Monday, June 19, 2017

FEMA DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER AVAILABLE IN DONIPHAN

  A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Doniphan.

The center offers in-person support to individuals and businesses in any of the 27 counties included in the Missouri federal disaster declaration for flooding and severe storms that occurred between April 28th and May 11th.

The center will be open daily from 7 am to 7 pm at the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership Building. For tomorrow, the center will only be open from 1 pm to 7 pm due to another scheduled event.

Recovery specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to discuss assistance and to help anyone who needs information or assistance filing an application.

A recovery center is also available at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center.

  POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENT FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN KENNETT

  A Poplar Bluff resident was arrested last week in Kennett on gun and drug related charges.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Thursday officers arrested 20 year old Duquion Drake for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Officials say that Drake was held at the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the State Prosecutor's Office.

  THIS WEEK IS MISSOURI SUMMER WEATHER SAFETY WEEK

  With this week marking Missouri Summer Weather Safety Week, weather officials are reminding area residents to stay safe when the temperatures rise.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 1979 to 2002, excessive heat exposure due to weather conditions caused 4,780 deaths in the United States. That produces an average of 208 deaths a year from excessive heat.

The elderly, infants, young children, and people with chronic health problems or disabilities are most vulnerable to the effects of heat waves.

When the temperatures get high remember to drink plenty of water and natural fruit juices, even if you're not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and colas.

Try to avoid going out during the hottest times of the day. If you must go out, wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing and use sunscreen. Remember to take frequent breaks if working during the heat of the day.

Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle with the windows up as temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees within minutes.

  MISSOURI OFFICIALS CONDUCTING AUDIT OF NEW MADRID COUNTY

  A Southeast Missouri county is being audited by state officials.

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway tells KWOC News that her office has launched a regularly scheduled audit of New Madrid County.

The county received an overall performance rating of poor following an audit in December of 2013.

Galloway says that auditors recommended better oversight throughout several areas of the New Madrid County government and identified numerous concerning procedures in the office of the former public administrator.

Auditors also raised concerns with record-keeping and a lack of safeguards that allowed missing money in the sheriff's office to go undetected.

Individuals with information related to the investigation are encouraged to contact the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline by calling 800-347-8597. Callers may choose to remain anonymous.

Individuals can also email moaudit@auditor.mo.gov, or use the online submission form at auditor.mo.gov/hotline.

  MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH AND RESISTING ARREST CHARGES

  A man was arrested Sunday afternoon in Butler County on multiple felony charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 41 year old Rondelius Mitchell, of Catron, was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Mitchell is also facing a felony charge of resisting arrest.

  DISCOVERY OF A LARGE AMOUNT OF CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE LEADS TO ARREST IN GREENE COUNTY

  Officials seized a large amount of crystal methamphetamine and cash as a part of an arrest last week in Greene County.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that 5.3 grams of crystal methamphetamine, over two thousand dollars, drug paraphernalia and a set of digital scales were taken into evidence in connection to the search of a vehicle Thursday evening.

Following the search, William Stites was arrested and transported to the Greene County Detention Center.

  CAMPBELL WOMAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

  A Campbell woman was arrested over the weekend on drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Samantha Davidson was taken into custody Saturday morning on three counts of felony possession of a controlled substance.

She was also arrested for five counts of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, Davidson was held at the Dunklin County Jail.

  INTERSTATE REPAIRS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN THIS WEEK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

  Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

Officials say that the bridge is located between mile marker 1 and mile marker 2.3.

Work is scheduled to take place today and tomorrow from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm each day.

Friday June 16, 2017

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR DISASTER FOOD STAMP ONE TIME BENEFIT Following the recent flooding in early May, and the White House approval of Governor Eric Greitens’ request for a Federal Disaster Declaration, today is the last day to apply for a disaster food stamp one-time benefit.

KWOC News spoke with Troy York, Media Specialist with the FEMA, about how residents affected by the flood could apply.

Media Specialist Troy York

Following White House approval of Governor Eric Greitens’ request for a federal disaster declaration, the Missouri Department of social services received authorization from United States department of agriculture to operate a Disaster Food Stamp Program in 27 counties across the state. This program will provide food assistance to Missouri families who are directly impacted by the recent flooding. Families receiving Food Stamp benefits and families typically not qualified for the program may be eligible to receive a Disaster Food Stamp benefits if they have supper property damage, loss of income, relocation, or loss of food due to the recent flood. To be eligible you must live in the counties affected. Those counties are Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Pemiscot, Scott, Reynolds, Ripley, and Shannon. I want to urge residents that they may be eligible, whether or not they are currently receiving Food Stamps benefits. The amount of the disaster Food Stamp one-time benefit is based on the maximum monthly food stamp benefits for the family size. After applying, eligible family that is currently receiving Food Stamp benefits will have food benefits increase to the maximum amount for that month. Families already receiving Food Stamp benefits submit a Disaster Food Stamps form found at dss.mo.gov, application must be postmarked by this afternoon. Families that are not currently on the Food Stamp Program, apply in person at a Family Support Division Resource Center. You must bring a photo ID or two other documents like, utility bills or mail receipt to verify identity. If a family is eligible, Family Service Division will issue benefits within three days after receiving their application. If anyone has any questions they must contact the Family Support Division at 1-855-373-4636.

OVER 125 TICKETS ISSUED IN DEXTER DURING CLICK IT OR TICKET MOBILIZATION

Authorities in Dexter tell KWOC News that over 125 tickets were issued during a recent Click It or Ticket mobilization.

According to the Dexter Police Department, during the enforcement effort from May 22^nd to June 4^th, officers conducted a total of 189 traffic stops resulting in 129 traffic tickets being issued. 50 of the tickets issued were seat belt tickets.

Officials say that 178 written or verbal warnings were issued as well.

WHOLE KIDS OUTREACH SUMMER DAY CAMP TO BEGIN NEXT WEEK

Whole Kids Outreach in Ellington will be having their annual Summer Day Camp starting next week.

Officials say the camp will run from June 19^th through July 21^st.

The day camp is a summer program for children ages 4 to 12 and will offer 4 one-week sessions. Campers can join for one, two, three, or all four weeks.

Camp hours are from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday and fees will be based on a sliding scale.

Officials say Whole Kids Outreach is a participant in the Summer Food Program and a nutritious breakfast and lunch will be served to kids every day, free of charge.

Call 663-3257 for more information.

EAST PRAIRIE WOMAN ARREST ON DRUG CHARGES IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

An East Prairie woman was arrested Wednesday evening in Mississippi County on drug charges.

According to the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Department, 23 year old Stormi Duncan was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Duncan is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. Duncan was transported to the Mississippi County Jail and later released.

HAZARDOUS MOVING ENFORCEMENT OPERATION TO BE HELD IN BUTLER COUNTY

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol say that a hazardous moving operation will be held soon in Southeast Missouri.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale, commanding officer of Troop E of the Highway Patrol tells us that sometime this month; Troop E officers will conduct a hazardous moving enforcement operation in Butler County.

Vitale says the operation will be conducted by the Highway Patrol in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

ROUTE 49 IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THROUGH EARLY OCTOBER

Road crews will be in Wayne County through early October for a bridge replacement on Route 49.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located south of Route CC over McKenzie Creek.

Shoulder work began earlier this week and once a temporary bypass is built, the road will be reduced to one lane with signals.

Officials say that work will continue until Sunday, October 1st.

JOSH BURSON MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 8th Annual Josh Burson Memorial Golf Tournament will be tomorrow at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course in Poplar Bluff.

The 4 man scramble tournament costs $75 per person to enter and will be followed by a fish fry dinner at Holiday Inn beginning at 6 pm. The dinner will also have an auction and raffles.

All proceeds will go to the Josh Burson Memorial Scholarship.

For more information, call Gwen Horner at 573-714-2811 or visit the Josh Burson Memorial Golf Tournament facebook page.

Thursday June 15, 2017

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN CARTER COUNTYTwo Arkansas residents were arrested Tuesday afternoon in Carter County on drug charges.

According to the Carter County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old Amy Bryant and Vickie Tripp were taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of marijuana.

Both Bryant and Tripp are also facing a misdemeanor charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. Both were transported to the Carter County Jail and later released.

MODOT SAYS PUBLIC HEARING COULD BE HELD FOR UPCOMING BRIDGE PROJECTS IN STODDARD COUNTY The Missouri Department of Transportation says that area residents have the opportunity to look over plans for an upcoming bridge project in Stoddard County.

Officials say the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission is planning to replace three bridges located on Routes P, K and N.

The Route P project includes replacing the bridge over Drainage Ditch Number 34. The Route K project is the replacement of the bridge over Wolf Creek. The Route N project includes replacing the bridge over Drainage Ditch Number 30.

Construction could begin as early as summer 2018. As construction is underway, Routes P, K and N will be closed to through traffic in the vicinity of the bridges.

Maps, plans, and other information prepared by MoDot will be available for public inspection at the MoDot Sikeston District Office. Anybody affected by the project may request that a public hearing be held in regard to the proposed improvements.

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 today 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.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED FOLLOWING WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY A man was taken to an area hospital following a wreck in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 2 pm Tuesday afternoon on Route T, east of County Road 517.

76 year old Gayle Arnold, of Wappapello, reportedly ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

Arnold suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

ST. LOUIS MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES A St. Louis man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Tuesday afternoon.

According to authorities, 49 year old Frederick Langevin was taken into custody in Carter County on felony charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Langevin also reportedly had two misdemeanor warrants out of Carter County.

SPENCE AND SIDDIQUI CHOSEN AS POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES OF THE MONTH A tennis and tracker player have been chosen as the Poplar Bluff High School athletes of the month for May.

Sophomore Khelie Spence and Sophomore Humza Siddiqui were chosen for the awards by the Mules Booster Club.

Spence is the first female at Poplar Bluff High School to make All-State at the Missouri Class 5 track and field meet. She made All-Conference in the 100 and 300 hurdle, she was also All-District in the 100 and 300 hurdle, and was named the Class 5 Sectional 1 100 hurdle champion. In the classroom, she maintains an 11.143 GPA.

Siddiqui led the Mules Tennis team to its second district championship title. He ended the season with a doubles record of 11-2 and a singles record of 18-3, bringing his career total to 56-17, a school record. He won the Poplar Bluff Invitational, and was a finalist at the Farmington Invitational. In the classroom, he maintains an 11.79 GPA.

Wednesday June 14, 2017

TWO NEELYVILLE RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGESTwo Neelyville residents were taken into custody Monday afternoon on drug and child endangerment charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 41 year old Mark Crossen and 46 year old Mary Moore, were each arrested on felony charges of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child, felony manufacturing marijuana, and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Both Crossen and Moore, are each facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, both were transported to the Butler County Justice Center.

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN WRECK NEAR CHEROKEE PASS Two people were injured, one seriously, following a wreck Monday evening in Madison County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on US 67, 6 miles south of Cherokee Pass, when a vehicle, driven by 65 year old Dianne Bailey, of Greenville, ran off the left side of the roadway, overcorrected, ran off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.

Bailey suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a local hospital. A passenger in Bailey’s vehicle received moderate injuries and was air lifted to a St. Louis hospital.

AMERICAN LEGION POST IN SIKESTON RAISES OVER $22,000 FOR MISSOURI VETERANS CEMETERY The American Legion Post 114 in Sikeston had a full day of events on June 3rd that raised over $22,000 for the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield.

The donation will be made at a presentation at the Bloomfield Committal Facility on June 24th.

Cemetery officials say the donated funds will be used for promotion and improvements to the cemetery.

GATEWOOD WOMAN FLOWN TO CAPE GIRARDEAU HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN RIPLEY COUNTY Authorities say that a Gatewood woman has been flown to an area hospital following a one vehicle wreck in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Alisha Smith, ran off the roadway and overturned, on US 142, west of Doniphan.

Smith received moderate injuries and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

SEVENTEEN ARRESTS MADE DURING CHECKPOINT IN BUTLER COUNTY Seventeen arrests were made this past weekend during a hazardous moving violation project in Butler County.

Captain Jeffrey Vitale with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that the hazardous moving operation was held this past Saturday and a total of 111 vehicles were stopped during the operation.

Of the seventeen arrests, 2 were felony drug arrests, 2 were driving while intoxicated, and the other 13 were misdemeanor drug and warrant arrests.

Troopers also issued 83 summonses and 99 warnings during the operation.

MODOT SAYS PUBLIC HEARING COULD BE HELD FOR UPCOMING BRIDGE REPLACEMENTS IN WAYNE COUNTY The Missouri Department of Transportation says that area residents have the opportunity to look over plans for an upcoming bridge project in Wayne County.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission is planning on replacing two bridges on Route FF and Route HH.

Officials say that the Route FF project involves replacing the bridge over Lake Creek approximately one and a half miles west of Greenville.

The Route HH project will see a bridge replaced over McKenzie Creek. The project will be located approximately one and a half miles south of Piedmont.

Construction could begin as early as summer 2018. As construction is underway, Route FF will be closed to traffic in the vicinity of the bridge. A bypass will be in place as work is underway to replace the Route HH bridge.

Maps, plans, and other information prepared by MoDot will be available for public inspection at the MoDot Sikeston District Office. Anybody affected by the project may request that a public hearing be held in regard to the proposed improvements.

Tuesday June 13, 2017

SUSPECTS IN CUSTODY AFTER A ROBBERY AND SHOOTING OVER THE WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFFContinuing to follow a story we brought you yesterday, two suspects have been taken into custody in connection to a weekend robbery and shooting in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Detective Joey Woodruff with the Poplar Bluff Police Department about the incident and the arrests.

Detective Joey Woodruff:

On Sunday morning, around 3AM, Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department were dispatched to the 1300 block of S. 10th Street in reference to Home Invasion/Robbery and a subject being shot. According to the victim’s statement, two black males entered the residence wearing masks and demanded money. The subject’s took $4500 from one of the victim’s purse, however they demanded more. When no further money was presented one of the suspects fired a shot striking one of the victims in the buttocks. He was transferred to the Poplar Bluff Hospital and later transferred to Cape Girardeau for further treatment.

On Monday afternoon around 2:30, the police department received information on the whereabouts of the two suspects involved in the robbery/shooting incident Sunday morning. Officers made contact with the suspects at a residence on County Road 602 in Butler County. The suspects were taken into custody without incident. The suspects were identified as 27 year old Keith Taylor and 24 year old Mercedes Patterson, both of Poplar Bluff. Both Taylor and Patterson are being charged with 1sr Degree Robbery, 1st Degree Assault, and 2nd Degree Kidnapping. Taylor is also being charged with Armed Criminal Action, 1st Degree Burglary, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and an arrest warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Detective Woodruff would go on to add both Taylor and Patterson were lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.

FARMINGTON MAN DROWNS IN BLACK RIVER IN REYNOLDS COUNTY Officials in Reynolds County say that a body was found over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the body of 19 year old Christopher Watson, of Farmington was found Sunday evening in Black River, near Johnson Shut-Ins State Park. Watson was attempting to swim across the Black River.

Watson was pronounced dead by Reynolds County Coroner Jeffrey McSpadden.

TWO INJURED IN WRECK OVER THE WEEKEND IN BUTLER COUNTY Two were injured early Sunday morning in a wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 32 year old Joshua Knott, of Patton, ran off of the left side of Business 67, struck a utility pole, and overturned several times, approximately 1 mile south of Poplar Bluff.

Knott suffered moderate injuries. A passenger in the vehicle, 29 year old Ashley Webb, of Perryville, was ejected and seriously injured. Webb was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

SEVERAL ARRESTED ON ASSAULT ON LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN CARUTHERSVILLE Several arrests were made over the weekend in Caruthersville due to a large fight/riot.

Caruthersville City Marshal Tony Jones tells KWOC News that officers responded to a large fight in progress at the Federal Housing Complex. As officers arrived they observed a large group of both juveniles and adults fighting. As officers attempted to separate the group, they were assaulted by another group of approximately 30 subjects from behind. After the arrival of additional agencies, they were able to identify and arrest several subjects.

No names are being released at this time, however KWOC news has learned the ages from the arrest range from 15 to 31 and charges will include 1st Degree Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Armed Criminal Action, and Rioting.

City Marshal Tony Jones says other agencies that assisted in this case were the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department, and the Hayti Police Department.

HEAT AND HUMIDITY RETURN THIS WEEK TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Heat and humidity are expected over the few days across Southeast Missouri.

We spoke with Rick Shanklin, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Paducah, about the heat and humidity.

Rick Shanklin:

The summer heat and humidity has returned to our region. We're expecting high temperatures this afternoon to near 90 degrees, and with the higher humidity values that will push heat indices into the mid 90's, and really we're not expecting much of a change as we go through the course of the week with the continued heat and humidity, and actually the humidity values may increase slightly as we go through the middle and ladder part of the week pushing heat indices into the upper 90's possible even around 100. And with that it's important for everyone to keep in mind some safety precautions and mainly is to take plenty of breaks if you're working outside playing sports outside that kind of thing. Especially break in the shade and if necessary even come into the air conditioning to cool down, and also drinking plenty of fluids. Also remember to keep an eye out a check on your pets to insure that they're in the shade also checking on the elderly and anyone that doesn't have air-conditioning, just to be sure everything's ok there if there is any concern there are couple things that can happen if people are in the heat too long there's heat exhaustion at that point people are still sweating and all which is how the body calls itself generally not a serious condition as long as actions are taken promptly, but then there is also heat stroke and that's a serious condition that 911 needs to be called immediately that's what a person stop sweating and other symptoms also occur such a severe headache since so forth. So everyone needs to take the heat seriously this summer serious, we do call it the silent killer it can be a very serious condition if we're not proactive.

Shanklin would go on to add by the upcoming weekend we will see cooler temperatures and lower humidity.

PAVEMENT OVERLAY UNDERWAY IN CARTER COUNTY Route C in Carter County will be reduced to one lane while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform a pavement overlay.

According to MoDOT officials, the section of road is located from US 60 to the Ripley County line.

Weather permitting, work will take place daily, from 7 am to 5 pm, through Thursday, June 22nd.

Monday June 12, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR THREE SUSPECTS AFTER A ROBBERY OVER THE WEEKENDPolice in Poplar Bluff are searching for three suspects in connection to a robbery over the weekend.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, early Sunday morning, officers responded to a reported home invasion/robbery and a subject being shot which took place in the 1300 block of S. 10th Street.

Police say, two black males entered the home wearing masks and demanded money. The subjects reportedly took $4,500 from one of the victim’s purse, and demanded more. When no more money was presented, one of the suspects fired a gun, hitting one of the victims.

Police are looking for 29 year old Cameron Cook, 27 year old Keith Taylor, and 24 year old Mercedes Patterson, all of Poplar Bluff. These suspects should be considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at (573) 785-5776.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULT AND ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff woman on a felony assault charge and endangering the welfare of a child.

According to Chief Deputy Wess Popp with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 26 year old Tambra Williams was arrested early Friday morning on felony charges of assault 2nd and 2nd degree endangering the welfare of a child.

Williams is also facing a charge of property damage.

Following the arrest, Williams was take to the Butler County Jail.

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 Poplar Bluff Police Department, 36 year old Keith Stacy was taken into custody after 9pm Friday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THE REST OF THE MONTH IN WAYNE COUNTY Route 34 in Wayne County will be reduced with a 10 foot width restriction for the rest of this month so contractor crews can perform bridge repairs.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell us that work will take place daily through Tuesday, June 27th.

This bridge involved in the repairs is located over Turkey Creek, west of Route OO.

The work zone will be set-up for 24 hours a day with work being completed under one-lane traffic across the bridge using temporary signals.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE FOLLOWING ARREST A Poplar Bluff man is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest over the weekend.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 35 year old Jesse Hicks was taken into custody shortly after 8pm Friday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED ON A DOMESTIC ASSAULT WARRANT Authorities in Butler County say that a Fayetteville, Arkansas man was recently taken into custody.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 21 year old Lametri Rodgers was arrested on a warrant for domestic assault.

His bond was set at $50,000 cash or surety.

REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON NORTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55 Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with a 12 foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform bridge maintenance.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone is located between Route 164 and I-155.

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

Friday, June 9, 2017

TWO BUTLER COUNTY FIRE DEATHS LIKELY CAUSED BY SMOKE INHALATION AND CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

  Autopsies have been conducted on two people who died in separate fires earlier this week in Butler County.

The first fire occurred Sunday morning at a residence on Mozart Lane and resulted in the death of 66 year old Edward James, of Poplar Bluff. James’s grandson 29 year old Brett Payne, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on charges of murder first and arson first.

The second fire was Sunday night at a home on Poplar Street. Firefighters located 57 year old Tommy Younger, of Poplar Bluff, inside the residence. He was taken to a local hospital, where he died on Monday.

41 year old Tara Maxfield, of Poplar Bluff, admitted to setting the fire and was placed under arrest. She is facing charges of Arson 1st Degree, Murder 2nd Degree, and Assault 1st Degree

Preliminary results from the autopsies say that James and Younger each likely died from carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation.

  STATE AGENCY APPROVES REVISED TARIFF FOR NATURAL GAS COMPANY THAT SERVES CUSTOMERS IN BUTLER COUNTY

  A state agency has approved a revised tariff for a natural gas company that has customers in Southeast Missouri.

The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved the revised tariff filed by the Laclede Gas Company.

Under the revised tariff, neither a service initiation fee nor a reconnection charge will be applied to customers who have natural gas service restored within a year of losing such service due to property damage resulting from the flooding which occurred within Laclede’s service territory during April and May.

The revised tariff will take effect on June 14th.

Laclede Gas Company provides natural gas service to approximately 647,100 customers in 10 Missouri counties, including Butler and Iron Counties, along with the City of St. Louis.

  POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

  A Poplar Bluff woman was recently taken into custody in Stoddard County on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 38 year old Jennifer Hampton was arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Her bond was set at $12,500 cash and she remained in jail as of this morning.

  TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  Two people have been taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas on meth charges.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Ashley Galvan and Alycia Hendrix were each arrested for possession of crystal methamphetamine.

Carter says that Hendrix was also arrested for possession of a counterfeit substance and fleeing.

It was not released if the two arrests were connected to each other.

  PAVEMENT OVERLAY UNDERWAY IN CARTER COUNTY

  Route C in Carter County will be reduced to one lane while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform a pavement overlay.

According to MoDOT officials, the section of road is located from US 60 to the Ripley County line.

Weather permitting, work will take place daily, from 7 am to 5 pm, through Thursday, June 22nd.

  OFFICIALS REOPPEN STATE HIGHWAY 304 IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  A state highway in Northeast Arkansas has reopened after being closed for over a month due to priority maintenance.

According to the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department, the section of State Highway 304 in Randolph County is once again open to traffic.

Officials say the highway had been closed for 37 days.

Thursday, June 8, 2017

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER OPENING TODAY IN VAN BUREN

  The Federal Emergency Management Agency is opening a Disaster Recovery Center today in Van Buren.

The center will be available seven days a week between 7 am and 7 pm at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center.

The center offers in-person support to individuals and businesses in any of the 27 counties included in the Missouri federal disaster declaration for flooding and severe storms that occurred between April 28th and May 11th.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other agencies will be at the center to discuss assistance and to help anyone who needs information or assistance filing an application.

  AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING TWO FIRES IN POPLAR BLUFF

  Authorities are investigating two fires that occurred Wednesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

One of the fires was located at a house on Stella Street while the other was at a house on Main Street. Both houses were vacant.

According to authorities, both fires were intentionally set.

  DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TO BE HELD TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

  The Poplar Bluff Public Library will be holding an event today to assist individuals and families who sustained damage or losses due to the flooding and severe storms register for disaster assistance.

The Library will have a room available from noon to 7 pm with several computers and an Emergency Management staff member will be present to help direct individuals to the website DisasterAssistance.gov.

You can also register for disaster assistance by calling the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), from 6 am to 10 pm seven days a week.

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

  A Colorado man was flown to a hospital yesterday after he was involved in a motorcycle wreck.

According to the Highway Patrol, 53 year old Kevin Neu, of Castlerock, Colorado, was driving a motorcycle on Route KK in Iron County when the vehicle ran off the side of the road, overturned, and ejected him.

Neu received moderate injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

  OFFICIALS SAY GREENVILLE RECREATION AREA CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC

  People are being asked to avoid the Greenville Recreation area.

According to a post on the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook page, the area is closed to all traffic, including boat and pedestrian traffic.

The Corps of Engineers is asking for everyone to be patient while the cleanup effort is ongoing.

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN STEALING CASE

  Police in Poplar Bluff are seeking the public’s help in locating a man.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department has posted pictures of the man online who is a suspect in a stealing case.

The pictures are available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone with information on suspect’s identity is asked to contact Patrolman Jeremy Elless at 573-785-5776 extension1376.

  BRIDGE REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

  Route D in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge involved is located between County Road 737 and County Road 751.

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

Wednesday June 7, 2017

ARREST MADE IN FATAL POPLAR BLUFF FIREAuthorities say that an arrest has been made in connection to a fatal fire Sunday night in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Poplar Bluff Deputy Police Chief Don Trout, who says that an area woman has admitted to setting the fire.

DON TROUT:

On Sunday evening at approximately 11:40, Poplar Bluff Police and Fire personnel responded to 712 Poplar Street in reference to a structure fire. Upon arriving Officers found the residence engulfed in flames. Additionally, it was learned that one resident of the structure, described as a three unit apartment building, was still inside. Fire Department personnel began working to extinguish the blaze and were able to extract Tommy Younger, 57, of Poplar Bluff, from his apartment.

Younger was transported to an area medical facility for treatment of injuries sustained from the fire. During the afternoon hours on Monday, Younger succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at an area hospital.

During the on scene investigation, by Missouri State Fire Marshal personnel, it was determined that the fire was intentionally set.

Through witness interviews, Tara Maxfield, 41, of Poplar Bluff, was believed to be a person of interest in setting the fire. Maxfield was later located and transported to the Poplar Bluff Police Department for questioning.

She ultimately admitted to setting the fire and is cooperating with the investigation. Maxfield was placed under arrest and is currently being held, pending application of warrants for charges of Arson 1st Degree, Murder 2nd Degree and Assault 1st Degree.

During the course of the investigation the Major Case Squad was activated and personnel from the Highway Patrol, the Missouri State Fire Marshall’s Office, Police Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Office participated in the investigation.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BUSES TO REQUIRE REPAIRS BEFORE BEING ALLOWED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced the results of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Division's 2017 annual school bus inspection program.

As a part of the program, buses found to have no defective items are rated as "approved.” Buses having one or more defective items which do not constitute an immediate danger are rated as "defective.” Buses with any defective items which constitute an immediate danger are rated as "out-of-service.”

In Butler County, Poplar Bluff R-1 had 33 of the district’s 43 buses presented listed as approved. Eight were rated as defective and two as out of service.

Neelyville R-4 had five of 14 buses rated as defective, with the remaining nine approved. Twin Rivers R-X had all 15 of their buses approved.

Over 90 percent of buses statewide were rated as approved. Around seven and a half percent were listed as defective and around two percent were rated as out of service.

ARKANSAS GOVERNOR SUBMITS FORMAL FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson has submitted his formal request for a federal disaster declaration.

The request submitted on Monday requested the declaration for 31 counties including Baxter, Clay, Independence, Izard, Lawrence, and Mississippi.

Hutchinson says that severe storms and flooding in late April and early May devastated 31 counties and caused more than $13 million in damage. He declared the affected counties as state disaster areas last month.

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY Two people were taken into custody Tuesday morning in Butler County on felony drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Anthony Timbush and 26 year old Brittany Lakin, both of Poplar Bluff, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and tramadol.

Officials say that Lakin is also facing a charge of felony tampering with physical evidence.

Following their arrest, both were held at the Butler County Jail.

ELLINGTON MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY FIREARM CHARGE An Ellington man is facing a felony firearm charge following his arrest Tuesday afternoon.

According to authorities, 35 year old Bryan Martin was taken into custody on a felony charge of unlawful possession of a firearm shortly after 3:30 pm in Wayne County.

Following the arrest, Martin was transported to the Wayne County Jail.

POLICE SEEKING PUBLIC’S HELP IN FINDING MULTIPLE PEOPLE Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s assistance in locating multiple people.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, they are searching for two men following a theft at a local business. Pictures of the two men are available at the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about their location is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

Tuesday June 6, 2017

MAN DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFFA man has died from injuries he received in a fire at a Poplar Bluff residence.

Detective Joey Woodruff with the Poplar Bluff Police Department says the fire occurred at an apartment on Poplar Street Sunday night and appears to have been set intentionally.

JOEY WOODRUFF:

On Sunday night, Patrolman Lemonds responded to an address in the 700 block of Poplar Street to assist the fire department with a structure fire.

At Patrolman Lemonds’ arrival, he observed the front porch of the residence completely engulfed in flames. Lemonds found a man sitting in a second story window of the apartment. The man was able to jump to safety and advised Patrolman Lemonds there was possibly still someone inside the residence.

Firefighters with the Poplar Bluff Fire Department located another man inside the residence during a search of the building. The individual inside the residence was located in the ground level of the apartment. The man was transported to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Emergency Room for treatment.

Members of the Poplar Bluff Police Department’s criminal investigations division along with the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire had been intentionally set and they are currently investigating the incident further.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 785-5776.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that the man found in the home died on Monday. He has been identified as 57 year old Tommy E. Younger, of Poplar Bluff.

Moore says that an autopsy has been scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF HIS GRANDFATHER IN A POPLAR BLUFF FIRE A Poplar Bluff man is in custody on murder and arson charges following the death of the man’s grandfather in a house fire over the weekend.

Investigator Brandon Lowe with the Butler County Sheriff’s Office tells us more about the incident.

BRANDON LOWE:

On Sunday morning at around 3:30 a.m. the Butler County Fire Department was dispatched to 150 Mozart Lane in regards to a house fire. Once they arrived on scene there was three subjects that were transported by ambulance to North Campus ER. Once the fire department and the fire marshal begin investigating the fire it was discovered that the residence had been intentionally set on fire, at which time, I investigator Brandon Lowe, was called out to the scene and begin investigating further. Once on scene I made contact with the fire marshal who advised me that the fire had been intentionally set in different locations inside the residence. After leaving the scene I responded to North Campus ER to speak with the subjects. Once at the ER I was advised that a male subject identified as 29 year old white male Brett Payne, from Poplar Bluff, had left. At which time we were able to obtain an address for Mr. Payne, we went, made contact with him. During the course of the interview with Mr. Payne, it was discovered that Edward James, a 66 year old white male, from Poplar Bluff, who had been transported to North Campus ER had succumbed to injuries sustained during the house fire. At that point Mr. Payne was placed under arrest. Mr. Payne is currently incarcerated in the Butler County Jail on the charges of murder first, arson first, with a bond of $250,000 cash only. The third subject that had been transported to north campus from the residence was later released from the hospital. An autopsy on Edward James will be conducted on Wednesday morning.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN’S TRIAL ON MURDER AND ELDER ABUSE CHARGES PUSHED TO AUGUST The preliminary trial for a Poplar Bluff woman on charges of murder and elderly abuse has been pushed to August.

According to the Butler County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the trial for Judy Smothers had been set for yesterday but is now scheduled for August 21st.

Smothers is facing felony charges of 2nd degree murder and 2nd degree elder abuse in connection to the death of her mother Theresa Smothers who died of neglect, malnourishment, and dehydration late last year.

The case will be heard by Judge Thomas Swindle.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY A Poplar Bluff man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for child pornography.

KWOC News spoke with Detective Joey Woodruff with the Poplar Bluff Police Department who said that the investigation into the case began in October of 2016.

JOEY WOODRUFF:

On October 6th, 2016, an investigation was opened after Detectives with the Southeast Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force at the Poplar Bluff Police Department received a cyber tip report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reporting a Facebook account had uploaded one image of confirmed child pornography to his account.

The account holder was identified as fifty year old Leslie Bryan Clark of Poplar Bluff.

On October 7th, 2016, Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department made contact with Clark at his residence in the 700 Block of North Riverview in Poplar Bluff. Digital Items were seized and forensic examinations were performed by the Southeast Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force laboratory.

During the examinations, several hundred images and videos of confirmed child pornography were discovered on Clark’s electronic devices. Clark admitted to actively downloading child pornography from the internet and provided detectives with numerous websites in which he obtained the contraband.

On November 9th, 2016, Leslie Bryan Clark was arrested on a federal indictment issued by the Eastern District of Missouri United States District Court in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

On April 12th, 2017, Leslie Bryan Clark was sentenced to 120 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons followed by 15 years of supervised release.

ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS TO HOLD INFORMATIONAL MEETING TODAY The United States Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake will be holding two informational meetings today to discuss the recovery and reopening of facilities that were affected by the near record reservoir levels.

The meetings will be held today at 10 am and 2 pm at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center in Wappapello. A third meeting is scheduled for today at 7 pm at the Greenville City Hall.

Personnel from the Wappapello Lake Management Office and the St. Louis District Office will present a formal talk on the 2017 events and will be available to answer questions and receive input from the public regarding upstream and downstream issues and the reopening of campgrounds and recreation facilities.

FEMA TEAMS IN CARTER COUNTY Teams with the Federal Emergency Management Agency have come to Southeast Missouri.

According to the Carter County Emergency Management Agency, FEMA representatives assigned to Disaster Survivor Assistance teams arrived in Carter County Monday to begin helping individuals apply for assistance.

Disaster Survivor Assistance representatives can be identified by FEMA photo identification badges.

Teams have also gone to Ripley County.

Anyone affected by the storms and in one of the declared counties can still register for assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) between 6 am and 10 pm.

Monday June 5, 2017

PRESIDENT TRUMP APPROVES DISASTER DECLARATION FOR MISSOURIPresident Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration that makes federal disaster assistance available to the state of Missouri to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from April 28th to May 11th.

Federal funding is available to affected individuals in 27 counties including Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Oregon, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, and Shannon counties.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area can apply for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

Federal funding is also available to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding in 46 counties. A full list of those counties is available on our website.

(Barry, Barton, Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Cedar, Christian, Cole, Crawford, Dade, Dallas, Dent, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Maries, McDonald, Miller, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Pike, Pulaski, Ralls, Reynolds, Ripley, Shannon, St. Louis, Stone, Taney, Texas, Washington, Wayne, Webster, and Wright counties.)

FOUR VEHICLES INVOLVED IN WRECK NEAR DONIPHAN Two people were injured in a wreck involving four vehicles on Friday near Doniphan.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 1:45 pm Friday on Missouri Highway 21.

A vehicle driven by 20 year old Dalton Cuculich, of Doniphan, allegedly crossed the centerline of the road and struck two vehicles before running off the road and down an embankment.

One of the vehicles struck by Cuculich ran off the side of the road then overturned after being struck by another vehicle when returning to the roadway.

The driver of that vehicle, 50 year old Stephen Cullison, of Ellsinore, suffered moderate injuries. The driver of the second vehicle to strike Cullison’s vehicle, 46 year old Mary Ridgon, of Doniphan, also suffered moderate injuries.

DEXTER WOMAN ARRESTED ON MARIJUANA WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area woman on a marijuana warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 21 year old Serena Sanders, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Sanders was also arrested on a warrant for possession of marijuana with intent to sell.

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FIREARM CHARGES IN KENNETT Two people were arrested last week in Kennett on drug and firearm charges.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Thursday officers arrested 21 year old Demetrus Hyles, of Hayti, and 21 year old Demarcus Leech, of Poplar Bluff, for possession of marijuana over 35 grams and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Officials say that both were transported to the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the State Prosecutor's Office.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE A Dexter man was taken into custody over the weekend on a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Heath Moore was arrested Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Moore was transported to the Stoddard County Jail.

MISSOURI SECRETARY OF STATE TO BE IN POPLAR BLUFF THIS WEEK TO DISCUSS VOTER ID LAW Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft will be in Poplar Bluff later this week to discuss the new Voter ID law.

On Wednesday, Ashcroft will be at the Butler County Courthouse at 11 am.

The stop is a part of Ashcroft’s week-long, statewide Voter ID Informational Tour, which he says will allow him an opportunity to share clear and accurate guidance to Missourians about the new voter ID law and assist anyone who needs to register to vote.

Ashcroft will also be stopping on Wednesday in Caruthersville at 1:30 pm. That appearance will be at the Caruthersville Library.

Friday, June 2, 2017

OFFICIALS SAY TORNADO FORMED NEAR POPLAR BLUFF LAST WEEKEND A tornado reportedly formed near Poplar Bluff during last weekend’s storms.

According to the National Weather Service, an EF-0 tornado began Saturday night near the intersection of Highway PP and County Road 429. The tornado continued for two and a quarter miles before ending along Misty Meadow Road, roughly four and a quarter miles northwest of Poplar Bluff.

Weather officials say the tornado had peak winds of 85 miles per hour and a width of 85 yards.

There were several trees uprooted and minor structural damage to at least two homes due to fallen trees. At least six homes received shingle damage along Forest Meadow Drive.

  KENNETT MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY WRECK A Kennett man was flown to an area hospital yesterday following a wreck in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on US 412 at County Road 527 when 21 year old Donaldo Rodriguez-Valdez, of Senath, allegedly pulled his vehicle into the path of another vehicle, driven by 50 year old Timothy Mouhalif, of Kennett.

Mouhalif suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Jonesboro hospital. Rodriguez-Valdez received minor injuries and was taken to a Kennett hospital.

  MAN FOUND WITH CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE IN GREENE COUNTY A man was recently found with crystal methamphetamine in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, on Wednesday evening, deputies arrested Michael Reed on felony warrants.

A probation search was also conducted and nine grams of crystal methamphetamine, several smoking pipes, and digital scales were found.

Following the arrest, Reed was transported to the Greene County Detention Center.

  ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY CANCELLED FOR MISSING ST. LOUIS COUNTY MAN Updating a story we have been following for you this week, an Endangered Person Advisory for a missing St. Louis County man has been cancelled.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old William Kunes Jr. was located at a hospital in Huntsville, Alabama.

The Advisory was issued for Kunes after he went missing from Winchester on May 27th.

Authorities previously stated that he may be in Southeast Missouri.

  VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MASS FATALITY EXERCISE Officials in Butler County are seeking actors and volunteers for the upcoming Missouri Mortuary Operations Response Team Mass Fatality Exercise.

According to the Butler County Emergency Management Agency, they need 15 volunteers for each of two shifts on Saturday June 10th. The first shift will begin at 8 am and the second will begin at 12:30 pm.

The exercise is for the Victim Information Center which is where families and friends of victims report their missing loved ones.

The exercise scenario will be a mass fatality incident with a large number of deceased and injured. The exercise will be simulated to create an environment to support the bereaved.

For more information, contact Maddy Winters at 573-714-4197.

  OFFICE OF HEALTHCARE INSPECTIONS ISSUES REPORT ON POPLAR BLUFF VA MEDICAL CENTER The Department of Veterans Affairs has issued a report on Opioid Management Practice Concerns at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff.

The office of the Inspector General conducted an inspection to evaluate allegations regarding opioid management practices at the facility.

The report substantiated allegations of poor management of long-term opioid pain therapy for 10 patients as well as allegations that opioid prescriptions were written for patients without documentation of an opioid risk stratification tool.

The report also issued recommendations, including having the Facility Director ensure that relevant providers complete timely patient evaluations; receive education on dual short acting opioids and tapering of opioids; and review Veterans Health Administration recommendations regarding the use of opioid risk stratification tools along with other recommendations.

Here is the full report from the Office of Veteran's Affairs

  MODOT SAYS PUBLIC HEARING COULD BE HELD FOR UPCOMING BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS IN WAYNE COUNTY The Missouri Department of Transportation says that area residents have the opportunity to look over plans for an upcoming bridge project in Wayne County.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission is planning on improving the bridge over Black River on Route 49 which is located approximately a quarter of a mile south of Mill Spring.

Construction could begin as early as summer 2018. As construction is underway, Route 49 will be closed to through traffic in the vicinity of the bridge.

Maps, plans, and other information prepared by MoDot will be available for public inspection at the MoDot Sikeston District Office. Anybody affected by the project may request that a public hearing be held in regard to the proposed improvements.

Thursday June 1, 2017

US 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY WAS TEMPORARY BLOCKED YESTERDAY FOLLOWING WRECKA tractor trailer wreck in Butler County caused the temporary closure of part of US 67 yesterday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, southbound US 67 was blocked due to an overturned tractor trailer with hazardous material.

The incident was located north of US 60. The Highway Patrol has not released if there were any injuries in connection to the wreck.

ENDANGERED ST. LOUIS COUNTY MAN NOW BE HEADED TOWARDS BOSTON AREA Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a missing man from St. Louis County could be heading towards Massachusetts.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, information has been received that 49 year old William Kunes Jr. may be en route to an unknown location in Boston.

An Endangered Person Advisory was issued for Kunes after he went missing from Winchester on May 27th.

Authorities previously stated that Kunes may be in Southeast Missouri.

ROUTE 49 IN WAYNE COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THROUGH EARLY OCTOBER Road crews will be in Wayne County through early October for a bridge replacement on Route 49.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located south of Route CC over McKenzie Creek.

Shoulder work began earlier this week and once a temporary bypass is built, the road will be reduced to one lane with signals.

Officials say that work will continue until Sunday, October 1st.

DONIPHAN WOMAN WINS $100,000 FROM SCRATCHERS TICKET A Doniphan woman has her friends to thank for winning one hundred thousand dollars.

According to the Missouri Lottery, on May 11th, Pamela McKinney was visiting with a couple of friends while one friend was working at a Doniphan business. While talking, her friends noticed there was only one ticket left in the “$100,000 Jackpot” Scratchers game, and they told her she should premier-pharmacy.com buy it.

The ticket ended up being worth the top prize of $100,000.

McKinney said she and her husband plan to use the prize money to pay bills. She said she isn’t sure what they will do with the remainder of the prize.

TWO MEN BEING QUESTIONED IN CONNECTION TO AMBER ALERT More information has come in about the abduction of a teenage girl in the Dent County area.

An Amber Alert was issued yesterday morning for 13 year old Trinity Lewis who was reportedly abducted from a location in Salem. She was found safe Wednesday morning.

Two males have also been located and are being questioned according to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT IS UNDERWAY IN STODDARD AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES Route W in New Madrid and Stoddard County will be closed through late this month so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway is located from Route 62 to Route Z.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Thursday, June 22nd.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STUDENT ELIMINATED IN SECOND ROUND OF SCRIPPS NATIONAL SPELLING BEE A Southeast Missouri girl has been eliminated from the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Emily King, of Cooter, was eliminated in the second round of the spelling bee after spelling Toile (twal) incorrectly.

King was one 32 spellers eliminated in the second round, which included a total 291 contestants.

Only forty students remain for the finals which are scheduled to begin this morning.

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

AMBER ALERT ISSUED FOR ABDUCTED SALEM GIRL

  An Amber Alert was issued early this morning for a teenage girl who was abducted in Salem.

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children the alert is for 13 year old Trinity Lewis.

She was reportedly abducted from 723 County Road 6090 in Salem. The suspect vehicle is a two tone, extended cab pickup. The vehicle was occupied by two unknown male suspects.

Lewis is described as a white female, five foot three inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was wearing shorts and a shirt and was carrying a yellow and white drawstring bag.

Anyone with information on Lewis’s location is asked to contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241 or their local law enforcement agency.

  ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY ISSUED FOR MAN BELIEVED TO POSSIBLY BE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  An Endangered Person Advisory was issued yesterday afternoon for a man who is believed to possibly be in Southeast Missouri.

The St. Louis County Police Department issued the advisory for 49 year old Williams Kunes(KOO-ness), Jr.

Officials say that Kunes is epileptic and possibly suffering from psychotic episodes. He left suicide notes at multiple locations at his residence, which is not typical behavior for him.

Kunes is described as white male, five foot eight inches tall, weighing 140 pounds, with red hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. He also has a scar on his left temple.

A vehicle he may be in is described as a Blue 2012 Mazda 4 with a Missouri License plate of YK9G82 that was last seen in Winchester.

Based on information received from the public, authorities believe that Kunes may be in the southeast Missouri area, or may have left the state en route to an unknown location in Florida.

He may also be with 78 year old Donald Strand.

Anyone with information on Kunes whereabouts should contact their nearest law enforcement agency.

  ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY

  An Ellington woman was injured Tuesday in a single vehicle wreck in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 53 year old Dayna Silva was travelling on Highway 67 when her vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

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

  BELL CITY CUBS WIN CLASS ONE STATE BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

  Bell City used a hot start yesterday to win a state championship.

The Cubs scored four runs in the first inning and three runs in the second and sixth innings in their 10-0 win over Wellsville High School at the Missouri Class 4 State Baseball Final.

This is the third consecutive state championship in Baseball for Bell City.

  O’NEAL ELEMENTARY COLLECTED OVER 900 CANNED GOODS FOR CHILD CONCERN CENTER

  Students at O’Neal Elementary recently collected over 900 canned non perishable goods for a local nonprofit.

According to school officials, the can drive was for the Child Concern Center of Poplar Bluff.

The nonprofit, which serves low-income families, depleted its food bank supplies while providing relief during the historic flood.

Officials say that each grade level brought in canned goods over the course of a week and a half.

The second grade brought in the most items with 377, winning a Popsicle party on Friday, May 26th.

  TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FIREARM CHARGES

  Two people were recently taken into custody in Kennett on drug and firearm charges.

According to the Kennett Police Department, on Monday officers arrested 36 year old Timothy Bogle, of Caruthersville, and Jennifer Bell, of Hayti, for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Both were held at the Dunklin County Jail pending formal charges from the state prosecutor's Office.

  TWO MONTH LONG BRIDGE REPLACEMENT BEGINS TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

  Route ZZ in Dunklin County will be closed through July as contractor crews perform a bridge replacement.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that the work zone will be located between Route NN and the end of state maintenance.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Saturday, July 29th from 6 am to 7 pm, daily.

Tuesday May 30, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING A Poplar Bluff resident has died following an accidental shooting.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that the incident occurred at around 1:30 pm Sunday afternoon at a residence on 5^th street.

Moore says that the victim has been identified as 23 year old Madrian Cooper.

We will keep following this story for you and bring your more information as it becomes available.

DAMAGING WINDS AND LARGE HAIL HIT SOUTHEAST MISSOURI OVER THE WEEKEND

Winds with speeds of up to 80 miles per hour caused damage across Southeast Missouri Saturday night.

According to the National Weather Service, there were many observations of large hail and damaging winds reported throughout the region, including wind speeds upwards of 70 to 80 mph and some hailstones measuring golf ball sized and slightly higher.

Officials say that the roof was blown off of a building connected to the movie theater in Dexter. Several homes sustained roof damage as well.

Trees were reported down in multiple counties, including Butler, Carter, and Wayne Counties. A trained spotter also reported seeing a funnel cloud in Butler County, at around 8:19 pm Saturday night.

The National Weather Service also says that multiple rounds of storms over the same locations resulted in some flooding issues as well. Rainfall totals of one point five to three plus inches were observed from Carter County east into southern Scott County.

WILLIAMSVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES

A Williamsville man was arrested Saturday in Butler County on gun and drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Michael Ward was taken into custody on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and unlawful use of a firearm.

Ward is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana.

POPLAR BLUFF MULES BASEBALL TEAM ELMINATED IN STATE QUARTERFINAL

The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team was eliminated from the state championship tournament on Friday.

The Mules fell to Vianney 1-0 in the state quarterfinal. Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that this was the best finish in program history.

The Bell City Baseball team will be playing for a state championship today at 1:30 pm against Wellsville High School. The Bell City Cubs won their semi-final matchup against Hurley High School yesterday 3-1.

ONE FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN KENNETT

Authorities in Kennett are searching for a man in connection to a shooting.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly before 10 am Monday reports were made of a subject that had been shot at an area residence.

At the residence, officers located one person who had sustained injuries during the incident. The victim was taken by helicopter to The Med in Memphis where he is currently listed as stable.

A suspect in the case has been identified as 29 year old Braylon

“Toto” Johnson. He is described as five foot six inches tall, weighing 140 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Officials say that Johnson should being considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of Johnson is urged to contact the Kennett Police Department as soon as possible at 573-888-4622.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER ALMOST 40 GRAMS OF METH FOUND IN CLAY COUNTY

Two people were taken into custody Friday after Clay County authorities found methamphetamine in a vehicle

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that at around 3 pm Friday, deputies pulled over a vehicle in Piggott and made contact with the occupants, identified as 35 year old Donald Grider and 28 year old Barrett Russell.

Deputies gained consent to search the vehicle and located around 39.9 grams of meth along with a loaded syringe, a set of digital scales, a baggie containing numerous oxycodone pills, and several hundred dollars’ worth of U.S. currency.

Miller says that both suspects were held on numerous drug and traffic violations.

PIEDMONT MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Piedmont man was flown to a St. Louis area hospital over the weekend following an ATV wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old George Sutton was driving on County Road 152 in Iron County Sunday night when his ATV overturned while he was attempting a turn.

Sutton, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck and suffered serious injuries.

ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route JJ in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pull paving.

Officials with MODOT tell us the road will be closed between Route D and the Stoddard County line.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Friday, May 26, 2017

MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO PLAY IN STATE QUARTER-FINAL TODAY

  The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team is heading to St. Louis this morning ahead of their State Quarter-final later today.

The Mules will be playing the Vianney Golden Griffiths today for the chance to advance to the Class 5 State Semi-Finals against Fort Zumwalt West next week in O’Fallon.

First pitch is scheduled for 2:30 pm and will be broadcast live here on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC as well as online at KWOC.com.

Sikeston was eliminated in their Class 4 quarterfinal yesterday after losing to Lutheran South 5-4.

  SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS ARE UNDER AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE STORMS THIS WEEKEND

  Weather officials say that the holiday weekend is bringing with it a greater chance of severe weather.

Both Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas are under an enhanced risk of severe weather for Saturday.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, thunderstorms are forecast throughout the region Saturday through Sunday evening.

Any storms that develop through that time period may become severe, but the greatest threats will be late Saturday into Saturday night, and possibly again along the cold front Sunday afternoon and evening.

Any individual storm would pose a threat of very large hail to go along with damaging winds and possibly a few tornadoes. In addition, heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding where multiple storms train over the same locations.

  MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST MAN FOR FAKE MEMORIAL

  The Missouri Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against a Farmington man, alleging that that the man misled donors when soliciting donations for a memorial to honor fallen law enforcement officers.

Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC News that Terry Lemons is accused of soliciting donations from businesses in southeast Missouri to raise awareness of law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty through a portable memorial.

As part of his solicitations he used the fictitious name of “Thin Blue Line Tahoe” and falsely claimed it was a nonprofit corporation.

Hawley says Lemons actually used the funds to make his personal Chevrolet Tahoe look like a police patrol vehicle complete with radar equipment, shotgun, emergency lights, and a computer. He used the rest of the funds on personal purchases.

Those who may have contributed money to Lemons are urged to contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 888-392-8222.

  TRUCK HIT BY A TRAIN IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  A man reportedly refused medical attention after his vehicle was hit by a train yesterday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the incident occurred Thursday afternoon in Clay County.

The truck was going over the train tracks when it was hit by the train.

  HIGHWAY PATROL ENCOURAGES DRIVERS AND BOATERS TO HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

  Memorial Day weekend is upon us and the Missouri State Highway Patrol wants local drivers and boaters to remember to put safety first.

Captain John Hotz tells us that every available trooper will be on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists during the long holiday weekend.

Hotz says that motorists should know where work zones are located along your route, pay attention while you are driving, and buckle up. If you are planning time on or near the water, make sure you wear a life jacket as well.

Motorists or boaters in need of assistance or who want to report a crime can use the Highway Patrol's Emergency Assistance number at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone.

  MISSOURI STATE VETERANS CEMETERY TO HOLD MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

  The Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield has announced they will be holding their annual Memorial Day Program again this year.

The ceremony is set to begin at 1 pm Monday at the Committal Shelter Plaza at the Cemetery.

The Keynote Speaker for this year’s program will be the Veterans Cemetery Directory, Kenneth Swearengin.

Officials say that families and friends of those interred, as well as the general public, are invited to attend.

For more information, call 573-568-3871.

  TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE AT YOUR HOTEL WHILE ON VACATION

  Today we are finishing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation by focusing on hotel safety.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that once you arrive, you should place all of your luggage in your room; do not leave anything in your vehicle.

Once you’re in your room, unpack your luggage. Arrange all your belongings so that you will notice if anything is missing. Also try to keep a daily check of all your belongings.

Do not leave valuables in your room when you are not there; take them with you. You can also place your extra cash, jewelry, or valuables in the hotel safe.

Also remember to use the door viewer to identify anyone requesting entry into your room. Do not open the door if you do not believe the person has a legitimate reason for being in your room.

DRIVERS URGED TO USE CAUTION IN THE AREA OF THE 100 MILE YARD SALE THIS WEEKEND

  The annual 100 mile yard sale is this weekend and the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging motorists to use caution.

The yard sale spans from Jackson to Kennett along Missouri State Highway 25 and will run through Memorial Day on Monday.

Traffic Engineer Craig Compas tells us that there will be more traffic and congestion along the highway this weekend than any other.

MoDOT will have message boards in place along the route to alert drivers of the unusual traffic patterns and promote safe driving.

Thursday, May 25, 2017

MINER WOMAN INVOLVED IN FATAL WRECK NEAR BERNIE A Miner woman has died following a wreck yesterday afternoon in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 51 year old Jennifer Wamble was driving on Route U, three miles west of Bernie, when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road, overcorrected, ran off the ran off the left side of the road, and then overturned.

Wamble was ejected during the wreck and pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Deputy Coroner Aaron Mathis.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR REQUESTS FEDERAL DISASTER DECELERATION

  Missouri Governor Eric Greitens has issued a request for a federal disaster declaration following the flooding that recently struck the state. Yesterday, the Governor requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration for Missouri that would provide federal assistance to a total of 51 counties.

Based on joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted by the State Emergency Management Agency, Federal Emergency Management Agency and local officials, the Governor is requesting Individual Assistance for 37 counties, which would allow eligible residents to seek federal assistance with temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles and other qualifying expenses as a result of the flooding.

The Governor is also requesting that the U.S. Small Business Administration assist businesses, homeowners, and renters in the 37 counties with low-interest loans.

Based on joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted by SEMA, FEMA and local officials, Governor Greitens has also requested Public Assistance for 45 counties, in order to allow local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement costs for damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.

A full list of counties included in the request is available on our website.

The 37 counties for which Individual Assistance is being requested are: Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Christian, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Greene, Howell, Iron, Jasper, Jefferson, Laclede, Madison, Maries, McDonald, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Pemiscot, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Ripley, Ste. Genevieve, St. Louis, Shannon, Stone, Taney, Texas, Wayne, and Wright.

The 45 counties for which Public Assistance is being requested are: Barry, Barton, Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Cedar, Christian, Cole, Crawford, Dade, Dallas, Dent, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Maries, Miller, McDonald, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Pike, Pulaski, Ralls, Reynolds, Ripley, Shannon, Stone, Taney, Texas, Washington, Wayne, Webster, and Wright.

  KENNETT MAN RECEIVES 20 YEAR SENTENCE IN CONNECTION TO CONVENIENCE STORE ROBBERY

  A Kennett man received a 20 years sentence yesterday in connection to a robbery at an area convenience store.

The United States Attorney's Office has announced that 37 year old Antonio Brown was sentenced on one felony count of interference with commerce by robbery and one felony count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a crime of violence.

On July 1st, 2015, at around 10 pm, two men wearing facemasks entered Curt’s Grocery Store in Kennett and immediately fired their handguns at the store’s manager. The clerk was struck by four rounds fired by the two men.

The men then took a money bag from behind the counter, the cash from the cash register, the money from the clerk’s person, and two firearms from the store. As they left the store, one of the robbers fired a shot at the cashier, narrowly missing her.

Brown was later taken into custody. Another participant in the robbery, Julius Jones, was convicted following a two day trial earlier this year.

  POPLAR BLUFF CLASS OF 2017 TO GRADUATE TONIGHT

  The Poplar Bluff Class of 2017 will be receiving their diplomas tonight.

The commencement ceremony for this year’s senior class will take place at 7 pm.

The ceremony will be held at the Black River Coliseum.

  POPLAR BLUFF TECHNICAL CAREER CENTER’S BUILDING TRADES PROGRAM COMPLETES 38TH HOUSE

  Poplar Bluff students have finished the construction of a house.

The three-bedroom/two-bath, 1,694-square-foot house, which includes a two-car garage, is the 38th house constructed by the Building Trades program of the Technical Career Center.

TCC Director Charles Kinsey tells KWOC News that the TCC has maintained its tradition over the decades of constructing a full house that is up to code and completed under professional carpentry standards.

The home is expected to go out for bid next month for opening by the school board during the July 20th meeting.

  POLICE SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN THEFT FROM POPLAR BLUFF CAR DEALERSHIP

  Police in Poplar Bluff are searching for a suspect in connection to a theft case from a local car dealership.

We have pictures of the suspect that are currently available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on the identity or whereabouts of the suspect is asked to contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776.

  TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR VEHICLE SAFE WHILE ON VACATION

  Continuing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation, today we are going to focus on how to stay safe in and around your vehicle.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that you should always lock your vehicle after entering or leaving it and remember to park in well-lighted areas.

Always place valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Do not leave wallets, checkbooks, or purses in your vehicle. When returning to your vehicle, always check the backseat before entering.

You should also not stop for hitchhikers. If you want to help, call for assistance for them.

Coming up tomorrow we will finish our series with tips on staying safe while at your hotel.

  OFFICIALS PROVIDE UPDATE ON WAPPAPELLO LAKE

  Yesterday, officials provided an update on Wappapello Lake.

As of 10 am yesterday, the lake stage was at 382.17 NGVD, with the inflow at 980 and the discharge at 9,800 cubic feet a second.

As we reported to you yesterday, the Redman Creek Recreation Area and Boat Ramp are now open. In addition, people have also been launching from the Sundowner, Chaonia Landing, and Allison Cove boat ramps at Lake Wappapello State Park.

The Greenville and Peoples Creek Lower Campground are still closed, however the Redman Creek and People Creek Upper Campgrounds are open to campers.

Officials say that the Kids Fun Day, originally scheduled for June 3rd has been cancelled. The Wappapello Woodland Expo will be held on July 8th.

For more information, call the management office at 573-222-8562.

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

KENNETT WOMAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

  A Kennett woman has died in connection to a wreck Tuesday afternoon in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 76 year old Darlene Crawford, was travelling east on the Highway 412 bypass near Paragould when she ran onto the shoulder, hit a guardrail, and then struck a vehicle head on. The second vehicle was then hit from behind by another vehicle.

Officials say that Crawford was killed in the wreck. No other injuries were listed.

  MULES BASEBALL TEAM ADVANCES TO STATE QUARTERFINALS

  The Poplar Bluff Mules Baseball team will be travelling to St. Louis later this week to play in the Class 5 state quarterfinals.

Following a lightning delay of almost 90 minutes yesterday during the State Sectional game, the Mules defeated Rockwood Summit 2-1.

Due to Thursday’s graduation, the State Quarterfinal game at Vianney has been pushed back to Friday. The game is scheduled to begin at 2:30 pm.

The Sikeston Bulldogs advanced to the Class 4 State Quarterfinal with their 11-2 win over Festus. They will play Lutheran South on Thursday.

Bell City and Eminence will face each other in the Class 1 State Quarterfinal today at 4 pm. Also today, South Pemiscot will take on St. Vincent in the Class 2 Quarterfinal and Portageville will face West County in the Class 3 Quarterfinal.

  EARLY MORNING WRECK RESULTS IN SERIOUS INJURIES FOR ESSEX MAN

  A man was taken to an area hospital early Tuesday morning following a single vehicle wreck in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly before 2:30 am on US 60, east of Fisk.

23 year old James Montgomery, of Essex, reportedly ran off the side of the roadway and struck the guardrail.

He was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital with serious injuries.

  TIPS FOR KEEPING SAFE WHILE ON THE ROAD DURING VACATION

  Continuing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation, today we are going to focus on what you can do to stay safe while on the road.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that you should try not to carry large amounts of cash while on vacation and instead use traveler’s checks. If you must carry large sums of money do not openly display it and also don’t take more credit cards than you will need.

Don’t leave any tickets in open view as officials say they are as valuable as cash. Males are advised to carry their wallets in an inside pocket or the front pocket of their pants while females should carry their purses under their arm with a firm grasp.

Remember to make sure your luggage is locked and labeled with your name and telephone number. You can also take pictures of your luggage so airline personnel can identify it if it is lost.

Coming up tomorrow we will go over tips on how to keep your vehicle safe during your vacation.

  OFFICIALS OPEN REDMAN CREEK RECREATION AREA AND BOAT RAMP

  Officials at Wappapello Lake say that a local recreation area has been opened.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Redman Creek Recreation Area and Boat Ramp are now open.

Cleanup is still ongoing and the lake is still very high so officials are asking everyone to use caution in the area.

  FOUR POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS RECEIVE AWARDS FROM THE MISSOURI STATE HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

  Four Poplar Bluff students have received awards of excellence from the Missouri State High School Activities Association.

Sierra Sievers and Joseph Hardimon were named Missouri Good Sports at the Junior High, while Katie Sliger and Adam Vincent received the annual award at the Senior High.

School officials say the award goes to multi-sport student athletes who display exemplary sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity.

  DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING CHASE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  A Doniphan man has been taken into custody following a high speed chase in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the motor of 43 year old James Laroux’s motorcycle caught on fire during the chase, which began in Randolph County before moving into Clay County.

Laroux was arrested on a fleeing charge, among others.

  PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT BEGINNING TODAY IN BUTLER AND RIPLEY COUNTIES

  Route 142 in Ripley and Butler Counties will be reduced to one lane with a 10.5 foot width restriction through the end of July as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route E to Route H.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Monday, July 31st from 6 am to 6 pm each day.

Tuesday May 23, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF RESTURAUNT SUFFERS SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE IN MONDAY MORNING FIRE  A Poplar Bluff restaurant was destroyed by fire yesterday.

According to authorities, the Fazoli’s on North Westwood Boulevard caught fire sometime early Monday morning.

The building is being called a complete loss and there were no one was injured during the incident.

MEETING TO BE HELD TONIGHT TO DISCUSS T HIGHWAY

 Area citizens will be holding a meeting tonight to discuss T Highway.

Many area residents have been wondering why a bridge is not being put in to replace the section of the highway that has washed away twice recently due to overflow from the spillway.

A meeting will be held to discuss this section of the highway from 5 to 6 pm tonight at the VFW Hall on Highway D, north of the Wappapello Lake.

TIPS FOR HAVING YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS KEEP YOUR HOME SECURE WHILE YOU ARE ON VACATION

Continuing our weeklong series on how to keep your family and possessions safe while on vacation, today we are going to focus on how you can ask your friends and neighbors to keep your home secure while you are away.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that residents ask several neighbors to keep an eye on your residence while you are away.

If you can, arrange for a neighbor to pick up your deliveries, including mail, newspaper, and any other packages, as well as for someone to maintain your yard.

You can ask for a neighbor to park in your driveway while you are gone. If you leave your car at home, park as you normally would.

The reason for these suggestions is so that your home will appear to be occupied, even though you are gone.

You should also leave your vacation address and telephone number with the neighbors so you can be reached in case of an emergency.

Coming up tomorrow we will go over tips on how to stay safe while on the road to and from your destination.

MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO PLAY IN SECTIONALS TODAY

The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team will be hosting their state sectional this afternoon.

The Mules will be playing the Rockwood Summit Falcons for the opportunity to advance to the state quarterfinals later this week.

First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 pm and will be broadcast live here on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC.

Sikeston will also have their state sectional today at noon against Festus. Bell City, Eminence, South Pemiscot County, and Portageville all advanced to the State Quarterfinals in their respective classes yesterday.

DONIPHAN MAN FLOWN TO SPRINGFIELD HOSPITAL AFTER HITTING TREE

 A Doniphan man was seriously injured Monday morning following a wreck in Ripley County.

According to a report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Ezra Hopkins was driving on Highway C, around 13 miles north of Briar, when he struck a tree in the roadway.

Hopkins suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Springfield hospital.

DONIPHAN POLICE DEPARTMENT SAYS WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY HAS NOT BEEN BREACHED

 Rumors have been spreading online about the Doniphan Wastewater Treatment Facility that officials say are untrue.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the wastewater treatment plant was not breeched by the recent flooding nor has it ever been flooded.

The Police Department says that flood waters can and do contain many contaminants from various sources including many harmful bacteria, both naturally occurring and from septic systems that were destroyed along the river.

Riverfront Park in Doniphan is closed until further notice due to elevated E. Coli counts.

The City of Doniphan will continue testing the soils in Riverfront Park and will advise the public when conditions appear to be safe.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE FROM SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION

 A Missouri State Representative from Southeast Missouri has announced her resignation.

Tila Hubrecht announced Monday that she is stepping down as representative from Missouri’s 151^st District, effective June 2^nd.

She says that there should be enough time for the Special Session work to be concluded as well as for the Governor to call for a special election.

Hubrecht has served as the Representative for the 151^st District, which covers all of Stoddard County and parts of Western Scott County, since 2014.

She says that she is returning to nursing.

BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS UNDERWAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 34 in Wayne County is being reduced with a 10 foot width restriction so contractor crews can perform bridge improvements.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation say that the bridge is located over Bear Creek, just west of Route M.

Weather permitting, work is being performed from 6 am to 6 pm daily through Thursday, June 8^th.

Monday, May 22, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN KILLED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

  An area woman was killed Friday morning in a head on collision in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when two vehicles collided on County Road 452.

One of the drivers, 59 year old Devora Kingery, of Poplar Bluff, was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Andy Moore.

The other driver, 25 year old Daniel Hendrickson, also of Poplar Bluff, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

  MISSOURI GOVERNOR ERIC GREITENS SPEAKS IN POPLAR BLUFF

  Missouri Governor Eric Greitens made a trip to Southeast Missouri over the weekend which included a stop in Poplar Bluff.

Greitens spoke on Saturday at the Black River Coliseum first about the state and community’s response to the recent flooding.

"We were down, we’re down in Carter County, saw what happened to the Carter County Courthouse, went through Van Buren, this is a town that was hit hard.

What we saw in Van Buren, and we saw throughout Southern Missouri, is we saw people come out. We did this differently than we had done before, when we got the warning that a flood was about to happen, we went out and ahead of time we put out our swift water rescue teams and we let them know, be ready to save lives, be ready to save lives. And the fire and mutual aid, the state emergency management agency, we went out there, and what we saw.

Even after these tremendous floods, we saw resilience, we saw strength, we saw power, we saw people who in the face of hardship and the face of difficulty said we are going to come back even stronger."

Greitens also spoke about the special session of the Missouri Legislature that he called last week.

"Now here’s the situation we’ve got right now, and it’s really straightforward. Right now, we have a company that wants to come to Southeast Missouri and make steel. And they are willing to bring hundreds of quality jobs here. And this is the thing, if we do this right, steel is just the beginning. It is a tremendous opportunity here, we were just down at Noranda, how would you like to open the Noranda plant again?

But what we had, what we had and Don explained this situation perfectly, we had a couple of politicians who for their own personal, pitiful, petty, political reasons, their own political privileges, wanted to put that ahead of jobs for the people. And what they did, was they ran out the clock.

So what I did, talked with a couple of folks about this, said you know what, they figured they could run out the clock and go home and go on vacation, so what we did is we cancelled their vacations and we’re bringing them back to work so they can do their job."

Greitens called the special session for the steel mill bill, which had stalled when the legislative session ended.

The proposal would allow the state Public Service Commission to approve special electric rates for aluminum smelting and steel-works facilities, which require a lot of electricity.

Some senators expressed concerns about creating special exemptions for particular companies.

  ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING CHASE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

  One person has been taken into custody following a pursuit early Sunday morning in Northeast Arkansas.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that the incident began at around 12:35 Sunday morning when a vehicle refused to stop for a routine traffic stop in Piggott.

Piggott Police continued to pursue the vehicle until it wrecked on County Road 344. The occupants of the vehicle then fled on foot through a wooded area.

One subject, 33 year old Larry Green, of Malden, was found and taken into custody. Officers were not able to locate the second occupant of the vehicle

Miller says that Green is being held at the Clay County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing on charges of fleeing, possession of a controlled substance, and reckless driving, along with other charges.

  TIPS FOR SECURING YOUR HOME WHILE ON VACATION

  With Memorial Day coming up this weekend, that means vacation season is here. Today we are beginning our five part series on how to keep you, your family, and possessions safe while on vacation.

Today and tomorrow we are going to focus on how to secure your home while you are away.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department say that residents need to make sure all of the locks on the doors and windows in your home function properly. You should also leave the shades and blinds on doors and windows in a position that you would normally have them.

Officials say that you should try to shades and blinds on doors and windows in a position that you would normally have them and also have timers for lights, television, or radios so they turn on and off at the appropriate times.

You can also consider taking valuables that you cannot live without to a safety deposit box.

Coming up tomorrow we will go over how you can have your neighbors assist you with home security while you are on vacation.

  PEDESTRIAN INJURED FOLLOWING HIT AND RUN NEAR CAMPBELL

  A Portageville man was injured in a hit and run incident Friday afternoon in Dunklin County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the incident occurred 2 miles north of Campbell on Missouri Highway 53 at approximately 2:30 pm Friday.

A vehicle struck 38 year old Allen Summers on the shoulder of the Highway and then left the scene. Summers suffered moderate injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

No information was available about the vehicle that struck Summers.

  RIDESHARING APP UBER ANNOUNCES EXPANSION TO POPLAR BLUFF

  A popular ridesharing company has expanded to Poplar Bluff.

Uber announced on Friday that that it will begin operating in the city following the passage of a statewide ridesharing regulation earlier this year.

Riders use the Uber app to connect to a driver and request a ride.

The company says they partner with pre-screened local drivers who use their own personal vehicles to transport riders.

  PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

  Route WW in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane through the end of the month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from Route J to Route 60.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, June 1st from 6 am to 5 pm daily.

  ROAD CLOSURE SET FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

  Route UU in New Madrid County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be closed is located from Route D to County Road 784.

Work is scheduled to be done today from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm.