Wednesday, November 6, 2024
STUCKER AND DARNELL WIN RACES IN BUTLER COUNTY
Ralph Stucker and Jeff Darnell were the winners of the contested races Tuesday in Butler County.
For County Commissioner of the Eastern District of Butler County, Ralph Stucker defeated Van Rhodes 8,873-2,388.
In the race for Butler County Public Administrator, Jeff Darnell beat Amy Kopf 13,222-4,027.
In Carter County, voters approved a question that will exempt senior citizens, aged 62 and older, from increases in the property tax liability due on their primary residence.
STUCKER AND DARNELL WIN RACES IN BUTLER COUNTY
Ralph Stucker and Jeff Darnell were the winners of the contested races Tuesday in Butler County.
For County Commissioner of the Eastern District of Butler County, Ralph Stucker defeated Van Rhodes 8,873-2,388.
In the race for Butler County Public Administrator, Jeff Darnell beat Amy Kopf 13,222-4,027.
In Carter County, voters approved a question that will exempt senior citizens, aged 62 and older, from increases in the property tax liability due on their primary residence.
DONALD TRUMP REELECTED PRESIDENT
Former President Donald Trump is projected to retake the White House.
Trump carried both Missouri and Arkansas on his way to getting over 270 votes to defeat Vice President Kamala Harris.
It was a good night for Republicans in both Missouri as Josh Hawley was reelected to the Senate for Missouri, while Jason Smith was reelected to the US House of Representatives.
In Arkansas, Rick Crawford was reelected to the US House of Representatives.
MISSOURI STATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN ACTIVATED IN RESPONSE TO FLOODING AND SEVERE WEATHER
Missouri Governor Mike Parson has taken steps to increase the state's response to flooding and severe weather.
On Tuesday Governor Parson signed an Executive Order to activate the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan.
Parts of Missouri have already sustained flood and storm damage with additional impacts expected as river levels begin to crest and floodwaters recede.
According to NOAA, the Current River at Van Buren is expected to crest at 30 feet Wednesday evening, which is 3 feet above the major flood stage. Evacuations were started Tuesday along the Current River in the Van Buren area.
The Current River at Doniphan is expected to crest at 28 feet midday on Thursday. The major flood stage for that area is 22 feet.
Governor Parson says that the Executive Order enables the state to be better prepared and ready to assist communities with response and recovery.
MISSOURI VOTERS APPROVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT REGARDING ABORTION
Missouri voters have approved a Constitutional Amendment that enshrines abortion rights in the state constitution and replaces a near-total ban on the procedure.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 3 was passed by voters on Tuesday. Voters also approved amendments to legalize sports betting, and prohibit ranked choice voting.
Voters rejected amendments that allow for a casino near the Lake of the Ozarks and allow costs and fees to go to salaries and benefits for certain and former law enforcement personnel.
A proposition that will increase the minimum wage in Missouri was also approved by voters.
In Arkansas, voters approved both statewide issues that were on the ballots.
MAN IN CRITICAL CONDITION FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF
A victim is in critical condition following a shooting Monday evening in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 5:30 pm officers responded to the area of Illinois and Iowa Avenues regarding a report of several shots being fired.
At the scene officers located a 34-year-old male subject walking along the street who was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
The subject was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital and then to a Cape Girardeau hospital where his condition is listed as critical.
Lieutenant Josh Stewart tells KWOC News that the suspect or suspects fled the scene prior to officers arriving.
An investigation is ongoing and anyone who has information in connection to the incident is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.
MIKE KEHOE ELECTED MISSOURI GOVERNOR
Republican Mike Kehoe defeated Democrat Crystal Quade to win the Missouri governor's race on Tuesday.
Kehoe is Missouri's lieutenant governor and will take over for Mike Parson, who was barred by term limits from seeking reelection.
Republicans also swept the other Missouri Executive offices, with Dave Wasinger being elected Lieutenant Governor, Denny Hoskins winning the race for Secretary of State, Vivek Malek being reelected State Treasurer, and Andrew Bailey being reelected Attorney General.
For the Missouri State Senate, Jason Bean won reelection for Missouri District 25.
For the Missouri State House of Representatives, Tony Harbison, Cameron Bunting Parker, Steve Jordan, and Keith Elliott all won their races.
In Arkansas, John Thurston was elected as state Treasurer.
ELECTION RESULTS FOR RIPLEY AND PEMISCOT COUNTIES
Voters in Ripley and Pemiscot County cast their ballots on Tuesday.
In Ripley County, Donna Barnett won the race for Public Administrator while voters also rejected tax levy for road and bridge purposes.
In Pemiscot County, David Greer was elected as 1st District Commissioner for the County Commission. Hayti voters also rejected a mosquito suppression and control assessment increase.
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
TODAY IS ELECTION DAY
A number of races and propositions will be voted on today by citizens in Missouri and Arkansas.
In addition to the race for the White House, voters across Missouri will also be voting on a United States Senate race along with multiple spots in the state government, including Governor.
Voters in Missouri will also be voting on five constitutional amendments and a statewide proposition.
TODAY IS ELECTION DAY
A number of races and propositions will be voted on today by citizens in Missouri and Arkansas.
In addition to the race for the White House, voters across Missouri will also be voting on a United States Senate race along with multiple spots in the state government, including Governor.
Voters in Missouri will also be voting on five constitutional amendments and a statewide proposition.
Arkansas Voters will be deciding on two constitutional amendments as well as who will be state Treasurer.
You can find your polling location at the Missouri Secretary of State website at sos.mo.gov or the Arkansas Secretary of State website at sos.arkansas.gov.
BUTLER COUNTY CLERK DONNA HILLIS TALKS ABOUT VOTING AHEAD OF THE ELECTION
Election Day is today and Butler County officials are wanting residents to be prepared when they come to vote.
KWOC News spoke with Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis about what you should do when you arrive to vote.
“You can speed up the process by having your Missouri Photo ID ready. You will not be able to cast your vote in the tabulator without a non-expired Missouri Driver’s License, a Missouri non-driver’s license, a passport, or a military ID.
If you are registered to vote in Butler County but you still have an out of state driver’s license, you will only be permitted to vote provisionally.
Please be aware that electioneering laws prohibit people from wearing anything that displays a political party, candidate name, or ballot issue, which includes shirts, hats, buttons and stickers.
You will not be allowed inside the precinct or within 25 feet of the polling place wearing this type of attire. We do not expect any problems at the polls in Butler County, but be advised that law enforcement will be available to each of the precincts should the need arise. Acts of violence, or attempting to keep any voter from voting will not be tolerated.
Among other offenses, the Missouri Law states that it is unlawful to engage in or threaten any act of violence at a polling place. Please respect others' right to vote the way they want, and move on. Engaging in disorderly conduct, violence, or threats is considered interfering with election processes.
We are asking everyone to be kind and be respectful to all of the poll workers at the precincts. It will be a tough day for each of them. They are committed to helping each person navigate the lines, and guide people through the process so please be courteous.
If you have any problems or questions, please call the Clerk's Office at 573-686-8050.”
KWOC will be providing live election coverage during the night of November 5th on the KWOC Facebook page.
RECTOR MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH
A Rector man was killed in an early Sunday morning crash.
According to the Arkansas State Police, 23 year old Johnny Lopez, of Rector, was driving on West Parker Road in Jonesboro when he failed to negotiate a curve and overturned into a ditch.
Lopez was ejected during the crash and later pronounced dead at the scene.
MAN KILLED FROM DOWNED POWER LINES FOLLOWING CRASH IN STODDARD COUNTY
A man was killed following an accident Sunday night in Stoddard County.
Stoddard County Coroner Brent Stidham tells KWOC News that shortly after 9 pm Sunday his office responded to an accident on County Road 637 where a 57 year old male driver had run off the roadway and struck a utility pole.
The driver then exited the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries from contact with downed power lines.
The name of the subject has not been released.
POPLAR BLUFF LIONS CLUB CHILI DAY TO BE HELD TODAY
The Poplar Bluff Lions Club is hosting their annual Chili Day today.
Chili will be available for pickup from 11 am to 5:30 pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Grand Avenue. Dine in and delivery will be available from 11 am to 1:30 pm.
If you have questions, call 573-609-4683. Tickets are $10.
INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY AFTER THREE PEOPLE FOUND DEAD IN POCAHONTAS
An investigation is underway after multiple people were found dead at a Northeast Arkansas residence.
According to the Pocahontas Police Department, officers found three people dead Monday morning at an area home.
The names of the deceased or a possible cause of death have not been released.
Pocahontas Chief of Police David Edington tells KWOC News that based on evidence at the scene, they are not looking for suspects at this time.
MAN IN CUSTODY ON TWO MILLION DOLLAR BOND IN CONNECTION TO ALLEGED SHOOTING INVOLVING AN AR-15 STYLE RIFLE
A man is in custody on multiple felony charges in connection to an alleged shooting involving an AR-15 style rifle.
According to a warrant, Paragould Emergency Services received multiple calls Saturday night regarding shots being fired at a residence on South 10th Avenue.
At the scene, officers were told that 22 year old Devin Dancer, of Paragould, had gotten into an argument with the residents and left the scene before returning a short time later with a juvenile.
Witnesses advised that Dancer was in the passenger seat of the juveniles vehicle when he brandished an AR-15 style rifle, pointed it at a person on scene, and then fired approximately three rounds.
No injuries occurred but four adults and two juveniles under the age of two were in front of or inside the residence that was shot at.
Dancer was later found by officers and taken into custody.
Dancer is facing felony charges of terroristic act, unlawful discharge of a firearm from a vehicle, and aggravated assault.
He is being held in the Greene County Detention Center on a two million dollar bond.
PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD TODAY IN DONIPHAN TO DISCUSS BLOCK GRANTS
A public hearing has been scheduled for today concerning proposed block grants in Doniphan.
The City of Doniphan will hold a public hearing beginning at 5 p.m. at City Hall to discuss the city's submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant.
The city is discussing the submission of at least nine potential applications for the program.
For more information, contact the Doniphan City Clerk at 573-996-2623.
Monday, November 4, 2024
HARRIS AND TRUMP ENTER FINAL DAY OF CAMPAIGN
We are on the final day of the campaign for the White House.
Tomorrow will see voters decide between former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris on who should become President of the United States of America.
In Missouri, the race for the United States Senate will see Josh Hawley facing off against challenger Lucas Kunce.
HARRIS AND TRUMP ENTER FINAL DAY OF CAMPAIGN
We are on the final day of the campaign for the White House.
Tomorrow will see voters decide between former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris on who should become President of the United States of America.
In Missouri, the race for the United States Senate will see Josh Hawley facing off against challenger Lucas Kunce.
For the US House of Representatives seat in Southeast Missouri, Jason Smith will battle Randi McCallian. In Northeast Arkansas, Rodney Govens is challenging Rick Crawford for a spot in the US House of Representatives.
TWO COMPETITIVE RACES HIGHLIGHT BUTLER COUNTY BALLOTS
Butler County voters will be voting on two local competitive races tomorrow.
In the first race, Ralph Stucker is facing Van L. Rhodes to be County Commissioner for Butler County’s Eastern District.
The second race will see Jeff Darnell and Amy Kopf face each other to be Public Administrator.
You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.
MISSOURI PROPOSITION A WOULD RAISE STATE MINIMUM WAGE
Missouri voters will decide tomorrow on if the minimum wage should be raised in the state.
Missouri Proposition A would amend Missouri statutes to increase the state minimum wage beginning January 1, 2025 to $13.75 per hour and increase the hourly rate $1.25, to $15.00 per hour beginning January 2026.
Annually the minimum wage will be adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index. The law will require employers with fifteen or more employees to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked. The amendment will exempt governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts, and education institutions from the minimum wage increase.
In Arkansas, a medical marijuana issue will appear on voters ballots, but will not actually be counted. The Arkansas Supreme Court ruled the measure didn’t fully explain what it would do, tossing out the initiative just two weeks before the election.
It was too late to remove the measure from the ballot so the court has ordered election officials not to count any votes cast on it.
The proposed constitutional amendment would have broadened the definition of medical professionals who can certify patients for medical cannabis, expanded qualifying conditions and made medical cannabis cards valid for three years.
TWO INJURED AFTER ATV CRASH NEAR GREENVILLE
A man was airlifted after a ATV crash Friday morning near Greenville.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 65 year old Robert Case was driving the ATV on private property, five miles south of Greenville, when the vehicle overturned on a steep ravine and ejected Case and his passenger, 75 year old James Brown.
Brown suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a St. Louis hospital. Case suffered moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.
OVER 18 HUNDRED BIRDS HARVESTED DURING FALL FIREARMS TURKEY SEASON
Missouri hunters harvested over 1,800 birds during the fall firearm turkey season.
Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows turkey hunters checked 1,857 birds during Missouri’s 2024 fall firearms turkey season, which ran through the month of October.
Officials say that last year, hunters harvested 2,220 birds during the season
The current portion of archery turkey season will continue until November 15th, before taking a 12 day break.
15 BLACK BEARS HARVESTED DURING MISSOURI BEAR SEASON
Over 10 bears were harvested during Missouri’s 2024 black bear hunting season.
According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri hunters harvested 15 black bears between October 21st and 30th.
Almost 6,000 hunters applied during May for 400 permits for the season with the maximum total harvest being 40 bears. Of the 400 hunters selected through a random drawing of all applicants, 319 hunters purchased permits for the season.
12 bears were harvested in Bear Management Zone one, which comprises the Southwest and South central parts of the state. Three bears were harvested in BMZ two which includes the Southeastern portion of the state.
Friday, November 1, 2024
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 7 WOULD PROHIBIT RANKED CHOICE VOTING
Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to the effort to ban ranked choice voting in the state.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 7 would prohibit the ranking of candidates by limiting voters to a single vote per candidate or issue; require the plurality winner of a political party primary to be the single candidate at a general election; and make the Constitution consistent with state law by only allowing citizens of the United States to vote.
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 7 WOULD PROHIBIT RANKED CHOICE VOTING
Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to the effort to ban ranked choice voting in the state.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 7 would prohibit the ranking of candidates by limiting voters to a single vote per candidate or issue; require the plurality winner of a political party primary to be the single candidate at a general election; and make the Constitution consistent with state law by only allowing citizens of the United States to vote.
Switching to Arkansas, Arkansas Issue Number 2 is a constitutional amendment that would require local voter approval in a countywide special election for certain new casino licenses and repeal authority to issue a casino license in Pope County.
MULES FOOTBALL TEAM TRAVELS TO FARMINGTON TODAY FOR DISTRICT QUARTERFINALS
The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will begin the district playoffs tonight in Farmington.
The Mules earned the six seed in the Class 5, District 1 football tournament and will be traveling to Farmington to take on the three seed Knights in the District Quarterfinals.
The game will be a rematch of last year’s District Semifinal which saw the five seed Knights upset the top seed Mules 28-21.
When the two teams met earlier this year in Poplar Bluff, Farmington picked up a close 36-33 win.
Live audio coverage of the Mules District Playoffs will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM.
Live video coverage will be available for $10 plus fees at MSHSAA.tv.
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS THIS WEEKEND
The sun will begin rising an hour earlier on Sunday.
Daylight Saving Time will come to an end at 2 am Sunday morning. Remember to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed Saturday night.
This is also a good time to check or change the batteries in your smoke detector.
Daylight Saving Time will start again on Sunday, March 9th, 2025.
RIPLEY COUNTY VOTERS TO DECIDE ON ROAD AND BRIDGE TAX
Voters in Ripley County will head to the polls next week to decide on a tax issue.
A question on Ripley County ballots asks if the County shall levy a tax rate of thirty-six cents on each one hundred dollars valuation for road and bridge purposes, subject to the dissolution of all Special Road Districts within the County.
There is also a competitive race for Ripley County Public Administrator between Donna Barnett and Mary Dean Gray.
POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS CAST THEIR VOTES DURING MOCK ELECTION
An almost 30 year tradition continued this week at Poplar Bluff High School.
The PBHS Mock Election was conducted on Tuesday.
The event gave students and staff the opportunity to cast their votes on sample ballots designed to mirror that of Butler County for next week’s general election at designated “precincts” set up in the auxiliary gym.
PBHS has hosted a mock presidential general election every four years since 1996 so that each student would gain some exposure prior to graduation.
AP students were responsible for tallying votes by hand in Kimberly Clark’s classroom. The teacher said she felt it was important not to move to an electronic system so students can learn about some of the issues that come up such as ineligible handwriting or multiple boxes incorrectly being filled out.
In preparation, students used online tools in history class such as Ballotpedia or ISideWith to help identify which political party they align with based on where they stand on a host of issues including the economy, climate, health care, immigration and social justice. Dual credit students conducted exit polling afterward to analyze trends, according to faculty member Dr. Stephanie Lovette.
The results of the election were not released.
FUNDRAISER FOR AREA CANCER PATIENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN QULIN
An event has been scheduled for early November to help raise funds for an area cancer patient.
Hollyfest will be held at 7 pm on Saturday, November 2nd, at the Qulin American Legion.
The event will include a male beauty pageant and live music by Stateline Five.
CAMP ALLEN MINISTRIES TO HOST 70TH ANNIVERSARY RUN THIS WEEKEND
Camp Allen Ministries in Greenville will be hosting a run this weekend to celebrate their 70th anniversary.
The race will begin at 9 am on Saturday, November 2nd at Camp Allen Ministries. Registration will begin at 8 am and the registration fee is $30. The course will be on camp property as well as F Highway.
Plaques will be awarded to the overall top male and top female.
For more information, call 573-224-3826.
Thursday, October 31, 2024
MISSOURI STATE CONGRESSIONAL SEATS UP FOR GRABS DURING NEXT WEEKS ELECTION
Voters in Southeast Missouri will be deciding who will be representing them in the Missouri Congress next week.
The race for State Senator of Missouri’s 25th District is down to Jason Bean and Chuck Banks.
There are four competitive races in Southeast Missouri for the Missouri State House of Representatives. For the 144th District, Tony Harbison will face Andrew Eye. The 150th District will see Cameron Bunting Parker take on Kay Collier.
MISSOURI STATE CONGRESSIONAL SEATS UP FOR GRABS DURING NEXT WEEKS ELECTION
Voters in Southeast Missouri will be deciding who will be representing them in the Missouri Congress next week.
The race for State Senator of Missouri’s 25th District is down to Jason Bean and Chuck Banks.
There are four competitive races in Southeast Missouri for the Missouri State House of Representatives. For the 144th District, Tony Harbison will face Andrew Eye. The 150th District will see Cameron Bunting Parker take on Kay Collier.
In the 151st District sees Steve Jordan challenging Donnie Lynn Hovis Jr. The 153rd District race is between Keith Elliott and Sheila Bristol.
You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 6 WOULD ALLOW COSTS AND FEES TO SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT SALARIES AND BENEFITS
Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to fees being used for law enforcement salaries.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 6 would amend the Missouri Constitution to levy costs and fees to support salaries and benefits for current and former sheriffs, prosecuting attorneys, and circuit attorneys.
Beginning today we are also going to be looking at Constitutional Amendments that are being proposed in Arkansas.
Arkansas Issue Number 1 is a constitutional amendment that would provide that lottery proceeds may be used to fund or provide scholarships and grants to Arkansas citizens enrolled in vocational-technical schools and technical institutes.
DATE ANNOUNCED FOR ROCK THE COUNTRY 2025 IN POPLAR BLUFF
Rock the Country will be returning to Poplar Bluff next year.
Organizers have announced that Rock the Country music festival will expand to 10 towns next year, with the Poplar Bluff stop scheduled for May 2nd and 3rd.
The lineup has not been announced yet.
You can find more information at RockTheCountry.com.
GREER AND NELSON BATTLE FOR PEMISCOT COUNTY COMMISSIONER SEAT
Two people are battling to be Pemiscot County Commissioner.
David Greer and Noble Nelson are both running to be 1st District Commissioner of the County Commission District in Pemiscot County.
Voters in Hayti will also be voting to increase the mosquito suppression and control assessment from .50 per month to two dollars per month.
You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.
FORMER PRINCIPAL AT PIEDMONT AREA BOARDING SCHOOL TO APPEAR IN COURT TODAY
A former principal at a Christian boarding school in Piedmont that closed in March amid abuse allegations has been charged with sex crimes involving a former student.
Court records show that Craig Wesley Smith Jr. was charged in September with forcible sodomy and attempted forcible rape. He is accused of forcing a teenage girl to perform sex acts in the late 2000s when she was a student at Lighthouse Christian Academy.
Smith faces a court hearing today.
ABM Ministries operated the school, which claimed success in helping students who were troubled, learning-impaired or dealing with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or other disorders.
Lighthouse Christian Academy closed after state criminal charges were filed against the husband-and-wife owners, Larry and Carmen Musgrave, along with a teacher, Caleb Sandoval.
The Musgraves were charged with first-degree kidnapping for allegedly locking a student in a room, but a Wayne County judge on October 15 dismissed the charges.
Sandoval was charged with abuse or neglect of a child, accused of injuring a 15-year-old boy while boxing. He pleaded guilty in July and was placed on probation for five years.
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT
Halloween is today and Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain has some tips to help keep your children safe while trick or treating.
Chief McClain says parents should establish a route for children, making sure they stay within familiar areas and surroundings. An adult should accompany young children. Parents should also remind kids not to enter strangers' homes or cars, and to avoid homes without an outside light on.
Be sure to tell your children to not eat treats until they get home and remember to inspect all treats before allowing your kids to eat them.
You can find a list of area trunk or treat locations on our website, just click on the Halloween Happenings link.
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF
A pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle Tuesday morning in Butler County.
According to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 6 am on Highway B, just west of Highway AA.
A vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and struck 27 year old Topanga Thompson, also of Poplar Bluff. The vehicle then struck a tree.
PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF
A pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle Tuesday morning in Butler County.
According to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 6 am on Highway B, just west of Highway AA.
A vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and struck 27 year old Topanga Thompson, also of Poplar Bluff. The vehicle then struck a tree.
Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.
SENIOR CITIZEN PROPERTY TAX QUESTION ON THE BALLOT IN CARTER COUNTY
Residents of Carter County will be deciding next week if senior citizens should be exempt from certain property taxes.
On Tuesday, voters will be asked if senior citizens aged 62 and older shall be exempt from increases in the property tax liability due on such senior citizen's primary residence?
You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.
PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN POPLAR BLUFF
Crews responded to the scene of an accident involving a pedestrian Tuesday afternoon in Poplar Bluff.
According to Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 64 year old Ricky Cochran, of Poplar Bluff was driving on Pine Street when a bale of hay fell from his truck.
While Cochran was recovering the hay, he was struck by an oncoming vehicle, pinning him between the two vehicles.
The incident occurred shortly after 1 pm on the Pine Street bridge near the Butler County Courthouse.
Cochran and the driver of the second vehicle were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital for treatment.
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 5 WOULD ALLOW ADDITIONAL GAMBLING BOAT LICENSE ON OSAGE RIVER
Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to riverboat gambling.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 5 would amend the Constitution to allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue an additional gambling boat license to operate an excursion gambling boat on the Osage River, between the Missouri River and the Bagnell Dam.
The language of the amendment would require all state revenue derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license to be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education.
TODAY IS BUCKLE UP, PHONE DOWN DAY IN MISSOURI
Missourians are being inspired to drive safely today for the eighth annual Buckle Up, Phone Down day challenge.
Officials are encouraging motorists across the state to take two simple actions to save lives on the state’s highways – fasten their seat belts and put their phones down while driving.
To date in 2024, of the more than 740 fatalities in Missouri, 63 percent of vehicle occupants killed were unbuckled. Distracted driving is also a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. In 2023, distracted driving was cited in crashes that claimed 106 lives.
In August of 2023, the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect in Missouri, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving.
Under the law, drivers are prohibited from physically holding or supporting a cell phone with any part of their body; manually typing, writing, sending, or reading text-based messages; recording, posting, sending or broadcasting video, including video calls and social media posts; and watching a video or movie.
The law aims to address distracted driving, which contributed to crashes that claimed the lives of more than 800 people across the state from 2012-2021.
MULTIPLE ROAD PROJECTS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN BLOOMFIELD AREA
Multiple road projects are scheduled for today in the Bloomfield area.
Both Route E and Route J in Stoddard County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.
According to officials, Route E will be reduced from 7 am to 4 pm between Route 25 and Route FF.
The work zone on Route J will be located from South School Street to County Road 413 between 8 am and 4 pm.
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 3 WOULD REMOVE THE STATE’S BAN ON ABORTIONS
Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to abortion.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 3 would establish a constitutional right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid.
The amendment also removes Missouri's ban on abortion; allows regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient; and requires the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care.
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 3 WOULD REMOVE THE STATE’S BAN ON ABORTIONS
Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to abortion.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment 3 would establish a constitutional right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid.
The amendment also removes Missouri's ban on abortion; allows regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient; and requires the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care.
The amendment also allows abortion to be restricted or banned after fetal viability except to protect the life or health of the woman.
BUTLER COUNTY CLERK DONNA HILLIS TALKS ABOUT VOTING AHEAD OF THE ELECTION
Election Day is only a week away and Butler County officials are wanting residents to be prepared when they come to vote.
KWOC News spoke with Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis about what you should do when you arrive to vote.
“You can speed up the process by having your Missouri Photo ID ready. You will not be able to cast your vote in the tabulator without a non-expired Missouri Driver’s License, a Missouri non-driver’s license, a passport, or a military ID.
If you are registered to vote in Butler County but you still have an out of state driver’s license, you will only be permitted to vote provisionally. If you want to cast your vote in the tabulator, you must go to the DMV and get your license taken care of before next Tuesday.
Please be aware that electioneering laws prohibit people from wearing anything that displays a political party, candidate name, or ballot issue, which includes shirts, hats, buttons and stickers.
You will not be allowed inside the precinct or within 25 feet of the polling place wearing this type of attire. We do not expect any problems at the polls in Butler County, but be advised that law enforcement will be available to each of the precincts should the need arise. Acts of violence, or attempting to keep any voter from voting will not be tolerated.
Among other offenses, the Missouri Law states that it is unlawful to engage in or threaten any act of violence at a polling place. Please respect others' right to vote the way they want, and move on. Engaging in disorderly conduct, violence, or threats is considered interfering with election processes.
We are asking everyone to be kind and be respectful to all of the poll workers at the precincts. It will be a tough day for each of them. They are committed to helping each person navigate the lines, and guide people through the process so please be courteous.
If you have any problems or questions, please call the Clerk's Office at 573-686-8050.”
KWOC will be providing live election coverage during the night of November 5th on the KWOC Facebook page.
STATE SUPREME COURT RACE TO BE DECIDED IN ARKANSAS
When Arkansas voters head to the polls next week, they will be deciding on who will be sitting on the state Supreme Court.
Karen Baker and Rhonda Wood are running to fill position 1 on the Arkansas State Supreme Court.
Voters will also be electing a state treasurer between John Pagan, John Thurston, and Michael Pakko.
You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.
MULES FOOTBALL TEAM TRAVELS TO FARMINGTON ON FRIDAY FOR DISTRICT QUARTERFINALS
The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will begin the district playoffs this week in Farmington.
The Mules earned the six seed in the Class 5, District 1 football tournament and will be traveling to Farmington on Friday to take on the three seed Knights in the District Quarterfinals.
Friday’s game will be a rematch of last year’s District Semifinal which saw the five seed Knights upset the top seed Mules 28-21.
When the two teams met earlier this year in Poplar Bluff, Farmington picked up a close 36-33 win.
Live audio coverage of the Mules District Playoffs will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM.
Live video coverage will be available for $10 plus fees at MSHSAA.tv.
TWIN RIVERS AMONG MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE GRANT MONEY TO RECRUIT LOCAL EDUCATORS
Twin Rivers R-X School District in Butler County was one of several schools across Southeast Missouri to receive grant money to recruit local educators.
Officials with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education tell KWOC News that the agency was able to award Grow Your Own grants to 125 local education agencies.
The one-time grants of $10,000 to local education agencies are to be used to create or strengthen their local Grow Your Own program, designed to increase recruitment of quality teachers across the state.
In addition to Twin Rivers, other schools in Southeast Missouri to be selected for the grant include Bloomfield, Campbell, Clearwater, and Van Buren.
SUPPORT GROUP ESTABLISHED FOR FOSTER AND ADOPTIVE PARENTS IN POPLAR BLUFF
A support group has been established in Poplar Bluff for foster and adoptive parents.
Trisha Lambert with FosterAdopt Connect tells KWOC News that the group will meet at 6 pm on the 1st Monday of each month at the FosterAdopt Connect Poplar Bluff office.
The group is free for parents to attend and will offer a safe place for them to discuss being a foster or adoptive parent.
Lambert says that they are asking for parents to not bring their children, as conversations can involve heavy subjects at times.
For more information, call 573-552-4338.
Monday, October 28, 2024
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 2 WOULD ALLOW SPORTS BETTING IN THE STATE
Beginning our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we start with online sports betting.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment Number 2 asks Missourians if they want to amend the constitution to permit licensed sports wagering regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission and restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21.
The amendment also includes a 10 percent wagering tax on revenues received to be appropriated for educational institutions in Missouri.
MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 2 WOULD ALLOW SPORTS BETTING IN THE STATE
Beginning our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we start with sports betting.
Missouri Constitutional Amendment Number 2 asks Missourians if they want to amend the constitution to permit licensed sports wagering regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission and restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21.
The amendment also includes a 10 percent wagering tax on revenues received to be appropriated for educational institutions in Missouri.
MISSOURI VOTERS TO ELECT NEW GOVERNOR
Missouri voters will be electing a new Governor next week.
The frontrunners for the Governor’s race are Mike Kehoe and Crystal Quade. Current Governor Mike Parson is term limited and cannot run again.
Voters will also be deciding races for Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, and Attorney General.
At the polls, state residents will also decide if two Missouri Supreme Court judges and two Court of Appeals judges will be retained in office.
You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ALLEGED DOG SHOOTING
A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody on multiple charges in connection to an alleged dog shooting.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Thursday officers responded to a residence on Dewey Street in reference to a report of shots fired.
It was determined that a resident had shot a canine on the property without due cause and while being intoxicated.
55 year old Raymond Morris was arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon, and animal abuse.
ARREST MADE IN SIKESTON SHOOTING
An arrest has been made in connection to a shooting in Sikeston.
According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, during the late evening hours of October 21st, Sikeston DPS was alerted to several gunshots in the 800 block of West Gladys. When officers arrived on scene, they were informed a subject had been injured from the gun fire.
Detectives were able to identify and arrest 30 year old Demarlon Richardson, of Sikeston, as one of the shooters from that night. Richardson is being held on a No Bond warrant for felony charges of unlawful use of weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety says that the incident is still being actively investigated by the Criminal Investigations Unit. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.
DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED EARLY THIS WEEK
Route PP in Dunklin County will be closed early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.
The closure is located between Route 164 and County Road 735 in Rives.
Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.
ALMOST SIX MONTH LONG ROAD CLOSURE TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR SENATH
Route A in Dunklin County will be closed for almost six months so contractor crews can replace a box culvert.
The work zone is located between County Road 525 and County Road 526 near Senath.
Work will begin this morning with completion anticipated by Monday, April 21st. Officials say that the road will remain closed 24 hours a day.
KWOC 2024 General Election Voters Guide
Federal Government:
United States President/Vice President
Donald Trump/JD Vance -
Kamala Harris/Tim Walz -
United States Senator - Missouri
Josh Hawley -
Lucas Kunce -
W.C. Young -
Jared Young -
Nathan Kline -
United States Representative - Missouri District 8
Jason Smith -
Randi McCallian -
Jake Dawson -
United States Representative - Arkansas District 1
Steve Parsons -
Rodney Govens -
Rick Crawford -
Missouri State:
Missouri Constitutional Amendments and Propositions:
Constitutional Amendment No. 2: Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to regulate licensed sports wagering including online sports betting, gambling boats, professional sports betting districts and mobile licenses to sports betting operators; restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21; allow license fees prescribed by the Commission and a 10% wagering tax on revenues received to be appropriated for education after expenses incurred by the Commission and required funding of the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund; and allow for the general assembly to enact laws consistent with this amendment?
Yes -
No -
Constitutional Amendment No. 3: Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid; remove Missouri’s ban on abortion; allow regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient; require the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care; and allow abortion to be restricted or banned after Fetal Viability except to protect the life or health of the woman?
Yes -
No -
Constitutional Amendment No. 5: Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam; require the prescribed location shall include artificial spaces that contain water and are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and require all state revenues derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license shall be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education?
Yes -
No -
Constitutional Amendment No. 6: Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to provide that the administration of justice shall include the levying of costs and fees to support salaries and benefits for certain current and former law enforcement personnel?
Yes -
No -
Constitutional Amendment No. 7: Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to: Make the Constitution consistent with state law by only allowing citizens of the United States to vote; Prohibit the ranking of candidates by limiting voters to a single vote per candidate or issue; and Require the plurality winner of a political party primary to be the single candidate at a general election?
Yes -
No -
Proposition A: Do you want to amend Missouri law to: increase minimum wage January 1, 2025 to $13.75 per hour, increasing $1.25 per hour each year until 2026, when the minimum wage would be $15.00 per hour; adjust minimum wage based on changes in the Consumer Price Index each January beginning in 2027; require all employers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked; allow the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to provide oversight and enforcement; and exempt governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts and education institutions?
Yes -
No -
Governor
Mike Kehoe -
Crystal Quade -
Bill Slantz -
Paul Lehmann -
Lieutenant Governor
Dave Wasinger -
Richard Brown -
Ken Iverson -
Danielle (Dani) Elliott -
Secretary Of State
Denny Hoskins -
Barbara Phifer -
Carl Herman Freese -
Jerome Bauer -
State Treasurer
Vivek Malek -
Mark Osmack -
John A. Hartwig, Jr. -
Reagan Haase -
Attorney General
Andrew Bailey -
Elad Jonathan Gross -
Ryan L. Munro -
Missouri Supreme Court:
Shall Judge Kelly C. Broniec of the Missouri Supreme Court be retained in office?
Yes -
No -
Shall Judge Ginger K. Gooch of the Missouri Supreme Court be retained in office?
Yes -
No -
Missouri Court of Appeals Judge, Southern District:
Shall Judge Becky J.W. Borthwick of the Southern District Court of Appeals be retained in office?
Yes -
No -
Shall Judge Jennifer R. Growcock of the Southern District Court of Appeals be retained in office?
Yes -
No -
Missouri State Senator - 25th District
Jason Bean -
Chuck Banks -
Missouri State Representative- 144th District
Tony R Harbison -
Andrew J. Eye -
Missouri State Representative- 150th District
Cameron Bunting Parker -
Kay Collier -
Missouri State Representative- 151st District
Steve W Jordan -
Donnie Lynn Hovis Jr. -
Missouri State Representative- 153rd District
Keith Elliott -
Sheila Bristol -
Arkansas State:
Arkansas Constitutional Amendments:
Issue No. 1: A Constitutional Amendment to Provide that Lottery Proceeds May Be Used to Fund or Provide Scholarships and Grants to Arkansas Citizens Enrolled in Vocational-Technical Schools and Technical Institutes.
For -
Against -
Issue No. 2: An amendment requiring local voter approval in a countywide special election for certain new casino licenses and repealing authority to issue a casino license in Pope County, Arkansas.
For -
Against -
State Treasurer
John Pagan -
John Thurston -
Michael Pakko -
State Supreme Court Chief Justice Position 1
Karen Baker -
Rhonda Wood -
Butler County:
County Commissioner - Eastern District
Ralph Stucker -
Van L. Rhodes -
Public Administrator
Jeff Darnell -
Amy Kopf -
Carter County:
Carter County Question - Shall the County of Carter exempt senior citizens aged 62 and older from increases in the property tax liability due on such senior citizen's primary residence?
Yes -
No -
Pemiscot County:
Commissioner of the County Commission District - 1st District
David Greer -
Noble Nelson -
City of Hayti Proposition for Mosquito Suppression and Control: Shall the Board of Aldermen of the City of Hayti, Missouri be authorized to increase the mosquito suppression and control assessment imposed upon each water bill issued by the City of Hayti from the current assessment of Fifty Cents ($.50) per month to an assessment of Two Dollars ($2.00) per month?
Yes -
No -
Ripley County:
Public Administrator
Donna Barnett -
Mary Dean Gray -
Ripley County Question: “Shall Ripley County levy a tax rate of thirty-six cents on each one hundred dollars valuation for road and bridge purposes, subject to the dissolution of all Special Road Districts within the County?”
Yes -
No -
Friday, October 25, 2025
PROPOSAL TO REDUCE PINE STREET IN POPLAR BLUFF TO TWO LANES WITH A TURN LANE RUNS INTO OPPOSITION FROM LOCAL LEADERS
A proposal to reduce Pine Street in Poplar Bluff is being met with opposition from city leaders.
The proposal from the Missouri Department of Transportation calls for changing Pine Street from a four lane road to a three lane road including a center turning lane.
Poplar Bluff Fire Chief Mike Moffitt tells KWOC News that he is not in favor of the change. He believes if MoDOT forces this change that traffic will be grid locked during peak times. Fire, Police, and EMS responses during these times will also be delayed due to the traffic. He feels like it would create a safety issue for motorists traveling on Business 60 as well as emergency responders.
PROPOSAL TO REDUCE PINE STREET IN POPLAR BLUFF TO TWO LANES WITH A TURN LANE RUNS INTO OPPOSITION FROM LOCAL LEADERS
A proposal to reduce Pine Street in Poplar Bluff is being met with opposition from city leaders.
The proposal from the Missouri Department of Transportation calls for changing Pine Street from a four lane road to a three lane road including a center turning lane.
Poplar Bluff Fire Chief Mike Moffitt tells KWOC News that he is not in favor of the change. He believes if MoDOT forces this change that traffic will be grid locked during peak times. Fire, Police, and EMS responses during these times will also be delayed due to the traffic. He feels like it would create a safety issue for motorists traveling on Business 60 as well as emergency responders.
Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce President Steve Halter tells KWOC News that the community has concerns that the project may not effectively reduce accidents as predicted by MoDOT.
Halter says ”Given these concerns, I respectfully ask that MoDOT reconsider the new configuration. If the project moves forward, we recommend establishing a clear timeline with specific metrics for accident reduction and traffic flow improvement, which should be communicated to all community partners as well as the general public. If these metrics are not met within the specified timeframe, we urge MoDOT to revert to the original design.”
Halter added that he received a call from MoDOT District Engineer Mark Croarkin who was open to the community’s concerns. Croarkin plans to revisit the issue before any final decisions are made.
MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that within the coming week they are hoping that information will be made available on their website to help educate and inform the public about the proposed project.
DEXTER MAN IN CUSTODY ON STATUTORY RAPE WARRANT
Officials in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a statutory rape warrant.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old Gentry Jackson, of Dexter, has been taken into custody on a Stoddard County warrant for 2nd degree statutory rape and two counts of 2nd degree statutory sodomy.
During an interview with authorities, Jackson reportedly admitted to having inappropriate contact with a juvenile multiple times.
Jackson was held in custody on a $50,000 cash only bond.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH
A Poplar Bluff man was injured Wednesday afternoon in a single vehicle crash.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Austin Shepherd was driving an ATV on Butler County Road 459 when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.
Shepherd, who was not wearing a safety device, was flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.
DONATIONS FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS TO BE ACCEPTED AT RIVER RADIO IN POPLAR BLUFF
Area residents who want to donate items to help victims of the recent hurricane in North Carolina will have an opportunity to drop off items here at River Radio this weekend.
Lee Wright and the Poplar Bluff Knights of Columbus will be accepting items, including new coats, gloves, sleeping bags, little green propane canisters, and small propane heaters, from 10 am to 6 pm today and from noon to 5 pm on Sunday.
Organizers are asking that people not bring water, clothes, diapers, food, or paper products as those items were already collected and taken on a previous trip.
If you are not able to make it to the drop off times, you can still take items to the Knights of Columbus Hall and tell them it is for Lee Wright.
PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH IN BUTLER COUNTY TO DISCUSS BLOCK GRANTS
A public hearing has been scheduled for next month concerning proposed block grants in Butler County.
The County will host a public hearing beginning at around 8 a.m. on November 13th, at the Butler County Courthouse to discuss the city's submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant.
The city is discussing the submission of at least five potential applications for the program.
For more information, contact County Clerk Donna Hillis at 573-686-8050.
$100,000 LOTTERY TICKET SOLD IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL
An Arkansas resident is $100,000 richer thanks to a scratchers ticket he purchased in the Missouri Bootheel.
The lucky winner purchased the winning extreme cash scratchers ticket at a business in Cardwell.
The winner says he thought he was looking at the ticket wrong when it said he won $100,000.
Once he was certain his eyes were not playing tricks on him, he quickly tucked the ticket away for safekeeping.
Thursday, October 24, 2024
ENTRIES NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR 2024 RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE
Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this December for the 2024 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.
Entries are now being accepted for the parade, which is scheduled for 6 pm on Friday, December 6th. Entry forms are available on our Facebook page and website. The deadline for entries is November 30th.
The parade route this year will run from Highway 142 at McDonalds through downtown Poplar Bluff before looping back and ending at the Black River Coliseum.
ENTRIES NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR 2024 RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE
Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this December for the 2024 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.
Entries are now being accepted for the parade, which is scheduled for 6 pm on Friday, December 6th. Entry forms are available on our Facebook page and website. The deadline for entries is November 30th.
The parade route this year will run from Highway 142 at McDonalds through downtown Poplar Bluff before looping back and ending at the Black River Coliseum.
Trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. For more information, call 573-785-0881.
MAN SENTENCED IN RIPLEY COUNTY ON MULTIPLE COUNTS OF CHILD MOLESTATION AND STATUTORY SODOMY
A man was sentenced earlier this week in Ripley County on multiple counts of child molestation and statutory sodomy.
According to the Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Ricky Lee Thurman, of Greenville, was convicted by a jury in August on three counts of child molestation in the second degree and one count of statutory sodomy in the first degree.
On Monday, Thurman was sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison on the four counts.
Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney, Matthew Michel, tells KWOC News that the sentences are the maximum number of years allowed by Missouri statute.
INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING IN BUTLER COUNTY
Authorities are continuing to investigate an officer involved shooting in Butler County.
According to Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, one suspect died in the shooting Tuesday afternoon on US Highway 67, near the PP Highway overpass.
The suspect has been involved in a pursuit prior to the shooting and allegedly fired his gun towards officers.
The pursuit was possibly connected to an armed robbery on Tuesday at a business near the state line in southern Ripley County.
The suspect’s name has not been released.
MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON NUMEROUS CHARGES
A man was taken into custody Wednesday in New Madrid County on numerous charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Jonathan Higgins, of East Prairie, was arrested at around 10:30 am on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, four counts of felony forgery, felony resisting arrest, false impersonation, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Higgins also had warrants out of Scott and New Madrid Counties.
Following the arrest, he was held at the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office.
FIVE PUBLIC MEETINGS SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS POPLAR BLUFF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
A series of meetings will be held over the next few weeks to discuss the city of Poplar Bluff’s Comprehensive Plan.
The first meeting will be held tonight beginning at 6:30 pm at O’Neal Elementary School.
Additional meetings have been scheduled for 7 pm on October 29th at Eugene Field Elementary School, 10 am on October 30th at the Twin Towers, noon on November 6th at the Black River Coliseum, and 6 pm on November 7th at the Wheatley School.
The Poplar Bluff Comprehensive Plan Survey is still available and you can find a link on the City of Poplar Bluff City Hall Facebook page.
HUNTER EDUCATION CLASSES TO BE HELD IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL
Hunter education classes will be held this weekend in the Missouri Bootheel.
A Hunter Education Skills Session has been scheduled from 6 to 10 pm on Friday at the Pemiscot County Vocational Center. Another session will be held from noon to 3 pm on Saturday.
Students must be 11 years of age or older to attend and have completed the Knowledge Portion of the Hunter Education course before attending.
Student manuals can be found on the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website or at any MDC office.
A link to preregister is available at mdc.mo.gov.
Wednesday October 23, 2024
ONE DEAD FOLLOWING OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING NEAR POPLAR BLUFF
One person is dead following an officer involved shooting near Poplar Bluff.
Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News, a robbery had occurred in Ripley County on Tuesday afternoon. Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department located the suspect vehicle on Highway M near Highway 67. A pursuit ensued and the vehicle wrecked on Highway 67 near PP Highway. The suspect allegedly fired his gun towards officers. The suspect was shot during the incident.
Sergeant Parrott added the suspect succumbed to his injuries late Tuesday evening. The investigation is being conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. At this time no names are being released.
KWOC News will continue to provide more updates as they become available.
ONE DEAD FOLLOWING OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING NEAR POPLAR BLUFF
One person is dead following an officer involved shooting near Poplar Bluff.
Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News, a robbery had occurred in Ripley County on Tuesday afternoon. Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department located the suspect vehicle on Highway M near Highway 67. A pursuit ensued and the vehicle wrecked on Highway 67 near PP Highway. The suspect allegedly fired his gun towards officers. The suspect was shot during the incident.
Sergeant Parrott added the suspect succumbed to his injuries late Tuesday evening. The investigation is being conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. At this time no names are being released.
KWOC News will continue to provide more updates as they become available.
ONE DEAD, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR CLARKTON
A crash Monday afternoon near Clarkton resulted in the death of an area man and seriously injured another.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Seth Calder, of Clarkton was driving his vehicle on Highway 25, two miles north of Clarkton, when his vehicle crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head on.
Calder, who was not wearing a safety device, was transported to a Piggott, Arkansas hospital where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the second vehicle was airlifted to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.
TRC STUDENT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY TRUNK OR TREAT SET FOR OCTOBER 26
The Three Rivers College Student Leadership Academy has announced the date for their annual Halloween Trunk or Treat.
The event is scheduled for 6 to 8 pm on Saturday, October 26th in the parking lot of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.
Organizers say that there will be free candy available for little trick or treaters along with a lot of fun.
More information is available at trcc.edu/events.
POPLAR BLUFF HEROES TO RAISE MONEY FOR ST. JUDE WITH LADIES NIGHT OUT
Ladies can have a fun night out next month and raise money for the kids at St. Jude.
Poplar Bluff Heroes will be presenting Ladies Night Out and Designer Handbag Bingo at the Black River Coliseum on Friday, November 8th. Social Hour will begin at 5 pm, with the event starting at 6 pm.
Organizers say that there will be dinner and prizes in addition to crafts, vendors, music, and more.
Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite.com.
All proceeds from the event will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT THIS WEEKEND
Southeast Missouri residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs this weekend.
Multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.
Organizations who will be participating include the Poplar Bluff, Doniphan, Malden, and Pocahontas Police Departments. You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.
DATES ANNOUNCED FOR 32nd ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AUTO TOUR
Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers have announced the dates for the 2024 Festival of Lights Auto Tour.
The 32nd Annual Auto Tour will be held at the Redman Creek East Campground from November 29th through December 25th.
This event is being held in partnership with the Wappapello Lake Area Association and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is supported by businesses, volunteers, churches, organizations, and the community.
For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.
PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN KENNETT
Route 412 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for over a week as construction crews perform pavement repairs.
The work zone is located from County Road 729 to First Street in Kennett.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Friday, November 1.
Tuesday October 22, 2024
NO EXCUSE ABSENTEE VOTING OPENS FOR UPCOMING ELECTION
Missouri voters no longer need a reason for submitting an absentee ballot.
No excuse absentee voting begins today for the General Election, which is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5th.
An absentee ballot can be requested from your local election authority.
November’s general election will feature the race for the White House, as well as local and statewide races, including several Missouri constitutional amendments.
Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis tells KWOC News that the Butler County Clerk’s office will be open during the lunch hour through Election Day.
More information is available at sos.mo.gov.
NO EXCUSE ABSENTEE VOTING OPENS FOR UPCOMING ELECTION
Missouri voters no longer need a reason for submitting an absentee ballot.
No excuse absentee voting begins today for the General Election, which is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5th.
An absentee ballot can be requested from your local election authority.
November’s general election will feature the race for the White House, as well as local and statewide races, including several Missouri constitutional amendments.
Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis tells KWOC News that the Butler County Clerk’s office will be open during the lunch hour through Election Day.
More information is available at sos.mo.gov.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JOB FAIR TODAY
Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a job fair today.
The event is scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm at the Crisp Technology Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus.
Over a dozen employers are signed up to be involved in the fair, with some conducting on-site interviews.
More information is available at trcc.edu.
DONATIONS FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS TO BE ACCEPTED AT RIVER RADIO IN POPLAR BLUFF
Area residents who want to donate items to help victims of the recent hurricane in North Carolina will have an opportunity to drop off items here at River Radio this month.
Lee Wright and the Poplar Bluff Knights of Columbus will be accepting items, including new coats, gloves, sleeping bags, little green propane canisters, and small propane heaters, from 10 am to 6 pm on October 25th and from noon to 5 pm on October 27th.
Organizers are asking that people not bring water, clothes, diapers, food, or paper products as those items were already collected and taken on a previous trip.
If you are not able to make it to the drop off times, you can still take items to the Knights of Columbus Hall and tell them it is for Lee Wright.
NEELYVILLE AND CHAFFEE TO PLAY TODAY FOR DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
A trip to the state softball tournament is on the line today in Chaffee.
Number two seed Chaffee will be hosting top seed Neelyville today in the Class 2, District 1 championship game.
First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 pm.
The Championship game will be broadcast live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as at KWOC.com. A video feed of the game will be available to purchase at MSHSAA.TV.
THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL SCHOOL BUS SAFETY WEEK
This week is National School Bus Safety Week and parents are being encouraged to make sure their kids are safe around school buses.
When your kids are waiting for the school bus, have them wait in a location where the driver can see them while driving down the street.
Warn children that if they drop something getting on and off the bus, they should never pick it up. Instead, they should tell the driver and follow the driver’s instructions.
If you meet your child at the bus stop after school, wait on the side where the child will be dropped off, not across the street. Children can be so excited to see you after school that they dash across the street and forget the safety rules.
Poplar Bluff Transportation Director Jon McKinney is thanking the Poplar Bluff Schools transportation staff for everything that they do to keep the over 2000 students they transport each day safe.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS ON SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55 NEAR MATTHEWS TO BEGIN TODAY
Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for the rest of this week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the reduction is located from mile marker 66 to mile marker 58 near Matthews.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday.
Monday, October 21, 2024
POPLAR BLUFF GIRLS TENNIS TEAM TO PLAY TODAY IN STATE TOURNAMENT
The Poplar Bluff High School girls tennis team has claimed a district championship and are now turning their sights towards a state championship.
The girls won the Class 2, District 1 Team Tennis Tournament last week, defeating Notre Dame 5-2 in the championship game. It is the first tennis district championship for the Lady Mules since 2003.
The Lady Mules will travel to MICDS today to take on the Lady Rams in the MSHSAA Class 2 State Quarterfinals.
POPLAR BLUFF GIRLS TENNIS TEAM TO PLAY TODAY IN STATE TOURNAMENT
The Poplar Bluff High School girls tennis team has claimed a district championship and are now turning their sights towards a state championship.
The girls won the Class 2, District 1 Team Tennis Tournament last week, defeating Notre Dame 5-2 in the championship game. It is the first tennis district championship for the Lady Mules since 2003.
The Lady Mules will travel to MICDS today to take on the Lady Rams in the MSHSAA Class 2 State Quarterfinals.
Two Lady Mules Golfers will also be starting the Class 3 State Championship tournament today. Both Rhyan Waddell and Olivia Thetford will be teeing off this morning at the Rivercut Golf Course in Springfield.
NEELYVILLE SOFTBALL EASILY DISPATCHES EAST CARTER, ADVANCES TO DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
The Neelyville Lady Tigers defeated the East Carter Lady Redbirds 11-1 in the softball Class 2 District 1 Semifinal.
The Lady Tigers scored 3 runs in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th innings. In the bottom of the 5th Senior Reese Dobbins smashed a game ending 2 run homerun to center field.
Senior pitcher September Preslar pitched 5 innings and gave up three hits, one run, and struck out seven.
The Lady Tigers will play for the District Championship on Tuesday at 4:30 pm against the host Chaffee.
The Championship game will be broadcast live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as at KWOC.com. A video feed of the game will be available to purchase at MSHSAA.TV.
Pregame will begin at 4 pm.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR
A Poplar Bluff man will be sentenced early next year after admitting to recording his rape of a minor with an intellectual disability.
46 year old Jason Hicks-Simpson pleaded guilty on Friday in U.S. District Court to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.
The victim told investigators that Hicks-Simpson had been sexually abusing them for multiple years. They also said Hicks-Simpson threatened to kill them if they did not keep it a secret.
Investigators found videos dating back to May of 2023 on his phone according to the plea agreement.
As part of the plea agreement, both sides have agreed to recommend 20 years in prison. Sentencing has been scheduled for January 31, 2025.
14 POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS CHOSEN FOR ALL-DISTRICT CHOIR
Numerous Poplar Bluff High School students have been chosen to participate in the All-District Choir concert in November.
According to school officials, a total of 14 PBHS students were selected for the All-District Choir concert, which will be held on Saturday, November 9th, in Cape Girardeau.
Officials say that auditions consisted of a solo component – preparing an art song for a panel of judges, and sight-reading – identifying key signatures and performing a melody.
The students chosen in the freshman and sophomore section were Alexis Agee, Kate Harris and Jazlynn LeGrand in the soprano section; Dalton Rommel as tenor; and Bryden McElhaney as bass.
Selected to perform in the junior and senior section were: Victoria Conover, Cheyann Downing and Gabby Rushing in the soprano section; Frances Nelson and Virginiagrace Vandewarker as altos, Andrew Noble – tenor; and Elijah Bosch, Cayden Innes and Avain Pettigrew in the bass section.
CULVERT REPLACEMENTS TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD
Route M in Butler County will be closed this week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace several culverts under the roadway and perform pavement repairs.
The work zone is located between County Road 470 and County Road 462 near Poplar Bluff.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
Northbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.
ThE section of roadway is located from mile marker 54.6 to mile marker 56 near Matthews.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Wednesday.
Friday, October 18, 2024
KENNETT MAN KILLED IN THURSDAY MORNING CRASH
A Kennett man has died from injuries he received in an early Thursday morning crash.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Tyler Hightower was driving on Highway 84, one mile west of Hayti, when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned.
Hightower, who was not wearing a safety device, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Pemiscot County Coroner.
KENNETT MAN KILLED IN THURSDAY MORNING CRASH
A Kennett man has died from injuries he received in an early Thursday morning crash.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Tyler Hightower was driving on Highway 84, one mile west of Hayti, when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned.
Hightower, who was not wearing a safety device, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Pemiscot County Coroner.
TWIN RIVERS CELEBRATES FIRST OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP IN OVER A DECADE
Twin Rivers High School is celebrating its first Ozark Foothills Conference baseball championship in over a decade.
The top seed Royals defeated Greenville Thursday 5-3 in the finals of the OFC Tournament at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.
It is the first conference championship for the Royals since 2011.
Earlier on Thursday Doniphan beat Puxico 8-7 in the third place game.
Today’s Talk KWOC will switch from baseball to softball this weekend for the Class 2, District 1 Tournament as Neelyville takes on East Carter in the district semifinals.
That game will be broadcast live beginning at noon on Saturday on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as at KWOC.com. A video feed of the game will be available to purchase at MSHSAA.TV.
MULTIPLE EARTHQUAKES SHAKE DONIPHAN AREA THURSDAY MORNING
Multiple earthquakes shook the Doniphan area on Thursday.
According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.7 quake was recorded at 7 am Thursday morning.
The earthquake was centered around three miles east of Doniphan and had a depth of over six miles.
Around 90 minutes later, a magnitude 2.5 earthquake occurred, centered two and a half miles east of Doniphan.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JOB FAIR THIS MONTH
Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a job fair this month.
The event is scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, October 22nd at the Crisp Technology Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus.
Over a dozen employers are signed up to be involved in the fair, with some conducting on-site internews.
More information is available at trcc.edu.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS WALK SET FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF
A charity walk to promote breast cancer awareness has been set for this weekend in Poplar Bluff.
The Pinktober Saturday Walk, sponsored by Alpha Delta Nu at Three Rivers College, will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on Saturday at McLane Park.
Entry is free and there will be food, t-shirt, and more available at the event.
Organizers say that all proceeds will go to a local organization that will provide mammograms, preventative screenings, and more.
SEVERAL USDA OFFICIALS VISIT BERNIE FOR RECOGNITION CEREMONY
Several officials with the United States Department of Agriculture joined with state and local officials in Bernie on Thursday.
The event was to recognize the city of Bernie for their role in getting a grant and loan for improvements to the water distribution system, water treatment plant, and water storage tanks.
Over seven million dollars in loans and over four million dollars in grant money has been approved for the city’s water system.
On Thursday, USDA Rural Development Missouri State Director Kyle Wilkens also congratulated the Pemiscot-Dunklin Electric Cooperative on receiving $68,590 to provide electrical safety and awareness skills training in New Madrid, Pemiscot, and Dunklin Counties through the Rural Business Development Grant Program.
Thursday, October 17, 2024
POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NAMED CANDIDATE FOR NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP
A Poplar Bluff High School student has been named as a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship.
School officials say that senior Jack Funke is one of more than 16,000 semifinalists of the 70th annual NMS program based on his Preliminary SAT score from last year.
Funke has also been accepted into the Missouri Scholars Academy at the University of Missouri.
POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NAMED CANDIDATE FOR NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP
A Poplar Bluff High School student has been named as a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship.
School officials say that senior Jack Funke is one of more than 16,000 semifinalists of the 70th annual NMS program based on his Preliminary SAT score from last year.
Funke has also been accepted into the Missouri Scholars Academy at the University of Missouri.
As part of his scholarship application, Jack attributed his willingness to pursue theater and music to his supportive parents always encouraging him to experience new things in order to help him grow.
He further credits his thirst for knowledge beyond the classroom to Matt and Jennifer Funke regularly reading to him from a young age.
School officials say that Poplar Bluff’s last Merit Scholar was alumnus Adeesh Mishra in 2018.
GREENVILLE AND TWIN RIVERS TO PLAY TODAY FOR OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
The 2024 Ozark Foothills Conference Baseball Tournament will come to an end today.
Number two seed Greenville will be facing top seed Twin Rivers at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff for the OFC Championship. First pitch is scheduled for 3 pm.
The Third Place game will see Puxico take on Doniphan, beginning at 1pm.
Both the Championship and Third Place games will be broadcast live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB.
RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY TO BE HELD FOR NEW BUTLER COUNTY EMS FACILITY
A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held today for the new Butler County EMS facility in Poplar Bluff.
The ribbon cutting will begin at 9 am at the location of the new facility at 2500 Kanell Boulevard.
Multiple community agencies have been invited to be a part of the festivities.
We have a video tour of the new facility available on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page.
GRANT AWARDED TO AREA FIRST RESPONDER ORGANIZATIONS FOR TEXT-TO-911 CAPABILITIES
A grant has been approved that will allow multiple counties in Southeast Missouri to incorporate texts to their 911 systems.
On Tuesday, the Missouri 911 Service Board awarded a 2.3 million dollar grant to Dunklin, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott, and Stoddard County.
The bootheel project is a regional effort between the five counties to purchase and upgrade NG911 compatible equipment. The project will also consolidate all counties onto the same network.
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES
A Southeast Missouri man has been taken into custody on multiple child pornography related charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Mark Strawbridge, of Caruthersville, was arrested Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of promoting child pornography and possession of child pornography.
According to a probable cause affidavit, during an interview with investigators on Tuesday, Strawbridge admitted to downloading child pornography at his home.
Following the arrest, Strawbridge was held at the Pemiscot County Jail. His arraignment is scheduled for this morning.
GREAT CENTRAL U.S. SHAKEOUT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY
Millions of people all across the central United States will be participating in the Great Central U.S. Shakeout Earthquake Drill today.
The drill is scheduled for 10:17 am and officials say the goal is to get everyone prepared for a possible major earthquake.
You can visit www.earthquakecountry.org/sevensteps for tips on how to prepare, protect, and recover in case of an earthquake.
For more information on the Great Central U.S. Shake-out go to ShakeOut.org.
MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE N IN BUTLER COUNTY TODAY
Route N in Butler County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 51 to County Road 243 near Qulin.
Work is scheduled to take place today through 4 p.m.
BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON ROUTE 80 NEAR MATTHEWS
Route 80 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.
The work zone is located between Route AA and County Road 706 near Matthews.
Work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
WARRANT ISSUED FOR MAN IN CONNECTION TO A HIT AND RUN IN MALDEN
A warrant has been issued for a subject in connection to an alleged hit and run over the weekend.
Malden Director of Public Safety Jeff Mitchell tells KWOC News that at approximately 1:30 am on Sunday, dispatch received a call in reference to a leaving the scene accident in the 900 block of North Kimball Street.
The caller said that a female was hit by a car. At the scene, officers found the female to have extensive injuries and she was transported to an area hospital. At last update, the victim was listed as stable.
WARRANT ISSUED FOR MAN IN CONNECTION TO A HIT AND RUN IN MALDEN
A warrant has been issued for a subject in connection to an alleged hit and run over the weekend.
Malden Director of Public Safety Jeff Mitchell tells KWOC News that at approximately 1:30 am on Sunday, dispatch received a call in reference to a leaving the scene accident in the 900 block of North Kimball Street.
The caller said that a female was hit by a car. At the scene, officers found the female to have extensive injuries and she was transported to an area hospital. At last update, the victim was listed as stable.
The car involved was found near the scene.
The driver of the vehicle has been identified as Naaman Caldwell and a warrant has been issued for his arrest on a felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident and misdemeanor charges of operating a vehicle without a valid license and operating a motor vehicle owned by another while knowing the owner has not maintained financial responsibility.
The warrant includes a $75,000 cash only bond.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO OVER EIGHT YEARS IN PRISON FOR SELLING METHAMPHETAMINE
A Poplar Bluff man will be spending over eight years in prison for selling methamphetamine.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 33 year old Rashad Marshall pleaded guilty in July to one count each of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine.
Officials say that Marshall admitted to conspiring with Joshua E. Forbes and two others to sell methamphetamine. A member of the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force purchased meth from the conspirators on six occasions between June and August of 2023.
On Monday, Marshall was sentenced to 100 months in prison.
OVER FIVE THOUSAND DEER HARVESTED DURING FIREARMS EARLY ANTLERLESS PORTION OF DEER SEASON
Hunters across Missouri took to the woods this past weekend for the state’s firearms early antlerless portion of deer season.
According to preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation, hunters harvested 5,741 deer during the weekend.
This is a massive decrease from last year’s total of 16,553. State officials attribute the decreased harvest to the stark contrast in weather conditions between the two years.
Bollinger County had the third highest harvest numbers in the state, with a total of 135 deer taken, while Ripley County was fifth with 127 deer taken.
The November firearms portion of deer season is set to begin on November 16th.
POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL ACCEPTS GRANT TO REMOVE GAS CHAMBER FOR ANIMAL EUTHANASIA
The Poplar Bluff City Council has accepted a grant to remove a gas chamber that is used for emergency animal euthanasia.
During the City Council’s regular meeting last week, the council approved a $15,000 grant agreement with the Humane Society of the United States.
The grant will be used to eliminate the chamber and to cover costs for not using it.
City planner James Sisk said during the meeting that the chamber was the last remaining one in Missouri used for that purpose and for the most part, it was only being used in emergency situations.
TWO DAY CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR POPLAR BLUFF
Route M in Butler County will be reduced for two days this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.
The work zone is located near Poplar Bluff between County Road 464 and County Road 462.
Work will take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., both today and tomorrow.
BRIDGE REPAIR PROJECT SET FOR THIS WEEK IN MALDEN
Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.
The section of roadway is located between County Road 120 and Douglas Street in Malden.
Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
GROUNDBREAKING HELD FOR NEW BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF THE HEARTLAND FACILITY
A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday for a new facility to help area teens prepare for their future careers.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland Regional Workforce Development Teen Center is a 33,250 square foot facility that will allow easy access for students from more than 20 area high schools in Missouri and Northeast Arkansas participating in the organization’s Workforce Development Initiative.
The program allows for the development of critical employment skills and training and experiential learning, plus an opportunity to earn college credits.
GROUNDBREAKING HELD FOR NEW BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF THE HEARTLAND FACILITY
A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday for a new facility to help area teens prepare for their future careers.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland Regional Workforce Development Teen Center is a 33,250 square foot facility that will allow easy access for students from more than 20 area high schools in Missouri and Northeast Arkansas participating in the organization’s Workforce Development Initiative.
The program allows for the development of critical employment skills and training and experiential learning, plus an opportunity to earn college credits.
The new facility on Oak Grove Road will contain a full-size gymnasium, recreation and office area, and classroom wing, along with multiple labs and workshops.
Completion is anticipated by October of next year.
INVESTIGATIONS UNDERWAY INTO FIRE AND BURGLARY AT POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENCE
Authorities are investigating a weekend fire in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Saturday, officers and fire personnel responded to a residence on Vine Street for a structure fire.
After firefighters extinguished the fire, police officers found signs of forced entry and determined that a burglary had occurred prior to the fire.
Officials say that the matter was referred to the Fire Marshal's Office for an arson investigation, while the burglary investigation remains ongoing with Poplar Bluff Police Department.
RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR NEW BUTLER COUNTY EMS FACILITY
A ribbon cutting ceremony has been scheduled for a new facility that has been built for Butler County EMS in Poplar Bluff.
The ribbon cutting will be held on Thursday, October 17th at 9 am at the location of the new facility at 2500 Kanell Boulevard.
Multiple community agencies have been invited to be a part of the festivities.
FIRE CREWS RESPOND QUICKLY TO EXTINGUISH VEHICLE FIRE ON AREA TRAIN TRACKS
Fire crews had to respond quickly over the weekend for a report of a burning vehicle on train tracks in the Campbell area.
According to the Campbell Volunteer Fire Department, fire crews responded to a vehicle on fire just after midnight Saturday night.
Officials say that the crews were able to get the fire extinguished and the vehicle towed just as they started to see the lights from an oncoming train.
They were able to get in contact with the train operator to get the train stopped so someone could inspect the tracks for damage.
No information was released on if there were any injuries from the truck fire.
TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WEEKEND MOTORCYCLE CRASH
Two people were seriously injured in a motorcycle crash over the weekend.
Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred shortly before 8 pm Saturday night on Highway 21 in Carter County when a vehicle pulled out of a parking lot and into the path of a motorcycle.
Two people riding the motorcycle, 26 year old Jaret Trube, of Doniphan, and 18 year old Lillie Cora, of Grandin, received serious injuries in the crash and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.
THREE MONTH ROAD CLOSURE UNDERWAY ON ROUTE P IN STODDARD COUNTY
Route P in Stoddard County will be closed for three months so construction crews can perform bridge rehabilitation over Drainage Ditch 35.
The closure is located from Route Y to County Road 518.
The roadway will remain closed until the work is completed, which is anticipated to be on Monday, January 13.
Monday, October 14, 2024
MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING INCIDENT IN POPLAR BLUFF
A man is in custody in connection to a shooting over the weekend in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 6 am Saturday morning, officers responded to a residence on Victor Street in reference to a shooting.
At the home, the resident indicated that she had shot at a male subject as he entered her bedroom window.
24 year old Rondriguez Hopkins, of Poplar Bluff, was located approximately one block away and had a gunshot wound to his shoulder and hand. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING INCIDENT IN POPLAR BLUFF
A man is in custody in connection to a shooting over the weekend in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 6 am Saturday morning, officers responded to a residence on Victor Street in reference to a shooting.
At the home, the resident indicated that she had shot at a male subject as he entered her bedroom window.
24 year old Rondriguez Hopkins, of Poplar Bluff, was located approximately one block away and had a gunshot wound to his shoulder and hand. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
Hopkins was later lodged at the Butler County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges.
Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC News that at this time no charges are being sought against the resident of the home.
ONE DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR POPLAR BLUFF
A single vehicle crash near Poplar Bluff resulted in the death of an area man.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Perry Walk, of Doniphan, was driving on Highway M, five miles west of Poplar Bluff, when his vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned.
Officials say the crash occurred early Saturday morning.
Walk was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Jim Akers.
JUDGMENT ENTERED AGAINST STODDARD COUNTY SHERIFF FOR REFUSING TO RELEASE REQUESTED VIDEO
Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner has been ordered to pay thousands of dollars in connection to his refusal to release body cam footage.
A judgment released on October 9th says that Hefner actively sought to hide the apparent disturbing actions of one of his Deputies in order to avoid an apparent public outcry, and systemically sought to thwart the efforts of the Plaintiff to obtain video of the incident, regardless of the reason it may have been sought.
The body cam footage was in relation to an incident in August 2023.
Hefner was ordered to pay a civil penalty of $500, deposition fees of $817.50, and attorney fees of $5,000.
2024 OFC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT BEGINS TODAY
The 2024 OFC Baseball Tournament, featuring eight area schools, begins today.
Twin Rivers captured the top seed for the tournament and will play number 8 seed Clearwater at 4 pm today in Broseley.
The other three first round matchups will be played at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff today and will see Puxico taking on Neelyville at 11 am, Greenville challenging East Carter at 1 pm, and Doniphan facing Naylor at 3 pm.
Seven games of the tournament, including the championship game, will be streamed live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page
MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOR ALLEGEDLY CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES TO A YOUNG CHILD
A man in Northeast Arkansas is facing multiple charges after a young child suffered serious injuries.
According to the Paragould Police Department, on September 9th, officers were dispatched to a residence in Paragould in reference to an unresponsive infant.
The child was transported to an area hospital where serious injuries were discovered by medical staff. Medical documentation indicated that the injuries were consistent with repeated incidents of abuse leading to the injuries.
During the investigation, detectives gathered incriminating evidence that the actions of 35 year old Joshua Collins were the reason for the sustained injuries.
Collins was taken into custody last week on felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor - 1st degree and domestic battering - 1st degree.
He was held in the Greene County Jail on a $25,000 bond.
ADVANCE MAN GRADUATES FROM HIGHWAY PATROL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY
One new State Trooper has been assigned to Southeast Missouri.
Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that a total of nine troopers graduated from the Patrol’s Accelerated Law Enforcement Academy on Friday, October 11th.
Gavin Krech, of Advance, was assigned to cover Butler and Ripley Counties.
Krech was also awarded the Firearms Trophy and Superintendent’s Award during the Graduation ceremony.
Trooper Krech will report to duty in Troop E on Monday, October 21st.
DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN MISSOURI
Missouri state officials are reminding motorists that driver examinations will not be available today due to the holiday.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed today in observance of Columbus Day.
Officials say that normal operations will resume on Tuesday.
Friday, October 11, 2024
FANS TO PINK OUT MULES FOOTBALL STADIUM TONIGHT
Poplar Bluff Mules Football Fans are being encouraged to wear their pinkest clothing for tonight’s game.
The Mules will be hosting the West Plains Zizzers tonight for the annual Pink Out Game.
Today’s Talk KWOC will be streaming the game tonight on both the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook Page and the River Radio Youtube page.
FANS TO PINK OUT MULES FOOTBALL STADIUM TONIGHT
Poplar Bluff Mules Football Fans are being encouraged to wear their pinkest clothing for tonight’s game.
The Mules will be hosting the West Plains Zizzers tonight for the annual Pink Out Game.
Today’s Talk KWOC will be streaming the game tonight on both the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook Page and the River Radio Youtube page.
TYLER AND BEN HANSBROUGH HIGHLIGHT 36TH POPLAR BLUFF SPORTS HALL OF FAME CLASS
Two brothers highlighted the 2024 class of the Poplar Bluff Sports Hall of Fame.
Tyler and Ben Hansbrough along with the 2004 and 2005 PBHS Mules basketball teams were honored during a ceremony on Thursday. Their plaques are being added to the Hall of Fame room in the Poplar Bluff Museum on Main Street, bringing the total number of those honored to 100 individuals and 12 teams.
Tyler Hansbrough was an All-American basketball player in high school and college, holding numerous records and has his Number 50 jersey retired at both levels. He has also been inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame and the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.
Ben Hansbrough was an All-American and Big East Player of the Year at the University of Notre Dame and has his Number 23 jersey retired at Poplar Bluff.
During the brothers' three seasons together at Poplar Bluff, the Mules won 78 games, made three appearances in the MSHSAA final four, finishing fourth in 2003 before winning consecutive state championships in 2004 and 2005.
MISSOURI PERSONNEL NO LONGER NEEDED FOR HURRICANE RESPONSE EFFORTS
Missouri Governor Mike Parson says that state personnel are no longer needed to assist with hurricane response efforts.
Parson had previously announced that 100 Missouri National Guard members, 21 Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and civilian support staff, and five Missouri Disaster Medical Assistance Team members would be mobilized in response to an Emergency Management Assistance Compact request from Florida.
In light of Hurricane Milton being less impactful than previously expected, the State of Florida has canceled the request that Missouri was responding to.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management said the willingness to help was appreciated but that the events over the last 24 hours were not as dire as had been expected and that the state believed it was able to meet its needs with resources already available within the state.
Parson added that the State of Missouri has no pending, direct EMAC requests for states affected by Hurricanes Helene or Milton but is prepared to consider any requests should they be received.
GREENVILLE JACK O’LANTERN JUBILEE STARTS THIS WEEKEND
The 2024 Greenville Jack O’Lantern Jubilee will begin this weekend.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the free event will be held from 5 to 7 pm on October 12th, 19th, and 26th at the Greenville Campground.
Officials say that during the jubilee, area businesses, groups, agencies, and creative campers will decorate their campsites and welcome trick-or-treaters into the campground.
For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.
DONIPHAN CITY WIDE YARD SALE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND
A Doniphan tradition is returning this weekend.
The Doniphan Fall City Wide Yard Sale is scheduled for 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday.
The event will feature vendors, food trucks, sales, and more.
For more information, contact Chasity Mathis at 573-996-2623.
FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF COMING ON SATURDAY
The 2024 Fall Buff up the Bluff event is set for this weekend.
The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday.
Henson’s Transfer Station on the Industrial Park Bypass will be accepting items from 8 am to 3 pm. Proof of Poplar Bluff residency will be required.
Items being accepted include bulky items such as scrap metal, furniture, construction materials and tires.
Drivers must be prepared to unload their own vehicle.