Friday August 9, 2019

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO FATAL SHOOTING IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, an area man was taken into custody in connection to a fatal shooting in Butler County.  

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that the shooting occurred Wednesday evening on County Road 476.  

According to Butler County Coroner Andy Moore, the deceased has been identified as 36 year old Katrina Suiter, of Poplar Bluff.  

Reports indicate the victim was shot in the face, and the suspect, identified as 46 year old Michael Choate, of Poplar Bluff, stated the victim was waving a gun when it went off. 

Moore says that due to the ongoing investigation, he cannot give out specific details, however the results of the autopsy contradicts the suspect’s account of events. Once the investigation is over, more details will be released. 

Choate was taken into custody and lodged in the Butler County Justice Center. He was later released; however Sheriff Dobbs says Choate is still a suspect in the investigation.

PARENTS REMINDED TO TEACH THEIR CHILDREN ABOUT TRAFFIC SAFETY 

School will be starting soon for students across Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas, and the Missouri Department of Transportation is asking parents to speak with their kids about bus stop safety and traffic safety rules. 

Children should always stay in sight of the bus driver. Assume drivers cannot see you and never walk behind a school bus. Use sidewalks where available. If you must walk in the street, walk single file facing traffic. 

Also avoid using cellphones, ear buds, and hand-held games while walking to school so you don’t become distracted.  

On Monday, we will be going over some tips for drivers on what to look out for as the school year begins.

OZARK BORDER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE TO HOLD ANNUAL MEETING THIS WEEKEND 

The annual membership meeting for Ozark Border Electric Cooperative is set for this weekend.  

The meeting has been scheduled for Saturday at the Three Rivers College Activity Center.  

Registration will begin at 9 am.

SIKESTON JAYCEE BOOTHEEL RODEO CONTINUES TONIGHT 

Multiple events are scheduled for today at the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo.  

The day will start off with a lunch with the Rodeo Clowns and Queens from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Sikeston Bootheel Golf Club. Kids will get to enjoy a free lunch while meeting with the rodeo clowns and queens.  

Rodeo events scheduled for tonight include bareback riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and more.  

Country music artist Jake Owen will be taking the stage to perform tonight as well. Coming up on Saturday, Midland will be performing following the rodeo action.  

Tickets for tonight are $30 and the rodeo will begin at 7 pm with gates opening at 5:30 pm.  

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.SikestonRodeo.com.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

A motorcycle wreck in the Missouri Bootheel has left a Tennessee woman with serious injuries.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 55 year old woman from Savannah, Tennessee was riding a motorcycle on Highway EE in Pemiscot County when she was struck in the rear by a truck.  

The woman was flown to an area hospital and no injuries were listed for the driver of the truck.

MANAGED DEER HUNT SCHEDULED FOR THIS FALL AT BIG SPRING 

A managed deer hunt for military service members with mobility impairments will be available later this year at Big Spring.  

According to Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the Big Spring Exceptional Warrior Managed Deer Hunt will be held on November 9th and 10th.   

This hunt is open to all current or honorably discharged military members with permanent mobility impairments that may require the assistance of a wheelchair, braces, crutches, or similar mobility aids. Ten hunters will be randomly selected to participate in each hunt. 

Applications for the mobility impaired hunt can be found on-line at www.nps.gov/ozar.  

Applications must be completely filled out and include a letter from a physician verifying the applicant’s physical condition. Completed application packets must be received by close of business on October 4th. 

For more information, call 573-323-4236.

Thursday, August 8, 2019

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING FATAL SHOOTING IN BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting incident in Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that the shooting occurred Wednesday evening on County Road 476.

According to Butler County Coroner Andy Moore, the deceased has been identified as 36 year old Katrina Suiter, of Poplar Bluff, and an autopsy has been scheduled for this morning.

We will continue to follow this story and bring you more information as it becomes available.

SUBJECT IDENTIFIED WHO ALLEGEDLY TOOK INAPPROPRIATE PHOTOS OF WOMEN

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, authorities have identified a subject who allegedly took inappropriate photos at an area business.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on the evening of August 1st, officers responded to Walmart in reference to a report of a black male taking inappropriate photos of women. Officials say that one of the victims was underage.

Police are seeking 29 year old John Turner, of Poplar Bluff, in connection to the investigation.

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joey Woodruff at 573-785-5776.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO UTV THEFT

Police in Poplar Bluff say that a man has been taken into custody in connection to a UTV theft.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers responded to an address on South B Street on Tuesday after receiving a tip that a stolen UTV may be found on the property.

At the scene, officers located a UTV on the property which had been stolen on August 3rd from an area construction site. Officers also located a stolen mower which had been taken during the early morning hours on Tuesday.

A search then began for a subject named Craig Randolph in connection to the thefts.

Officials say that Randolph was apprehended Wednesday following a brief foot pursuit.

SCHOOL READINESS EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The South Central Missouri Community Action Agency will be holding a school readiness event in Poplar Bluff.

There will be free school supplies and health screenings available during the event from 9 am to 3 pm today at the Black River Coliseum.

For more information call 573-785-4727 or go to scmcaa.org.

ST. JUDE ARCHERY SHOOT AND AUCTION TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The 8th Annual St. Jude Archery Shoot and Auction will be held this weekend.

The event is scheduled to begin at 8 am this Saturday at the Missouri Department of Conservation Archery Range on NN Highway in the Poplar Bluff area.

There will also be door prizes, a free youth archery camp, and more.

For more information contact Miranda Fickert at 573-718-2875.

SIKESTON JAYCEE BOOTHEEL RODEO CONTINUES TONIGHT

Rodeo action will continue tonight in Sikeston.

Rodeo events scheduled for tonight at the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo include bull riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, and more.

Country music artists Sammy Kershaw, Collin Raye, and Aaron Tippen will be taking the stage to perform tonight as well.

Tickets for tonight are $25 and the rodeo will begin at 7 pm with gates opening at 6 pm.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.SikestonRodeo.com.

Wednesday August 7, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE TRYING TO IDENTIFY MAN WHO ALLEGEDLY TOOK INAPPROPRIATE PICTURES OF WOMEN AT AREA BUSINESS 

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

Detective Joey Woodruff with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that on the evening of August 1st, officers responded to Walmart in reference to a black male taking inappropriate photos of women. Officials say that one of the victims was underage.  

The man was later seen leaving the business in a blue Toyota passenger car. 

The Poplar Bluff Police Department has released a surveillance video featuring the subject and is asking anyone who has information on his identity to contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776. 

We have the video available on the KWOC Facebook page.

POPLAR BLUFF VOTERS DECIDE ON FUTURE OF HIGHWAY 67 

A Ballot proposition in Poplar Bluff concerning Highway 67 has passed.  

The proposition to redefine the Highway 67 expansion to being from the Arkansas-Missouri State Line to Fredericktown rather than from Poplar Bluff to Fredericktown was approved by voters on Tuesday.  

The measure passed by over 88 percent of the around 600 votes cast.

SIKESTON JAYCEE BOOTHEEL RODEO BEGINS TONIGHT 

The 2019 Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo is kicking off tonight.

Rodeo events scheduled for tonight include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, and more. 

Country music singer and songwriter Morgan Wallen will be performing as well.  

Tickets for tonight are $25 and the rodeo will begin at 7 pm with gates opening at 6 pm.  

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.SikestonRodeo.com.

GUN AND METH FOUND AT DUNKLIN COUNTY HOME 

Authorities in Dunklin County say that meth and a gun were found during a search earlier this week.  

Dunklin County Sheriff Bob Holder tells KWOC News that deputies conducted the search of a residence on County Road 110 on Monday.  

During the search, deputies located a male subject by the name of James Dylan Owens hiding under a bed in a bedroom. Owens was confirmed to have warrants out of Stoddard and New Madrid Counties and was placed into custody.  

While searching the residence, deputies located approximately 1.4 grams of methamphetamine along with substances identified as acetaminophen and hydrocodone. 

Also taken into evidence was a Mossberg 12 gauge shotgun that was identified as being stolen out of Stoddard County. 

Sheriff Holder says that additional arrests will be made in connection to the search.

NO INJURIES REPORTED FOLLOWING HOUSE FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF 

A fire caused significant damage to a residence Tuesday morning in Poplar Bluff.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Fire Department, the fire was located at a home on Barron Road.  

A possible cause for the fire was not available.

WAYNE COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR ASPHALT OVERLAY 

Route M in Wayne County will be closed through Thursday so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can overlay the road with asphalt. 

Officials say that the section of roadway to be closed is located from the Wayne County line to Route 34. 

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

FRESHMAN ORIENTATION SET FOR TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL 

Freshman orientation is set to be held today at Poplar Bluff High School.  

Officials say that orientation will begin at 8 am and students can check in outside of the Poplar Bluff High School main entrance.  

Students will get to learn more about life at the High School, get their class schedule, learn the layout of the campus, and meet their advisory class. 

This is a student only event; however parents and guardians are encouraged to attend the open house scheduled for 5:30 to 7 pm on August 20th.

Tuesday August 6, 2019

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEASED CONCERNING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY ARREST IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, authorities have released additional information in connection to the arrest of an area man on child pornography charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on Friday, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence of 43 year old Shawn Herman in Poplar Bluff. 

Officials say that investigators seized child pornography and computer equipment as a result of the search. Herman was arrested and has been formally charged with three counts of possession of child pornography.  

Herman’s bond was set at $100,000 and he was held at the Butler County Jail.

DONIPHAN POLICE ANNOUNCE CHANGES TO SCHOOL TRAFFIC FLOW 

With the new school year approaching, the Doniphan Police Department has announced changes to the flow of school traffic in the afternoons.  

Parents are being asked not to line up before 2:45 pm and to stay in the northbound lane of Vine Street.  

Police officials say the change is to allow residents who live on Vine Street access to their homes and for emergency vehicles to be able to get through when needed.  

For more information go the Doniphan Police Department Facebook page.

ELECTIONS TO BE HELD TODAY IN MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES 

Multiple Southeast Missouri communities will be heading to the ballot box today.  

In Poplar Bluff, voters will choose whether to redefine the Highway 67 expansion to being from the Arkansas-Missouri State Line to Fredericktown rather than from Poplar Bluff to Fredericktown.  

In New Madrid County, residents will vote on a fee for certain communication service subscribers to help fund 911 service while Matthews residents will be deciding on a waterworks and sewerage system bond proposition.  

Multiple sales tax issues will also be voted on in Campbell.

ROAD WORK SET TO BEGIN TODAY IN DEXTER 

Multiple road projects are set to begin today in Dexter.  

According to the City of Dexter Facebook page, crews will be striping One Mile Road from Highway 60 to the school as well as Grant Street by the school. The striping will begin at 8 am.  

Crews will also be paving Park Lane from Grant to Chautauqua starting this morning.  

Motorists are being asked to use alternate routes.

MAN WANTED IN CONNECTION TO KIDNAPPING INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN APPREHENDED 

Poplar Bluff police have apprehended a man who was wanted in connection to a kidnapping investigation. 

Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that Ronnie Allen Jr. was taken into custody without incident Monday afternoon. He was allegedly found hiding in the attic of an area home.  

Following the arrest, Allen was held at the Butler County Justice Center.

MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on multiple felony drug charges.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 35 year old Joseph Johnson was taken into custody Monday afternoon on felony charges of possession of heroin, hydrocodone, alprazolam, methamphetamine, and ecstasy.  

Johnson also reportedly had a felony warrant out of Butler County for dangerous drugs.

POPLAR BLUFF HOUSING AUTHORITY TO HOST BLOCK PARTY TONIGHT 

The Poplar Bluff Housing Authority will be throwing a block party tonight.  

The National Night Out Block Party will be held from 5 to 8 pm at Karen West Head Start.  

The event will include a bike parade, cookout, watermelon eating contest, music, family activities, and more.  

Officials say that the Block Party is to promote strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS 

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

The section of Route P to be closed is located from Route 91 to Route Y. 

Work will take place today from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Monday August 5, 2019

REWARD OFFERED IN CONNECTION TO KIDNAPPING INVESTIGATION 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are offering a reward for help in locating an area man.  

Officials say that the Poplar Bluff Police Department is attempting to find Ronnie Allen Jr., who is wanted in connection to a kidnapping investigation. He is being considered armed and dangerous.  

We have a picture of Allen available on the KWOC Facebook page, and anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

ONE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FIREARM AND METH CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY 

An area man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest in Stoddard County.  

According to authorities, 38 year old Evan McManaman, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested early Saturday morning on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and unlawful possession of a firearm.  

Following his arrest, McManaman was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN CARTER COUNTY LEAVES TWO WITH SERIOUS INJURIES 

Two Piedmont residents were injured in a single vehicle wreck Friday afternoon near Ellsinore.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle failed to negotiate a curve on Route V, ran off the roadway, and struck a tree.  

The driver and a passenger were both seriously injured in the wreck. The driver was flown to a St. Louis hospital while the passenger was transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

TWIN RIVERS SCHOOL DISTRICT REGISTRATION EVENT SCHEDULED TODAY 

The Twin Rivers School District has announced that it will be holding a registration event for all students today.  

Royal Registration is scheduled for 1 to 7 pm at Twin Rivers High School in Broseley. 

There will be booths set up for parents to update the new school year paperwork for students, discuss student health concerns with the nurses, ask transportation questions, visit with school counselors about classes, and allow students to have their school picture taken.  

A Back to School Fair will follow on Wednesday, August 7th from 1 to 7 pm at the Twin Rivers High School Gym.  

The fair is for Twin Rivers students in early childhood through 12th grade and will feature free school supplies, sports physicals, haircuts and more.  

For more information, visit the Twin Rivers High School Facebook page.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE 

A Poplar Bluff man has been taken into custody on a child pornography charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Shawn Herman was arrested Friday morning on three counts of the felony charge of possession of child pornography.  

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

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF TODAY 

A public hearing will be held today in Poplar Bluff to discuss a grant program.  

The City of Poplar Bluff has scheduled the hearing for 6:45 pm at the Black River Coliseum to discuss the city's submission of an application for the Community Development Block Grant program. 

The City of Poplar Bluff and Three Rivers College are requesting funds for the development of a workforce training program entitled Industrial Park Simulation Lab. The total project cost is estimated at over $430,000. 

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Robert Smith at 573-686-8620.

VEHICLE HITS RESIDENCE FOLLOWING COLLISION IN NEW MADRID COUNTY 

Two people were taken to area hospitals following a wreck over the weekend in New Madrid County.  

According to authorities, a vehicle was travelling in the area of US Highway 62 and County Road 241 Sunday evening when it experienced a mechanical defect.  

The vehicle then went into an intersection and struck a towed unit on a passing vehicle. The first vehicle than travelled off the roadway and struck a residence.  

Two people in the vehicle, both from Bernie, were injured during the incident.

BUTLER COUNTY TORNADO SIRENS TO BE TESTED TODAY 

Don’t be surprised if you hear tornado sirens today in Butler County.  

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

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

Friday, August 2, 2019

TWIN RIVERS SCHOOL DISTRICT REGISTRATION EVENT SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK

The Twin Rivers School District has announced that it will be holding a registration event for all students next week.

Royal Registration is scheduled for 1 to 7 pm on Monday, August 5th, at Twin Rivers High School in Broseley.

There will be booths set up for parents to update the new school year paperwork for students, discuss student health concerns with the nurses, ask transportation questions, visit with school counselors about classes, and allow students to have their school picture taken.

A Back to School Fair will then follow on Wednesday, August 7th at the Twin Rivers High School Gym from 1 to 7 pm.

The fair is for Twin Rivers students in early childhood through 12th grade and will feature free school supplies, sports physicals, haircuts and more.

For more information, visit the Twin Rivers High School Facebook page.

POPLAR BLUFF HOUSING AUTHORITY TO HOST BLOCK PARTY NEXT WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Housing Authority will be throwing a block party next week.

The National Night Out Block Party will be held from 5 to 8 pm on August 6th at Karen West Head Start.

The event will include a bike parade, cookout, watermelon eating contest, music, family activities, and more.

Officials say that the Block Party is to promote strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY FOLLOWING WEEKEND SHOOTING

Authorities say that police are investigating a shooting from this past weekend.

Assistant Chief James McMillen with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that officers were called to an area of William and Lanning Streets early Sunday morning in reference to a large group of people and shots being fired.

Officers located several bullet casings and two guns as well as a car that had blood on it. Police learned later that two subjects were hit by gunfire and transported to a hospital by a private vehicle. The victims both had noncritical injuries.

The incident is under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call 573-471-4711. Officials say that all tips can remain anonymous.

VFW POST IN DEXTER TO HOST FISH FRY TODAY

A VFW Post in Dexter will be hosting a fish fry this evening.

VFW Hale Swinger Post 2659 will be serving fish from 5 pm to 8 pm.

In addition to the fish fry, there will also be an indoor dice run, a gun raffle, silent auction, live music, and more.

The VFW Post is located at 23 North Locust Street in Dexter.

11TH ANNUAL MULE SKINNER GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR TODAY

The 11th Annual Mule Skinner Golf Tournament will tee off today.

The 4 person scramble tournament will be held at the Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff beginning at 1 pm.

A banquet and auction will be held following the tournament starting at 6 pm. For more information, contact the Poplar Bluff Mules Booster Club at 573-718-6480.

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

PUXICO FIRE DEPARTMENT TO HOST 3RD ANNUAL STUFF A TRUCK EVENT

The Puxico Fire Department is asking for help with filling a truck full of school supplies this weekend.

The PFD will be hosting their 3rd Annual Stuff a Truck event on Saturday from 7 am until 2 pm at First Midwest Bank.

Official say they are collecting school supplies for children in the community that may not have the finances to get what they need. They will also be accepting donations in addition to the new supplies.

Thursday August 1, 2019

AREA MAN SENTENCED ON SODOMY AND STATUTORY RAPE CHARGES 

An area man has been sentenced on multiple charges including sodomy and statutory rape.  

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

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

Martin has been sentenced to 38 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN COLLISION NEAR BROSELEY 

Three people were injured, including two children, in a collision near Broseley on Wednesday.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred on Highway 51 shortly before noon when a truck turned into the path of a car.  

The driver of the car was seriously injured and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. Two child passengers in the car suffered minor or moderate injuries and were also taken to an area hospital.  

No injuries were listed for the driver of the truck.

ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN DONIPHAN 

Officials in Doniphan say an area road is scheduled to be closed this morning.  

According to the Doniphan Police Department, Grand Avenue between Summit and Page will be closed beginning at 8 am today for tree trimming maintenance.  

Motorists are being asked to avoid the area until the street is reopened.

SIXTH PERSON CHARGED WITH MURDER IN RIPLEY COUNTY HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION 

A sixth person has been charged with murder following a homicide investigation in Ripley County.  

According to Missouri Case Net, Derek Bunyard, of Doniphan, has been charged with Murder 1st degree, Arson 2nd degree, and Kidnapping among other charges.  

Dawn Lloyd, Jerad Lloyd, Cody Payne, David Scrivner Jr., and Schylar Tubbs are also each facing charges including murder and arson following the recent discovery of human remains in Ripley County.  

Sheriff Mike Barton says that the remains have been identified as 44 year old Daniel Richardson.

DUDLEY MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Dudley man has been airlifted to an area hospital following a wreck Wednesday morning.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Matthew Northington was driving on Carter County Road 346 when his vehicle lost control and overturned.  

Northington was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a St. Louis hospital. A passenger in the vehicle received minor injuries.

RAILROAD CROSSINGS TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK IN DEXTER 

Two Dexter railroad crossings will be closed this week.  

According to the Dexter Police Department, the railroad crossing at Ray and Grant will be closed today.  

Officials also say that the railroad crossing at Stoddard Street will be closed on Friday beginning at 4 am. Motorists are being asked to use alternate routes.

BACK TO SCHOOL FAIRS SCHEDULED FOR EARLY THIS MONTH IN WAYNE COUNTY 

The new school year is rapidly approaching and two events will be held next month to help students in the Wayne County get ready.  

The Clearwater R-1 School District will be hosting a back to school fair today from 10 am to 2 pm in the Clearwater Middle School Multi-Purpose Room.   

The Greenville R-2 School District will be holding their back to school fair on Monday, August 5th, from 9 am to 1 pm in the Greenville Elementary School gymnasium.  

Wednesday, July 31, 2019

STATE REPRESENTATIVE ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR MISSOURI STATE SENATE

A sitting member of the Missouri House of Representatives has announced his candidacy for the Missouri State Senate.

Jeff Shawan announced Tuesday night that he will be seeking the Senate seat for Missouri’s 25th Senatorial District which is comprised of Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Shannon, and Stoddard counties.

Shawan was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 2018 and is running for the seat currently held by Doug Libla, who is reaching his term limit.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON DRUG AND WEAPON CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody late last night on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Michael Choate Jr., was arrested shortly after 10 pm Tuesday night on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Choate also reportedly had multiple warrants out of Butler County for failure to appear.

FRESHMAN ORIENTATION SET FOR NEXT MONTH AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

Freshman orientation is set to be held next month at Poplar Bluff High School.

Officials say that orientation will begin at 8 am on Wednesday, August 7th, and students can begin arriving at 7:30 to check in outside of the Poplar Bluff High School main entrance.

Students will get to learn more about life at the High School, get their class schedule, learn the layout of the campus, and meet their advisory class.

This is a student only event; however parents and guardians are encouraged to attend the open house scheduled for 5:30 to 7 pm on August 20th.

PUXICO FIRE DEPARTMENT TO HOST 3RD ANNUAL STUFF A TRUCK EVENT

The Puxico Fire Department is asking for help with filling a truck full of school supplies.

The PFD will be hosting their 3rd Annual Stuff a Truck event on Saturday, August 3rd from 7 am until 2 pm at First Midwest Bank.

Official say they are collecting school supplies for the children in the community that may not have the finances to get what they need. They will also be accepting donations in addition to the new supplies.

MALDEN WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

Authorities in Malden have arrested an area woman on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Malden Police Department, 28 year old Brittney Evans, of Malden, was arrested Monday on a Dunklin County warrant for the charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Her bond was set at $30,000, cash only, and officials say she was held at the Malden City Jail.

K9 PROTECTIVE VEST DONATED TO GREENE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

The Greene County Sheriff’s Office has announced they will receive a charitable donation to help protect one of their officers.

Greene County K9 Dex will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Incorporated.

Delivery is expected within eight to ten weeks.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD

Pavement repairs have forced the temporary closure of a Stoddard County road.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route P in Stoddard County will be closed from Route 91 to Route Y so crews can overlay the roadway.

The work zone will be up from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm both today and tomorrow.

WAYNE COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

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

The section of road to be closed is located from Route D to County Road 527A.

Work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 5 pm both today and tomorrow.

Tuesday July 30, 2019

RIPLEY COUNTY HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION LEADS TO FIVE BEING CHARGED WITH FIRST DEGREE MURDER 

A homicide investigation in Ripley County has resulted in five people being charged with first degree murder. 

According to Ripley County Sheriff Mike Barton, Dawn Lloyd, Jerad Lloyd, Cody Payne, David Scrivner Jr., and Schylar Tubbs are each facing charges including first degree murder, kidnapping, second degree arson, and armed criminal action.  

The arrests stem from the recent discovery of human remains in Ripley County. Sheriff Barton says that the remains have been identified as 44 year old Daniel Richardson.

BLACK RIVER MEDICAL CENTER EMERGENCY ROOM TO CLOSE NEXT WEEK 

A Poplar Bluff emergency room is set to close next week.  

The emergency room at Black River Medical Center will be closing at 7 pm on Friday, August 9th. Black River Medical Center will merge with Saint Francis Healthcare System the following week.  

According to a news release from Saint Francis, the emergency room will be converted to an urgent care center beginning on August 12th.

ATHLETE PHYSICALS SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High student athletes can get a free physical done tonight at the High School.  

Physicals will be conducted beginning at 5:30 pm on 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.  

The first practice date for student athletes at Poplar Bluff High School is Monday, August 12th, with junior high students following a week later on August 19th.

ONE PERSON STILL BEING SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO KENNETT HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION 

Kennett authorities are still searching for a subject in connection to an ongoing homicide investigation.  

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers are still actively searching for Andrea Laray Davis following a shooting over the weekend. Officials say Davis should be considered possibly armed and dangerous and should not be approached by the general public. 

Officers were also searching for Quae’sion Hollywood, who has since been located.  

Anyone who has information Davis’s whereabouts is asked to contact your nearest law enforcement agency.

MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE FEMA DISASTER ASSISTANCE 

Multiple counties in Southeast Missouri will soon be able to receive disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  

Missouri Governor Mike Parson tells KWOC News that FEMA has agreed to the state’s request to provide federal assistance to local governments and nonprofits in 68 counties recovering from flooding and severe storms between April 29th and July 5th. 

The counties approved include Stoddard, Wayne, New Madrid, Randolph, Shannon, and Pemiscot.  

FEMA’s decision also makes available assistance through its Hazard Mitigation Program to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property due to natural hazards.

DONIPHAN MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE 

A Doniphan man is facing a felony drug charge following his arrest Monday night.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Michael Arnold was taken into custody shortly after 8 pm Monday night in Ripley County.  

Arnold was arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON NUMEROUS WARRANTS 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Bonne Terre man on numerous warrants.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 39 year old Darrin Mcintyre was recently arrested on a total of 10 felony state warrants for failure to appear, as well as a single municipal warrant for failure to appear. 

His total bond amount has been set at over $10,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in custody as of this morning.

Monday July 29, 2019

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION RESULTS IN MULTIPLE ARRESTS IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

A homicide investigation is underway in Southeast Missouri.  

Few details have been released, but authorities say that five people have been taken into custody in connection to human remains that were recently found in Ripley County.  

The identities of the people involved are being withheld pending formal charges being filed.

PIEDMONT TEENAGER KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A Southeast Missouri teenager has died following a single vehicle wreck in Reynolds County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 18 year old Tyler McAlister, of Piedmont, was driving on Reynolds County Road 468 when his vehicle ran off the roadway, overturned, and struck a tree.  

Officials say the wreck occurred at around 2 am Saturday morning.  

McAlister was pronounced dead at the scene by Reynolds County Coroner Jeffrey McSpadden.

TWO ARRESTED FOR METHAMPHETAMINE IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested two area men on drug charges.  

According to the Highway Patrol, 52 year old Kevin Elsworth, of Poplar Bluff, and 21 year old Sabastine Huitt, of Qulin were each arrested Friday afternoon on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Huitt also reportedly had warrants out of Butler and Ripley Counties.  

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

BRIDGE CLOSED IN POPLAR BLUFF 

A bridge in Poplar Bluff was closed last week.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department, the bridge over Pike Creek on South 11th Street was closed at noon on Friday.  

Officials say the bridge is scheduled to be replaced soon, however no timetable was given.

TWO BEING SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL 

Two men are being sought in connection to a homicide investigation in the Missouri bootheel.  

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly after noon on Sunday, officers were dispatched to Beaton Street in reference to shots being fired.  

Few details about the incident have been released but officials did say that it is being investigated as a homicide. Police did not release the victim’s identity.  

Officials say that 22 year old Quae'sion "Que" Hollywood and 22 year old Andrea "Drako" Davis are being considered persons of interest in the investigation.  

Police say that both individuals should be considered possibly armed and dangerous. The general public is encouraged to not approach either subject. We have pictures of both men available on the KWOC Facebook page.  

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact the Kennett Police Department immediately at (573)-888-4622.

ESSEX MAN ONE OF TWO PEOPLE KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK 

An Essex man was one of two people that were killed over the weekend in a Northeast Arkansas wreck.  

According to the Arkansas State Police, a vehicle driven by 59 year old Daniel Petty, of Essex, was travelling on Highway 167 in Independence County when his vehicle crossed the center line and a turn lane before striking another vehicle head on.  

Petty was killed in the wreck, as was the driver of the second vehicle, 33 year old Drew Grant, of Jackson.  

Three others were injured in the wreck.

MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY METH CHARGE IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

A Fairdealing man was taken into custody over the weekend on a felony methamphetamine charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Derek Bunyard was arrested Saturday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Bunyard is also facing charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while revoked.  

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

NEW MADRID POLICE INVESTIGATING REPORTS OF PEOPLE GOING THROUGH UNLOCKED CARS 

Authorities in New Madrid are investigating reports of people going through area vehicles over the weekend.  

According to the New Madrid Police Department, Sunday morning officers took several reports after at least five unlocked cars were gone through.  

Officials say there were believed to be three or four suspects on foot walking together in the areas of Maple, Kingshighway, St Mark, and Davis. 

We have surveillance footage of the suspects available on the KWOC Facebook page.  

Anyone who has a home surveillance system in the area is asked to check your footage from last night. If the suspects were caught on your surveillance cameras, or you recognize the suspects, contact the police at 573-748-5901.

Friday July 26, 2019

A BERNIE MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON ON SODOMY CHARGE 

A Bernie man has been sentenced on a sodomy charge.  

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney, Russell Oliver, Jimmy Sloan was sentenced earlier this week to life imprisonment for the crime of statutory sodomy in the first degree.  

Oliver says that his office is pleased with the sentence and further information will not be revealed due to the sensitive nature of the crime.

TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR KENNETT 

A teenager was seriously injured in a wreck Thursday evening in Dunklin County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 17 year old male was driving an ATV on a private field near Kennett when he struck a ditch and overturned.  

The teenager was reportedly not wearing a safety device and suffered serious injuries. He was flown to a Jonesboro hospital.

RECORD BREAKING FISH CAUGHT BY WAPPAPELLO RESIDENT 

A record breaking fish has been caught on the St. Francis River.  

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Mitchell Dering, of Wappapello, caught a 6-pound, 2-ounce spotted gar on July 5th.  

The previous state record for spotted gar was a 6-pound, 0-ounce fish caught in 2005 in Boeuf Creek. 

The fish’s weight was verified on an MDC scale in Wayne County. It is the seventh state-record fish caught in 2019.

CHILD FLOWN TO A ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL AFTER BEING HIT BY A VEHICLE IN SIKESTON 

A child was injured Thursday after being struck by a vehicle in Sikeston.  

According to authorities, the three year old child was hit on Kay Avenue shortly before noon and suffered serious injuries.  

The child was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING FIRE IN KENNETT 

State authorities are investigating a fire in Kennett.  

According to the Kennett Fire Department, a structure fire occurred on Thursday on Central Street.  

The structure was abandoned and there were no injuries reported.  

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Kennett Fire Department and the Missouri State Fire Marshalls Office.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO REPORTS OF STOLEN FOUR-WHEELERS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS 

There have been several reports of four-wheelers being stolen in Northeast Arkansas over the past few weeks and authorities say a suspect has been taken into custody.  

Greene County Sheriff Steve Franks tells KWOC News the suspect, Donnie Barnes, was apprehended Thursday following a foot pursuit in the Paragould area. He was booked into the Greene County Detention Center. 

Barnes reportedly had warrants with both the Greene County Sheriff’s Department and the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department.  

Franks says that several of the four-wheelers reported stolen have already been recovered.

OLD TOOL WORKSHOP SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND 

An Old Tool Workshop will be held on Saturday, July 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Heritage Workshop located at the Ozark National Scenic Riverways park headquarters in Van Buren.  

Attendees will get to learn about a variety of old tools and how to restore your own vintage tools to their former beauty. The event is free and officials say that all are welcome.   

For more information visit www.nps.gov/ozar or call 573-323-4236, extension #0.

Thursday July 25, 2019

WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Cape Girardeau woman on a controlled substance charge.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 31 year old Megan Jones was recently booked on a charge of possession of a controlled substance. 

No bond was set and officials say that Jones remained in custody as of this morning.

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF NEXT MONTH 

A public hearing has been scheduled for next month to discuss a grant program.  

The City of Poplar Bluff will hold a public hearing at 6:45 pm on Monday, August 5th at the Black River Coliseum to discuss the city's submission of an application for the Community Development Block Grant program. 

The City of Poplar Bluff and Three Rivers College are requesting funds for the development of a workforce training program entitled Industrial Park Simulation Lab. The total project cost is estimated at over $430,000. 

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Robert Smith at 573-686-8620.

OVERLAY PROJECT UNDERWAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

Route B in Ripley County will be reduced with a 10.5 width restriction for over two weeks as contractor crews perform pavement overlay.  

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 from 7 am to 5 pm daily through Friday, August 9th.

ST. JUDE VIP BANQUET AND ARCHERY SHOOT TO BE HELD IN AUGUST 

Dates have been set for the 4th Annual St. Jude VIP Banquet and 8th Annual St. Jude Archery Shoot.  

The VIP Banquet will be held on Friday August 9th at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff. Doors open at 5:30 pm and tickets can be purchased for $40 at eventbbrite.com by using the keyword St. Jude VIP Banquet. Tickets will include dinner and drinks.  

The Archery Shoot has been scheduled for 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday, August 10th at the Missouri Department of Conservation Archery Range on NN Highway in Butler County.  

For more information contact Miranda Fickert at 573-718-2875.

SCHOOL READINESS EVENT SCHEDULED FOR EARLY AUGUST IN POPLAR BLUFF 

The South Central Missouri Community Action Agency will be holding a school readiness event in Poplar Bluff.  

There will be free school supplies and health screenings available during the event from 9 am to 3 pm on August 8th at the Black River Coliseum.  

Pre-registration is now available. For more information call 573-785-4727 or go to scmcaa.org.

11TH ANNUAL MULE SKINNER GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR NEXT WEEK 

The 11th Annual Mule Skinner Golf Tournament is just over a week away.  

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 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.

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

MURDER SUSPECT MAKES APPEARANCE IN WAYNE COUNTY COURT

A man arrested on a murder charge in Wayne County appeared in court earlier this week.

Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch tells KWOC News that Craig Alan Wood was in a Wayne County Courtroom on Monday for a bond review hearing.

Wood is being held at the Wayne County Jail on the charges of first degree murder and first degree assault, stemming from the missing persons case of Rebecca Alsup, who was reported missing in February of 2017.

Wood’s bond was set at $500,000, cash only.

Anyone who has further information about the investigation is asked to call 573-224-3219.

MAN DROWNS IN CURRENT RIVER

A man drowned Tuesday afternoon in Shannon County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Trenton Crane, of Pevely, was swimming at Blue Springs on the Current River when he became fatigued, inhaled water, and was unable to resurface.

He was later pronounced dead by Shannon County Coroner Tim Denton.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER SCREENINGS TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY

Appointments are 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 and will be held tomorrow.

A child must have turned three by July 31, 2019, and be no older than five by that date, to be eligible to attend.

Parents must have their 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.

DONIPHAN WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Doniphan woman on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Lashawna Phillips was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and driving while suspended.

Phillips was also arrested on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

HIGHWAY PATROL SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will soon be getting assessed for accreditation and is asking for the public’s opinion on the organization’s operations.

Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that a team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Incorporated will arrive on August 5th to examine all aspects of the Highway Patrol's policies and procedures, management, and operations and support services.

As part of the assessment, a public forum will be held concerning the services and performance Highway Patrol on Wednesday, August 7th in Jefferson City.

The public can also offer comments to the assessment team on the services and performance of the Highway Patrol by calling (877) 545-5511 from 2 to 4 pm on Wednesday, August 7th.

Telephone comments are limited to 10 minutes and must address the ability of the Missouri State Highway Patrol to comply with Commission standards.

METH AND PARAPHERNALIA DISCOVERY LEAD TO ARREST IN KENNETT

Authorities in Kennett arrested two people in connection to a drug discovery on Monday.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers located an undisclosed amount of methamphetamine and narcotic related paraphernalia during a traffic stop Monday afternoon.

40 year old Isidro Guerrero, of Kennett, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine. Officers also arrested a 24 year old Gibson resident on an unrelated active Kennett Municipal warrant.

Guerrero was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor's office.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY

Northbound Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform erosion repairs.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the work zone will be located from Route 60 to Old Bloomfield Road.

Weather permitting, work will take today through Thursday, August 8th from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm daily.

Tuesday July 23, 2019

POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT FOLLOWING MULTI-COUNTY PURSUIT 

Police are searching for a suspect in connection to two separate pursuits in Southeast Missouri.  

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that on July 15th an officer initiated a traffic stop which led to a pursuit that was eventually called off due to weather conditions near the Butler and Stoddard County line.  

During the afternoon of July 21st, a driver matching the description of the driver in the previous pursuit was observed by officers at 10th and Pine Street in Poplar Bluff and a pursuit was initiated.  

Whiteley says that the driver ran through multiple stop signs at a high rate of speed, putting numerous citizens in jeopardy.  

The pursuit continued for over an hour, until the driver went off road near Kennett and ran through a fence and into a pasture. The driver then fled on foot.   

A passenger in the vehicle identified the driver as 25 year old Johnnie Ray Braden, of Poplar Bluff and said that Braden was also involved in the pursuit on July 15th.  

Anyone who has information on Braden’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON SODOMY CHARGE 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a sodomy charge.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 69 year old Jimmie Lee Sloan, of Bernie, was recently arrested for sodomy or attempted sodomy 1st degree. Few other details about the arrest have been made available.  

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

POPLAR BLUFF ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR REPAIRS 

A Poplar Bluff road is scheduled to be closed today for repairs.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department Maud Street will be closed for most of the day so crews can overlay the roadway.  

Officials say the work zone will be located between 9th and 12th streets.

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF SHOOTING TURNS HIMSELF IN 

A man who was wanted in connection to a shooting last week in Poplar Bluff has surrendered to authorities.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley says that George Robert Strahan turned himself in last night shortly before 10 pm.  

Police had been searching for Strahan after officers responded to a location on Grand Avenue Friday afternoon in reference to a subject who had been shot. 

The victim suffered a non-life threatening gunshot wound during the incident.  

Strahan is being held in the Butler County Justice Center on charges of assault 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.

METH FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN KENNETT 

A Kennett man is facing a drug charge after meth was found during a traffic stop over the weekend.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers conducted the traffic stop on Independence Avenue Sunday afternoon. During the stop, officers located an undisclosed amount of methamphetamine. 

39 year old Glen Trainer was arrested for possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor's office.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS FORCE CLOSURE OF PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD 

Route H in Pemiscot County is being closed through early next month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway involved in the repairs is located between Route 164 and Route U. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 5 pm daily through Thursday, August 1st and the road will be open to local traffic only.

Monday July 22, 2019

MAN ARRESTED ON MURDER CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO MISSING WOMAN 

An investigation into a missing woman in Wayne County has led to a murder arrest.  

Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch tells KWOC News that Craig Alan Wood, of Williamsville, has been arrested and charged with first degree murder and first degree assault of Rebecca Alsup, who was reported missing in February of 2017.  

Wood is being held in the Wayne County Jail on no bond. 

Sheriff Finch is asking anyone who has information that could further assist in the investigation to contact the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at 573-224-3219.

DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON A RAPE WARRANT 

Authorities in Stoddard County have taken an area man into custody on a rape warrant.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 30 year old Adam Eagle, of Dexter, was recently booked on a warrant for rape 2nd degree through Scott County.  

Eagle was held in custody on a $100,000 cash or surety bond.

POPLAR BLUFF RESTAURANT ABRUPTLY CLOSES 

A Poplar Bluff restaurant has abruptly closed its doors.  

Scotty’s Brewhouse on Oak Grove Road has closed until further notice. The restaurant only opened in 2018. 

The restaurant chain had reportedly filed for bankruptcy last December and already closed multiple locations since then.

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF SHOOTING 

Poplar Bluff police are searching for man in connection to a shooting last week.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers responded to a location on Grand Avenue Friday afternoon in reference to a subject who had been shot. 

The victim suffered a non-life threatening gunshot wound during the incident.  

Police officials are currently seeking the whereabouts of George Robert Strahan, who is being considered armed and dangerous. 

Anyone who has information on Strahan’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON WEAPON CHARGES 

A Dexter man has been taken into custody on weapon charges.  

Officials with the Malden Police Department tell KWOC News that Devon Rogers was arrested Friday on two felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon.  

Rogers was held at the Malden Police Station in lieu of a $50,000 cash only bond. He was later transported to the Dunklin County Jail.

AREA MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK 

A Harviell man was taken to an area hospital on Friday following a single vehicle wreck in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 76 year old John McKim was driving on US Highway 67 near Poplar Bluff when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and came to rest in a ditch.  

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

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO FORCE CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD 

Route P in Stoddard County will be closed early this week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.  

MoDOT officials say the section of roadway to be closed is located from Route 91 to Route Y. 

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

Friday, July 19, 2019

EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING TO CONTINUE FOR MOST OF THE WEEKEND

Oppressively hot temperatures have settled in over Southeast Missouri and weather officials say the temperatures will continue for most of the weekend.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an Excessive Heat Warning is in effect for many counties in Southeast Missouri, including Carter, Ripley, Butler, Wayne, Stoddard, and New Madrid, until 7 pm on Sunday.

Officials say that dangerously high temperatures and humidity could quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke if precautions are not taken.

If anyone has to be outside for work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Weather officials say the rest of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas that is not in the Excessive Heat Warning is currently under a heat advisory.

VEHICLE LEAVES THE SCENE OF A WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY

A vehicle reportedly left the scene of a wreck Thursday in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a vehicle was stopped in traffic on Highway T when it was struck in the rear by another vehicle.

The second vehicle then left the scene. Officials say the incident occurred at around 12:40 pm.

The driver of the stopped vehicle suffered minor injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY WARRANTS

An area man has been taken into custody on multiple felony warrants in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Gordon Kane, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested Thursday afternoon on felony Butler County warrants for possession of heroin, larceny, and a probation violation.

Kane was also arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

OZARK BORDER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE TO HOLD ANNUAL MEETING

A date has been set for the annual membership meeting for Ozark Border Electric Cooperative.

The meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, August 10th at the Three Rivers College Activity Center.

Registration will begin at 9 am.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING STRUCTURE FIRE IN KENNETT

A fire is under investigation in the Missouri Bootheel.

According to the Kennett Fire Department, crews were dispatched early Thursday morning to a structure fire on Southwest Drive.

Few details about the fire were available; and officials say the cause of the fire is being investigated by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office.

DEXTER MAN IN CUSTODY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

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

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 51 year old Kenneth Anderson was recently booked on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance along with a separate traffic warrant.

Officials say that Anderson’s bond was set at $25,000, cash only, and he remained in custody as of this morning.

Thursday July 18, 2019

EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING TO BEGIN AT NOON 

Parts of Southeast Missouri will be under an Excessive Heat Warning beginning at noon today.  

According to the National Weather Service, the warning will be in effect from noon until 7 pm on Sunday and maximum afternoon heat index values from ranging from around 105 to 110 degrees are expected. 

Remember to drink plenty of fluids. Try to stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun if possible.  

Never leave pets, children, or the elderly unattended in parked vehicles.

SIX ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES WEDNESDAY IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Six men were taken into custody on drug charges in Butler County over a seven hour period on Wednesday.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Joshua Hart, 31 year old Gary Hensley, 18 year old Andrew Hill, 30 year old Shawn Bensley, all of Poplar Bluff, along with 37 year old Davis Smith, of Kennett, were each arrested on a methamphetamine charge.  

32 year old Joseph Osborn, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on a charge of possession of a controlled substance for Xanax.  

The 1st arrest occurred at 1:45 pm and the last was at 8:27 pm. Officials did not say if any of the arrests were connected.  

PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT UNDERWAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

Route AC in Dunklin County is being reduced with an 11-foot width restriction through part of next month as contractor crews mill and resurface the roadway.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 412 to Route F. 

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Monday, August 12th.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON CRACK COCAINE CHARGE IN PEMISCOT COUNTY 

Authorities have arrested a Southeast Missouri man on a cocaine charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 61 year old Johnny Luster, of Homestown, was taken into custody Wednesday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for crack cocaine.  

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

EARTHQUAKE FELT WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

There have been reports of an earthquake hitting on Wednesday in Southeast Missouri.  

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.5 earthquake was recorded at 12:12 pm Thursday afternoon. 

The earthquake had a depth of approximately five and a half miles and was centered around 30 miles south of Sikeston.

NEW DAY MINISTRIES TO HOST FEED AND SEED EVENT TODAY 

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

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

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

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

Wednesday July 17, 2019

BUTLER COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER INMATE DIES OF NATURAL CAUSES 

An inmate at the Butler County Justice Center has died.  

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that 44 year old Donald Ray Herrold III, of Poplar Bluff, was found unresponsive in the shower on Monday.  

An officer administrated CPR and Herrold was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.  

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore says that an autopsy was performed Tuesday morning that revealed that Herrold had a fatal upper respiratory infection and has had this issue for a long time.  

Moore also stated that Herrold’s death had nothing to do with his incarceration.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO FLEE FROM OFFICERS 

A man has been taken into custody after attempting to flee from police in the Missouri bootheel.  

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers were dispatched to an area residence Monday afternoon in reference to suspicious activity.  

At the scene, officers came into contact with an individual who had been seen underneath the reporting parties' vehicle. 

Officials say the subject attempted to flee on foot however was apprehended by officers. 

40 year old Dustin Hamlett, of Kennett, was arrested for resisting arrest and on an un-related state of Missouri warrant issued out of Dunklin County. 

Hamlett was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor's office.

PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD 

Route F in Dunklin County will be reduced with a 10-foot width restriction through early next month as contractor crews mill and resurface the roadway.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of Route F to be reduced is located from Route 412 to the Arkansas state line. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, August 8th from 6 am to 6 pm daily.

HEAT WAVE TO CROSS OVER THE AREA BRINGING HEAT INDICES OVER 105 DEGREES 

Excessive heat will be gripping the area for the rest of this week and weather officials are warning residents to be prepared.  

Warning Coordination Meteorologist Rick Shanklin with the National Weather Service in Paducah tells KWOC News that an Excessive Heat Watch will be in effect beginning on Thursday.  

RICK SHANKLIN: 

An excessive heat watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of high temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible if precautions aren't taken. We're expecting high temperatures in the mid-90s, low temperatures only falling off into the mid-70s, all the way through the weekend and that combination will produce indices from around 105 to 110 degrees each afternoon from Thursday and all the way through the weekend. Some things to keep in mind to stay safe during this period of excessive heat are to drink plenty of fluids. Stay in an air-conditioned room if possible, certainly stay out of the sun. And don't forget to check up on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly. And also those pets be sure they had plenty of shade or brought inside and that they have plenty of water to drink as well. 

Shanklin says that the Excessive Heat Watch will currently be in effect from Thursday afternoon through Sunday evening.

MULTIPLE COOLING CENTERS AVAILABLE IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Anyone looking for relief from the heat wave that will scorch Southeast Missouri the rest of this week can visit any of the multiple cooling centers available in Butler County. 

Cooling centers have been established in Poplar Bluff at the Butler County Health Department, and Poplar Bluff Public Library. 

Cooling Centers are also available at the Fisk Community Library and the Qulin Senior Center. 

A tool to find cooling centers in your area is available at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website.

NEELYVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE 

A Neelyville man has been taken into custody on a felony methamphetamine charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Jamaal Hamilton was arrested Monday night on a felony charge of delivery of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Hamilton is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

STATE OFFICIALS REQUEST FOR DISASTER DECLARATION TO EXPAND  

Missouri State officials have sent in a request to expand a disaster declaration issued earlier this month.  

Missouri Governor Mike Parson tells KWOC News that the State Emergency Management Agency has requested that FEMA expand the July 9th disaster declaration to provide Public Assistance for repairs to damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure along with emergency response costs in a total of 68 counties, including Stoddard, Wayne, New Madrid, Shannon, Bollinger, and Pemiscot.  

Officials say that additional counties may be considered for Public Assistance as floodwaters recede and more information is gathered locally.

Tuesday July 16, 2019

FLASH FLOOD WATCH CONTINUES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS 

A flash flood watch continues for much of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas through this evening.  

According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are expected to increase in coverage and intensity today with the primary hazard being locally heavy rainfall. 

Weather officials say that up to three inches of rain has already fallen in parts of Southeast Missouri and today’s storms could produce hourly rainfall rates of up to 2 inches.  

According to a hazardous weather outlook from the National Weather Service, an extended period of excessive heat is anticipated to begin later this week and continue through early next week.  

Weather officials say that maximum afternoon heat index values will easily surpass 100 degrees and numerous locations may top out around 105 degrees or slightly higher.

AREA TEENAGER KILLED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY WRECK 

An area teenager was killed in a wreck Sunday evening in Pemiscot County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol the wreck occurred when a vehicle travelled off the side of Route B near Homestown, struck a ditch, and overturned.  

Three of the passengers in the vehicle were ejected during the wreck. One of the passengers, a 15 year old female from Caruthersville, was later pronounced dead at a Blytheville hospital.  

The driver and two other passengers suffered moderate injuries and were transported to area hospitals.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT 

Route T in Stoddard County has been closed so contractor crews can replace a bridge over Turkey Creek. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located between County Road 295 and County Road 297.   

Weather permitting, the road is scheduled to re-open on Monday, September 30th.

GREENVILLE MAN FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST IN WAYNE COUNTY 

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Michael Bennett was taken into custody Monday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.  

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

BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO HOST IMMUNIZATION CLINICS 

The beginning of the school year is coming up and the Butler County Health Department wants to make sure that students are prepared.  

The Health Department will be hosting back-to-school immunization clinics on July 22nd and 29th as well as August 5th.  

Each clinic will begin at 8:30 am and continue until 4 pm, except for the clinic on July 29th, which will end at 6 pm.  

Parents are asked to bring their children’s immunization records with them to the clinic.

MONTH LONG PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT UNDERWAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

Route N in Dunklin County will be reduced with a 10 foot width restriction for almost a month as contractor crews mill and resurface the roadway.  

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that the work zone will be located between Route 412 and Route 164. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Wednesday, August 14th.

Monday, July 15, 2019

REMNANTS OF TROPICAL STORM BARRY COULD DROP MULTIPLE INCHES OF RAIN ON THE AREA

Weather officials say that the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry could cause some heavy rainfall over the area.

According to a Flash Flood watch from the National Weather Service, rainfall totals are forecast to range from two and a half to four and a half inches for most of Southeast Missouri, with isolated higher amounts possible.

In the Missouri Bootheel, as well as Clay and Greene Counties in Northeast Arkansas, two to three inches of rainfall is forecast with localized four inch amounts also possible.

The Flash Flood watches will be in effect through Tuesday evening.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook by the National Weather Service, a few strong to severe storms are possible. The main hazards with the storms will be damaging winds and possibly brief tornadoes.

KENNETT MAN DROWNS WHILE FISHING ON ST. FRANCIS RIVER

An area man has died after drowning in St. Francis River.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 44 year old David Nichols, of Kennett, was checking a fishing line on the front of a boat Friday when he fell off into the water.

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

ARKANSAS MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A Northeast Arkansas man has died from injuries he received in a single vehicle wreck on Friday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Obispo Sapon Sic, of Blytheville, was driving on Route NN in Dunklin County when his vehicle ran off the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials say that the wreck occurred at around 4 am Friday morning.

WAPPAPELLO MAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Wappapello man was taken to an area hospital Friday night after being hit by a vehicle.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 54 year old Eric Steinbeck was struck by a vehicle on Highway T in Butler County at approximately 10 pm Friday.

Steinbeck suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA AND SEWER USER FEE TO BE DISCUSSED AT POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING

The Poplar Bluff City Council will be holding a meeting tonight.

During the meeting, the city council will review and take action on a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission to approve an amendment to Land Use Regulations to restrict the location of medical marijuana facilities in the city as well as a recommendation from the Municipal Utilities Advisory Board regarding a sewer user fee rate adjustment in order to finance the State Revolving Fund Wastewater Treatment Project.

The City Council will also take action on an ordinance regarding benefits for future employees.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 pm in the city council chambers on 5th Street.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS UPCOMING ROAD PROJECT IN WAYNE COUNTY

A public meeting will be held today 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 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.