Friday July 12, 2019

RIVER RADIO BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY 

There will be an opportunity today to give blood and help save lives.  

The River Radio Blood Drive has been scheduled for noon to 6 pm at the Sacred Heart Catholic School Gym in Poplar Bluff.  

All presenting donors will receive a free commemorative St. Louis Cardinals Blood Drive T-shirt.  

According to the Red Cross, blood donations fell short of expectations in June, resulting in 24,000 fewer donations than needed.  

Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and enter the code RiverRadio to schedule an appointment for today’s blood drive.

FREE CANOE AND KAYAK SKILLS CLINICS OFFERED AT CURRENT RIVER STATE PARK 

Free paddling clinics are being offered this summer at Current River State Park.  

Paddlers will meet at Current River State Park at 10 am on Sunday mornings for one hour of dry land basic skills lessons, followed by instruction and paddling practice on the lower lake.   

Students will have the option to continue instruction on the river in the afternoon, paddling approximately four miles from Current River State Park to Round Spring.   

Topics to be covered include canoe and kayak equipment, rescue techniques, basic paddle strokes and maneuvers, and river safety.  Kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices will be supplied.   

The classes will be available through August 18th. The free clinics are open to twelve participants each week, so pre-registration is required. 

For more information or to register for one of the sessions call the Round Spring Visitor Center at 573-323-8093. 

ATHLETE PHYSICALS SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High student athletes can get a free physical done in later this month at the High School.  

Physicals will be conducted beginning at 5:30 pm on Tuesday July 30th for athletes in the 7th and 8th grades, beginning at 6:30 for 9th and 10th grades, and beginning at 7:30 for 11th and 12th grades.  

Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that services will be provided by the Orthopedic Staff and Sports Medicine Team from Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.  

Focus on Physical Therapy will also continue as a service provider.

CONCERT TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND AT HYDRO ADVENTURES IN POPLAR BLUFF  

Hydro Adventures in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a Summer Jam County Concert this weekend.  

The headline act for the concert on Saturday will be singer-songwriter Kyle Park. The Justin Heskett Band and Jesse Hammock will also be performing during the one-day festival.  

Summer Jam is free for Hydro Adventures season passholders and is included with waterpark daily admission. The Waterpark daily admission is $21.99 per person and $16.99 for those under 48 inches tall or over 65 years old. 

Summer Jam will begin at 11 am on Saturday.

SILVA MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES 

Authorities in Wayne County have arrested an area man on a felony drug charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Todd Barker, of Silva, was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.  

Barker is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and officials say he also had a warrant out of Wayne County.  

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

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR REPAIRS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission held a meeting earlier this week where they awarded a contract for repairs in Dunklin County.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, an over $131,000 contract was awarded for scour repairs on Route 53.  

The work zone will be located one mile south of Route J. 

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

Thursday July 11, 2019

MISSING ELLINGTON MAN FOUND SAFE 

A man reported missing earlier this week was found on Wednesday. 

An Endangered Silver Advisory was issued Tuesday for 78 year old Richard Dorey, of Ellington.  

Authorities say that Dorey was discovered safe Wednesday afternoon.

STORMS CAUSE FLASH FLOODING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

There were multiple reports of flooding following a sudden storm system that hit Southeast Missouri on Wednesday.  

According to the National Weather Service, in Stoddard County there was a report of over 2 inches of rain falling in an hour shortly before 5 pm.  

Law enforcement officials in Ripley County say that there were numerous roads flooded at around 4 pm.  

The Kennett Office of Emergency Management posted multiple videos and pictures on their Facebook page showing flooded roads and urged motorists to stay off the roads if possible.

DATES SET FOR OPEN HOUSE AND ORIENTATIONS IN THE POPLAR BLUFF R-1 SCHOOL DISTRICT 

Parents in Poplar Bluff will have the opportunity to learn more about the schools their children will be attending this fall during a series of open houses scheduled for next month.  

Open houses will be held for the Kindergarten, 5th, and 6th, grades on Monday, August 12th. The 7th Grade Orientation will also be held on the 12th. 

Early Childhood parent orientation is also scheduled for August 12th, with the Early Childhood Open House and first day occurring on August 21st.  

On Tuesday, August 13th, there will be the 4th grade orientation at the Middle School as well as the 8th grade Open House at the Junior High.  

The four elementary schools will be holding their Open Houses on Wednesday, August 14th.  

For Poplar Bluff High School, freshman orientation is set for Wednesday, August 7th, and the Open House will be held on Tuesday, August 20th.  

The first day of school has been scheduled for Thursday, August 15th.  For exact times of all of the events, visit the Poplar Bluff School District website.

NO INJURIES REPORTED AFTER PLANE CRASHES IN BUTLER COUNTY 

A small plane crashed Wednesday afternoon in southern Butler County.  

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that the plane went down in the area of County Roads 278 and 276 at around 3:45 pm.  

Two people were on board the plane, however neither were injured.  

Sheriff Dobbs says that a preliminary investigation into the incident suggests that there was an engine failure at the time of the crash. The investigation is ongoing.

CITY OF POPLAR BLUFF EXPERIENCING OCCASIONAL NETWORK ISSUES 

Officials in Poplar Bluff say that the city offices are experiencing some technical problems.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the City of Poplar Bluff is experiencing sporadic network failures and network administrators are attempting to locate the source of the problem.  

If you are unable to reach the Poplar Bluff Police Department on the regular lines, you can reach the Communications Division by calling 573-718-0235. 

Police officials say that the 911 system has not been affected by the outage.

TEENAGER CRASHES INTO A BUILDING IN BUTLER COUNTY 

An area teenager was injured Wednesday afternoon after crashing into a building in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 16 year old was driving on Highway W, north of Poplar Bluff, when her vehicle ran off the roadway and then struck a mailbox and a building.  

The teenager suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Wednesday, July 10, 2019

HEAT ADVISORY TO BE IN EFFECT TODAY FOR MUCH OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A heat advisory will be in effect today for much of Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, heat index values are expected to get around 105 degrees today due to temperatures in the lower to middle 90s, and dew points in the mid 70s.

Officials say the combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Remember to drink plenty of fluids as well as stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun.

The advisory is set to be in effect from 10 am to 7 pm for multiple counties in Southeast Missouri including Butler, Wayne, Carter, Ripley, and Stoddard.

MISSING MAN MAY BE EN ROUTE TO THE POPLAR BLUFF AREA

An Endangered Silver Advisory has been issued for a missing Southeast Missouri man.

According to the Ellington Police Department, 78 year old Richard Dorey was last seen leaving the Brent B. Tinnin Manor facility on foot towards Highway 21, possibly en route to the Poplar Bluff area.

Dorey is described as a white male, 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing 180 pounds with gray hair and blue eyes.

He has been diagnosed with dementia and hypoglycemia and officials say he may be wearing a red shirt, blue jeans with black suspenders, and black shoes.

A picture of Dorey is available on our Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts should immediately dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency.

SCREENING APPOINTMENTS BEING ACCEPTED FOR POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Appointments are now being taken for the next screening day for the Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center.

The screening appointments for the upcoming school year are available for new incoming students who were 3 years old before July 31st, 2019 and were not 5 years old before that date. The screenings will be held on Thursday, July 25th.

You must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment. To make an appointment, call 573-785-6803 and ask for Sandy Case.

SIKESTON MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON A FIREARM CHARGE

An area man was in custody this morning on a firearm charge.

According to the Malden Police Department, 31 year old Jeremy Scott, of Sikeston, was arrested Tuesday on a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm.

Officials say that Scott is being held at the Dunklin County Justice Center on a $50,000 cash only bond.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT TO MADISON COUNTY TREASURER POSITION

The Missouri Governor tells KWOC News that a Fredericktown woman has been appointed to a position in the Madison County Government.

Governor Michael Parson says that Jessica Stevens will be taking the position of Madison County Treasurer.

Stevens has been serving as Deputy County Treasurer since February 2019, and prior to that she served as Deputy County Clerk beginning in June 2007.

DONIPHAN MAN FACING METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES

A Doniphan man is facing a felony methamphetamine charge following his arrest Tuesday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Wesley Sturm was arrested in Ripley County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Sturm was also reportedly arrested on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Tuesday July 9, 2019

DEXTER WOMAN DROWNS IN ST. FRANCIS RIVER 

An area woman drowned over the weekend in Butler County.  

According to Butler County Coroner Andy Moore, 52 year old Barbara Reese, of Dexter, was swimming in St. Francis River Sunday evening when she began to struggle, submerged, and did not resurface.  

The incident occurred off of Route U, six miles east of Broseley.  

Reese was later pronounced dead at the scene.

ELLSINORE MAN FACING WEAPON AND DRUG CHARGES 

An Ellsinore man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest early Monday morning in Ripley County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Adam Bishop was taken into custody shortly before 1 am Monday on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

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

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

An almost three month long pavement repair project is underway in Ripley and Oregon Counties.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route 142 is being reduced with a 10 foot width restriction as contractor crews overlay the roadway and add rumble strips.  

The work zone is located from Route EE in Oregon County to Route 21 in Ripley County and officials say that work will take place from 6 am to 7 pm daily through Tuesday, October 1st.

MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING WRECK NEAR PORTAGEVILLE 

A man was taken into custody Monday following a wreck near Portageville.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old William Manning, of Tallapoosa, was attempting to overtake a vehicle on Highway B when he struck the vehicle.  

Officials say the vehicle then overturned. The driver of the vehicle suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.  

According to a Highway Patrol arrest report, Manning was arrested later Monday evening on charges of driving while intoxicated – drugs, careless and imprudent driving involving a crash, and possession of marijuana.

AREA MAN IN CUSTODY IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT 

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

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old Jamie Wilkerson was recently taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Officials say Wilkerson’s bond has been set at $25,000 cash only, and he remained in custody as of this morning.

SIX TRC STUDENTS NAMED NATIONAL ALL-ACADEMIC STUDENT ATHLETES 

Six student-athletes at Three Rivers College have been honored for the work in the classroom.  

The Lady Raiders softball team had five members receive the National Junior College Athletic Association All-Academic award. Calli Gerber was named to the second team, while Zoe Bisby, Alexis Campbell, Grace King, and Allison Pingel were all named to the Third Team. Bisby also plays for the Lady Raiders basketball team.  

TRC Baseball Player Braden Cox was also named to the All-Academic Third Team. 

College officials say that Student-Athlete Awards are given to student athletes that maintain high grade point averages while competing on a community college athletic team.  

First Team is awarded to those with a GPA of 4.00, Second Team is awarded to those with GPAs between 3.80 and 3.99, and Third Team is awarded to those with GPAs between 3.60 and 3.79.

CARTER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED BEGINNING TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS 

A portion of Route H in Carter County will be closed beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.  

The section of Route H to be closed is located from Route 21 to Route V. 

Weather permitting, work will be performed from 7 am to 5 pm daily through Thursday, July 18th.

Monday July 8, 2019

CLARKTON MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A single vehicle wreck early Saturday morning resulted in the death of a Clarkton man.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 69 year old Leslie Bullow was driving on Missouri Highway 25 in Dunklin County when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.  

Bullow, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES 

A Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest over the weekend.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Phillip Stephens was taken into custody early Saturday morning on felony charges of possession of a firearm, resisting arrest, and possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and hydrocodone.  

Stephens is also facing charges of unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

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

ROAD PROJECT SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY 

Route 49 in Wayne County will be reduced with a 10 foot width restriction for the rest of this month as contractor crews overlay the road with asphalt. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway involved in the project is located from Route 67 to Route 34. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 8 pm daily through Wednesday, July 31st.

TWO TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested two Poplar Bluff men on methamphetamine and paraphernalia charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, both 32 year old Ashley Merriott and 30 year old Larry Rudd were each taken into custody at around 11:15 am Friday morning on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Rudd also had warrants out of Wayne County, Butler County, and Poplar Bluff while Merriott had a warrant from Morgan County.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN MALDEN ON BURGLARY WARRANT 

A Malden man has been arrested on a burglary warrant.  

According to the Malden Police Department, 21 year old Terrell McIntyre was recently taken into custody on a Dunklin County warrant for burglary 2nd degree.  

His bond was set at $35,000 and officials say he was held at the Malden City Jail awaiting extradition.

AUTHORITIES IN REYNOLDS COUNTY INVESTIGATING STOLEN VEHICLE 

An investigation is underway after a vehicle was reported stolen in Southeast Missouri.  

According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office, between approximately 11 am and 1pm on July 6th, a white two door 2003 Chevy 3500 flatbed truck was stolen from the area of B Highway and County Road 762. 

Officials say that there was a 1,000 pound Mighty Feeder on the bed of the truck and a ranch hand bumper on the front. It has a Missouri License Plate of 78H 0XE. 

Anyone who has information about the location of the vehicle is asked to contact Deputy Jacob Garcia at 573-648-2491 or your local law enforcement agency.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO FORCE CLOSURE OF PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD 

Route H in Pemiscot County will be closed for almost two weeks so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.  

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway to be closed is located between Route E and Route 164. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 5 pm daily through Friday, July 19th and the road will be open to local traffic only.

Friday July 5, 2019

MAN WITH CHILD MOLESTATION WARRANT WANTED OUT OF NEW MADRID COUNTY 

Authorities in New Madrid County are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a man with a felony warrant.  

New Madrid County Sheriff Terry Stevens tells KWOC News that his office is searching for Allen Pretz, who has an active felony warrant for child molestation. 

Pretz is from Halls, Kentucky and is believed to have ties to the Matthews area.  

Stevens says that it is possible that Pretz is doing construction or labor because he has held jobs of this nature in the past. 

We have a picture of Pretz available on the KWOC Facebook page.  

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office at 573-758-2516.

AREA MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE IN CARTER COUNTY 

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Mitchell Gore, of Van Buren, was taken into custody Thursday evening on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.  

Gore is also facing a charge of possession of marijuana – 10 grams or less. Following the arrest, he was held at the Carter County Sheriff’s Office.

RIVER RADIO BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK 

There will be an opportunity next week to give blood and help save lives.  

The River Radio Blood Drive has been scheduled for noon to 6 pm on Friday, July 12th at the Sacred Heart Catholic School Gym in Poplar Bluff.  

Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and enter the code RiverRadio to schedule an appointment.  

All presenting donors will receive a free commemorative St. Louis Cardinals Blood Drive T-shirt.

ONE KILLED, TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI WRECK

A two vehicle wreck Wednesday afternoon in Southeast Missouri resulted in one fatality.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a vehicle drive by 25 year old Carlos Riddle, of Caruthersville, crossed the center line of Highway 84 in Pemiscot County and struck another vehicle head on.  

The driver of the second vehicle, 80 year old Duane Michie, of Hayti, was transported to a Pemiscot County hospital where he was pronounced dead. 

Riddle and a passenger in his vehicle each suffered serious injuries and were taken to area hospital.

STATE AUDITOR SAYS CITY OF GREENVILLE HAS MADE PROGRESS ON INCREASING OVERSIGHT 

State officials say that the City of Greenville is making changes to help prevent or quickly detect the loss or theft of city funds.  

According to Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway, a previous audit of the city was initiated as a part of a law enforcement investigation and revealed more than $160,000 missing from city funds. The former city clerk, Pam Birmingham, now faces felony charges of stolen property and forgery. 

A follow-up review released this week found that the city has taken steps to increase oversight of finances and is working to improve personnel policies and payroll processes. 

Galloway says that in total, auditors identified 18 areas of concern to evaluate during the follow-up review. Nine recommendations were implemented.  

For six other recommendations, progress has been made or recommendations were partially implemented. The recommendation for three findings had not been addressed, and no specific plans had been made to act on the recommendation. 

The full audit is available at auditor.mo.gov.

$13,000 IN PROPERTY TAX PAYMENTS MISSING FROM SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTY 

Over $10,000 in property tax payments are missing from a Southeast Missouri County.

 According to Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway, an audit of the Madison County Collector's Office, completed by the Public Corruption and Fraud Division, details how more than $13,000 went missing between January 2017 and October 2018. 

The missing money represented 66 individual personal property and real estate tax payments. When taxpayers would pay their bill, the transaction was recorded and they were issued a receipt. However, the transaction was subsequently deleted from the system and the money was not deposited. 

Galloway says that an additional $2,000 in deleted transactions are questionable. This includes three transactions for the former deputy collector's personal property taxes. 

Local and state law enforcement continue to investigate, and Galloway has pledged continued cooperation from her Public Corruption and Fraud Division.

TWO WEEK ROAD PROJECT UNDERWAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Route U in New Madrid County will be reduced with a 9-foot width restriction through the end of next week as contractor crews perform milling and paving repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located between Route 61 and Route WW. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 8 pm daily through Friday, July 12th.

Wednesday July 3, 2019

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN CHARGED IN STODDARD COUNTY SHOOTING DEATH 

A Southeast Missouri man is facing numerous charges, including murder, in connection to a shooting death in Stoddard County.  

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver tells KWOC News that Melvin Anderson, of Advance, was charged Tuesday with murder 1st degree, armed criminal action, domestic assault 2nd degree, kidnapping 1st degree, unlawful use of a weapon, and tampering with physical evidence.  

The charges stem from the June 28th shooting death of Tristan Davis near Advance.  

Oliver says Anderson is currently housed in the Stoddard County Jail under a no bond warrant.

TWO YEAR OLD CHILD DIES AFTER BEING STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR ORAN 

A young child from Chaffee has died after being hit by a vehicle near Oran.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the two year old child had walked onto Missouri Highway 77 at around 4:40 pm Tuesday when they were struck by a vehicle.  

The child was later pronounced dead at a Cape Girardeau hospital.

SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR PETS DURING THE INDEPENDENCE DAY HOLIDAY 

While fireworks are a great treat for many during the Fourth of July, your pets might not enjoy them as much as you do.  

The Humane Society of Missouri says that the loud noises can cause dogs and cats to act out of character. A startled dog or cat may hide or try to escape the noise by digging under, chewing through or climbing over fences. 

The Humane Society has released some tips for keeping your pet happy during the holiday.   

Give your pet a quiet, cool place to retreat inside where sounds are less intense.  

Keeping them inside will also protect them from stray fireworks. Their retreat could be a basement or an interior room like a bathroom with access to clean, cool water.

MULTIPLE EVENTS PLANNED TO CELEBRATE 4TH OF JULY IN POPLAR BLUFF 

There are multiple events planned for tomorrow in Poplar Bluff to celebrate Independence Day.  

The Black River Coliseum will be the host for the Little Miss and Mr. Firecracker 4th of July Pageant. Registration will begin at 10 am with the pageant beginning at 11 am.  

There will be music, vendors, and food available from 4 to 9 pm at the Farmer’s Market area located across from the Black River Coliseum.  

The fireworks display is scheduled to start at approximately 9 pm.

MALDEN MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES 

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Joseph Robinson, of Malden, was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Robinson was also arrested on a probation and parole absconder warrant.  

He was held at the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED THURSDAY AND FRIDAY IN MISSOURI

Driver examination stations will be closed Thursday and Friday of this week in Missouri.  

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

Normal operations are set to resume on Monday, July 8th.

EMERGENCY SIREN TO BE WORKED ON IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY 

Officials say that workers will be coming to work on a Southeast Missouri city’s emergency siren.  

According to the City of Cardwell Office of Emergency Management Facebook page, the emergency siren on the south end of town was tested on Monday and found to be down. The siren is located by the school on Union Street.  

The north end siren near the Police Department is still working and they have contacted the people who work on the sirens.

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019

KENNETT MAN DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

One person has died following a wreck in Dunklin County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 65 year old Orbon Duke, of Kennett, was driving on Route P when his vehicle ran off the road struck several mailboxes and then a utility pole.

Duke was reportedly not wearing a safety device and was ejected during the wreck.

He was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell.

FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has released some fireworks safety tips to help keep you and your family safe this Fourth of July.

The CPSC advises parents to never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks and always have adult supervision when kids of any age are playing with fireworks, including sparklers.

Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully and keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. Also, never point or throw fireworks at another person.

AREA MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

An area man was taken into custody in Ripley County on Monday on a felony drug related charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Jason Stodghill, of Doniphan was arrested Monday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

He also reportedly had a failure to appear warrant from the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

Following the arrest, Stodghill was held at the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

POPLAR BLUFF ELK’S LODGE TO HOST FIRST RESPONDERS BALL IN THE FALL

A date has been set for the 2nd Annual Poplar Bluff Elk’s Lodge First Responders Ball.

The event has been scheduled for Friday, September 13th with dinner beginning at 7 pm. Doors will open an hour before.

The ball, which is open to the public, will cost $25 to attend for each person.

To purchase tickets, contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at (573) 785-5776.

Proceeds from the event will go to the charitable organization Supporting Heroes.

FREE MAMMOGRAMS TO BE OFFERED LATER THIS MONTH IN DONIPHAN

Area women without health insurance will have the opportunity to get a free mammogram done later this month.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the Saint Francis Healthcare System will be offering free mammograms in Doniphan on Wednesday, July 17th from 8 am to noon.

To register, or for more information, call 573-331-5111.

ROADWORK TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS MONTH IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 49 in Wayne County is being reduced with a 10 foot width restriction this month so contractor crews can overlay the road with asphalt.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of Route 49 being reduced is located from Route 67 to Route 34.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 8 pm daily through Wednesday, July 31st.

Monday July 1, 2019

TWO ARRESTED ON FELONY METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGES 

Two Doniphan residents have been taken into custody in Ripley County on multiple charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Candace Scott and 27 year old Lewis Kramer were each arrested at around 10 pm Friday night on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, endangering the welfare of a child – 1st degree, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Kramer is also facing a charge of unlawful use of a weapon.  

Following their arrests, both Scott and Kramer were held at the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office.

FOUR INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK 

Four people were injured in a wreck Saturday night in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 53 year old Edward Allison, of Puxico, crossed the center line of Highway T and struck two vehicles.  

Four people in one of the vehicles that was hit suffered minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.  

Allison was arrested later Saturday night on a charge of driving while intoxicated involving a motor vehicle crash. Following the arrest, he was held at the Butler County Jail.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS 

Route CC in Butler County will be reduced to one lane early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of Route CC to be reduced is located between Routes 53 and 51.   

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8:30 am to 4 pm today and tomorrow.

MAN FACING KIDNAPPING AND ASSAULT CHARGES 

Authorities in Stoddard County have taken an Oran man into custody on a kidnapping charge.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 32 year old Melvin Anderson was recently booked on charges of domestic assault 2nd degree and kidnapping 2nd degree. 

Few details about the charges have been released and officials say that no bond had been set for Anderson.

HIGHWAY PATROL PREPARING FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY TRAFFIC 

With the Fourth of July coming up, troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol are preparing for an increase in travelers on Missouri’s roadways.  

Officials tell KWOC News that the Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. over the July Fourth holiday. All available officers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways enforcing Missouri’s traffic laws in addition to being available to assist motorists.  

In addition, a 2019 Independence Day DWI Enforcement operation will be in effect during the long weekend. Troopers will strictly enforce Missouri statutes addressing driving while intoxicated, underage drinking, possession of intoxicating liquor by a minor, and intoxication by a minor. 

Troopers will also be working on the state’s waterways to enforce Missouri’s boating laws and provide assistance where needed. Missouri’s boaters are being asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers, and being courteous on the water.

AREA SHERIFF LOOKING FOR DONATIONS OF STUFFED ANIMALS 

An area sheriff is asking for donations of stuffed animals.  

Carter County Sheriff Richard Stephens tells KWOC News that the sheriff’s department is in need of clean, small or medium sized, stuffed animals.  

Stephens says that deputies routinely provide the stuffed animals to young children on emergency calls as well as during court proceedings and their stock was recently depleted.  

Anyone willing to help out can bring stuffed animals to the Carter County Sheriff’s Office in Van Buren or call 573-323-4510.

Friday, June 28, 2019

HEAVY RAINS CAUSE NUMEROUS FLOODED ROADS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Heavy rains Thursday morning resulting in flash flooding and water covered roads in Southeast Missouri.

Flash Flood warnings were in effect for numerous counties, including Butler and Stoddard, during the morning hours on Thursday.

Multiple roads were covered at points in Stoddard County including Highways J and U, along with numerous County Roads.

The Missouri Department of Transportation says that Southbound Route C in Wayne County is still closed this morning due to water over the roadway.

In Butler County, a tree fell across US Highway 67 yesterday near Hendrickson, blocking traffic for a period of time and there were numerous reports of power outages.

Lightning was also a hazard as the Campbell Volunteer Fire Department reported that two structure fires seemed to have been caused by the lightning storm.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, scattered thunderstorms over southeast Missouri early this morning may produce heavy rainfall and result in renewed flash flooding. A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for a portion of Southeast Missouri until 10 am.

BICYCLIST SERIOUSLY INJURED IN HIT AND RUN

A bicyclist was injured early this morning in a hit and run incident in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 23 year old man from Caledonia, Missouri, was riding a bicycle on Route FF, near Morehouse, when he was struck by an unknown vehicle, that then fled the scene. Officials say the incident occurred at around 12:20 am.

The victim was seriously injured and transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two area men were arrested Thursday afternoon in Butler County on felony drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Brian Taylor, of Broseley, and 28 year old Taylor Turner, of Fisk, were each taken into custody at around 2:40 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Brian Taylor also had felony warrants out of Butler and Dunklin Counties, while Taylor Turner had a felony warrant out of Wayne County.

The Highway Patrol did not say if the two arrests were connected.

They were both held at the Butler County Jail.

BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO CELEBRATE 70TH ANNIVERSARY TODAY

The Butler County Health Department will be celebrating their 70th anniversary today with a huge event in Poplar Bluff.

The agency’s 70th Anniversary Summer Bash has been scheduled for 9 am to noon at the Butler County Health Department, located at 1619 North Main Street.

There will be activities for all ages such as the Poplar Bluff Fire Department smoke house, as well as Poplar Bluff Animal Control showcasing animals that are available for adoption.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS UPCOMING ROAD PROJECT IN WAYNE COUNTY

A public meeting will be held next month to discuss an upcoming road project in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that the meeting has been scheduled for 4 to 6 pm on Monday, July 15th at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor’s Center in Wappapello.

The project to be discussed includes relocating Route D as part of the improvements to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Water Control Plan at Lake Wappapello.

Improvements to Route D would extend from south of the bridge over the East Fork of Lost Creek to half a mile south of County Road 524. During the meeting, two alternates will also be shared for relocating Route D.

DONIPHAN MAN FACING DRUG AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES

A Doniphan man is facing multiple charges following his arrest last night in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Jason Payne was arrested at approximately 8:15 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

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

STAR GAZING EVENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND AT ALLEY SPRING

A star gazing event has been scheduled for later this month in Southeast Missouri.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways will host “Stars in the Night Sky” from 8 pm through 10 pm on June 29th at Alley Spring. The free event is open to the public and telescopes will be provided.

Rangers at Alley Spring will be surveying the night sky along with a local astronomer. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, insect repellent and flashlight, and are also welcome to bring a personal telescope.

Alley Spring is located five miles west of Eminence, Missouri, on State Route 106. For more information call 573-226-3945 or visit nps.gov/ozar.

Thursday, June 27, 2019

FLASH FLOODING CAUSES DAMAGE AT AREA SCHOOL

Heavy rains on Wednesday resulted in flood damage to an area school.

According to the Doniphan R-1 School District Facebook page, there was damage campus wide with flooding in the High School, Central Office, and Elementary. A retaining wall at the elementary playground also busted.

According to the National Weather Service, in nearby Ellsinore, four to five inches of water was reported over the roadway at the intersection of FF Highway and Carter County Road 327 shortly before 3 pm.

Trees were also blown down in Ripley and New Madrid County.

A Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service says that scattered to numerous thunderstorms are forecast for today across portions of southeast Missouri.

Given their slow movement, the storms may produce heavy rainfall that leads to flash flooding. A flash flood watch is in effect for most of southeast Missouri through late tonight.

WOMAN SHOT WHILE ALLEGEDLY PLAYING WITH A GUN IN DEXTER

A woman has been transported to a St. Louis hospital following a shooting incident in Dexter.

According to the Dexter Police Department, Tuesday night officers were dispatched to a location on Bain Street regarding a woman who had been shot.

The woman had a single gunshot wound to her throat and is currently in the intensive care unit of a St. Louis hospital.

Authorities say that it appears that the woman was playing with a pistol with her friend when the gun was fired.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing and no charges have been filed.

2.1 MILLION DOLLAR LOTTO JACKPOT CLAIMED BY PIEDMONT MAN

An over two million dollar Lotto Jackpot has been claimed by a Wayne County man.

According to the Missouri Lottery, Carl Sedlacek, of Piedmont, bought the 2.1 million dollar winning ticket for the April 24th drawing.

Officials say that Sedlacek’s ticket is the fourth Lotto jackpot-winning ticket sold in 2019.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man has been taken into custody on controlled substance charges.

According to authorities, 19 year old Payton Ice was arrested Tuesday afternoon on three counts of delivery of a controlled substance.

Ice was held at the Butler County Justice Center and his bonds on the three counts ranged from $20,000 to $50,000.

NAYLOR WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY METH CHARGE

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area woman on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Megan McColley, of Naylor, was taken into custody Wednesday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

McColley also reportedly had a felony warrant out of Butler County.

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

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS CITY TO RECEIVE AN OVER MILLION DOLLAR LOAN FOR WASTEWATER IMPROVEMENTS

A Northeast Arkansas city has been approved for a loan from the US Department of Agriculture for wastewater improvements.

The City of Corning will receive a $1,045,000 loan to improve the wastewater collection system and wastewater treatment facility.

The improvements include rehabilitating four wastewater lift stations, replacing a section of constricted pipes that have caused back-ups in the sewer system, and adding a post-aeration system that will bring the dissolved oxygen levels in the water back into compliance with the facility's discharge permit

The loan is part of a $192 million dollar investment from the USDA in 71 projects across 29 states to improve rural water infrastructure.

Wednesday June 26, 2019

WATER TO BE SHUT OFF TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY 

Officials say that water will be temporarily shut off today in a Southeast Missouri community.  

The city of Clarkton will be shutting off the town’s water beginning at around 10 am to install two fire hydrants. 

One of the hydrants will be installed on Davis Street, and the second one will be installed on James Street. 

Following the instillation, the city will be under a boil water advisory for two weeks.

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT 

A Hayti woman was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon on drug related charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Sunkia Luster was arrested Tuesday afternoon in Pemiscot County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for tramadol hydrochloride and clonazepam.  

Officials say Luster also had a warrant out of Dunklin County.  

Following the arrest, she was held at the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY 

Route A in Dunklin County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can repair a bridge deck.  

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the bridge involved is located between County Road 515 and Route T. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 4:30 pm.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PROVIDE FREE MEALS FOR CHILDREN THROUGH EARLY AUGUST 

The Poplar Bluff School District has announced that they will continue to provide meals free of charge for children in need following summer school.  

The Summer Food Service, a partnership between Poplar Bluff Schools and Chartwells, will be free to all patrons 18 and under from July 1st through August 2nd, except on July 4th.  

Breakfast and Lunch will be served at Wheatley Elementary School, while lunch only will be served at Poplar Bluff Head Start and True Believers Missionary Baptist Church.  

For more information, visit mules.me/meals.

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Northeast Arkansas man on a warrant.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 40 year old Steven Gilliam, of Jonesboro, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance, except 35 grams or less of marijuana.  

Officials say that Gilliam’s bond was set at $7,500.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY 

Route B in New Madrid County has been closed so crews can perform pavement repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of B that is being worked on is located from Route 153 to Route 162. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 am to 4 pm today and tomorrow.

Tuesday June 25, 2019

MISSOURI OFFICIALS ASK PRESIDENT TRUMP FOR ANOTHER FEDERAL DISASTER DECELERATION 

Missouri State officials have requested that President Donald Trump issue a major disaster declaration to assist residents and businesses in numerous Missouri counties that have been hard hit by flooding, tornadoes, and severe storms beginning on April 29th and continuing throughout the spring. 

Missouri Governor Mike Parson tells KWOC News that the state expects to request Public Assistance once joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are completed in 64 counties.  

In Southeast Missouri, this includes Bollinger, Dunklin, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Shannon, and Stoddard Counties.  

Additional joint damage assessments for public assistance may be conducted in more counties as additional information is gathered locally when floodwaters recede. 

A major disaster declaration was approved last month for Missouri to help recover from devastating flooding and severe storms that occurred from March 11th to April 16th.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY WARRANT AND DRUG CHARGE 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on a felony drug charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Brian Staffey, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Monday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Officials say that Staffey also had a felony warrant out of Pemiscot County for failure to appear.  

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

EARLY REGISTRATION TO BE HELD TODAY FOR KIDS CAMP AT WHEATLEY SCHOOL IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Early registration will be held today for an upcoming kids camp in Poplar Bluff.  

The Super Kids Camp 2019 has been scheduled for 8 am to 2 pm Monday through Friday from July 8th to July 26th.  

The camp is free for children in Kindergarten through sixth grade and will include breakfast and lunch, swimming, academic enrichment, and more. A maximum of fifty students will be accepted.  

Early registration will be held today and Thursday from 2 pm to 6 pm.  

For more information, call 573-776-5073.

MAN SENTENCED OVER THREE YEARS AFTER PLEADING GUILTY TO SECOND DEGREE MURDER 

A Southeast Missouri man has been sentenced, over three years after pleading guilty to a murder charge.  

According to Missouri Case Net, Brandon Norman, of Lowndes, pled guilty on June 14, 2016 to a charge of second degree murder.  

On Monday, Norman was sentenced to 20 years’ incarceration on the charge, which stems from the shooting death of John Fowler, of St. Peters, in early 2015.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES REMOVED AND ADDED TO THE MANAGEMENT ZONE FOR CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE 

The Missouri Department of Conservation has altered the counties that are included in the management zone for Chronic Wasting Disease.  

Officials say that Bollinger and Madison Counties were removed from the list, while Howell and Oregon counties were added because of recent CWD detections in Oregon, Stone, and Taney counties.  

The MDC will require hunters who harvest deer in any of the 29 counties of the CWD Management Zone during the opening weekend of the fall firearms deer season to take their harvested deer, or the head with at least six inches of neck attached, to one of MDC’s numerous CWD sampling stations throughout the zone on the day of harvest. 

CWD is a deadly, infectious disease in white-tailed deer and other members of the deer family. The disease has no vaccine or cure and eventually kills all deer it infects. CWD is spread from deer to deer and through the environment.  

The change will also impact restrictions on feeding deer, antler-point restrictions, and antlerless permits for some counties. 

For more information, go online to mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

JOHN J. PERSHING VA MEDICAL CENTER PARTNERS WITH SEMO FOOD BANK 

A food giveaway will be held this week for veterans in need.  

The Health Promotion Disease Prevention program at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center has partnered with the Southeast Missouri Food Bank to provide a monthly mobile food pantry called the Veterans Healthy Food Surplus.  

The event will be held on the 4th Wednesday of the month from 8 am to 10 am at the John J. Pershing VAMC walking track.  

Veterans are asked to bring an identification card to the event.

Monday June 24, 2019

HEAVY WINDS CAUSE DAMAGE AND POWER OUTAGES ACROSS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Heavy winds both Friday and Sunday caused damage and power outages in Southeast Missouri.  

According to the National Weather Service, in Butler County there were multiple reports of trees being snapped by wind on Friday. A tree fell and blocked Highway T for a period of time and there were reports of a tree falling on a house on Truman Street in Poplar Bluff. Wind gusts were measured at 59 miles per hour in Butler County.  

On Sunday, trees reportedly fell on a house and cars on Butler County Road 461. On County Road 470, a house sustained roof damage in addition to multiple trees being down in the area. In Carter County, a tree came down and blocked Highway B shortly before 2 pm. 

There were also numerous reports of people losing power during Sunday’s storms.

NEELYVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR HEROIN IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

A Neelyville man is facing a felony drug charge following his arrest over the weekend in Ripley County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Dakota Miller was taken into custody Saturday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for heroin.  

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

TWO CHILDREN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN RIPLEY COUNTY WRECK 

Two young children were seriously injured in a wreck Friday night.  

According to the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department, the wreck occurred at around 6 pm when a vehicle crossed the center line of US Highway 160 in Ripley County and struck another vehicle.  

Two passengers in the first vehicle, both under the age of 10, suffered serious injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.  

Both drivers received moderate injuries, while a passenger in the second vehicle suffered minor injuries. They were also taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

TREE FALLS ON BOAT IN VAN BUREN, KILLING ONE AND INJURING TWO OTHERS 

A Van Buren man has died after a boating accident involving a tree in Carter County.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 22 year old Levi Mayberry was piloting a boat Friday afternoon on Current River when a tree fell and struck the boat.  

Mayberry was killed in the wreck, while two passengers suffered moderate injuries. The passengers were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY 

An area man is facing multiple drug related charges following his arrest on Saturday.  

According to authorities, 32 year old Louis Grider, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested Saturday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Grider was also arrested on a misdemeanor charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.  

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

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON MOLESTATION WARRANT 

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

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 55 year old Jerry Pierce, of Dexter, was recently taken into custody on a warrant for 1st degree child molestation.  

Pierce’s bond was set at $12,500, cash only.

HEPATITIS A IMMUNIZATION CLINIC SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF 

The Butler County Health Department has scheduled a Hepatitis A immunization clinic for today.  

The clinic will be from 8 am to 4 pm at the Health Department.  

Officials say anyone who is around someone who uses drugs or who uses drugs themselves should get vaccinated.

Friday June 21, 2019

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING WRECK IN KENNETT 

A Tennessee man has died following a single vehicle wreck in Dunklin County.  

According to authorities, a vehicle ran off of the South Bypass in the Kennett area Thursday morning and overturned multiple times.  

72 year old Richard Marotti, of Dyersburg, Tennessee, was killed in the wreck.  

Another person in the vehicle was injured and flown to a Memphis hospital.

THEFT INVESTIGATION LEADS TO DRUG BUST IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

A theft investigation led to a drug bust earlier this week in Southeast Missouri.  

Officials with the Malden Police Department tell KWOC News that members of the MPD, Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force, and New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit, served a search warrant at a residence in Malden on Wednesday as part of an ongoing theft investigation.  

During the search, undisclosed amounts of methamphetamine and marijuana were recovered from the residence, along with stolen property. 

On Thursday, Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain filed formal charges and a warrant for the arrest of Anthony Viar, of Malden, on the charges of felony manufacture of a controlled substance - methamphetamine; delivery of a controlled substance -methamphetamine; delivery of a controlled substance two counts –marijuana, and receiving stolen property.  

Viar’s bond was set at $40,000 cash, and he has been transported to the Dunklin County Jail.

ROAD CLOSED FOR BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS 

Route P in New Madrid County is being reduced with an 11-foot width restriction into next month so contractor crews can perform bridge improvements. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge involved is located over Interstate 55 at exit 52. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 8 pm daily through Saturday, July 13th.

TREE FALLS ON MOVING VEHICLE, INJURING TWO PEOPLE 

Two people were injured by a tree Thursday morning in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle was traveling on Third Street in Fisk at around 10:30 am when the vehicle was struck by a falling tree.  

The driver of the vehicle and a passenger both suffered minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Poplar Bluff woman on multiple drug related charges.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 36 year old Nicole Schrum was taken into custody Thursday morning on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Schrum is also facing charges of possession of marijuana, speeding, and failure to drive in the right lane.  

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

DATE SET FOR 11TH ANNUAL MULE SKINNER GOLF TOURNAMENT 

The date has been set for the 11th Annual Mule Skinner Golf Tournament.  

The 4 person scramble tournament will be held on Friday, August 2nd at the Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff. Organizers say the entry fee is $500 per team, which includes a cart and lunch. Hole sponsorships are also available for $100 per hole.  

All proceeds will go to benefit Poplar Bluff Mules athletics programs.  

A banquet and auction will be held following the tournament. For more information, contact the Poplar Bluff Mules Booster Club at 573-718-6480.

Thursday June 20, 2019

HEAVY WINDS CAUSE DAMAGE IN THE POPLAR BLUFF AREA 

Severe Thunderstorms crossed our listening area on Wednesday bringing hail and heavy winds.  

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, Supercells developed over southeast Missouri and produced damaging winds approaching 70 mph in Poplar Bluff along with large hail up to at least ping pong ball size near Scott City. 

A plane was damaged after getting blown over at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Airport and a large fireworks tent also appeared to be blown over in Poplar Bluff.  

In Butler County, several telephone poles, power lines, and tree limbs were also knocked down.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 10 YEARS IN PRISON ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE 

A Southeast Missouri man is facing over 10 years in prison for possessing child pornography.  

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 48 year old Joel Williams, of Bertrand, pled guilty last March to one count of possessing child pornography.  

Last August, law enforcement officials discovered Williams was using a social-networking website to obtain images and videos consisting of child pornography. 

He was sentenced Wednesday to serve 12 years in federal prison. 

After serving his sentence, Williams will be placed on supervised release for the rest of his life. He was already required to register as a sex offender because of a prior conviction for second-degree statutory sodomy.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN CARTER COUNTY 

Two men were injured Wednesday afternoon in a single vehicle wreck in Carter County.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on Eastbound US Highway 60 near Freemont when a freightliner tractor ran off the side of the road and overturned.  

The driver and a passenger were both seriously injured in the wreck. They were each transported to a West Plains hospital.

NAYLOR MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON MULTIPLE WEAPON AND DRUG CHARGES 

Authorities in Ripley County have arrested an area man on multiple felony charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Carter Day, of Naylor, was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and driving while revoked.  

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

Following the arrest, Day was held at the Ripley County Jail.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES 

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody last night on multiple drug related charges.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 41 year old Jeremy Rankin was arrested shortly before 8 pm on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine, oxycodone, and alprazolam.  

Rankin is also facing charges of driving while intoxicated - drugs and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

He was held in the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

MAN FLOWN TO AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY 

A Texas man was flown to an area hospital Wednesday after being involved in a single vehicle wreck in New Madrid County.  

According to authorities, the 20 year old male was driving a vehicle on Interstate 55 when he ran off the side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned.  

The driver suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital. A passenger in the vehicle received minor injuries.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED TO BEGIN THIS WEEK ON ROAD NEAR VAN BUREN 

Maintenance will cause the temporary closure of a road in the Van Buren area.  

According to Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the Tram Road south of Van Buren, also known as NPS Road 123, will be temporarily closed to thru traffic while the road undergoes maintenance beginning this week.   

Officials say the temporary closure is expected to last approximately two weeks, and will be conducted on weekdays from 7 am to 5 pm.  

The maintenance will include trimming trees and brushing the road edges. Heavy equipment will also be used to repair the unpaved road surface, which has become uneven and littered with potholes following the flood of 2017. 

Wednesday June 19, 2019

SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE WITH STORM SYSTEM HITTING THE AREA TODAY 

Weather officials are saying that the potential exists today for severe weather in Southeast Missouri.  

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, thunderstorms are likely today into tonight, possibly in a couple of rounds.  

Severe thunderstorms are also possible this afternoon and evening with potential severe storm hazards possibly including damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes.  

Locally heavy rain will also lead to the potential for localized flash flooding, especially in areas that receive repeat storm activity.

FIRE HYDRANT REPAIRS COULD CAUSE WATER DISRUPTIONS TODAY IN DONIPHAN 

Some residents in Doniphan could be seeing water issues today.  

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the Department of Utilities is planning to service some of the city’s fire hydrants beginning at 8 am.  

Residents west of Maple Street and south of Highway Street may experience lower than normal water pressure and some addresses within the zone may be without pressure until repairs are completed.  

The repairs are expected to be completed before noon unless unforeseen circumstances arise. 

All customers that are affected with a water outage will be under a precautionary boil water notice until further notice.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS COMPLETE COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS 

Some area students have been hard at work this summer completing various community service projects.

According to the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook Page, Junior Beta Summer School class has made 11 baby blankets for the PBRMC nursery.  

The class has also used supplies collected during the school year to make each classroom at the Middle School an Emergency Bucket as well as picked up trash at Bacon Park.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER FOOT PURSUIT IN PORTAGEVILLE 

Authorities in Portageville arrested a man Tuesday following a short pursuit.  

According to the Portageville Police Department, officers were in the process of conducting a traffic stop on a vehicle for defective equipment when a passenger fled from the vehicle on foot. 

After a brief foot pursuit, the passenger, identified as Vendarius Brown, was taken into custody without incident. 

Officials say that Brown had a felony no bond warrant along with other felony warrants through New Madrid County.

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR HARVIELL 

A Doniphan woman was injured Tuesday morning in a wreck in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle on Route C near Harviell shortly after 7 am. 

The driver of the second vehicle suffered serious injuries and was taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS COUNTY AWARDED $15,000 GRANT 

A Northeast Arkansas county has been awarded over $10,000 in grant money.  

According to the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, the Greene County Court Security and Emergency Preparedness Committee has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts. 

Two first aid kits and two basic lifesaving kits will be stationed at key locations throughout the courthouse along with the purchase of two automated external defibrillators.  

The grant was also used for updating camera equipment and other materials that provide support to the court security office.

Tuesday June 18, 2019

MALDEN MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES 

A Malden man is facing child pornography charges following his arrest last week.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on June 13th, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence of 52 year old Earl Tibbs. During the search, investigators seized child pornography and computer equipment.  

The Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has formally charged Tibbs with one count of promoting child pornography and four counts of possession of child pornography.  

He was transported to the Dunklin County Jail and his bond was set at $25,000.

ROAD PROJECT TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD 

Route CC in Stoddard County will be closed for almost a month so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.  

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

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, July 11th, from 7 am to 5 pm daily.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL ONE OF EIGHT CHOSEN FOR STATE HONOR 

A Poplar Bluff school has been recognized for a state honor.  

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education have announced that Oak Grove Elementary is one of eight across the state to be honored as a Gold Star School.  

The program recognizes schools that perform at high academic levels or that perform at high levels while serving a significant proportion of disadvantaged students. 

Oak Grove has also been nominated for national Blue Ribbon recognition. Blue Ribbon Schools will be announced this fall by the U.S. Department of Education.

POTENTIAL FOR SEVERE WEATHER ON WEDNESDAY 

Weather officials are saying that the potential exists for severe weather for Southeast Missouri tomorrow.  

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are possible Wednesday afternoon and evening with potential severe storm hazards possibly including damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes.  

Locally heavy rain will also lead to the potential for localized flash flooding, especially in areas that receive repeat storm activity.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGES 

A Caruthersville man is facing up to 40 years in prison on methamphetamine charges.  

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 31 year old Jake McCall has pled guilty to one count of distributing more than fifty grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine and a separate count of possession of more than fifty grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. 

Officials say that McCall admitted to distributing over 55 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover police officer last October. McCall also admitted that officers had attempted to stop him in November, after he had agreed to distribute 19 ounces of methamphetamine to an informant.  

His sentencing is scheduled for September 16th, where he faces five to 40 years imprisonment and a fine of $5,000,000.

BUTLER COUNTY RETIRED TEACHERS AND SCHOOL PERSONNEL TO CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY 

An area group will be celebrating their 50th anniversary with a reception this week.  

The 50th Anniversary Reception for Butler County Retired Teachers and School Personnel has been scheduled for 10 am to noon on Wednesday at the Missouri Room next to the Mules Café.  

The group president says that the event will be an informal occasion with time for attendees to visit with retired colleagues.

Monday, June 17, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGES

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Joseph Johnson, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody early Sunday morning on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon as well as possession of a controlled substance for heroin, methamphetamine, Xanax, and Hydrocodone.

Johnson is also facing charges of possession of marijuana – less than 35 grams and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

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

ILLINOIS WOMAN DROWNS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An Illinois woman died Friday while floating in Southeast Missouri.

According to authorities, 48 year old Sherrie Baker, of Granite City, Illinois was floating on a tube in Jack’s Fork River near Eminence when she struck a sunken stump and was swept underwater.

Baker was pronounced dead Friday afternoon by Shannon County Deputy Coroner Hunter Warren.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO THE DEATH OF A FORMER NORTHEAST ARKANSAS LAWMAKER

Authorities have announced that an arrest has been made in the homicide investigation of a former lawmaker from Northeast Arkansas.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that Special Agents of the ASP Criminal Investigation Division and Deputies of the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department have arrested 48 year old Rebecca Lynn O’Donnell, of Pocahontas, in connection with the homicide of former Arkansas State Senator Linda Collins-Smith and criminal charges are pending.

Officials say that the investigation is at a critical juncture and no further information will be released until authorities are confident it will not comprise the integrity of the criminal case.

SIX INJURED IN FOUR VEHICLE PILE UP NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A four vehicle wreck Friday evening in Butler County resulted in multiple injuries.

According to authorities, the wreck occurred at around 7:30 pm on Missouri Highway 53, five miles south of Poplar Bluff.

Three vehicles were slowing when one was hit from behind initiating the wreck.

One person sustained moderate injuries, while five received minor injuries during the incident. All six people who were injured were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK

An area man was injured in a motorcycle wreck over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Bobby Cooley, of Hayti, was riding a motorcycle on US 60, near Dudley, when he lost control and the vehicle overturned.

Officials say the wreck occurred at around 1:10 pm Saturday afternoon.

Cooley suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

BRAIN FITNESS CLASS BEGINNING THIS WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY

The University of Missouri Extension in Butler County is offering a Boost Your Brain and Memory: Brain Fitness Class beginning this week.

The class will be held on Tuesdays for four weeks at the Extension Center on Lindsay Avenue in Poplar Bluff. The registration fee is $35.

The class will help participants implement new habits to maintain cognitive health while also practicing new skills for better memory performance.

For more information or to register for the class, call 573-686-8064.

Friday June 14, 2019

BROSELEY TEENAGER ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY             

 Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area teenager on a drug related felony charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 18 year old Dillon Smith, of Broseley, was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and felony resisting arrest.  

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

Following the arrest, he was taken to the Butler County Justice Center.

BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO HOST 70TH ANNIVERSARY SUMMER BASH 

The Butler County Health Department will be celebrating their 70th anniversary later this month with a huge event.  

The Health Department’s 70th Anniversary Summer Bash has been scheduled for 9 am to noon on Friday, June 28th at 1619 North Main Street in Poplar Bluff.  

There will be activities for all ages such as the Poplar Bluff Fire Department smoke house, as well as Poplar Bluff Animal Control showcasing animals that are available for adoption.

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL ASKING FOR PARENTS TO FILL OUT SURVEY 

School officials in Poplar Bluff want feedback from parents.  

The Poplar Bluff Middle School has issued a survey to gauge the needs and desires of families in the district.  

Parents are being asked to fill out the survey with your student and if you have more than one student attending the Poplar Bluff Middle School, you’re asked to fill it out multiple times.  

Parents can find a link to the survey on the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page.

HEP A CLINIC SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 24TH 

According to the Butler County Health Department, there have been two recent laboratory confirmed cases of Hepatitis A in Butler County.  

Due to this, the Health Department has scheduled a Hepatitis A immunization clinic for later this month at the Health Department. 

The clinic will be held on Monday, June 24th from 8 am to 4 pm.  

Officials say anyone who is around someone who uses drugs or uses drugs themselves should get vaccinated.

DATES SET FOR 27TH ANNUAL CHILDREN’S THEATER DRAMA CAMP 

The dates have been set for the 27th Annual Children’s Theater Drama Camp at Three Rivers College.  

The camp for students entering 2nd to 8th grade will be held from July 8th to July 12th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center on the Three Rivers College Poplar Bluff campus. 

The camp will cover theater essentials including acting, theater technology, improvisation, costume and prop building, monologues, script writing, stage makeup, and more. The students will then show off what they have learned at a performance at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center at 11 am on July 12th.  

Registration forms are available at the Tinnin Center office and the deadline to register is July 18th.  

The cost of the drama camp is $75, which includes a T-shirt, scripts, notebook, daily snack and drink. The entry form can be found online at trcc.edu/dramacamp. The deadline to register is June 21st.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THREE RIVERS ENDOWMENT TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT 

The 7th annual Three Rivers Endowment Trust Golf Tournament has been scheduled for today, at the Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff. 

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

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

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