Monday, September 28, 2026

BONESTOCK RETURNS THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

A beloved music festival returns this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The gates will open for Bonestock at 11 am this Saturday at Ray Clinton Park.

Ten bands will be performing throughout the day, including Fallen Within, Kain’s Alibi, Stay the Sane, Judah Dean, and headchange.

Tickets are available for $20 at Z95theBone.net. Tickets will also be available for $20 cash at the gate on Saturday.

Part of the proceeds from Bonestock will go to the Animal Welfare Alliance in Poplar Bluff.

More information is available Z95theBone.net.

WEATHER OFFICIALS STRESS THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A PLAN FOR WHEN SEVERE WEATHER HITS

This week is Fall Severe Weather Awareness Week and weather officials are stressing the importance of having a plan in place for when severe weather strikes.

KWOC News spoke with Christine Wielgos, Warning Coordination Meteorologist National Weather Service in Paducah about what you can do to make sure your family stays safe during severe weather.

“One of the best things you can do before severe weather strikes is make a plan. Decide where you will shelter, in a basement, storm shelter, or small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows and doorways. Put together an emergency kit with essentials such as water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a weather radio. And don’t forget to plan for children, older family members, pets, or anyone who may need extra assistance. Most importantly, don’t just make the plan - practice it. When a warning is issued, there’s not a lot of time to figure out what you’re going to do. Have a plan in place so you can take action immediately.”

Severe Weather Awareness Week runs through October 2nd and you can find more tips at weather.gov.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS RECOGNIZED FOR OVER A DECADE OF POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT

Poplar Bluff school officials say that Lake Road and Oak Grove Elementary schools were recently recognized for achieving the Award of Excellence through Missouri School-Wide Positive Behavior Support consistently for over a decade.

A total of 217 schools in the state met the standards requisite to earn the award for implementing the evidence-based, multi-tiered system of behavioral supports with fidelity this year, according to a press release from the organization.

Poplar Bluff Schools joined fewer than a quarter of the districts honored for completing the top tier of the system, previously considered gold-level achievement next to silver and bronze designations.

The Kindergarten Center, Eugene Field and O’Neal Elementary have additionally recommitted to the process.

TWO CHILDREN KILLED IN CRASH NEAR MATTHEWS

Two children were killed in a crash Friday evening near Matthews.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle was attempting to overtake another vehicle on US Highway 61.

The first vehicle struck the back of the second vehicle then ran off the roadway and overturned several times.

Two children in the first vehicle, both under the age of 11 were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the first vehicle, a 33 year old Hayti woman, and two teenagers in the vehicle received serious injuries and were flown to Memphis hospitals.

A 62 year old passenger received moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to an area hospital.

BICYCLIST STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY, FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL

A bicyclist was struck by a vehicle Friday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 40 year old Springfield man was riding a bike on Missouri Highway 51, two miles south of Broseley, when he pulled into the path of an SUV.

The man suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

PLANS ANNOUNCED TO REPLACE SIGNALS AND IMPROVE INTERSECTION IN DONIPHAN

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced plans to improve the intersection of Route 160/142 and Route Y in Doniphan.

Officials say that in an effort to update aging infrastructure, the project includes replacing the existing span wire signals with modern traffic signals. In addition, the project includes widening and constructing islands for right turns.

Tentatively, construction could begin as early as February 2028. During the project, construction will be underway for approximately three months and motorists should anticipate potential lane closures and minor delays.

CREWS WORKING ON ROUTE U NEAR BERNIE THROUGH WEDNESDAY

Route U in Stoddard County will be reduced for the early part of this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway involved is located from Route H to Route 25 near Bernie.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Friday, September 25, 2026

CARTER COUNTY SHERIFF TO HOST PUBLIC FORUM THIS AFTERNOON

A public forum has been scheduled for today with authorities in Carter County.

Carter County Sheriff Alonzo Bradwell will be hosting the forum at 5 pm at the Eastwood Community Center.

Sheriff Bradwell says that the forums are a way to keep the community informed about the happenings of the Carter County Sheriff’s Office as well as to give opportunities for local residents to ask questions and share their concerns.

BERNIE MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING MOTORCYCLE CRASH

One person was seriously injured in a motorcycle crash Wednesday evening near Dexter.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 20 year old Bernie man was riding the motorcycle on Missouri Highway 25 when the vehicle overturned and ran off the roadway.

The man suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

3RD ANNUAL BLACK RIVER DUCK DERBY SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 3rd Annual Black River Duck Derby in Poplar Bluff is coming this weekend.

The event will begin at 11 am on Saturday at the Vine Street Bridge.

Anyone who wants to participate can adopt a duck for $5 or a pack of five ducks for $20.

Proceeds from the event will go to benefit the Poplar Bluff chapter of Days for Girls.

For more information, or to adopt a duck, call 573-300-6450.

BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON STODDARD COUNTY WARRANT FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Bernie man is in custody following his arrest Wednesday on a child pornography charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 24 year old James Bradley Jr. was arrested on a Stoddard County warrant for possession of child pornography.

He is being held in the Stoddard County jail on no bond.

FRIENDS OF WAPPAPELLO LAKE TO HOST SIDE BY SIDE RIDE ON SATURDAY

The Friends of Wappapello Lake will be hosting a side by side and Jeep ride on Saturday.

The event will begin with sign in at 8:30 am at the Eagles parking lot in Wappapello, with departure scheduled for 9 am.

It is $20 per side by side to enter and prizes will be given out throughout the day.

For more information, visit the Friends of Wappapello Lake Facebook page.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROAD NEAR ESSEX

Route KK in Stoddard County will be temporarily closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from Route 114 to County Road 732 near Essex.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Tuesday, September 29.

CREWS WORKING ON ROUTE Z NEAR BERNIE THROUGH MONDAY

Route Z in Stoddard County will be reduced as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs near Bernie.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 153 to Route 25.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Monday September 28.

Thursday, September 24, 2026

POPLAR BLUFF ATTORNEY ELECTED AS PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE MISSOURI BAR

A Poplar Bluff attorney has been chosen to serve as a member of the leadership team of the Missouri Bar.

Scott Robbins, a partner at Kennedy, Robbins, Yarbro & Henson in Poplar Bluff, was elected as the new president-elect of The Missouri Bar.

Robbins has served on numerous Missouri Bar committees and boards, and was elected to The Missouri Bar Board of Governors in 2017.

The Missouri Bar represents over 31,000 attorneys across the state and Robbins will be the first Poplar Bluff attorney to serve as its president when he takes the office.

MODOT ANNOUNCES PLANS TO IMPROVE TWO INTERSECTIONS IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced plans to improve two intersections in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that the updates include removing the signals at the intersection of Route WW and Henry Street as well as replacing the signals at the intersection of Business 60 and 9th Street.

In addition, the project will add a left turn lane on Business 60 and pedestrian refuge islands on the south side of the intersection.

Tentatively, construction could begin as early as February 2028. Construction will be underway for approximately three months at each location. During work, motorists should anticipate potential lane closures and minor delays.

POPLAR BLUFF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS RECOGNIZED FOR LITERACY RATES

All of the Poplar Bluff School District’s elementary schools are being nationally recognized for their literacy rates.

Poplar Bluff School officials are reporting that each of Poplar Bluff’s elementary schools have been named Bright Spots due to the district’s literacy rate surpassing expectations in spite of economic challenges.

The 74 recently recognized Eugene Field, Lake Road, Oak Grove and O’Neal elementaries for “beating the odds in literacy” by outperforming expectations for third-grade reading proficiency, based on its formula that takes into account a school system’s free or reduced-price lunch participation.

While the English language arts section of standardized tests was projected to be as low as 23 percent proficient or advanced based on the district’s qualification for the Community Eligibility Program, actual scores ranged between 58.7 and 65 percent, exceeding the state average of 42 percent on all counts.

Of around 10 schools marked as Bright Spots on the organization’s literacy map in Southeast Missouri since 2015, each of Poplar Bluff’s lower elementaries are listed as top-performing.

Representing the nation’s 74 million children, The 74’s 50-state initiative analyzes demographics from roughly 42,000 public education institutions, according to the website the74million.org.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS COLLECTING BOTTLE CAPS TO RAISE FUNDS

Students in Poplar Bluff are asking for your bottle caps to help raise funds.

The Poplar Bluff Middle School Student Council and Safety Council are collecting green bottle caps from Dr. Pepper products through October for a chance to win up to $10,000 through the annual Collect the Caps contest.

School officials say that the special caps are being accepted at the 1300 Victory Lane campus.

FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR LOWNDES FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT SET FOR OCTOBER 3RD

Lowndes Fire and Rescue Department will be hosting a fundraising event in early October.

The fish fry, auction, and raffle, is scheduled for 5 pm on Saturday, October 3rd at the Lowndes Fire House.

There will be fish and chicken plates for sale in addition to numerous auction items.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN MALDEN

Route AB in Dunklin County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from West Laclede Street in Malden to County Road 241.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

VETERANS HONOR TOUR SEND OFF PARADE IN QULIN IS TODAY

The Veterans Honor Tour will depart for their annual Washington DC trip today and a parade will be held in their honor in Butler County.

Qulin Mayor Justin Parks tells KWOC News that the city of Qulin is hosting their second annual Veterans Honor Tour Send-Off Parade today.

The opening ceremony will begin at 9:45 am at the Qulin Lions Park, with the parade following. The event will be live streamed on the KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page.

For more information, including the parade route, visit the City of Qulin Facebook page.

TENTATIVE DATES SET FOR UPCOMING TRAFFIC SHIFT ON US 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Preparations are underway for the upcoming traffic shift on US Route 67 in Butler County between U.S. 160 and Route MM.

During the transition, construction crews will shift traffic from the existing U.S. 67 roadway to the newly constructed four-lane facility. According to MoDOT, to minimize the duration of impacts, construction crews will work continuously to complete the transition within an anticipated 36-hour period.

Tentatively, the traffic transition will occur sometime from the end of September to the first week of October.

Officials say that this quick transition requires a coordinated effort by contractors and more information on the target date for the transition will be released once additional details are available.

HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND IN DONIPHAN

A hunter education class will be held this weekend in Doniphan.

The Hunter Education Skills Session has been scheduled for Saturday, September 26th at the Doniphan High School Career Center. The event will be from 2 to 6 pm.

Students must be 11 years of age or older to attend and have completed the Knowledge Portion of the Hunter Education course before attending.

Students can complete the knowledge portion by going through a free book or by completing the knowledge portion online at mdc.mo.gov at a cost. Free books can be picked up at the Doniphan Dispatch Center located at the Doniphan Police Department.

A link to preregister for the skills session is available at: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/220901

OFFICIALS WARN RESIDENTS TO AVOID CONTACT WITH AREA LAKE

Officials in Arkansas are advising people to avoid a Clay County lake.

The Arkansas Division of Environmental Quality has issued a Harmful Algal Bloom Advisory for Mom’s Lake in Corning.

Officials say that Cyanobacteria have been visually confirmed and supported by preliminary testing. Harmful algal blooms may produce toxic substances which could result in headaches, weakness, shortness of breath, muscle spasms, and gastrointestinal illnesses.

The DEQ is monitoring the water quality and will lift the advisory when the bloom dissipates.

BURN BAN LIFTED FOR THE CITY OF KENNETT

City officials in a Southeast Missouri community say the burn ban that has been in place for most of this month has been lifted.

Kennett Fire Chief Lance Davis tells KWOC News that the burn ban for Kennett was lifted Tuesday morning.

Area residents are still being advised to use caution while burning and follow all applicable city regulations.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TODAY

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway involved is located from mile marker 58 to mile marker 56.6.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 22, 2026

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR BEGINS TODAY

The 99th Stoddard County Fair kicks off tonight in Dexter.

The fair will begin with the parade in downtown Dexter this evening at 5:30 pm. The FFA/4-H tractor rodeo will follow at 7 pm.

There will be multiple nights of entertainment and events through September 26th, including the livestock auction, demolition derby, and more.

A full listing of events is available on the Stoddard County Fair website.

MDC OFFERING REPORTS ON COLORS OF FALL FOLIAGE AS AUTUMN BEGINS

Fall begins today and the Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging people to enjoy fall foliage through camping, driving tours, hiking, or even floating.

The autumnal equinox is this evening at 7:04 pm, ushering in the official beginning of the fall season.

To help Missourians get the best view of fall, the MDC is offering weekly online fall color updates from agency foresters all over the state at mdc.mo.gov/fallcolor.

The weekly reports include what kinds of trees are turning and suggestions on the best places to view them. The updates will run through November.

ROCKY’S FAN FEST SET FOR THIS WEEKEND AT TRC IN POPLAR BLUFF

Fans of Three Rivers College Athletics will have a fun event this weekend to get ready for the upcoming season.

Rocky’s Fan Fest has been scheduled for 1 to 5 pm on Sunday, September 27th at the Libla Family Sports Complex.

There will be free food and activities, including photos with Rocky Raider, bounce houses, face painting, a foam machine, and more.

More information is available at trcc.edu/events.

MAN SENTENCED TO OVER TWO DECADES IN PRISON ON DOMESTIC ASSAULT CHARGE

A Puxico man has been sentenced to serve over two decades in prison for the assault of his now ex-wife.

Terry Beck pled guilty in July to a charge of domestic assault - 1st degree for repeatedly striking and choking his now ex-wife at their home in Puxico last September.

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith tells KWOC News that the assault caused the victim to have serious physical injuries and trauma.

On Monday, Beck was sentenced to 22 years in prison for the charge.

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR TO BE HELD TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free health fair for area residents ages 50 and up will be held today in Poplar Bluff.

The 29th Annual Senior Health Fair from the Butler County Community Resource Council and AmeriCorps Seniors, has been scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm at the Twin Towers in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple services available, including health screenings, vaccinations, community resource information, and more.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

TODAY IS THE FINAL DAY TO REGISTER FOR DOWNTOWN POPLAR BLUFF TRAWMAN COMPETITION

Multiple Poplar Bluff organizations are teaming up for the third annual Downtown Strawman Competition.

Strawmen will be placed on a tree or light post on the two blocks encompassing Main, Cedar, Broadway, and Vine Streets. Judges will evaluate each entry and choose a winner.

Contestants can reserve their spot for $20 and today is the final day to register.

Everybody will be able to vote on their favorite Strawman from October 9th to the 22nd on the Poplar Bluff Library Facebook page.

More information, including a link to register is available at PoplarBluff.org/strawman.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS THIS WEEK ON US ROUTE 62 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

U.S. Route 62 will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway affected is located from Route 25 to Route W in New Madrid County.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

Monday, September 21, 2026

MAN FACING NUMEROUS CHARGES AFTER ALLEGEDLY FIRING AT LAW ENFORCEMENT IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff man is facing numerous charges in connection to an incident last Thursday where shots were fired at law enforcement officers. 

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that deputies responded Thursday night to a domestic disturbance on Nellie Sue Circle in Poplar Bluff. According to Sheriff Dobbs, after deputies removed a female from the residence, the male subject inside allegedly opened fire on officers through the door of the mobile home.

Nearby residents were evacuated and the home was surrounded.

After several hours of unsuccessful attempts to make contact with the suspect, an entry team entered the residence and took 40 year old Christopher McColl, of Poplar Bluff, into custody. Officers also located an AR-15 and handguns inside the residence.

Sheriff Dobbs says McColl was taken to a local hospital because he was incoherent due to extreme intoxication at the time of his arrest. 

McColl has been charged with four counts of armed criminal action and assault 1st degree, along with a single count of unlawful use of a weapon. 

VETERANS HONOR TOUR SEND OFF PARADE IN QULIN SET FOR WEDNESDAY

The Veterans Honor Tour will depart for their annual Washington DC trip this week and a local community is stepping up to give the veterans the send off they deserve.

Qulin Mayor Justin Parks tells KWOC News that the city of Qulin will be hosting their second annual Veterans Honor Tour Send-Off Parade on Wednesday.

The opening ceremony will begin at 9:45 am at the Qulin Lions Park, with the parade following.

For more information, including the parade route, visit the City of Qulin Facebook page.

US ARMY TO BE TRAINING IN AND AROUND WAYNE COUNTY THIS WEEK

Elements of the United States Army will be training in the Wayne County area this week.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, the training will be conducted approximately through September 28th and is being coordinated with local government and law enforcement officials.

Aviation assets will be involved, so citizens may hear a higher level of noise associated with military aircraft.

Officials say that the training is not in response to any real world event and extensive safety precautions are in place to protect the service members and local citizens, as well as to limit inconvenience to the communities.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF THE HEARTLAND RECEIVES $41,000 GRANT

A Poplar Bluff organization will be sharing part of a grant from the Taco Bell Foundation.

The Foundation is awarding $32 million dollars to over 700 non profit organizations across the nation, with over $346,000 of that money going to nine organizations in Missouri.

$41,000 will be coming to the Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland in Poplar Bluff, and the funds will go to the Teen Workforce program. This program provides young people with opportunities to gain valuable work experience, build skills and confidence, and prepare for their futures.

This grant was funded by customers who participate in the Taco Bell Foundation’s Round Up program by rounding up their order total to the nearest dollar, with the change going directly back into and supporting community youth.

CLASS ON UNDERSTANDING FRAUD AND SCAMS TO BE HELD TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

Area residents who want to learn more about protecting themselves from fraud and scams can attend a free class today at the Poplar Bluff Library.

The Butler County University of Missouri Extension will be presenting “Understanding Fraud and Scams” at 1 pm today at the Library’s main branch on Main Street.

The session will go over types of scams, scams using AI, and what to do if you get scammed.

DEXTER AREA ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from Route FF to County Road 531 near Dexter.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

MODOT officials say that the work zone will be located between mile markers 24.6 and 25.6.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Friday, September 18, 2026

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE AGREES TO PLAN THAT WILL LEAD TO REINSTATEMENT OF THE COLLEGE RODEO TEAM

A plan is in place that will lead to the reinstatement of the Three Rivers College Rodeo team.

According to college officials, Three Rivers College and the Raider Rodeo Roundup Club have agreed to move forward with a proposal that the Club presented at the most recent TRC Board of Trustees meeting on August 26th.

In the proposal, the Raider Rodeo Roundup Club outlined a timeline where they would rebuild the Three Rivers rodeo program into a financially self-supporting program. The Raider Rodeo Roundup Club committed to annual financial support while Three Rivers would continue to fulfill its role as the sponsoring institution.

Three Rivers College President Dr. Wesley Payne says that Rodeo has meant a lot to the College and region over the years, and the college is excited to give Raider Rodeo Roundup Club the opportunity to build something sustainable and show that the program can stand on its own.

WAPPAPELLO WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Wappapello woman was seriously injured Wednesday evening during a single vehicle crash in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 38 year old woman was driving on Highway T, south of Wappapello, when she ran off the side of the roadway and struck a tree.

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

35TH ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE DAYS SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

A major community event will be returning to the Greenville area this weekend

The 35th Annual Old Greenville Days is scheduled for September 19th and 20th at the Greenville Recreation Area.

There will be arts, crafts, history, and music as a part of the event and admission is free to the public.

POPLAR BLUFF KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS TO HOST SIDE BY SIDE POKER RUN THIS WEEKEND

The Knights of Columbus in Poplar Bluff will be hosting their 4th Annual Side by Side Poker Run this weekend.

Registration will start at 10 am on Saturday at the Adrian Club Hall on Grand Avenue. The 45 mile ride will depart at noon.

The registration fee is $25 per driver and $10 for each additional rider.

Proceeds from the run will go to benefit Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.

For more information, call Vince Lampe at 573-718-5512.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS TODAY FOR YOUTH BASKETBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF

Time has almost run out to get your kids registered for youth basketball in Poplar Bluff.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, registration will be available through today for 3rd through 6th grade youth basketball.

Games will be played at the Black River Coliseum beginning in late October/early November.

The cost to register is $20. Parents can get their kids registered at pbparks.recdesk.com.

POWER OF THE PURSE EVENT TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY

Power of the Purse will be held this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The annual event, hosted by the Designing Women Foundation, will feature new and gently used designer purses as well as an afternoon tea benefit. In addition, there will be a raffle for a necklace.

Proceeds from the event will go to support the Foundation’s programs.

Power of the Purse will begin at 2 pm on Sunday, September 20th at the Bloodworth House. Admission is $15 per person.

Thursday, September 17, 2026

DONIPHAN MAN IN CUSTODY ON CHILD MOLESTATION AND SODOMY CHARGES

Authorities in Ripley County have arrested an area man on a child molestation charge.

Ripley County Chief Deputy David Sutton tells KWOC News that 30 year old James Brooks, of Doniphan was arrested Tuesday at the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office on charges of sodomy 1st degree - aggravated sexual offense and child molestation 3rd degree.

Following the arrest, Brooks was held in the Ripley County Jail.

THREE PEOPLE CHARGED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI FOR MEDICAID FRAUD

Three people in Southeast Missouri are among 17 statewide that have been charged by the Missouri Attorney General in connection to separate medicaid fraud cases.

Attorney General Catherine Hanaway tells KWOC News that Maci Legrand was barred from serving as a caregiver after her Good Cause Waiver was denied due to her criminal history.

Legrand then enlisted her friend Christal Calhoun to pose as the official attendant on paper while they split over $27,000 in Medicaid payments for care that was not provided as claimed.

Calhoun claimed to provide services to a Medicaid recipient who showed up to the hospital disheveled and soiled, and was diagnosed with cellulitis following supposed care.

In a separate case, Gwen Fennell was charged for false claims totaling over $4,800.

MOTORISTS AND FARMERS URGED TO STAY ALERT ON ROADWAYS

Many area farmers will soon be starting or are already in the process of harvesting their crops and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be prepared for heavier farm machinery traffic, especially on rural highways.

When you come up behind a tractor or other farm machinery, remember to slow down and be patient. Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic. Never pass on a hill or curve.

Officials say that collisions commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn.

Be sure to watch the farmer’s hand and light signals closely.

LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS TEAM UP FOR POPLAR BLUFF DOWNTOWN STRAWMAN COMPETITION

Multiple Poplar Bluff organizations are teaming up for the third annual Downtown Strawman Competition.

Strawmen will be placed on a tree or light post on the two blocks encompassing Main, Cedar, Broadway, and Vine Streets. Judges will evaluate each entry and choose a winner.

Contestants can reserve their spot for $20 and all entry forms must be received by September 22nd.

Everybody will be able to vote on their favorite Strawman from October 9th to the 22nd on the Poplar Bluff Library Facebook page.

More information, including a link to register is available at PoplarBluff.org/strawman.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

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

The event is from 3 to 5 pm, and is first come, first serve, with packs limited to one per household.

New Day Ministry is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-718-4578.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement replacement. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from mile marker 50.6 to mile marker 52.1.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

FOUR POPLAR BLUFF POLICE OFFICERS RECEIVE GOVERNOR’S MEDAL DURING CEREMONY IN JEFFERSON CITY

Four Poplar Bluff Police Officers have received Missouri’s highest public safety honor for their heroic life saving efforts.

According to Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Poplar Bluff Police Lieutenant Dusty Johnson, along with officers Kenneth Carpenter Jr., Adam Miles, and Sami Tscherning, were awarded the Governor’s Medal Tuesday for rescuing and transporting a woman that was trapped in a collapsed house following the EF-3 tornado that struck the city in March of 2025.

The Governor’s Medal is bestowed for heroic acts performed by a team of first responders.

K-9 Officer Henry Franklin, with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, posthumously received the Red, White and Blue Heart Award, which is given for first responders seriously or fatally injured in the line of duty.

Franklin was a member of the Sikeston DPS SWAT team when he was shot and killed by a gunman during the service of an arrest warrant in October of 2025.

The awards were presented at a ceremony in Jefferson City on Tuesday.

HEAT ADVISORY EXTENDED THROUGH FRIDAY

A dangerous late season heat wave will continue through the end of the work week.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the ongoing heat advisory has been extended through Friday evening at 7 pm.

High temperatures in the middle to upper 90s are expected through Friday, with peak heat index values ranging from 100 to 105 degrees each afternoon.

Officials say that some locations may break their record for latest 105 degree or higher heat index on record.

10 MILLION DOLLARS IN STATE GRANTS AWARDED TO MISSOURI BLUE SHIELD COMMUNITIES

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has announced that grant money has been awarded to Missouri Blue Shield communities across the state.

According to the Governor’s office, a total of 350 counties, cities, and towns earned the Governor’s Blue Shield designation by creating comprehensive, sustainable plans to fight crime and promote safer communities, making them eligible for grant funding.

Counties, cities, and towns that earned designation receive over $29,000 each in state funding for body cameras, ballistic vests, and other equipment to build safer communities.

Both Butler County and Poplar Bluff are a part of the initiative.

Governor Kehoe says that $10 million dollars in state grants were distributed.

FARMERS URGED TO TAKE STEPS TO KEEP MOTORISTS AND THEMSELVES SAFE

With Harvest Season underway, farmers are urged to take steps to protect themselves and other motorists while on Missouri highways.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, in 2025, there were 163 Missouri traffic crashes involving farm equipment or implements.

Farmers are being asked to make sure your farm equipment is properly marked with lights and a “slow-moving vehicle” emblem when you travel on the roadway. If traffic accumulates behind you on the road where it is difficult to make a safe pass, pull off onto the side of the road in a level area, so vehicles can pass.

ATVs being used for farming can only travel on highways during daylight hours and must be equipped with lights, a bicycle flag, and a "slow-moving vehicle" emblem.

The law requires anyone under the age of 18 to wear a safety helmet when operating an ATV; however, the Highway Patrol recommends operators wear a safety helmet regardless of age.

Tomorrow we will have tips for drivers on how to share the roadway with farm vehicles.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY IN CAMPBELL

Route OO in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane over two days as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located between Routes 53 and Route 62.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECTS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55

Northbound and Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to MoDOT officials, multiple sections of I-55 will be reduced during the project, including: northbound lanes from mile marker 57 to mile marker 58.4, as well as southbound lanes from mile marker 53.4 to 52 and mile marker 56 to 55.6.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Officials say that drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane restrictions.

Tuesday, September 15, 2026

ONE IN CUSTODY, ANOTHER AT LARGE, FOLLOWING MONDAY MORNING SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF

One person is in custody in connection to a shooting in Poplar Bluff.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief J.R. Keirsey tells KWOC News that the shooting occurred on Abbott Street between 10:30 and 10:45 Monday morning.

The victim was alert and has been transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Keirsey says that one person has been taken into custody while another is at large.

He added that the individuals involved knew each other and there is no threat to the public at this time.

We will keep following this story for you and bring you updates as they become available.

HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT THROUGH WEDNESDAY EVENING

A heat advisory remains in effect for Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, daily heat index readings of around 105 degrees will be possible in the region both today and Wednesday.

The advisory is currently scheduled to end at 7 pm on Wednesday.

Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

DEPUTY’S VEHICLE STRUCK WHILE WORKING A CRASH IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Two people were transported to an area hospital, including a Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Deputy, following a crash Sunday morning.

Pemiscot County Sheriff Joe Bryant tells KWOC News that the deputy was in his patrol vehicle roadside helping traffic control from a previous accident, when he was hit by a vehicle.

Bryant says that the deputy was transported to a Sikeston hospital and has since been released. The driver of the other vehicle suffered moderate injuries and was also transported to a Sikeston hospital.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol arrest report, 39 year old Nickie Stricklin, of Portageville, is facing a charge of driving while intoxicated - crash resulting in physical injury to a law enforcement officer.

STODDARD COUNTY DEPUTY RECOGNIZED FOR USING NARCAN TO HELP SAVE SOMEBODY’S LIFE

Stoddard County officials are congratulating a local deputy for her actions in helping to save someone’s life.

According to Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner, Deputy Alex Adams was recently presented with a Missouri Crisis Intervention Team Challenge Coin.

The coin was presented in recognition of Deputy Adams actions during an emergency response in which she administered Narcan and saved an individual’s life.

The challenge coin is awarded to first responders who demonstrate commitment to preserving life and serving their communities during critical incidents.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO MULTIPLE THREATS

Authorities in Greene County say that an arrest has been made in connection to multiple threats that have been made over the previous year.

According to a felony warrant affidavit, between October 1st, 2025, and September 5th, 2026, numerous letters were mailed to school officials, public servants, and private citizens within Paragould, as well as other jurisdictions throughout the state, containing death, kidnapping, and stalking threats, as well as threats to commit sexual acts, and threats to shoot into multiple government buildings.

Officials say that a vast majority of the letters were sent using a local educator's name and address that resulted in over a dozen police reports being filed against him.

On September 5th a "Crime Tip" was sent to a local agency that contained information consistent with the letters that had been sent. An IP address was obtained from that "Crime Tip" and the potential defendant, 26 year old Cody Taylor, of Forrest City, Arkansas, was found to be the user of that IP address. The defendant was found to have multiple connections with the senders and recipients of the letters.

During an interview, Taylor admitted to sending the letters to numerous school officials, public servants, private citizens, and celebrity figures while acting as other local individuals.

Taylor was arrested on multiple charges, including terroristic threatening, criminal impersonation, stalking, and forgery.

He is being held in the Greene County Jail on a $750,000 bond.

DEXTER AREA ROAD TO BE CLOSED BEGINNING TODAY

Route ZZ in Stoddard County will be closed over two days so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform core drilling operations. 

The section of roadway being closed is located between Route 60 and County Road 616 near Dexter.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

Monday, September 14, 2026

MULTIPLE SEARCH WARRANTS EXECUTED FRIDAY IN CONNECTION TO ILLEGAL GAMBLING OPERATIONS IN BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities executed multiple search warrants Friday in Butler County in connection to illegal gambling operations.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that the Butler County Sheriff’s Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol conducted searches at four businesses within Butler County, including in the City of Poplar Bluff.

The businesses have been identified as Mike’s Resale on East Highway 60, Jay’s Corner Store on South Broadway, The Winning Circle on North 10th Street, and Westwood Express, also known as the Game Court, on North Westwood Boulevard.

Dobbs says that the searches are a part of a four month investigation into possible illegal gambling operations at the locations.

HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT TODAY AND TOMORROW

A heat advisory will be in effect for the early part of this week in Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an advisory will be in effect today from 11 am until 8 pm for the southern portions of Southeast Missouri as well as Northeast Arkansas. Heat index values of 100 to 105 degrees are expected for the advised areas.

Another Heat Advisory will then be in effect from 11 am to 8 pm on Tuesday for most of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

Officials with the National Weather Service say that this is the latest in the season the Paducah office has issued a heat advisory. The previous latest was September 5th, which occurred in 2014 and 2012.

Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

35TH ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE DAYS SET FOR SEPTEMBER 19TH AND 20TH

A major community event will be returning to the Greenville area this weekend

The 35th Annual Old Greenville Days is scheduled for September 19th and 20th at the Greenville Recreation Area.

There will be arts, crafts, history, and music as a part of the event and admission is free to the public.

5TH ANNUAL ERIC SIMMONS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY

The 5th annual Eric Simmons Memorial Golf Tournament has been scheduled for this week.

The four person scramble tournament, hosted by FosterAdopt Connect in Poplar Bluff, will begin at 12:30 pm on Saturday at Ozark Ridge Golf Course.

It is $260 per four person team to sign up. For more information, contact Stacie McElhaney at 573-552-4338.

ROUTE DD TO BE REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS BEGINNING TODAY IN BUTLER AND DUNKLIN COUNTIES

Route DD in Butler and Dunklin counties will be reduced for the first part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from Route 53 in Dunklin County to County Road 228 in Butler County.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

ROAD WORK SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 21 IN CARTER COUNTY

Route 21 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week so construction crews can perform shoulder repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 60 to County Road 241.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, September 18th.

Friday, September 11, 2026

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY TO BE HELD TODAY AT LARRY HILLIS DODGE IN POPLAR BLUFF

A special ceremony will be held today in Poplar Bluff to commemorate 25 years since the deadly terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.

The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 9 am at Larry Hillis Dodge.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs will serve as the keynote speaker and State Representatives Hardy Billington and Cameron Parker Bunting are also expected to be in attendance.

Lori Phelps, Brian Burlingame, and Robby Myers will also be speaking.

The National Anthem will be performed by Poplar Bluff 5th and 6th Grade students. There will also be a performance by Clifton Hoffmann on bagpipes.

The public is invited to take part in the ceremony and those attending will also receive American Flags courtesy of Representative Billington.

FOUR POPLAR BLUFF POLICE OFFICERS TO RECEIVE GOVERNOR’S MEDAL DURING CEREMONY NEXT WEEK

Four Poplar Bluff Police Officers will receive Missouri’s highest public safety honor for their heroic life saving efforts.

According to Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Poplar Bluff Police Lieutenant Dusty Johnson, along with officers Kenneth Carpenter Jr., Adam Miles, and Sami Tscherning, will be awarded the Governor’s Medal for rescuing and transporting a woman that was trapped in a collapsed house following the EF-3 tornado that struck the city in March of 2025.

The Governor’s Medal is bestowed for heroic acts performed by a team of first responders.

K-9 Officer Henry Franklin, with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, will posthumously receive the Red, White and Blue Heart Award, which is given for first responders seriously or fatally injured in the line of duty.

Franklin was a member of the Sikeston DPS SWAT team when he was shot and killed by a gunman during the service of an arrest warrant in October of 2025.

The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Jefferson City on Tuesday. The ceremony will be live streamed on the Missouri Department of Public Safety Facebook page beginning at 1:30 pm.

RIPLEY COUNTY MAN SENTENCED TO FOUR DECADES IN PRISON

A Ripley County man has been ordered to spend multiple decades behind bars for child pornography charges.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 26 year old Lantz Crawford pleaded guilty in June to five counts of production of child pornography.

Officials say that Crawford recorded his sexual abuse of five children, all under the age of seven, between the summer of 2024 and late 2025.

In December of 2025, the mother of one of the children contacted the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office after her child reported the abuse. Crawford’s phone was seized and investigators found child sexual abuse material depicting young children.

On Thursday, Crawford was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO SCOTT COUNTY DEATH INVESTIGATION

A man is facing multiple charges following his arrest in connection to a death investigation in Scott County.

As KWOC News previously reported, 35 year old Kali Hasty, of Sikeston, was found dead in the early morning hours of July 25th along Scott County Highway 529.

Scott County Sheriff Derick Wheetley tells KWOC News that after several weeks of investigative work, charges were filed against Hasty’s husband, Travis J. Hasty, who was arrested without incident on Tuesday.

Hasty has been charged with felony abandonment of a corpse, driving while intoxicated, and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

Sheriff Wheetley says that Hasty remains in custody at the Scott County Jail.

UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT THROWS OUT MISSOURI CONGRESSIONAL MAPS

The U.S. Supreme Court again rejected Missouri congressional maps backed by President Donald Trump on Thursday, a loss for Republicans trying to maintain control of the House in the pivotal midterm elections.

The decision appears to clear the way for the state to use a map passed in 2022, as the state's highest court ordered.

It's part of a pitched legal battle that has created confusion for voters and others shortly before ballots begin going out for the November elections. The Trump administration had urged the court to keep the president’s preferred maps, which were aimed at gaining one additional GOP House seat.

No Supreme Court justices publicly dissented from the brief order. It did not detail the court’s legal reasoning, as is typical in emergency appeals.

Meanwhile, the legal fight featuring dueling orders from different courts continued unfolding in Missouri, where the state's top court held a hearing Thursday on whether to hold Republican Secretary of State Denny Hoskins in contempt for not following its orders to use districts passed after the last census. Hoskins had instead told local election authorities to use the new Trump-backed map, pointing to a competing order from a federal judge on Tuesday requiring its use.

Missouri Supreme Court judges, while questioning a state attorney representing Hoskins, repeatedly pressed for Hoskins to send out new guidance Thursday to use the 2022 version of the congressional districts. The court made no immediate decision on whether to hold Hoskins in contempt for his actions but urged him not to stray too far from the state's capital of Jefferson City.

The U.S. Supreme Court's decision likely means Missouri will run the general election with a different congressional map than was used in the primary. Some people might not be able to vote for the same candidate they chose in the primary. It’s an unusual situation that leaves Missouri without a clear-cut example to follow.

RUN 4 THE ARTS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 11th annual Run 4 the Arts hosted by Three Rivers College is this weekend.

The four-mile run or walk, along with the walk and wag, will be held at 8 am on Saturday at the College’s Poplar Bluff Campus. The course will begin and end in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

Funds from the event will go to benefit Three Rivers fine arts scholarships.

You can register online at TRCC.edu.

2026 FISK FALL FESTIVAL COMING UP ON SATURDAY

The Fisk community will be coming together this weekend for their annual fall festival.

The 2026 Fisk Fall Festival will begin with the parade at 10 am on Saturday. Line-up will begin at 9:30 am at the Fisk school.

There will also be a car show, games, a bounce house, vendors, and many more activities for the entire family at the Fisk City Park after the parade.

CURRENT RIVER CLEANUP SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

AmeriCorps Senior and the Community Resource Council will be hosting a clean-up of Current River for the 5th annual National Day of Service on Saturday.

The event will be from 10 am to 4 pm, spanning from Watercress Spring to Big Spring.

There will also be food and prizes as a part of the event as well.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

Thursday, September 10, 2026

BODY RECOVERED OF PERSON WHO WENT MISSING AFTER JUMPING INTO SWIMMING AREA TO HELP CHILD

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas have recovered the body of an adult who went missing in the swimming area of Crowley’s Ridge State Park.

According to Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder, shortly before 8 pm Monday, a state park life guard was doing a final check after the swimming area shut down, when they heard a young person scream for help.

The juvenile, who was in the water, was able to be retrieved by the state park lifeguard. The juvenile said that they were struggling to stay above water, and that an adult had come to help get them onto one of the inflatables and to safety. During that attempt, the person in question went under and never resurfaced.

After several hours, a search for the person was postponed shortly after midnight Tuesday morning.

On Tuesday, deputies worked alongside the Craighead County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team, as well as Arkansas Game and Fish and Arkansas State Parks, to continue the search. At approximately 1:20 pm Tuesday, Craighead County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team members were able to locate the body of the missing person.

Snyder says that the identity of the deceased is being withheld until positive identification is established and the next of kin is notified. The body will be sent to the state crime lab for an autopsy.

POPLAR BLUFF R-1 TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT RECEIVES AWARD FROM MSHP

The Poplar Bluff R-1 Transportation Department is being recognized by the Missouri State Highway Patrol for maintaining exceptional safety standards across its entire fleet of over 50 buses.

According to school officials, the department has earned a Total Fleet Excellence award.

The district achieved an approval rating of 92.3 percent, with 48 out of 52 buses earning a perfect score. The remaining buses that received point deductions were greenlit after minor repairs were performed on-site, R-1 Director of student success Jon McKinney reported to the Board of Education following the spring safety inspection.

The 2026 approval rating exceeds the state average by 2.36 percent. The percentage also tops last year’s score by 11.5 percent, and the district's five-year average on McKinney's watch by 8.7 percent.

RESIDENTS CAN SIGN UP TO GET NOTIFICATIONS ABOUT TRAFFIC SHIFT ON US HIGHWAY 67

The previously reported traffic shift is coming up soon for US Route 67 and residents can now sign up to receive notifications about the project.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is preparing for new traffic patterns along U.S. Route 67 between U.S. 160 and Route MM in Butler County in the coming weeks.

During the transition, construction crews will shift traffic from the existing U.S. 67 roadway to the newly constructed four-lane facility.

To minimize the duration of impacts, construction crews will work continuously to complete the transition within an anticipated 36-hour period. An exact date has not been set at this time.

Residents and local travelers who live or travel along the section of U.S. 67 between U.S. 160 and Route MM are encouraged to provide their contact information to MoDOT at modot.org/futureI57 to receive an alert once an exact date is established.

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR BEGINS SEPTEMBER 22

The 99th Stoddard County Fair will begin in less than two weeks.

The fair will kick-off with the parade in downtown Dexter on Tuesday, September 22nd at 5:30 pm.

There will be multiple nights of entertainment and events through September 26th, including the livestock auction, FFA/4H tractor rodeo, demolition derby, and more.

For more information, including the full schedule, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com.

SHOTS FIRED NEAR LARGE GATHERING IN SIKESTON, THREE PEOPLE INJURED

Authorities in Sikeston are investigating a shooting from the Labor Day Holiday weekend.

According to Sergeant Tyler Rowe, during the early morning hours on Sunday, a large gathering of around 100 to 200 people were congregating in the area of Branum and Lora shortly after 3 am.

At 3:40 am Sikeston DPS Officers received a ShotSpotter Alert and Officers in the area called out on the radio the gunshots as well. ShotSpotter indicated possible fully automatic gun fire in the area of Luther and Osage which was within walking distance of where the crowd had been.

When Officers arrived on scene they were informed of 3 gunshot victims. Of the three victims, one remains in serious condition at a trauma hospital. The other two victims received gunshot wounds to their lower extremities and have already been released from the hospital. Rowe says that the names of the victims are not being released for their privacy.

During the course of the investigation, officers located a total of 32 spent shell casings, in three different calibers, as well as one firearm that was recovered near the scene.

Anyone with information that could help the investigation is encouraged to contact Sikeston DPS Criminal Investigations Unit at 573-471-4711, or they can contact the anonymous tip line at 573-475-3774.

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR TO BE HELD THIS MONTH IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free health fair for area residents ages 50 and up will be held this fall in Poplar Bluff.

The 29th Annual Senior Health Fair from the Butler County Community Resource Council and AmeriCorps Seniors, has been scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, September 22nd at the Twin Towers in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple services available, including health screenings, vaccinations, community resource information, and more.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT TODAY

Heat index values could reach up to 108 degrees today in Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a heat advisory will be in effect from 11 am through 8 pm today.

Officials say that real temperatures will reach the upper 90’s to lower 100’s today.

If you have to be outside for work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.

Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

On Thursday, there is also a marginal risk of severe weather with damaging wind gusts possible for the northern part of our listening area.

SIX YEAR OLD CHILD AIRLIFTED TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING CRASH IN BUTLER COUNTY MONDAY NIGHT

A young child from Qulin was flown to a regional hospital Monday night following a two vehicle crash in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC news that the crash occurred as one vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle shortly before 10 pm on Missouri Highway 53.

A passenger in the first vehicle, identified as a six year old Qulin child, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

Three other people in the first vehicle, as well as a passenger in the second vehicle, received minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

NO INJURIES REPORTED AFTER BOATS CRASH INTO EACH OTHER ON CURRENT RIVER

No injuries were reported after two boats collided over the holiday weekend on Current River.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the boats struck head on after one pulled into the path of another, 17 miles south of Ellington, Sunday afternoon.

One of the boats received extensive damage, while the other had moderate damage. No injuries were reported from the people onboard each boat.

MISSOURI SEMA TO HOST APPLICANT BRIEFINGS TODAY IN GREENVILLE IN CONNECTION TO FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION

State officials will be in Southeast Missouri today to conduct briefings in connection with the recent federal disaster declaration.

Following the federal disaster declaration for multiple severe weather systems that impacted Missouri July 9th through the 11th, the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency will conduct applicant briefings for local governments and nonprofit agencies applying for Public Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Ripley and Wayne Counties are among the nine counties included in the declaration.

Applicant briefings are currently scheduled for 9 am to 1 pm today at the Wayne County Courthouse in Greenville.

Officials say that applicant briefings are not for the general public. The briefings are for FEMA’s Public Assistance program only, which provides financial assistance to local governments and qualifying nonprofits for the repair of damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of associated emergency response and recovery costs.

SUBJECT IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING ONE HOUR STANDOFF WITH POLICE

A subject has been taken into custody following a standoff with police on Tuesday.

According to Corporal Trevor Kilburn with the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a residence near Miner on Tuesday, regarding a barricaded subject who was reportedly making threats to kill law enforcement officers responding to the scene.

Deputies arrived and began giving verbal commands through the public address system for the subject to come outside, but were unsuccessful. After approximately one hour of attempted negotiations and a continued barricade, deputies deployed less lethal munitions into the residence.

The subject then exited and was taken into custody without further incident. During a search of the residence, deputies located numerous firearms.

Kilburn says that the investigation remains ongoing and additional information, including potential charges, will be released as it becomes available.

ONE INJURED IN COLLISION NEAR MATTHEWS

A Canalou man was seriously injured Monday evening after being involved in a collision near Matthews.

According to authorities, one vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle at the intersection Missouri Highway FF and New Madrid County Road 820.

The driver of the second vehicle, identified as a 29 year old Canalou man, received serious injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

KENNETT MAN SENTENCED TO TWO DECADES IN PRISON FOR HIS ROLE IN MULTIPLE ARMED ROBBERIES

A Kennet man was sentenced Tuesday for his role in the armed robbery of two businesses and their patrons in 2024.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 41 year old Tarrence Raybon, and two other men robbed a tobacco and liquor store in Kennett on January 17, 2024. Four days later, Raybon and two other men robbed another Kennett business.

Raybon was out on bond at the time of the robberies and wearing a GPS monitoring device on his ankle that showed him at each scene.

In June, Raybon pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On Tuesday, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Tuesday, September 8, 2026

BUTLER COUNTY SHERIFF MARK DOBBS TO BE KEYNOTE SPEAKER FOR 9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A special ceremony will be held in Poplar Bluff to commemorate 25 years since the deadly terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.

The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 9 am on Friday, September 11th at Larry Hillis Dodge in Poplar Bluff.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs will serve as the keynote speaker and State Representatives Hardy Billington and Cameron Parker Bunting are also expected to be in attendance.

The National Anthem will be performed by Poplar Bluff 5th and 6th Grade students. There will also be a performance by Clifton Hoffmann on bagpipes.

The public is invited to take part in the ceremony and those attending will also receive American Flags courtesy of Representative Billington.

ONE DEAD, THREE INJURED, FOLLOWING STODDARD COUNTY CRASH

One person has died and three others were injured in a multi vehicle crash in Stoddard County.

Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that the crash happened at around 8:30 pm Saturday on U.S. Highway 60, near Essex.

Parrott says that an 18 year old Poplar Bluff man was driving westbound when he struck a vehicle that was stopped in the roadway.

A passenger in the second vehicle, identified as a 52 year old Essex woman, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the second vehicle, along with two people in the first vehicle, were injured and transported to area hospitals.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR FATAL SHOOTING OF HIS ROOMMATE

Authorities have arrested a man for the fatal shooting of his roommate in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Paragould Police Department, officers located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound at an area residence.

The victim, identified as Scott Hendrix, of Paragould, was transported to a local hospital for treatment but was later pronounced dead.

Investigators with the Paragould Police Department have arrested the victim’s roommate, 55 year old Steven Van Sickle, in connection to the shooting.

Van Sickle is being held in the Greene County Jail on a first degree murder charge. His bond was set at one million dollars.

Officials say that the investigation remains active and further information regarding the circumstances of the shooting are not being released at this time.

2026 FISK FALL FESTIVAL COMING UP ON SATURDAY

The Fisk community will be coming together this weekend for their annual fall festival.

The 2026 Fisk Fall Festival will begin with the parade at 10 am on Saturday, September 12th. Line-up will begin at 9:30 am at the Fisk school.

There will also be a car show, games, a bounce house, vendors, and many more activities for the entire family at the Fisk City Park after the parade.

RUN 4 THE ARTS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 11th annual Run 4 the Arts hosted by Three Rivers College is this weekend.

The four-mile run or walk, along with the walk and wag, will be held at 8 am on Saturday, September 12th at the College’s Poplar Bluff Campus. The course will begin and end in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

Funds from the event will go to benefit Three Rivers fine arts scholarships.

You can register online at TRCC.edu.

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR TO BE HELD THIS MONTH IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free health fair for area residents ages 50 and up will be held this fall in Poplar Bluff.

The 29th Annual Senior Health Fair from the Butler County Community Resource Council and AmeriCorps Seniors, has been scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, September 22nd at the Twin Towers in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple services available, including health screenings, vaccinations, community resource information, and more.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

Friday, September 4, 2026

BODY RECOVERED FROM SPORTSMAN’S PARK IN BUTLER COUNTY, SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

An investigation is underway after a body was recovered near the Black River in Butler County on Wednesday afternoon.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief JR Keirsey tells KWOC News that the body of 77-year-old Daniel O’Connor was found in the grassy area just east of the boat ramp at Sportsman’s Park in Poplar Bluff.

An autopsy was conducted Thursday, which was followed by the activation of the Butler County Major Case Squad to investigate.

During the investigation, officers developed two persons of interest and located both individuals Thursday afternoon.

Chief Keirsey says investigators determined that 47 year old Barnaby Carey was responsible for O’Connor’s death. Carey is now in custody.

Keirsey says that the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

BILLIE G. KANELL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY TO BE HELD ON LABOR DAY

A special ceremony honoring a local Medal of Honor recipient will be held on Labor Day in Poplar Bluff.

The Billie G. Kanell “Day of Remembrance” ceremony will begin at 11 am on Monday at the Butler County Veterans Memorial Wall in front of the Black Rover Coliseum.

Monday will mark the 75th Anniversary of the day Kanell lost his life during the Korean War. He was awarded the nation’s highest honor for his bravery and sacrifice.

DONIPHAN MAN FLOWN TO JONESBORO HOSPITAL FOLLOWING ATV CRASH

A Doniphan man was injured in an ATV crash Thursday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 29 year old man was driving the ATV on a county road near Doniphan when he failed to negotiate a curve and overturned.

The man suffered moderate injuries in the crash and was flown to a Jonesboro hospital.

TWO PEOPLE ARRESTED ON DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGES

A traffic stop led to the arrest of two people on trafficking charges.

According to a warrant affidavit, on Tuesday, investigators with the Paragould Police Department's VICE Unit conducted a traffic stop on 71 year old, Knoble Sims, of Paragould. During a probable cause search, investigators located a baggie of suspected methamphetamine.

A search warrant for his residence was then conducted, where investigators located approximately 398.3 grams of methamphetamine, five firearms, numerous items of drug paraphernalia, and over $7,500 in US currency.

Sims, and his wife 49 year old Sandra Sims, were taken into custody on multiple charges, including trafficking a controlled substance, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, and maintaining a drug premises.

Their bonds were each set at $150,000.

MCDOUGAL TO HOST ANNUAL HOMECOMING PICNIC THIS WEEKEND

A Northeast Arkansas community will be coming together this weekend to raise money for the local cemetery.

McDougal’s 2nd Annual Homecoming Picnic is scheduled for Saturday at Edna Cooper Park in McDougal, Arkansas.

There will be music, food, games, a live auction, beauty contests, and a car and bike show.

All proceeds from the event go to the Post Oak Cemetery Association for the upkeep of the cemetery.

For more information contact Terry and Erica Nossett at 870-631-2238.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED MONDAY IN MISSOURI

Missouri state officials are reminding motorists that driver examinations will not be available on Monday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed Monday in observance of Labor Day.

Officials say that normal operations will resume on Tuesday.

Thursday, September 3, 2026

FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION APPROVED IN RESPONSE TO FLOODING AND SEVERE STORMS FROM EARLY JULY

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has announced that President Donald Trump approved a Federal Disaster Declaration in response to the historic flash flooding and severe storms that occurred July 9th through 11th.

According to the governor's office, joint preliminary damage assessments estimated more than $26.5 million in emergency response costs and damage to public infrastructure in nine counties, including Bollinger, Reynolds, Ripley, and Wayne counties.

On Tuesday, President Trump approved 19.9 million dollars to assist recovery efforts.

The federal major disaster declaration makes the FEMA Public Assistance program available to local governments and qualifying nonprofits for the repair and rebuilding of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of emergency response costs and debris removal.

25 MILE COMMUNITY YARD SALE TO BEGIN ON SEPTEMBER 5TH

Anyone looking for deals during Labor Day weekend is encouraged to go to Wappapello Lake.

The 25 mile Community Yard Sale will be going on from September 5th through the 7th along T Highway in Butler County and Route D in Wayne County from the north end of the Dam to AA Highway.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, vendors will be set up in the large grassy area at the Spillway Recreation area during the event.

Officials say that anyone who wants to set up at the Spillway Recreation Area needs to contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-7500 to receive a free application form.

HIGHWAY PATROL URGES SAFETY FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

With Labor Day weekend almost here, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging everyone to be safe during the holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. this weekend.

Troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways, enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

Last year, 6 people were killed and 423 were injured in Missouri over the Labor Day holiday weekend in 931 traffic crashes. Also, 104 people were arrested by the Highway Patrol for driving while intoxicated.

The Labor Day holiday is also a busy boating weekend. In 2025, there were nine boating crashes which included six injuries and no fatalities.

VETERANS HONOR TOUR SEND OFF PARADE IN QULIN SET FOR SEPTEMBER 23RD

The Veterans Honor Tour will depart for their annual Washington DC trip in September and a local community is stepping up to give the veterans the send off they deserve.

Qulin Mayor Justin Parks tells KWOC News that the city of Qulin will be hosting their second annual Veterans Honor Tour Send-Off Parade on Wednesday, September 23.

The opening ceremony will begin at 9:45 am at the Qulin Lions Park, with the parade following.

For more information, including the parade route, visit the City of Qulin Facebook page.

HUNTER EDUCATION CLASSES TO BE HELD IN OCTOBER THROUGHOUT SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Hunter education classes will be held in October throughout Southeast Missouri.

The Missouri Department of Conservation says that staff are hosting several classes throughout the fall season, with additional sessions planned for winter and early spring.

The Hunter Education Skills Session is the final step to becoming hunter education certified and is open to participants ages 11 and older.

Classes will be held on October 8th at the Bill Emerson Visitor’s Center in Wappapello and the New Madrid Community Building, on October 10th at the Dexter Police Department and Meet the Need, Incorporated in Charleston, and on October 18th at Holcomb High School.

Students must have completed the Knowledge Portion of the Hunter Education course either online or by filling out the student manual chapter review questions before attending.

Those who choose to fill out the student manual will need to bring the booklet to the event for the instructor to review. Those who choose to complete the knowledge portion online will need to bring a copy or picture of the certificate of completion.

More information is available at mdc.mo.gov.

REGISTRATION AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH BASKETBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF

It’s time for parents to get their kids registered for youth basketball in Poplar Bluff.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, registration will be available through September 18th for 3rd through 6th grade youth basketball.

Games will be played at the Black River Coliseum beginning in late October/early November.

The cost to register is $20. Parents can get their kids registered at pbparks.recdesk.com.

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

MODOT CREWS PREPARING FOR TRAFFIC SHIFT ON US HIGHWAY 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation is preparing for new traffic patterns along U.S. Route 67 in Butler County between U.S. 160 and Route MM in the coming weeks.

During the transition, construction crews will shift traffic from the existing U.S. 67 roadway to the newly constructed four-lane facility.

MoDOT Resident Engineer Matt Wilkerson tells KWOC News that tentatively, MoDOT anticipates the transition to occur in mid-September. Wilkerson added that impacts to traffic, though brief, will be significant during that time.

Motorists can expect to see the following work during the continuous, 36-hour operation:

1. Southbound traffic will be transitioned onto the newly constructed southbound lanes just south of the U.S. 160 intersection and then return back to existing U.S. 67 by use of a crossover located between County Road 352 and Route MM.

2. Once southbound traffic is transitioned to the new lanes, existing U.S. 67 within the same limits will be converted to one lane, no passing for northbound travel only.

3. Once the pavement connection from the newly constructed northbound lanes to existing U.S. 67 is complete, then northbound traffic will transition to the new northbound lanes.

4. Once northbound traffic is on the new lanes, existing U.S. 67 from County Road 352 to the end of Hawkeye Lane will then become the East Outer Road. For a short time, the East Outer Road will be closed between the southern end of Hawkeye Lane until construction crews complete a temporary connection of the East Outer Road. The East Outer Road will return to bidirectional traffic conditions except for a small section to be controlled by temporary signals while crews complete the permanent connection of the East Outer Road.

Once this initial traffic transition is complete, northbound and southbound U.S. 67 traffic will remain in a one lane roadway condition along the northern limits of the project as construction crews complete the four-lane connection.

EXTREME HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT FOR PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Dangerously hot conditions are continuing this week in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

Officials with the National Weather Service in Paducah tell KWOC News that an extreme heat warning is in effect through 8 pm on Saturday for parts of Southeast Missouri.

Officials say that hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat index values to reach up to 109 degrees, with maximum air temperatures ranging from 95 to 101 degrees daily.

Officials say that heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.

Remember to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun if possible, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

RIDE FOR A CURE DICE RUN RAISES OVER $16,000 FOR ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL

An area motorcycle run has raised over $16,000 for St. Jude.

Brian Jones tells KWOC News that the 12th Annual Ride for a Cure Dice Run in memory of Larry Maronay raised $16,024 on Saturday, August 28th.

In a post on Facebook, Jones thanked the sponsors and volunteers along with the businesses and individuals who donated items for the event.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER FALLING FROM MOTORCYCLE

A Butler County resident was seriously injured over the weekend after she fell from a motorcycle.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred shortly after midnight Sunday morning on Harper Street in Poplar Bluff.

The passenger, identified as a 42 year old Poplar Bluff woman, was flown to a Memphis hospital.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED TO OVER A DECADE IN PRISON FOR BLACKMAILING TEENS

A southeast Missouri man will spend over a decade behind bars for using threats to coerce two juveniles into sending him nude images.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 21 year old Terry Howard, of Marble Hill, pled guilty in May to one count of enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct.

Howard admitted to communicating with two teens via Snapchat in December of 2024, when he was 19. Howard claimed to be the father of a boy who the victims knew. He threatened to hurt or kill the boy if the teens did not send him sexually explicit material.

Howard has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for the charge. After his release from prison, Howard will be on supervised release for 20 years and be required to register as a sex offender.

ALSPHALT OVERLAY TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS MONTH NEAR MARSTON

Route ZZ in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this month as construction crews perform an asphalt overlay.

According to MODOT, Route ZZ will be reduced from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Monday, September 28 between Route F to County Road 363 near Marston.

While construction is underway, flaggers will be present, and traffic will be guided through the work zone by a pilot car.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026

FORMER RIPLEY COUNTY CHIEF DEPUTY SHERIFF SENTENCED ON FELONY CHARGES

A former Ripley County Chief Deputy Sheriff has been sentenced for receiving stolen property.

In April of 2025, the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Crime Control investigative unit was requested to investigate the alleged possession of stolen property by former Ripley County Sheriff’s Office employees.

One employee was identified as former Chief Deputy Charles Mays.

Firearms located at Mays residence were compared against a list of missing firearms from the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office evidence locker. Ten pistols were recovered from Mays’ residence and it was determined the pistols were previously seized as evidence by the Ripley County Sheriff's Office.

KWOC News has learned that Mays pled guilty to two counts of felony receiving stolen property and on Monday was sentenced to five years probation and ordered to pay restitution of $17,380.

REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 11TH IN POPLAR BLUFF

A special ceremony will be held in Poplar Bluff to commemorate 25 years since the deadly terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.

The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 9 am on Friday, September 11th at Larry Hillis Dodge in Poplar Bluff.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs will serve as the keynote speaker and State Representatives Hardy Billington and Cameron Parker Bunting are also expected to be in attendance.

The National Anthem will be performed by Poplar Bluff 5th and 6th Grade students. There will also be a performance by Clifton Hoffmann on bagpipes.

The public is invited to take part in the ceremony and those attending will also receive American Flags courtesy of Representative Billington.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

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

The closure will be located from County Road 622 to County Road 626 near Fisk.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

MAN ACCUSED OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AT A NORTHEAST ARKANSAS PARK

A man is in custody in Northeast Arkansas on a sexual assault charge.

According to a warrant affidavit, 57 year old Robert Gatewood, of Paragould, is accused of unwanted and forced sexual contact, as well as making sexual statements towards juveniles at Labor Park.

During an interview, Gatewood admitted to inappropriately grabbing one of the juveniles.

Gatewood is being held in Greene County Jail on two counts of 2nd degree sexual assault. His bond was set at $100,000.

TWO FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A HEAD-ON COLLISION NEAR ELLINGTON

Two Ellington residents were flown from the scene of a head-on collision Monday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Highway 21, five miles south of Ellington, when one vehicle crossed the center line and struck an oncoming vehicle.

Both drivers, a 68 year old and a 86 year old female, suffered serious injuries in the crash and were flown to a St. Louis hospital.

CONSTRUCTION CREWS TO REDUCE ROUTE AD IN NEW MADRID COUNTY FOR ALMOST A MONTH

Route AD in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for most of this month as construction crews perform an asphalt overlay.

The work zone is located from Route EE to Route 61 near Marston.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Monday, September 28th from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

As construction is underway, flaggers will be present and traffic will be guided through the work zone by a pilot car.

Monday, August 31, 2026

MAN CONVICTED FOR BUTLER COUNTY DOUBLE MURDER FROM 2022

A man has been found guilty on multiple charges in connection to the 2022 shooting deaths of two women in Qulin.

According to Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, Stephen T. Scott was convicted on two counts of murder in the first degree, two counts of armed criminal action, one count of endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, and an additional count of armed criminal action connected to the child endangerment charge.

The jury also found Scott guilty of unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful possession of a weapon.

The charges stem from an incident in December 2022 where Scott used a stolen firearm to shoot and kill both Margaret Delcour and Wendy Rhodes at a residence in Qulin. Two minors were present in the home at the time of the murders.

Scott’s sentencing is scheduled for November 3rd.

EARLY MORNING CRASH RESULTS IN DEATH OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TEENAGER

A Southeast Missouri teenager has died after being involved in a crash early Sunday morning.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a 16 year old boy, from Sikeston, was driving on Missouri Highway 80, near East Prairie, when he failed to yield and was struck by a vehicle.

The teen was pronounced dead at the scene by Mississippi County Coroner Terry Parker.

Three passengers in the second vehicle were injured in the crash, including an 18 year old East Prairie man who was transported to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

HEAT ADVISORY THIS WEEK

A late summer heat wave will scorch Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas this week.

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a Heat Advisory that will be in effect from 10 am this morning to 8 pm on Friday.

Officials say that heat index values over 100 degrees are possible which may cause heat illnesses.

Remember to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room and out of the sun if possible, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

CREWS CONTINUE TO WORK ON CORNING BYPASS WITH COMPLETION EXPECTED IN LATE 2027

Officials with the Arkansas Department of Transportation say that 75 percent of the earthwork has been completed for the Corning bypass as a part of the larger Interstate 57 project.

According to a post on the Arkansas Department of Transportation Facebook page, construction on the 4.1-mile, four-lane divided highway began in February 2025, and the project is expected to be complete in late 2027.

The post says that once the ground is finished and ready, crews will begin placing a strong base layer that will support the roadway and then pave concrete for the main lanes.

The bypass will also pull heavy truck traffic away from the city’s busiest intersection at Highway 62 and Highway 67, easing congestion in the middle of town.

FOUR PEOPLE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR DONIPHAN

Four Arkansas residents were seriously injured in a single vehicle crash Saturday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the vehicle was travelling down a National Forest Service Road near Doniphan when it left the roadway and struck a tree.

The driver and two passengers, all from Northeast Arkansas, were seriously injured in the crash and flown to a Memphis hospital.

Another passenger also suffered serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

RAILROAD MAINTENANCE PROJECT SET TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR CARUTHERSVILLE

Route 84 in Pemiscot County will be closed for the early part of this week as railroad crews perform railroad maintenance.

The section of the roadway being closed is located from Route D to County Road 346 near Caruthersville.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place through 4 p.m. on Tuesday.