Monday April 24, 2017

ILLINOIS MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO NON LETHAL SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFFAn Illinois man has surrendered to authorities in Poplar Bluff following a shooting on Friday.

Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that officers responded to Garfield Street Friday in reference to a shooting where they learned that a 29 year old Poplar Bluff resident had been taken to a local hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

35 year old Tajsh Lee, of East St. Louis, Illinois, has been identified as a potential suspect and he turned himself in to authorities on Sunday.

His bond has been set at $250,000, cash only.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE Authorities in Kennett say an area man has been taken into custody for possession with intent to distribute.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Saturday officers arrested 27 year old Darius Hudson, of Kennett, for possession of synthetic cannabinoid and possession with the intent to distribute.

Following the arrest, Hudson was held at the Dunklin County Justice Center pending formal charges by the State Prosecutors Office.

BLOOMFILED WOMAN ARRESTED ON DOMESTIC ASSAULT AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGES Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Bloomfield woman on domestic assault and controlled substance charges.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 44 year old Elizabeth Hammett was recently taken into custody on charges of 4th degree domestic assault and possession of a controlled substance except for 35 grams or less of marijuana or a synthetic cannabinoid. Her bond was set at $22,500, cash only.

45 year old Charles Hammett, also of Bloomfield, was arrested on a charge of possession of a controlled substance except for 35 grams or less of marijuana or a synthetic cannabinoid. His bond was set at $12,500 cash only.

DEXTER MAN DIES FOLLOWING WRECK INVOLVING STODDARD COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VEHICLE A Dexter man has died from injuries he received Saturday in a wreck in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office vehicle was travelling northbound on Missouri Highway 25 with its emergency lights and sirens activated when it struck a motorized bicycle that was crossing the roadway.

The driver of the bicycle, 22 year old David Griggs, was taken to a Dexter hospital where he was pronounced dead. No injuries were listed for the driver of the Sheriff’s Office vehicle.

MARSTON WOMAN FACING FELONY DRUG CHARGE OUT OF NEW MADRID COUNTY A Marston woman was arrested over the weekend in New Madrid County on a felony drug charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 32 year old Crystal McFerren was arrested Saturday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

McFerren is also facing a charge of possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana.

Following the arrest, she was transported to the Pemiscot County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK FOR PIPE REPLACEMENTS Route P in Pemiscot County will be closed this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace several pipes under the roadway.

According to MoDOT, the work zone will be located between Route A and Route K in Pemiscot County.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place today through Thursday from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm daily.

Friday April 21, 2017

STORMS DAMAGE MULTIPLE HOMES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURIMultiple reports of damage have come in following yesterday’s storms in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Ripley County Emergency Manager, there was moderate damage to three homes that had trees fall through their roofs. One home also had minor damage when a power line weather head was pulled from the structure by a downed tree. Multiple vehicles were also damaged.

The Doniphan Police Department reported that downed trees blocked the roadways on Route Y and Route K for a period of time last night and have since been cleared off.

In southern Butler County, a semi-tractor trailer overturned on Highway 67 about a mile north of the Missouri and Arkansas State Line. The driver was removed from the vehicle and appeared to be okay.

HANDGUNS AND METHAMPHETAMINE FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN POPLAR BLUFF Two Poplar Bluff residents are facing charges after methamphetamine and firearms were found during a traffic stop Thursday.

KWOC News spoke with Lieutenant Darron Moore with the Poplar Bluff Police Department about the stop.

DARRON MOORE:

Early Thursday morning around 12:40 a.m., Patrolman Dustin Barks conducted a traffic stop on a black Pontiac in the 500 block of Highway 53. Contact was made with the male driver, 21 year old Jordan Braden and the female passenger 25 year old Kira Earls, both of Poplar Bluff.

During the traffic stop it was determined that the vehicle was improperly registered, there was no insurance on the vehicle and the passenger had an active warrant for her arrest. During a search of the vehicle, Officers located 1 handgun under the driver’s seat and 2 handguns under the passenger’s seat along with items of drug paraphernalia.

K9 officer Billy Duckett was assisting with the traffic stop and observed several small plastic baggies fall from Mr. Braden’s shorts. These baggies contained a crystalized substance that later field tested positive for methamphetamine. After locating these items, Mr. Braden volunteered two other bags of suspected methamphetamine from his underwear. The total weight of the suspected methamphetamine was approximately 50.8 grams.

Braden and Earls were arrested and later lodged in the Butler County Justice Center with charges of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Further arrests are anticipated and contact has been made with ATF and DEA for consideration into federal charges.

INDIVIDUALS CHARGED AFTER GRAFFITI REFRENCES POSSIBLE SHOOTING AT NORHTEAST ARKANSAS SCHOOL Authorities in Clay County say that individuals have been charged in connection to graffiti that was found last week.

According to Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller, on Saturday, the sheriff's department was contacted about graffiti found at Chalk Bluff that referenced a possible shooting to take place at a school in Piggott.

Miller says that the individuals responsible for the graffiti were identified and are being charged with falsely making a terroristic threat. The case will be referred to the Clay County Juvenile Department. The names of the individuals charged have not been released.

Miller tells KWOC News that no overt actions were taken to carry out this threat and that the Clay County Sheriff's Department's, Piggott Police Department's, and the Piggott School District's first priority is the safety of the students and staff.

MAN ARRESTED IN CLAY COUNTY ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES A man has been taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas on child pornography related charges.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that on Monday, officers with the Clay County Sheriff's Department, with assistance from the Piggott Police Department and the Jonesboro Police Department's ICAC Unit, executed a search warrant on the residence of Jerry Greene in Piggott.

During the search, officers located three images identified as child pornography.

Greene was arrested and has been charged with three counts of possessing child pornography. Sheriff Miller says that further charges could be forthcoming depending on results from the computer lab.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED ON FIREARM CHARGES Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested a Kennett man on gun charges.

According to the Kennett Police Department, 27 year old James Williams was taken into custody Wednesday for felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of under 35 grams of marijuana.

Williams is being held at the Dunklin County Justice Center pending formal charges from the State Prosecutors Office.

COFFEE WITH A COP EVENT SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH IN POPLAR BLUFF A Coffee with a Cop event has been scheduled for next month in Poplar Bluff.

Area residents will be able to join local Police Officers for coffee and conversation from 8 am to 10 am on Saturday, May 20th.

The event will be held at Myrtle's Place Back Alley BBQ in downtown Poplar Bluff.

Thursday, April 20, 2017

INFANT FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

  Two people were injured Wednesday afternoon, including a young child, following a wreck in New Madrid County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on New Madrid County Road 246 when a vehicle, driven by 50 year old Peggy Callaway, of Bernie, ran off the side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned.

Two passengers in the vehicle, a 24 year old woman and an infant child, were ejected during the wreck. The infant was seriously injured and flown to a children’s hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. The woman received moderate injuries and was taken to a Kennett hospital.

No injuries were listed for the driver.

  ISOLATED SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING

  Officials with the National Weather Service say that we could be seeing severe thunderstorms today.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the NWS, isolated severe thunderstorms will be possible this afternoon and evening. Locally damaging wind, and marginally severe hail, 1 inch in diameter, will also be possible in addition to locally heavy rain.

There are also chances of thunderstorms for Friday and Saturday, with locally heavy rainfall of up to 3 inches is possible. Weather officials say that this may result in minor, short duration flooding, mainly in low, poor drainage areas across southeast Missouri.

  BLYTHEVILLE MAN CONVICTED ON FIRST DEGREE MURDER CHARGE

  A Northeast Arkansas man has been found guilty on a murder charge.

Anfernee Wells, of Blytheville, was found guilty by a jury Wednesday on a charge of 1st degree murder. The charge stems from the 2015 shooting death of Vincent Stone in Blytheville.

Wells received a sentence of 40 years in prison.

  TWO FACING DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGES OUT OF STODDARD COUNTY

  Two people are facing a controlled substance charge following their arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old Stephanie Walter, of Colorado Springs, and 29 year old Tylor Young, of Advance, were each recently arrested on a charge of delivery of a controlled substance.

Officials say that both remained in jail as of this morning on $15,000 cash only bonds.

  POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  A Poplar Bluff woman has been taken into custody on a local warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Amanda Cates, was arrested Wednesday afternoon on a Butler County warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

  CAMPBELL FIRE DEPARTMENT TO HOST PANCAKE BREAKFAST THIS MORNING

  If you are in the Campbell area and also in the mood for pancakes this morning, you should stop by the Campbell Community Center.

The Campbell Fire Department will be hosting an all you care to eat pancake breakfast this morning from 7 am to 10:30 am. The food will include pancakes, chocolate chip pancakes, sausage, and milk or juice. The cost is $6, with children five and under eating for free.

Families of up to four members can get in for $20. All proceeds from the event will go to the Campbell Fire Department for the purchase of gear and equipment.

  DATE SET FOR YOUTH LIVESTOCK SHOW AT THE BUTLER COUNTY FAIR

  Preparations are being made for the Youth Livestock Show at the 2017 Butler County Fair.

According to the Butler County Fair Facebook page, the show will be held on Thursday, September 28th and is open to youth in Butler, Stoddard, Dunklin, Wayne, Carter, Ripley and Clay Counties.

To show lambs, goats, chickens or rabbits in the fair, youth will need to join 4-H or FFA. The deadline to register for the goat and lamb market class is May 15th. The deadline to register for chickens and rabbits is July 1st.

For more information and to register contact Stephanie Milner or Caleb Stewart at 573-686-8064.

Wednesday April 19, 2017

MULTIPLE METH LABS FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN BUTLER COUNTY  

A Butler County Sherriff’s Deputy found multiple meth labs Tuesday during a stop.

KWOC News spoke with Deputy Brandon Lowe about the traffic stop.

BRANDON LOWE: 

On Tuesday morning, at around 7:20 am, I stopped a vehicle for no brake light on the driver side on Highway 67 South northbound lane just north of Cane Creek Flats. I made contact with the driver, Michael Hunter age 47, tried to obtain his ID, he advised me that he did not have a driver's license. I tried to get the passengers ID, identified as Jason Miller also age 47. I had dispatch run a check on both subjects. I was advised that Hunter’s driving privilege was revoked and that Miller's had expired. I took Hunter into custody, escorted him back to my patrol unit. I then went up and asked Miller to exit the vehicle. As Miller was exiting the vehicle, a meth pipe fell off of his lap, he attempted to stomp on it and tried to kick it off into the median at which time I placed him in custody and requested additional units. I asked for consent to search the vehicle, the vehicle was registered to Miller however Hunter was the driver. Both subjects gave consent to search. Inside the vehicle was a Black Backpack between the driver seat and the passenger seat that was partially unzipped, and I could see inside the backpack there were two meth labs, commonly called Shake and Bakes or one pots. I removed the backpack from the van and as I set it on the ground I observed several other items inside the backpack related to narcotics. I could see a syringe. I could see coffee filters, ziplock baggies. There was a black case that was enclosed that I removed from the backpack and once I opened it up there was coffee filters that had residue, there was a black vial. Inside the black vial I found a small baggie of crystal methamphetamine and a small baggie of powdered methamphetamine. Hunter and Miller were both transported to the Sheriff's Department where they were booked and lodged. They are both being charged with distribution/manufacturing of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine precursors with intent to distribute, and Hunter, the driver, is also being charged with driving while revoked and the equipment violation for the brake light.

ED DEGARIS ELECTED AS MAYOR OF POPLAR BLUFF

Ed DeGaris will maintain his position as Mayor of Poplar Bluff.

DeGaris was elected by a unanimous vote of the Council at a meeting Monday night.

Councilwoman Susan McVey was also unanimously elected as Mayor Pro Tem during the meeting.

Before the election, Ron Black, Steve Davis, and Robert L. Smith were all sworn in to their seats on the council.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD

Route CC in Butler County will be temporarily closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform a pipe replacement.

The section of roadway to be closed is located between Route FF and County Road 677.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 8 am to 4:30 pm.

THREE ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METH RELATED CHARGES

Three people were taken into custody late Tuesday night in Wayne County on meth related charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the arrests all occurred at around 10 pm Tuesday.

37 year old Leslie Long, of Clubb, was arrested for felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute - methamphetamine.

Officers also arrested 33 year old Jessica Morrill, of Fisk, and 29 year old Brandon Tumbas, of Poplar Bluff, on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

MAN ARRESTED IN KENNETT ON DRUG AND LARCENY WARRANTS

A man was taken into custody Tuesday in Kennett on multiple warrants.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers arrested 29 year old Cody Conder Tuesday morning on warrants for dangerous drugs and larceny.

Officials say the bond for the dangerous drugs warrant is $25,000, while the bond for the larceny warrant is $5,000.

Following the arrest, Conder was held at the Dunklin County Justice Center.

NEW MADRID POLICE SAY THEY HAVE RECEIVED SEVERAL REPORTS OF A CHECK SCAM

The New Madrid Police Department says that have received several reports about a scam where a fraudulent check is received in the mail.

According to the Police Department, the letter with the check says that it is for the recipient's work as a "store evaluator". A large check is enclosed and the recipient is encouraged to cash the check, and then use some of the money to buy prepaid Visa cards.

The letter then asks the recipient to fill out the attached survey with the card numbers for the cards they have purchased and mail the survey back in.

The person who cashes the check will ultimately owe money to the bank as well as lose out on the money for the prepaid cards.

Anyone who receives one of these letters is advised to not cash the check. Police officials say this is believed to be an overseas scam and is currently under investigation by several agencies.

NEW DAY MINISTRIES TO HOST FEED AND SEED EVENT THIS WEEK

New Day Ministries in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event tomorrow from 3 to 5 pm.

The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per family. New Day Ministries is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff.

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

Tuesday, April 18, 2017

VEHICLE OVERTURNS IN BUTLER COUNTY, SERIOUSLY INJURING ONE

A vehicle overturned Monday afternoon in Butler County resulting in serious injuries to an area man.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 40 year old Shawn Tubbs, of Harviell, was driving on Highway 142 when his vehicle lost control, ran off the roadway, hit a tree, and overturned. The wreck occurred at the Poplar Bluff city limits.

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

  GRASSY MAN FACING CHARGES OF STATUTORY SODOMY AND CHILD MOLESTATION An area man has been taken into custody on multiple felony charges.

According to Missouri Case Net, a warrant was served Monday on 72 year old Johnathan Barks Senior, of Grassy.

He was arrested by the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department and has been charged with 2nd degree statutory sodomy and 4th degree child molestation. His bond was set at $50,000, cash only.

Barks arraignment has been scheduled for Wednesday morning.

  TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR DEXTER Two Campbell residents were seriously injured Monday afternoon after an SUV crashed near Dexter.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol the wreck occurred when the driver, 49 year old Roxie Calder, of Campbell, lost control of the vehicle on Missouri Highway 25 and struck a utility pole.

Two passengers in the vehicle, 30 year old Rebecca Calder and 27 year old Marcia Coshatt, suffered serious injuries and were taken to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

  POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Monday evening on a felony methamphetamine charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 29 year old Thomas Crumley was arrested Monday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Crumley is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and has a warrant out of Wilson County, Kansas.

Crumley was transported to the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

  DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR YOUTH BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF EXTENDED TO THIS FRIDAY The deadline to get your children signed up for baseball or softball in Poplar Bluff has been extended to this Friday.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, the deadline is for youths who will be age eight through 15 on August 1st.

There is no registration fee and registration forms can be found at the Parks Department office or online at www.poplarbluff-mo.gov.

For more information call 686-8645.

  YOUTH ALCOHOL ENFORCEMENT CRACKDOWN ANNOUNCED FOR NEXT MONTH The Dexter Police Department has announced their participation in a nationwide youth alcohol enforcement crackdown.

The crackdown will include high visibility enforcement throughout Dexter from May 4th to May 15th.

According to Police officials, officers will be aggressively looking for substance–impaired drivers during the crackdown and will arrest anyone caught driving impaired.

Monday April 17, 2017

ONE KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECKA Patterson man has died following a single vehicle wreck Friday in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 29 year old Ricky Harper ran off the side of Route E and overturned at around 6 am Friday morning. The wreck was located about six miles east of Greenville.

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

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON RESISTING ARREST CHARGE Authorities in Butler County have arrested an Arkansas man on a charge of resisting arrest.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 62 year old Jimmy Winkle, of Evening Shade, was taken into custody Friday evening on charges of resisting arrest by fleeing, driving while revoked, and failure to maintain right half of the roadway.

After the arrest, Winkle was transported to the Butler County Jail.

ROADWORK SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON US 160 IN RIPLEY AND OREGON COUNTIES US 160 in Oregon and Ripley Counties will be reduced to one lane this week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can partially overlay the roadway.

According to MoDOT, the work zone will be located from Route 19 in Oregon County to Route J in Ripley County.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled for 7 am to 4:30 pm daily through this Thursday.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF TWO PEOPLE ON MURDER CHARGES IN MALDEN An ongoing investigation into a homicide last September has led to the arrest of two people.

Malden Police Chief Jarrett Bullock tells KWOC News that both Larry Thornton, of Portageville, and Brianna Bonaparte, of Sikeston, were arrested last week in connection to the murder of Walter Lee on September 8th.

Arrest warrants for both Thornton and Bonaparte have been issued for the charges of murder 1st degree, robbery 1st degree, and two counts of armed criminal action.

Both are being held in the Dunklin County Jail with the possibility of no bond.

Bullock says that the investigation is still ongoing and more charges may be filed. If anyone has information in connection to the case they are asked to contact their local law enforcement agency.

BROSELEY WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONIES A Broseley woman is facing multiple felony charges in connection to her arrest over the weekend.

According to authorities, 48 year old Loretta Barnett was taken into custody Saturday afternoon in Butler County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance and driving while intoxicated – drugs.

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

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT The Poplar Bluff City Council will be holding a regular meeting tonight in the City Council Chambers beginning at 7 pm.

Prior to the meeting, a special meeting will begin at 6:45 pm where the Poplar Bluff City Clerk will swear in the newly elected City Councilmembers and then the new City Council will elect a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.

During the regular meeting, the city council will discuss a possible ballot proposition for a local use tax as well as a request from the Planning and Zoning Commission to deny a request to rezone property that is located south of Eugene Boulevard.

TREE TRIMMING TO CAUSE DELAYS FOR NEARLY TWO WEEKS IN STODDARD COUNTY Westbound Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane over almost two weeks as Missouri Department of Transportation crews trim trees along the roadway.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route F to County Road 449.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, April 27th from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.

Friday April 14, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON GREENE COUNTY WARRANTA Poplar Bluff man has been taken into custody on a warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Randel Sparks was arrested Thursday afternoon in Butler County on a Greene County warrant for failure to appear for felony hit and run.

He is also facing charges of driving while suspended and failure to display valid plates.

Sparks is currently being held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office on no bond.

The warrant is in connection to the hit and run death of a Poplar Bluff teenager in December of 2015.

ELLINGTON MAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES An Ellington man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Thursday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Carl Lodge was arrested shortly after 9 pm in Reynolds County on felony charges of driving while intoxicated – chronic offender and endangering the welfare of a child.

Following the arrest, Lodge was transported to the Reynolds County Jail.

MODOT ENCOURAGES MISSOURIANS TO HELP CLEAN UP LITTER The Missouri Department of Transportation is asking Missourians from every corner of the state to do spring cleaning outdoors and help fight litter through the state’s annual “No MOre Trash! Bash.”

The program runs from April 15th to May 15th and encourages people to clean up litter across Missouri from roadsides, parks, neighborhoods, rivers, streams, trails and other places. Trash Bash activities also include educational efforts in schools, community events and Earth Day celebrations.

According to MoDOT, last year, more than 50,400 bags of litter and several truckloads of debris were picked up during the one month No MOre Trash! Bash.

POLICE OFFICERS SAVE TWO DOGS FROM A FIRE IN KENNETT Two dogs were saved from a fire earlier this week in Kennett.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly before midnight Wednesday night; a patrolling officer discovered a structure fire on Vinson Street. Officers on scene found that no one was home but heard several dogs barking inside the residence.

The officers were able to break out a window prior to Firefighters' arrival and make entry into the residence to save the two dogs. Neither of the dogs were injured, and they were later turned over to their owners.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN STODDARD COUNTY WRECK Two people have been flown to regional hospitals in connection to a wreck in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a vehicle, driven by 38 year old James Charles, of Dexter, reportedly crossed the center line of Missouri Highway 25 Thursday afternoon and struck a vehicle head on.

Charles suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a St. Louis hospital. The driver of the second vehicle also received serious injuries and was air lifted to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

KENNETT CHILDREN ENCOURAGED TO SPEND TIME WITH AREA POLICE OFFICERS The Kennett Police Department is encouraging area children to spend a Saturday next month with some local police officers.

The 1st Annual Kennett Kids N’ Cops event will be held from 8:30 am to noon on Saturday, May 13th at Combs Lake.

Kids will be able to take part in multiple activities with local officers, including fishing, archery, and boat rides. They will also get a free hotdog, chips, and drinks.

For more information, call 573-344-3490.

DRIVERS ASKED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR STRIPING CREWS Motorists are advised to be cautious of striping vehicles that are running throughout Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, striping is currently underway, with the focus on minor routes. In late May, crews will shift their attention to striping major routes, including Interstate 55, Route 60 and Route 67, as well as state routes in cities and towns.

Drivers should be prepared to slow down significantly when coming up behind a slow-moving caravan of MoDOT striping trucks. The striping trucks move between 8 mph and 12 mph when work is underway.

Thursday April 13, 2017

SIX ARRESTED ON HEROIN CHARGES IN POPLAR BLUFFPoplar Bluff authorities have arrested six people on heroin charges.

Narcotics Investigator Cory Mitchell with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that the arrests occurred Tuesday morning.

CORY MITCHELL:

On Tuesday morning during the early hours, approximately 6 am, members of the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, Southeast Missouri drug task force, DEA, ATF, the US Marshal Service, executed several search warrants within Poplar Bluff and Butler County, Missouri at two local motels and a residence in Poplar Bluff where a substantial quantity, approximately a half ounce of heroin in total, was recovered and seized and the arrest of six individuals. The six individuals that were arrested during this investigation was Cody Marks, Dominique Jones, Bradley Jordan, Cameron Cook, Demetrius Taylor, and Jessica Doyle. Five of the six we're going to be requesting charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and that's on all the male subjects and on the female is going to be possession of heroin and methamphetamine drug paraphernalia for Doyle.

Narcotics Investigator Jason Morgan with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells us that additional heroin distributors have been identified as a part of the investigation.

JASON MORGAN:

It's just part of us doing our job through this investigation we were able to identify some lower to mid level distributors and this investigations also identified some upper-level distributors. Tuesday Morning we arrested six lower to mid level dealers and through this investigation we've also identified some upper-level distributors of heroin in our community. We’re targeting them as well. Not only through the proactive efforts of the Poplar Bluff Police Department and the drug task force is involved, what makes these cases for us is the efforts of the public providing information, family members providing information about their loved ones being addicted to heroin. The family members knowing where the loved ones are getting the drugs and reporting that to us, those are all beneficial key components of helping us further these investigations and as long as we have the public support we’ll continue to make arrests.

DEXTER WOMAN FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Dexter woman on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Robin Currie was arrested Wednesday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Currie also reportedly had a misdemeanor warrant from the Dexter Police Department for shoplifting.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT Area residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused or expired medication later this month.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department will be taking part in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 29th from 10 am to 2 pm.

Participants must simply drive up to the police department and an officer will collect their medications. The Police Department has asked that no hypodermic needles or aerosol inhalers be brought.

For more information or to find a collection site near you go online to www.dea.gov.

MAN FACING ASSAULT CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF One man was injured Tuesday evening in connection to a shooting in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department who told us that the shooting reportedly stemmed from an altercation at an area business.

JOSH STEWART:

On Tuesday evening at approximately 9:35 p.m. officers of the Poplar Bluff Police Department were dispatched to the 1100 block of North 11th Street in reference to shots fired. Once in the area they contacted the two victims, a thirty-one-year-old resident of Poplar Bluff, who was suffering injuries from glass in his eye and a twenty-one-year-old Poplar Bluff resident suffering no injuries. In speaking with the two it was learned that the shooting stemmed from an earlier altercation at Hucks. The victims advised that they suspected twenty-one-year-old Sikeston resident Dearius Vance to be responsible for the shooting. Mr. Vance's vehicle information was disseminated to area law enforcement. At approximately 4 o'clock a.m. officers with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety contacted Mr. Vance during a traffic stop. Mr. Vance was taken into custody and transported back to Poplar Bluff. Additionally during the contact in Sikeston, a Smith & Wesson 9 millimeter handgun was located. Vance was processed and is currently lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on charges of assault first, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. The 31-year old Poplar Bluff resident suffering injuries was treated and released at a area hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF ATHLETIC DIRECTOR WARNS OF FRAUD ATTEMPTS A Poplar Bluff School Official says that city residents are again being targeted for fraud.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that the Poplar Bluff Athletic Department does not use outside companies to solicit donations on their behalf. Keith says that only he or their coaching staff will contact you if they are seeking donations for any athletic activity.

Anyone who has any doubt about any call requesting funds for the Athletic Department should contact Keith’s office.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route MM in Dunklin County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone will be located between Route J and County Road 122.

MoDOT officials say that the work will take place from 7 am to 4 pm.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

MAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY

  A man has been flown to a St. Louis hospital following a wreck Tuesday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old William Singleton, of Mill Spring, was driving on Missouri Highway 49 near Ellsinore, when his vehicle ran off the road and struck a tree.

Singleton suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis.

  MISSISSPPI COUNTY SHERIFF’S ATTORNEY SAYS HIS CLIENT WILL PLEAD NOT GUILTY TO CHARGES

  Updating a story we brought to you last week, an attorney for Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson says that his client is looking forward to continuing his work and dedicating himself to the citizens of Mississippi County.

A spokesperson for Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC news that Hutcheson is facing charges in two separate cases. In the first complaint, Hutcheson faces seven counts of forgery and seven counts of tampering with computer data.

In the second complaint, Hutcheson is charged with second degree assault, first degree robbery, and false declaration. Hutcheson is also accused of writing a probable cause statement claiming a woman kidnapped and assaulted Hutcheson's family member.

Hutcheson's attorney Scott Rosenblum says that his client will enter a plea of not guilty and that they are confident that once the facts come out, the prosecution of Sheriff Hutcheson will be shown to be misguided and politically motivated.

  TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Two people were taken into custody Tuesday afternoon in Butler County on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Ryan Melton, of Poplar Bluff, and 25 year old Alexandra Burke, of Parma, were each arrested at approximately 3:42 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Both are also each facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, they were each transported to the Butler County Jail.

  TWO FACING BURGLARY CHARGES OUT OF EAST PRAIRIE

  Two East Prairie residents are facing burglary and other charges following an incident over the weekend.

Officials with the East Prairie Police Department tell KWOC News that on Saturday, officers responded to an area residence and learned that the residence had allegedly been burglarized by 46 year old Terry Dean and 40 year old Shawna Johnson.

Both Dean and Johnson were later taken into custody at Dean’s residence. Two juveniles at Dean’s residence had been reportedly made to stay inside the home all day without being fed and told not to answer the door. Both juveniles are safe and were unharmed.

Officers also found about a pound of marijuana at the residence.

Both Dean and Johnson have been charged with burglary 1st degree, domestic assault 4th, and child abuse or neglect of a child.

  BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

  A Bernie man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Tuesday afternoon.

According to authorities, 31 year old Gary Uhl was taken into custody in Stoddard County on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of prescription medication, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Uhl also reportedly had two misdemeanor warrants out of Butler County.

  PERMANENT MEDICINE DROP BOX SET UP AT DONIPHAN POLICE DEPARTMENT

  A drop box has been set up for residents in the Doniphan area to drop off expired and unused medication.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the permanent drop box is available 24 hours a day in the police department lobby.

Officials say that needles, sharps, ointments, liquids, aerosol cans, inhalers, and thermometers cannot be accepted at the drop box.

Tuesday April 11, 2017

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON ASSAULT ON A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CHARGEAn incident on Saturday has resulted in the arrest of an area man on an assault on a law enforcement officer charge.

KWOC News spoke with Chief Deputy Wes Popp with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department about the incident.

WESS POPP:

On Saturday afternoon at about 2:30 a call came in to the Butler County Sheriff's Department on a domestic in progress where a male identified as Shawn Burkett was beating up his girlfriend Cynthia Jones. Officers arrived and were met outside by Cynthia Jones who stated her boyfriend Shawn Burkett had been abusing her in the past so she was going to move and was in the process of packing all her personal belongings when Burkett showed up at the house. Burkett began beating Miss Jones about the face back of the head and arms leaving several wounds along with bleeding to the back of her head. Burkett fled the residence upon the officers arriving. As they were interviewing Miss Jones, another officer saw Burkett’s vehicle parked and as they were looking at the vehicle they see Burkett running back from the vehicle to the back of the house and made entry into the residence. Officers knocked on the door for him to open it up they had a warrant for his arrest for past incidences along with the current of the assault to the girlfriend. Jones refused, an officer reached through a broken window of the door pane to open up the door and as he entered Burkett threw a chair at the officer along with holding a small bat. Officers commanded him to drop the bat, which he did, it was then he turn and ran down the hallway where he was met by other officers taking him into custody without any further incident. Shawn Burkett is being housed at the Butler County Sheriff's Department for assault 2nd on a law enforcement officer, domestic assault 3rd, resisting arrest, and also a arrest warrant for burglary for $20,000.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Monday afternoon in Stoddard County on felony drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Michael Spencer was arrested shortly before 3 pm Monday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for oxycodone and hydrocodone.

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

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD Route H in Stoddard County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews cam replace a culvert under the roadway.

According to MoDOT the closure will be located from County Road 660 to County Road 670.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 4 pm.

POWER OUTAGE EFFECTED PARTS OF BUTLER AND STODDARD COUNTY MONDAY AFTERNOON Parts of eastern Butler County and western Stoddard County were without power Monday afternoon.

At around 2 pm a tree fell on a power line along County Road 275 in Stoddard County and knocked out power for about 2000 people in the Fisk and Dudley areas.

Power was restored just over an hour later.

AREA POLICE CELEBRATE NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators week and multiple area police departments are celebrating their communications departments.

Lieutenant Darron Moore with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC about what this week means.

DARRON MOORE:

Today through April 15th is the National Public Safety Telecommunicators week. It’s a week that’s set aside to recognize the men and women that answer the phone and the radio every day across this country for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Most folks don't realize it, but dispatchers are basically they're the first officer on the scene, the answer 9-1-1, they handle all records checks for wanted individuals, they also send all the messages and basically tie all the police departments and fire departments in together Nationwide into one web of agencies. Communications officers are one of the most important parts of any investigation, from the get-go they're the ones that get the information whether there's a weapon on scene whether there's a victim already that needs medical attention and basically make or break an investigation. Chief Communications Officer Kim Johnson and Assistant Chief Communications Officer Dave Williams along with the other officers at our Comm Center, they go through a yearly review or yearly continuing education, they also take numerous classes. The City of Poplar Bluff and County of Butler in general are very lucky that here at the Poplar Bluff Police Department we have one of the most professional telecommunication centers in the region or I’d put them up against anyone in the country. They come in every day, they do their job 7 days a week 24 hours a day, oftentimes missing holidays and special events with their family just like anyone in law enforcement does.

You can find more information about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week online at www.npstw.org.

WAYNE COUNTY AUTHORITIES ASKING FOR INFORMATION IN CONNECTION TO VANDALISM IN THE PIEDMONT AREA Officials in Wayne County are asking for the public’s help following reports of vandalism Monday morning.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, several vehicles were vandalized and had their tires cut at Fir and 3rd Street in Piedmont during the early morning hours of Monday.

Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to call the Piedmont Police Department or Wayne County Sheriff’s Department.

Monday April 10, 2017

ELLSINORE MAN FACING GUN AND METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGESAn Ellsinore man is facing felony gun and drug charges in connection to his arrest on Friday night.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 43 year old Jerry Davidson was taken into custody shortly before midnight Friday night on a felony charges of felony possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Davidson is also facing charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and possession of marijuana.

Following his arrest, he was taken to the Butler County Jail.

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFERING SUPPORT TO VICTIMS OF IMPAIRED DRIVERS The Missouri State Highway Patrol is offering assistance to victims of impaired drivers.

The Patrol’s “Filling a V.O.I.D. program” has provided information, support, and assistance to victims and their families since 1997.

If you, a member of your family, or a passenger in your vehicle have been injured by an impaired driver, you are eligible for assistance through the program. Pedestrians or their family members who have been involved in an impairment-related traffic crash also qualify.

In 2016, troopers and the Patrol’s civilian advocate assisted 13 children, 118 adults, and 18 elderly persons through the program.

To utilize the “Filling a V.O.I.D.” civilian victim advocate and resources, go to the Patrol’s website and click on the V.O.I.D. link. The advocate can help you understand the criminal justice process, address your concerns, and request information. You can also call the Crime Victim Hotline 1-888-773-1800.

WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CARTER COUNTY ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE Authorities in Carter County have taken a Ste. Genevieve woman into custody on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 50 year old Joanna Mills was arrested early Saturday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine.

She is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, Mills was transported to the Carter County Jail.

VAN BUREN MAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST A Van Buren man is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest over the weekend.

According to the Carter County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Christopher Crafton was taken into custody shortly 1pm Friday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT ON CONSERVATION AREAS The Missouri Department of Conservation is seeking public input on how three Southeast Missouri conservation areas are important to Missourians.

According to the Department of Conservation, the agency is in the multi-year process of updating Conservation Area Management Plans.

Management plans for the Coon Island Conservation Area, Maintz Wildlife Preserve, and the Stephen J. Sun Conservation Area are open for public review until April 30th.

The MDC is asking for comments from recreational users, neighboring landowners, conservation groups, elected officials, government agencies, and other interested persons or groups. To make a comment on the area plans, go online to www.mdc.mo.gov/areaplans.

PERIODIC LANE CLOSURES TO CONTINUE ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY THROUGH FRIDAY Continuing to follow a story we brought you last week, periodic lane closures will continue through this week in Butler County.

The closures will be due to the construction of the trail in the Route W area. The trail project is part of the Local Public Agencies Program.

The section of Route W affected is located from Business 67 to McLane Park in Poplar Bluff. Lane reductions will be in place as contractor crews pour concrete in the area.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through this Friday, from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL EGG-CESSIBLE EGG HUNT A Poplar Bluff church will be hosting an egg hunt this weekend.

The Second Annual Egg-cessible Egg Hunt will be held from 1 to 3 pm on Saturday, April 15th at West Side Church of God in Poplar Bluff.

Kids ages 12 and younger with special needs and developmental or physical disabilities are invited to the event and can also bring a friend to help during the hunt.

The event will also include a visit from the Easter Bunny and a goodie bag for all participants.

More information is available on the Eggcessible Community Easter Egg Hunt facebook page.

Friday April 7, 2017

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGESTwo Poplar Bluff residents were taken into custody early Thursday morning in Butler County on felony drug charges.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC news, 35 year old Cody Marks and 34 year old Miranda Gregory, both of Poplar Bluff, were arrested on a felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of marijuana.

Both are also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and Marks is being charged with driving while revoked.

Following their arrest, both were transported to the Butler County Jail.

SEVEN ARRESTS MADE DURING CHECKPOINT IN STODDARD COUNTY Seven arrests were made this past weekend during a sobriety checkpoint in Stoddard County.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that the checkpoint was held on April 1st and a total of 234 vehicles were stopped during the four-hour operation.

Of the seven arrests, one was for driving while intoxicated and the other six were misdemeanor drug arrests.

Troopers also issued 16 summonses and 45 warnings during the operation.

SPRING BREAK TO BEGIN NEXT WEEK FOR POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT The Poplar Bluff School District is scheduled to go on Spring Break next week.

School officials say that spring break will run this year from Thursday, April 13th through Monday, April 17th.

Classes will then resume for students on Tuesday, April 18th.

A SUCCESS ARKANSAS MAN INJURED FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK A Success, Arkansas man was injured Wednesday night following a single vehicle wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Jody Thomas, ran off the side of County Road 274 and hit a ditch.

Thomas suffered serious injuries in the wreck and taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff Hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ACCEPTING SCREENING APPOINTMENTS FOR HALF DAY PROGRAM The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center is accepting screening appointments for the Half Day program of the 2017-2018 school year.

If you are a parent in the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District and has a child who will be three or four years old on July 31st, you can call 573-785-6803 for more information about having your child screened for the program.

The next screening will be held by appointment only on Thursday, May 25th. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment.

5th ANNUAL PULL TAB DRIVE SCHEDUED FOR SATURDAY The 5th Annual Pull Tab Drive for Brandon Scott has been scheduled for this weekend.

The drive will be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday at the American Legion on PP Highway in Poplar Bluff.

The event will feature a sale of bake goods; pull tab bracelets, a silent auction, and a raffle. All proceeds from the event will go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis.

Brandon Scott was diagnosed with leukemia at 23 months old and has been saving tabs for the Ronald McDonald House for 13 years.

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR YOUTH BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF The deadline is here to get your children signed up for baseball or softball in Poplar Bluff.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, the deadline youths age eight through 15 to register for baseball or softball is today.

You can find registration forms online at www.poplarbluff-mo.gov.

Thursday April 6, 2017

MISSISSIPPI COUNTY SHERIFF ARRESTED BY THE FBI NOW FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGESThe sheriff of Mississippi County has been arrested on several felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers assisted the FBI in arresting Mississippi County Sheriff Cory Hutcheson on Wednesday afternoon.

A Spokesperson for Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC news, Hutcheson is facing charges in two separate cases. In the first case, Hutcheson faces seven counts of forgery and seven counts of tampering with computer data.

In the second case, Hutcheson is charged with second degree assault, first degree robbery, and false declaration. Hutcheson was transported to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's Department, where he bonded out Wednesday afternoon.

Coroner Terry Parker is now serving as acting sheriff.

ATHLETE PHYSICALS SCHEDULED FOR JULY IN POPLAR BLUFF Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High student athletes can get a free physical done in July at the High School.

Physicals will be conducted beginning at 5:30 pm on Thursday July 20th for athletes in the 7th and 8th grades, beginning at 6:30 for 9th and 10th grades, and beginning at 7:30 for 11th and 12th grades.

First practice dates have also been set for Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High fall sports.

The first practice day for high school athletes is Monday, July 31st. Junior High athletes will follow two week later, on Monday, August 14th.

FIRST CHURCH OF GOD IN POPLAR BLUFF TO HOLD EASTER EGG HUNT THIS WEEKEND A Poplar Bluff Church is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt this weekend.

The hunt will begin at 3 pm Sunday at the First Church of God, located at 3482 South Westwood Boulevard. Church officials say that kids up to 12 years old can participate in the egg hunt, games, and door prizes.

A $100 gift card will also be given away at the event.

ADVANCE WOMAN INJURED FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK An Advance woman was injured Wednesday morning following a single vehicle wreck in Scott County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Neeley Bollinger’s vehicle ran off the side of Route 91, struck a road sign, and then a ditch.

Bollinger suffered moderate injuries in the wreck and taken by ambulance to St. Francis Hospital in Cape Girardeau.

GAYLA FRITTS NAMED POPLAR BLUFF R-1 TEACHER OF THE YEAR The Poplar Bluff High School communications arts teacher has been named the R-I district Teacher of the Year.

Gayla Fritts received the award during the annual luncheon held last week.

Fritts was also named the secondary grade span Teacher of the Year, while sixth grade instructor Kathy Pattillo was named Middle School Teacher of the Year. O'Neal reading interventionist Jessica Thurston was chosen as the elementary Teacher of the Year.

A full list of the teacher of the year recipients is available on our website.

On the building level: Building trades teacher Joe Cochran was named the Technical Career Center TOY, Gayla Fritts - Senior High TOY, Eighth grade teacher Julie Gambill - Junior High TOY, Kathy Pattillo - Middle School TOY, Interventionist Amber Foster - O'Neal TOY, First grade instructor Abby Hanner - Oak Grove TOY, Third grade instructor Teresa Hefner - Lake Road TOY, Reading interventionist Jessica Thurston - Eugene Field TOY, Special education instructor Tanya Pullum - Kindergarten Center TOY, Preschool teacher Lori Tibbs - Early Childhood Center TOY.

VFW RIDERS POKER RUN SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY The VFW Riders District 15 West and Lake Wappapello United Methodist Church will be teaming up for a Poker Run on Saturday.

Registration for the event will begin at 9 am at the Lake Wappapello United Methodist Church on D Highway. The run will begin at 11 am.

All proceeds from the event will go to the VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff and Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.

For more information, contact VFW Post 3416 at 573-222-9687.

9TH ANNUAL CAROLINE PERKINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH The 9th Annual Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser has been scheduled for later this month.

The event will be held from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday, April 14th, and 6 am to noon on Saturday, April 15th at the Old Lone Hill School Building at the end of Highway F off Highway 160.

There will be a large multi-family indoor yard sale as well as a bake sale and a raffle for a homemade quilt.

All proceeds from the event go to fund the Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship.

Wednesday, April 5, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF VOTERS CHOOSE DAVIS AND BLACK FOR CITY COUNCIL

  Voters in Poplar Bluff have decided who will be sitting on the Poplar Bluff City Council.

On Tuesday, voters chose Steven Davis and Ron Black for the two at large seats.

In Neelyville, James Collier won the race for Ward 1 Alderman by two votes and Kevin Bynum was elected Mayor.

According to officials, 2,997 people voted in Butler County during Tuesday’s election for a turnout of 11.48 percent.

  ROBERTSON AND SCOTT REELECTED TO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD

  Multiple area school boards held elections yesterday in Butler County

For the Poplar Bluff School Board, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott were both reelected and will be joined by Jerrod Murphy for three-year terms.

In the Twin Rivers School District voters in Butler County favored David Dugger, Billy Watson, and Roger Baxter for the three board seats. Baxter led Robert Thurman by only 14 votes and results from Stoddard County for the race were not available.

In Neelyville, the three school board board seats will be filled by Paul Petty, Dean Fisher, and Shane Eaker.

  MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOT FIRED IN POPLAR BLUFF

  A man was taken into custody following an incident Tuesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

According to authorities, 29 year old Kenneth Maple Jr., of Poplar Bluff, was arrested in connection to an alleged shot being fired outside an area residence.

Maple was transported to the Butler County Jail.

  GIBSON MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

  Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested a Gibson man on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old George Odom was arrested Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance – alprazolam.

Odom is also facing a charge of driving while intoxicated.

Following the arrest, Odom was held at the Dunklin County Jail.

  LEADWOOD WOMAN FACING FLEEING CHARGE

  A Leadwood woman is facing a fleeing charge following her arrest Tuesday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Shawnna Evans was arrested shortly before noon Tuesday in Ripley County on a felony charge of resisting arrest by fleeing.

She is also facing a hindering prosecution charge.

Evans was transported to the Doniphan Police Department following the arrest.

PERIODIC LANE CLOSURES TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation says that periodic lane closures are scheduled to begin today in Butler County.

The closures will be due to the construction of the trail in the Route W area. The trail project is part of the Local Public Agencies Program.

The section of Route W affected is located from Business 67 to McLane Park in Poplar Bluff. Lane reductions will be in place as contractor crews pour concrete in the area.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, April 14th from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

Tuesday, April 4, 2017

SEATS ON THE POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL UP FOR ELECTION

  Seats on the Poplar Bluff City Council, as well as other city posts throughout Butler County, are up for election today.

Two Three year terms are being decided for at large seats on the Poplar Bluff City Council. Ron Black, Steven Davis, and Robert Lee Smith are all candidates for the two at large seats.

Voters in Neelyville will be selecting an alderman and a mayor today. James Collier, Kim Elliott, and John Knowles are all running for the Neelyville Ward 1 Alderman position.

Neeylville voters will also choose between Kevin Bynum, Linda Harris, and Lee McComb Jr. for Mayor.

  MULTIPLE SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS TO BE DECIDED TODAY

  Multiple area school boards will be holding elections today in Butler County.

For the Poplar Bluff School Board, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers William Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are all vying for one of the three three-year terms.

In Twin Rivers, the candidates for three board seats are Roger Baxter, David Dugger, Brian Love, Keith Parker, Robert Thurman, and Billy Watson.

In Neelyville, five people are running for three board seats, Wayne Dye, Shane Eaker, Dean Fisher, Preston Gill, and Paul Petty.

For the East Carter School Board, voters will choose three of Johnathan Collins, Stonie Croy, James Gore, George Meyers, and John Walker.

In the Doniphan School District, there are nine candidates for the three board seats, Brandon Armstrong, Stephan Burke, Denver Jackson, Jason Johnson, Joshua Killian, Rocky Moe, James Maple, Robert Morrow, and John Wright.

  SENATH MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

  A Senath man was flown to a Memphis hospital Monday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Stacy Rice was driving an ATV on County Road 531 when he struck a pothole and overturned.

Rice was seriously injured in the wreck and taken to Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis.

A passenger on the ATV suffered minor injuries.

  MISSOURI OFFICIAL BEGINS AUDIT OF PEMISCOT COUNTY HOSPITAL

  The Missouri State Auditor is conducting an audit of a Southeast Missouri hospital.

Last week, Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway announced the start of an audit of the Pemiscot County Memorial Hospital in Hayti.

Galloway says that the goal of the audit is to identify key factors impacting finances for the Pemiscot County Hospital.

The audit will occur as part of a series of audits of county hospitals, which will focus on financial and operating best practices for acute care facilities that are critical to individuals who live and work in rural communities.

Individuals with information on the audit may contact the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline by calling 800-347-8597.

  POPLAR BLUFF ROTARY CLUB TO HOST SPAGHETTI DAY TODAY

  The Poplar Bluff Rotary Club will be hosting a spaghetti day later today.

The event is scheduled for 11 am to 1 pm and 5 to 7 pm on April 4th at 1st Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff.

Tickets will cost $5.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON BUSINESS 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of Business 60 to be reduced is located from Route AD to Two Mile Road.

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

  INTERSTATE 55 TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPARIS

  Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from mile marker nine to mile marker ten.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be performed from 7 am to 5 pm.

Monday April 3, 2017

QULIN WOMAN AIR LIFTED TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING HEAD ON COLLISIONA Qulin woman has been taken to a Memphis hospital after she was involved in a wreck over the weekend.

According to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle pulled into the path of a freightliner shortly after 10:30 am Saturday on Highway 53 in Butler County.

The driver of the vehicle, 78 year old Dorothy Kinney was seriously injured in the wreck and taken by Air Evac to Elvis Presley Trauma Center in Memphis.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the freightliner.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest Friday night.

According to the Highway Patrol, 20 year old Colton Cowan was taken into custody shortly before midnight Friday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

COUNTERFEIT MONEY REPORTEDLY BEING USED IN THE SIKESTON AREA Authorities say that counterfeit money is reportedly being used in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Miner Police department, they have received information about the usage of counterfeit $20 dollar bills in the Sikeston area.

Chief Griggs says that they are informing area businesses about the situation.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SET FOR TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY Route N in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone will be located between County Road 240 and Route 51 south.

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

JUVENILE TURNS HIMSELF IN TO AUTHORITIES IN CONNECTION TO SIKESTON SHOOTING A juvenile has turned himself in to authorities in connection to a Sikeston shooting.

Sergeant Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC NEWS that a victim was struck by a bullet on March 26th and taken to Missouri Delta Medical Center.

The victim was treated and released.

Witnesses reported that after they heard the shots, they observed a male suspect running away from the scene holding a small black handgun.

On Thursday, a sixteen year old Sikeston juvenile turned himself in when he was brought to Sikeston DPS by his mother.

The Scott County juvenile office was contacted and responded to Sikeston DPS headquarters where he was interviewed and later transported to the Mississippi County Juvenile Detention Center.

FIRE TRUCK OVERTURNS NEAR BLOOMFIELD Three people were injured when a fire truck crashed Sunday afternoon near Bloomfield.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the fire truck ran off the side of Highway M at around 2:40 pm Sunday and overturned.

The driver, 27 year old Jason Patterson, of Bloomfield, and two passengers suffered minor injuries and were taken to a Dexter hospital.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County say that a Dexter man was recently taken into custody.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 56 year old Ruben Prunty was arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance.

His bond was set at $50,000 cash.

ROUTE N IN BUTLER COUNTY SCHEDULED TO BE CLOSED TODAY AND TOMORROW A portion of Route N in Butler County will be closed today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform culvert replacement.

According to MoDot, the closure will be located between County Road 243 and County Road 232.

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

Friday March 31, 2017

BERNIE POLICE ATTEMPTING TO IDENTIFY PERSON OF INTEREST IN AREA BURGLARYPolice in Bernie are trying to identify a man in connection to an area burglary.

According to the Bernie Police Department, the burglary occurred at a business in the city.

Pictures of the person of interest have been posted on the Bernie Police Department Facebook page. Anyone who has information about the identity of the man is asked to contact Sergeant Eddie Mays at 293-4454.

SUSPECT TASED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO FIGHT WITH OFFICERS IN STEELE A Steele man is facing charges after he allegedly attempted to fight with police officers.

According to the Steele Police Department, on March 25th officers responded to an area business in reference to a shoplifter. When they arrived, they attempted to arrest the suspect, who has been identified as 35 year old Lawrence Arender.

The suspect resisted arrest and began to fight with officers. An officer deployed his taser and Arender was subsequently detained. Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield received minor injuries while attempting to arrest Arender.

A warrant was issued charging Arender with shoplifting, resisting arrest, and assault on a law enforcement officer.

RIVER CLEAN UP SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND The 2017 River Cleanup event has been scheduled for this weekend on streams and trails at Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

The event will be held from 9 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow, with registration beginning at 8 am each day. At 5 pm Saturday evening there will be a meal and entertainment for participants at the Alley Spring Pavilion sponsored by the Ozark Heritage Project.

For more information, contact Cathy Runge at 573-323-4806.

TWO PEOPLE PLEAD GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS Two people have pleaded guilty to manslaughter charges in connection to a fatal wreck last October.

According to authorities, Robert Huffines, of Holcomb, and Lea Mamino, of Collinsville, Illinois, both pleaded guilty Thursday to charges including manslaughter and fleeing.

Both Huffines and Mamino had been involved in a pursuit with police that crossed from Southeast Missouri to Northeast Arkansas. As the pursuit entered Rector, a deputy’s patrol car collided with another vehicle unrelated to the pursuit.

84 year old Sadine Dixon was killed in the collision. The deputy was injured and taken to an area hospital.

SUBSTANTIAL AMMOUNT OF METHAMPHETAMINE SEIZED IN STEELE Authorities in Steele are reporting that a substantial amount of methamphetamine was seized yesterday.

Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that 29 year old Justin Rash, of Steele, was arrested Thursday on a federal warrant charging him with distribution of methamphetamine.

During the arrest officers located and seized a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine.

Stanfield says that multiple agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, U.S Marshal Service, Caruthersville Police, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and Pemiscot County Sheriff Department participated in the arrest.

WHOLE KIDS OUTREACH SPRING FESTIVAL SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND Preparations are underway for the annual Whole Kids Outreach Easter Egg Hunt and Spring Festival.

Officials tell us that the festival is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 1st, with the egg hunt beginning at 11 am. Children will need to bring their own Easter Baskets.

There will also be games, prizes, pony rides, and a free lunch.

Whole Kids Outreach is located on Highway 21, five miles south of Ellington. For more information, call 573-663- 3257.

Wednesday March 29, 2017

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE OVERNIGHT TONIGHT  

Southeast Missouri is facing another possible round of severe weather tonight.

KWOC News spoke with Rick Shanklin, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, who says the chances of severe thunderstorms will start at around midnight.

RICK SHANKLIN:

Thunder storm chances will be increasing across Southeast Missouri this evening and that will include a chance of severe thunderstorms from around midnight through the overnight hours and into Thursday morning. Currently the risk across Southeast Missouri is at the slight level, that's a level 2 of 5. We’re watching that closely there is some possibility if the dynamics change or increase that that could be upgraded a bit across Southeast Missouri later today. The threats for Southeast Missouri include large hail and damaging thunderstorm winds which is perhaps the greatest chance or greatest risk for this event and also there is some possibility with this given the strong wind fields of a few tornados so we'll have to watch that very closely as well. The main thing is staying safe of course during this and all severe weather potential events across our region that means number one staying informed that includes ensuring you have a way to receive alerts such as a weather radio and having fresh batteries in that weather radio is critical, power outages are not uncommon during severe weather events, sometimes the power grid is taken out before the storm gets to you. A cell phone with text alerting capability is another good way to receive alerts and I would really encourage everybody to have a couple of ways to receive alerts especially for these overnight events as we know the likelihood of someone being hurt or killed in overnight events is considerably greater than it is during the day time actually two and a half times as likely between midnight and 6 a.m.

PARAGOULD WOMAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION

A Paragould woman has died from injuries she received Tuesday in a head on collision.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 8 am Tuesday on Highway 412 in Greene County.

A vehicle driven by 20 year old Kayla McNamara reportedly crossed over the middle turning lane and struck a trash truck head on.

Officials say McNamara was killed in the wreck.

GREENVILLE MAN FACING FELONY FIREARM CHARGE

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Jimmy Smith was taken into custody shortly before 9:30 pm Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of a firearm.

Smith is also facing a felony charge of driving while revoked.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE ROAD CLOSURE TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The work zone will be located from Route ZZ to County Road 660.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

POPLAR BLUFF BASKETBALL PLAYER CHOSEN AS MISSOURI’S NOMINATION FOR SPIRIT OF SPORT AWARD

A Poplar Bluff High School basketball player has been selected as Missouri’s nominee for the National High School Spirit of Sport award.

Freshman Savannah Hicks was diagnosed last year with atrial septal defect, which is a hole between the two upper chambers of the heart.

On November 22^nd, she received successful open-heart surgery at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital in St. Louis. She played her first game of the season six weeks later on January 6^th.

Dr. Kerwin Urhahn, the executive director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, nominated Hicks for the award because she exceeded expectations, overcame challenging circumstances, and displayed exemplary sportsmanship.

Tuesday March 28, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN GETS PROBATION ON ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD CHARGEA Poplar Bluff woman was sentenced earlier this month on a charge of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child.

According to Missouri Case Net, Vanessa May was sentenced to 5 years supervised probation with a suspended seven year prison sentence.

May, along with Michael West, was arrested last May after their 12 year old son was reportedly found kept in an empty bedroom with concrete floors and no lighting.

The child had numerous suspicious scars and bruises and medical evaluations found evidence of severe physical abuse, suggestive of torture, with the risk of serious complications to include death.

According to Case Net, West was sentenced in January to six years incarceration in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TESTING SUSPENDED IN MALDEN Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process has been suspended at the Malden Driver Examination Station until further notice.

According to Captain Jeffrey N. Vitale, the motorcycle skills testing is being offered on Fridays in Poplar Bluff at 10 am, when pavement is dry.

Vitale says written examinations and Class E and Class F skills tests will still be offered in Malden as normally scheduled.

ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD FORUM SCHEDULED TODAY Candidates for the Poplar Bluff School Board will gather today to answer questions from the public.

The annual school board forum, hosted by Missouri NEA and MSTA, has been scheduled for today in the Middle School Library.

Five candidates, incumbents Alana Robertson and John Scott, along with challengers Bill Dee, Jerrod Murphy and Gary Simmons are vying for three-year terms on the Board of Education.

The public has been invited to participate and submit questions for the school board candidates.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS IN RIPLEY COUNTY THROUGH EARLY MAY Route 142 in Ripley County will be reduced with a 10 foot width restriction through early May as contractor crews replace the bridge rails.

The bridge involved is located between Route N and County Road E-30 over Logan Creek.

According to MoDOT work will be performed today through Friday, May 5th. The work zone will be set-up for 24-hours a day.

DONIPHAN MAN AIRLIFTED TO POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK A Doniphan man was injured Monday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Christopher Walsh was taken by Air Evac to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center after his vehicle ran off of US 160, struck an embankment and tree, and then overturned.

Walsh suffered serious injuries in the wreck.

  WOMAN ARRESTED ON TRAFFICKING DRUGS CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Over 10 ounces of meth was found during a traffic stop over the weekend in New Madrid County.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, deputies conducted the stop Sunday near Marston.

During the traffic stop, deputies located approximately 13 ounces of methamphetamine. The driver, Tara Birdwell was arrested and charged with felony 1st degree trafficking drugs.

Her bond was set at $50,000 cash.

ALMOST SIX MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced with an 11 foot width restriction over almost six months as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone will be located from Route 412 to County Road 410.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, September 15th from 7 am to 7 pm daily.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT TO BE HONORED AS ONE OF TOP 100 SCHOLARS IN MISSOURI A Poplar Bluff High School student will be honored next month among the 100 top scholars in the state from the graduating Class of 2017.

Senior Humza Siddiqui will be honored as a part of the Missouri Scholars 100 Program during a luncheon in Columbia sponsored by the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.

Qualifying students in the program must complete the "academic decathlon," which includes multiple criteria, including a score of at least 29 points on the ACT or 1900 on the SAT, a cumulative GPA of at least 3.75, being in the top 10 percent of their class, no more than 20 absences throughout their high school career, and participation in a significant community service project.

Monday, March 27, 2017

PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI UNDER RISK FOR SEVERE WEATHER TODAY

  Another storm system is crossing Southeast Missouri today and weather officials say that severe weather is a possibility.

According to the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are possible, mainly this afternoon and evening, with the approach and passage of a cold front.

Much of Southeast Missouri has at least a slight risk for severe storms today, with some areas in the extreme Southeast corner of the state showing an enhanced risk.

The primary threat will be damaging winds, with large hail being the secondary threat. Officials say that a tornado or two is not out of the question.

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE STILL SEARCHING FOR ARMED AND DANGEROUS MAN

  Authorities in Poplar Bluff are continuing to search for an armed and dangerous man.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that the Poplar Bluff Police Department is seeking the whereabouts of Daniel Bright, who is wanted for questioning regarding a burglary that took place on March 4th.

Several firearms were reportedly taken from a residence during the burglary.

Whiteley says Bright is known to be armed and dangerous and has an active warrant for his arrest for a parole violation and for failure to appear in the Poplar Bluff Municipal Court.

Anyone with any information of Bright’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department or their local law enforcement agency.

  TWO AIR LIFTED TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER VEHICLE OVERTURNS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

  Two Poplar Bluff residents have been air lifted to a Memphis hospital after a vehicle they were in overturned near Holcomb.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 3 pm Saturday afternoon on Missouri Highway 25.

A vehicle, driven by a 17 year old female from Poplar Bluff, reportedly ran off the road, struck a ditch, and overturned.

Two passengers in the vehicle, 20 year old Demarcus Leech and a 16 year old female, were seriously injured and taken by Air Evac to Region One Health in Memphis. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Twin Rivers Medical Center.

  93 YEAR OLD BLOOMFIELD MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR THE WAPPAPELLO DAM

  A 93 year old Bloomfield man was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital Sunday following a wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Walter Butler ran off the side of Route T before striking an embankment and parked vehicle near the Wappapello Dam in Wayne County.

Butler was seriously injured and transported by Air Evac to St. Francis Medical Center.

  CLUBB MAN SUFFERES SERIOUS INJURIES IN WRECK NEAR SILVA

  An area man has serious injuries after hitting a tree over the weekend in Wayne County.

According to authorities, 36 year old Timothy Allen, of Clubb, was driving on Highway 34, near Silva, when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and struck a tree. The wreck occurred shortly after 5 pm Saturday evening.

Allen suffered serious injuries and was air lifted to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

  DONIPHAN MAN FACING METH AND RESISTING ARREST CHAREGS

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

According to the Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jered Lloyd was arrested Saturday evening on felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Lloyd also reportedly had a warrant out of Ripley County for 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

Following the arrest, he was held at the Doniphan Police Department.

  DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  A Dexter man was recently taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 43 year old George Pulliam Jr. was arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

His bond was set at $15,000, cash only, and he remained in jail as of this morning.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55

  Southbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from mile marker three to mile marker one.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 7 am to 5 pm daily.