this year.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST IN THEFT OF BUILDING MATERIALS FROM AREA BUSINESS

An arrest has been made in connection to the theft of approximately $1,600 worth of building materials from an area business.

Portageville Police Chief Ronnie Adams tells KWOC News that the theft occurred during the early morning hours of Tuesday, April 2nd at Woods Lumber Company.

Footage showed a white male pulling an ATV into the back lot of the business, loading two wooden pallets onto a trailer, and driving away.

Officers were able to identify the suspect as 22 year old Kyle Woods, from Lilbourn. Woods was arrested in New Madrid for a similar incident and was being held in the Pemiscot County Justice Center.

Adams says that during an interview, Woods admitted to taking the items. After further investigation, it was discovered the trailer was stolen from another local business in Portageville and the ATV is believed to have been stolen from the Sikeston area.

Woods is currently being held at the Pemiscot County Justice Center and formal charges are pending.

5TH ANNUAL BADGE OF HONOR BENEFIT RUN SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 5th Annual Badge of Honor Benefit Run is scheduled to be held this weekend.

The Benefit Run will be held on Saturday at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. The event, which will include a 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon, is scheduled to begin at 9 am.

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

MUSICAL BASED ON A BOARD GAME TO BE PERFORMED IN POPLAR BLUFF

A musical performance by the Three Rivers College community theatre group has been scheduled for next week.

Center Stage will be performing “Clue: The Musical” beginning on April 11th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center in Poplar Bluff.

The show will begin at 7 pm on April 11th, 12th and 13th, with a 2 pm performance following on April 14th.

Tickets are available for $10 each at the Three Rivers Student Accounts Office as well as online at trcc.edu/tinnin. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door before the show.

Thursday. April 4, 2019

JOB AND COLLEGE TRANSFER FAIR SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The annual spring Job Fair will be held today in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Butler County Community Resource Council, the Job Fair, as well as a College Transfer Fair, will be held today from 10 am to 3 pm.

The fairs will be located at the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College.

MISSING MAN FOUND DEAD IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Updating a story we brought you last month, a man who was reported missing has been found dead in Pemiscot County.

According to the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office, on Tuesday a farmer advised authorities that he found a dead body in a field near Hayti.

The body has been identified as 64 year old William Swinton, of Kennett.

Swinton was last seen on March 10th leaving a hospital in Hayti on foot.

Officials say that an autopsy will be conducted on Friday to determine a cause of death.

CITY OF QULIN TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING NEXT WEEK

The City of Qulin has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing next week.

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant and the city is interested in obtaining all citizens’ input on community development needs within the city.

The city is proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, overlay, and pave sections of First, Second, Fourth, Fifth, and Connecticut streets. The project is estimated to cost over $282,000.

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5:00 pm on April 9th at the Qulin City Hall. For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Glen Sedrick at 573-328-4488.

DATE SET FOR 20TH ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

A date has been set for the 20th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament

The tournament is scheduled to begin at noon on Friday, April 26th, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Lunch will be served at 11 am.

All proceeds from the event will go to support the foundation.

If you would like to enter a team, or became a hole sponsor, contact administrative assistant to the superintendent, Carla Thompson, at 573-785-7751, extension 9.

EARTHQUAKE RECORDED TUESDAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A small earthquake was recorded Tuesday in New Madrid County.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.1 magnitude earthquake occurred at 11:15 pm Tuesday night.

The earthquake was centered approximately 28 miles south of Sikeston and had a depth of just over five miles.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route M in Dunklin County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

Officials say the closure will be located between Route 25 and Route 153.

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

Wednesday, April 3, 2019

ELECTIONS HELD FOR CITY COUNCIL POSITIONS IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple area city council races were decided during election day on Tuesday.

Lisa Armes Parson won the seat representing Ward 1 on the Poplar Bluff City Council over Kit Skaggs.

In Neelyville, John Knowles defeated Dana Blagg for the Ward 1 Alderman position.

Voters in Fisk were split almost evenly for the councilman position representing Ward 1 with Kristi Wilkerson winning over Jeff Ledbetter by one vote.

A two million dollar bond issue was also approved for Public Water Supply and Sewerage District #4 of Wayne and Butler Counties.

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS HELD TUESDAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple area school boards elections were held yesterday in Butler County.

For the Twin Rivers School District, the top two were Gordon Lee Wright and Bruce Goodrich.

The two candidates to receive the most votes for the Neelyville School District were Jack Stull and Jill McGruder.

For the Doniphan School District, the two winning candidates were Riley March and Steven Ivy.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN CONVICTED FOR STATUTORY RAPE AND MOLESTATION

A Southeast Missouri man was convicted last week in Wayne County on multiple charges including statutory rape.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt tells KWOC News that 30 year old Daniel Martin, was convicted by a Wayne County jury on March 27th of three counts of statutory sodomy 1st degree, one count of statutory rape 1st degree, one count of attempted statutory rape 1st degree, one count of attempted statutory sodomy 1st degree, and three counts of child molestation 3rd degree.

Schmitt says that the defendant sexually abused a child for several months at a home in Bollinger County.

Sentencing has been scheduled for July 17th and Martin faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR VARIOUS ROAD PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Contracts were awarded yesterday by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for various road projects in Southeast Missouri.

A 6.8 million dollar contract was awarded for pavement improvements on Route 142 from Route EE near Thayer, to west of Route 160 near Doniphan.

An over $432,000 contract was awarded for slope repairs at various locations along Route 67 and Route 60 in Butler, Carter, Madison, and Shannon counties.

Bridge replacement contracts were also given for bridges on Route HH and Route K in Pemiscot County, along with Route AA in New Madrid County.

Officials say that additional information, including timelines and impacts to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

BUSINESS 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED TODAY

Business Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

This section of roadway is located from north Mulberry and north Catalpa.

Weather permitting, work will take place Wednesday, April 3 from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Route B in Ripley County will be reduced today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement overlay.

Officials say the work zone will be located from Route 160 to Route 142.

Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3:30 pm.