Highway Patrol Arrests June 29-30

Caleigh E. Johnson, 32, Joplin, driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving

Ryan D. Miller, 29, Carterville, felony leaving the scene of a crash, driving while intoxicated

Samuel D. Linares, 35, Ridgeland, South Carolina, driving while intoxicated, no valid license, speeding

Brailyn M. Collins, 23, Springfield, driving while intoxicated

Marino Sanel, 46, Bentonville, Arkansas, driving while intoxicated, no valid license, failed to drive on right half of roadway

Jennifer J. Williams, 52, Brighton, felony possession of a controlled substance, no seat belt

Ngun Sang, 36, Noel, failure to maintain right half of roadway, driving while intoxicated

Rickey W. Adams, 32, Battlefield, resisting arrest, boating while intoxicated, careless and imprudent operation of a motor boat

Chase M. Hockman, 27, Kansas City, driving while intoxicated, failed to maintain right half of roadway 

Agenda posted for Jasper County Commission meeting

 

McDonald County deputy removes victim from burning building following explosion

 (From the McDonald County Sheriff's Office)

Today, Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:27 a.m., McDonald County Deputies responded to a residence approximately four miles east of Anderson on E. State Highway 76 in reference to a possible suicidal subject.

Deputies were speaking with the individual in an effort to have them exit a building they were inside when a large explosion occurred.

 

A McDonald County Deputy, with the assistance of Anderson Fire personnel, was able to gain access and remove the victim from the burning building.

 
The victim was transported via helicopter to a hospital. The McDonald County Deputy is being treated at a local hospital for smoke inhalation he encountered while gaining access and removing the victim from the burning structure.

 
Thoughts and prayers going out for all involved in this tragic incident.

We also want to give a huge thank you to all the multiple agencies and responders that assisted.

First update

Deputy Sheppard was the deputy who helped remove the victim from the burning structure. He has been treated and released from the hospital.

 
Thank you again for the Fire Departments and City Police agencies that responded to assist. McDonald County is blessed to have multiple agencies that have a great working relationship with each other. Due to this, our community is able to receive better service and protection.

 
Thank you to the overwhelming amount of you who have sent messages, kind thoughts, and prayers for all involved. We are so fortunate to serve such a wonderful community of people.

Highway Patrol Arrests June 28-29

Jason R. Gilley, 48, Springfield, felony driving while suspended/revoked, failed to display valid plates, Christian County misdemeanor warrant for failure to appear on driving while revoked

Kolbe M. Rowden, 24, Webb City, driving while intoxicated (drugs) failed to display head lamp

Ethan D. Stock, 34, Ozark, driving while intoxicated with person under 17 in vehicle, speeding

Leonard C. Eubanks, 53, Branson, felony possession of a controlled substance- methamphetamine, felony no valid license

Jay Kilwe, 34, Noel, driving while intoxicated, no valid license, failed to drive on right half of roadway, two McDonald County misdemeanor warrants for failure to appear, McDonald County felony warrant for failure to appear 

Carthage Red, White and Boom event scheduled

 

McDonald County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

Felicia P. Rehfeldt vs. Daniel R. Gilker

Ginger L. Lyster vs. Brian C. Lyster

 

Newton County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

 

Chaunda A. Sarley vs. Scott A. Sarley

Andrea D. Voss vs. Kenneth B. Voss

James D. Mahurin vs. Becky J. Mahurin

Blanca M. Hickman vs. Blake M. Hickman

Jasper County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

Mary C. Dale vs. Jeffrey S. Dale

Courtney L. Choate vs. James U. Choate

Leah A. Rayner vs. Paul W. Rayner

Dustin R. VanTrease vs. Paige J. VanTrease

Christopher Waller vs. Shay'l K. Waller

Shanna B. Reed vs. Willy S. Reed

Amy L. Drilling vs. Dustin W. Drilling

Kyle L. Gamble vs. Shaynee D. Gamble

Katy N. Yearton vs. Christopher J. Yearton

Maggie J. Reynolds vs. Silar W. Reynolds

Courtney B. Nunnaley vs. Christopher M. Nunnaley

***

JUST PUBLISHED

Celebrate 20 years of the Turner Report with my new book: Running Circles Around the Globe.

The book is available now in paperback or e-book format at the Amazon link below and will be available by the middle of July in Joplin at Always Buying Books, Changing Hands Book Shoppe and The Book Guy.

Running Circles Around the Globe: 20 Years of the Turner Report: Turner, Randy: 9798329192988: Amazon.com: Books

U. S. Bankruptcy Court Petitions- Joplin

 

Jasper County

Miriam Lucrecia Garcia Rodriguez

Pamela Lee Brannan

Penny Rebecca Teel

Kevin M. Hawkins and Rebecca A. Hawkins

Kristy L. Baugh

McDonald County

Ashton Blake Bickford

Newton County

Robert Joseph Pollard and Sandra Marie Pollard

Michael Edward Ganer and Ami Lynn Garner

Highway Patrol Arrests June 27-28

Adrian M. Rohman, 39, Buffalo, felony possession of a controlled substance- methamphetamine

John D. Thomas, 58, Oldfield, driving while intoxicated (drugs), failed to drive on right half of roadway, Christian County misdemeanor warrant for non-support

 

Jasper County Marriage Licenses

 

Rick Allen Stafford, Jr., 43, Webb City, and Rebecca Kay Gardner, 44, Webb City

Taylor Rockford Ainsworth, 21, Joplin, and Audrey Nicole Cannon, 23, Joplin

Jesse Lee Harper, 20, Joplin, and Mariah Nicole Miller, 19, Joplin

Joshua Robert Moore, 27, Joplin, and Olivia Hope Lewis, 24, Joplin

Alexander Cooper Smith, 22, Joplin, and Lillie Marie Adamson, 21, Joplin

Mason Daniel Ovalle, 22, Joplin, and Nevaeh Renee Gilstrap, 23, Joplin

John Leroy Holland, 65, Seneca, and Lani Bernal, 58, Seneca

Coda Joe Hoover, 29, Joplin, and Kayla Renay Sehnert, 30, Joplin

Christopher John Powell, 53, Golden City, and Stephanie Louise Overton, 36, Golden City

Zane Christopher Honaker, 22, Carthage, and Delayna Lauren Gardner, 24, Joplin

Lonnie Floyd Maynard, 30, Joplin, and Elizabeth Naomi Dixon, 27, Joplin

Imran Ibrahim Shaikh, 43, Webb City, and Sunny Rae Crist, 47, Webb City

Zul Esteban Soriano, 26, Carterville, and Josselyn Socorro Samuel Lopez, 29, Carterville

James Michael Hardy, 54, Joplin, and Talitha Kayelyn Cooper, 36, Grove, Oklahoma

Alex David Derryberry, 26, Pensacola, Florida, and Taylor Paige Cannon, 26, Pensacola, Florida

Otto Roberto Rodas Rodas, Coatepeque, and Kevelyn Fernanda Gramajo Barrios, 23, Carthage

Mark Jarod Lankford, 40, Carl Junction, and Misha Marie Yagle, 34, Joplin

Taylor Diane Huston, 23, Joplin, and Zareona Taurissa Pulley, 21, Joplin

Elena Danielle Wood, 27, Webb City, and Alyssa Trinity Lopez, 24, Webb City

Daniel Corral, 41, Joplin, and Stephanie Elaine Bridgewater, 47, Joplin

***

JUST PUBLISHED

Celebrate 20 years of the Turner Report with my new book: Running Circles Around the Globe.

The book is available now in paperback or e-book format at the Amazon link below and will be available by the middle of July in Joplin at Always Buying Books, Changing Hands Book Shoppe and The Book Guy.

Running Circles Around the Globe: 20 Years of the Turner Report: Turner, Randy: 9798329192988: Amazon.com: Books

Agenda posted for Joplin Industrial Authority special meeting

 

Joplin Fire Department responds to fire at 620 Plaza Drive

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

At approximately 7:33 PM on June 27, the Joplin 911 center received a report of a residential structure fire located at 620 Plaza Dr. 

On arrival of Joplin Fire units, flames and smoke were visible coming from the garage and extending into the attic and living portions of the residence. Joplin Fire units made an aggressive attack on the fire and was able to contain it primarily to the garage of the home. The occupants of the home were able to safely evacuate prior to our arrival. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. 

Joplin Fire was assisted by the Redings Mill Fire District, Joplin Police Department, METS Ambulance and Newton County Ambulance.

After investigation into the cause and origin of the fire, the fire has been ruled accidental. A lithium-ion battery that was being recharged could not be ruled out as the cause of the fire. Fires from lithium-ion batteries are becoming more common and can be volatile fires with rapid growth potential. These batteries are used in many household items, such as power tools and yard maintenance equipment.

The Joplin Fire Department would like to offer the following safety tips when utilizing lithium-ion batteries:

Only use manufacturer-provided or authorized batteries and charging equipment.

Remove the battery or charging device from power once charging is complete to avoid overheating.

Keep batteries at room temperature and charge them at room temperature.

Keep batteries and devices away from heat sources or anything that can catch fire.

 
Stop using lithium-ion batteries if you notice an odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking or odd noises.

Don't put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycle them at your local battery recycling location.

Store spare lithium-ion batteries away from anything that can burn.

Carthage Police: Do you know this person?

 

(From the Carthage Police Department)

The Carthage Police Department is requesting public assistance in identifying the individual in the photos below. 

If you know this person, please contact Detective Snow at 417-237-7200 or at e.snow@carthagemo.gov. This is in reference to case number 24-1281.

Former Utah police officer, Marine joins Joplin Police Department

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Please join us in welcoming Joplin’s newest officer, Jeremy Atwood. 

Officer Atwood is a lateral transfer from Salt Lake City, Utah where he served as a Police Officer for the last 3 1/2 years and served in the US Marine Corps for 5 years prior to that. 

Officer Atwood is in the process of working through his in-house training at JPD and we look forward to having him out on the streets of Joplin serving our community. Welcome to the JPD family!

Carl Junction woman cited for felony DWI after injuring two people in parking lot

A Carl Junction woman was cited for felony driving while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a crash following an injury accident 3 p.m. Wednesday in a business parking lot at Fir Road west of Lone Elm Road at Joplin.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2014 Chevrolet Impala driven by Michelle A. Davis, 35, Carl Junction, backed into a 1989 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Amber L. Turner, 35, Carl Junction, pushing the vehicle into a passenger from the Turner vehicle, James E. Turner, 39, Carl Junction, knocking him off his feet.

A second occupant of the Turner vehicle, a 9-year-old girl, struck her head on the door pillar.

Both were treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Joplin.

Davis fled the scene and was located a short while later, according to the Patrol report.

Carthage man injured in collision north of Webb City

A Carthage man was injured in a two-vehicle accident 11:30 a.m. today on County Road 220 one-tenth of a mile north of Webb City.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2018 Ford F150 driven by Cheryl L. Rose, 65, Jasper, struck a 2010 Toyota Corolla driven by Dale F. Herlocker, 71, Carthage, in the rear. 

Herlocker was treated for moderate injuries at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin.

 

Highway Patrol Arrests June 26-27

Zachary S. Presley, 22, Branson, driving while intoxicated

Justin T. Rector, 32, Lebanon, Laclede County felony warrant for probation violation, Laclede County felony warrant for domestic assault, failed to drive on the right half of the roadway, no insurance, no valid license, leaving the scene of a traffic crash, no seat belt

Nathaniel P. Haldiman, 30, Ozark, felony driving while intoxicated, failed to drive on right half of roadway

Michelle A. Davis, 35, Carl Junction, felony driving while intoxicated with injuries, felony leaving the scene of a crash

 

Joplin Fire Department reminds residents of fireworks guidelines

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

As Independence Day approaches, citizens need to keep safety in mind as they handle fireworks to avoid any problems. 

To provide a safer environment for families, neighbors, and visitors to our community, the City reminds everyone to adhere to all regulations involving the sale and discharge of fireworks in Joplin. We also remind citizens to be good neighbors and remove any trash or debris from the fireworks they discharge.

Fireworks may only be sold within the City of Joplin on July 1, 2, 3, and 4. They may be discharged only on July 1, 2, 3, and 4 from 12 Noon to 11 p.m. in Joplin.

The City prohibits the sale, possession, or discharge of bottle rockets within the City. Any bottle rockets found will be confiscated immediately. Any variances of these rules may result in appropriate fines and confiscation of all possessed fireworks. Chinese lanterns are also banned from use within Joplin.

The City also encourages residents to clean up their shoot sites to eliminate debris and trash within our community. Fireworks should be cooled before they are disposed of. To help ensure items are extinguished, remaining fireworks barrels can be sprayed with water or dunked in a bucket before disposing of them.

Other fireworks safety tips include:

Think first and foremost of SAFETY when discharging fireworks.

Follow all the manufacturer’s instructions.

It is recommended that children do not use any fireworks. However, if they do, always have adult supervision.

Only discharge fireworks in an area clear of any obstructions and has short grass or a noncombustible surface.

 
Clear the area of any trash, wood piles, yard debris, etc.

Make sure that everyone is at a safe distance from the discharge area.

Have a method of extinguishing devices immediately, i.e., a garden hose, a bucket of water, or a fire extinguisher.

DO NOT HANDLE DUDS. They may go off several minutes later.

Always use punks to light the firework. Using lighters or matches may cause the fireworks to ignite prematurely.

Do not hold a firework in your hand and light it.

Do not discharge fireworks toward or near people, houses, or other structures, flammable or combustible items.

Expect lane reductions, delays on 86 in Newton County

(From MoDOT)

Expect Lane Reductions, Delays on Route 86 in Newton Co. for Resurfacing Beginning July 8

Drivers can expect lane closures and occasional traffic delays on Missouri Route 86 south of I-44 beginning Monday, July 8 for resurfacing, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Contractor crews will be working on Route 86 between I-44 and Newton County Route BB south of Joplin. Here’s the work being done:Between I-44 and Newton County Route NN, the contractor will be laying a new asphalt surface and adding two-foot-wide shoulders on both sides of the highway
Between Route NN and Route BB, the contractor will be milling off the old surface and replacing it with a new one

In addition, the contractor will be adding rumble strips, permanent striping and guardrail in areas.

Traffic impacts

Traffic reduced to one lane where contractor crews are working

Drivers will encounter flaggers and pilot cars where crews are working. Drivers should wait for the pilot vehicle before proceeding through the work zone or before entering the work zone from a side road.

Work between I-44 and Route NN will be done during nighttime hours (7 p.m.-7 a.m.); all lanes open to traffic during daytime hours

Work between Route NN and Route BB will be done during daytime hours (6 a.m.-8 p.m.); all lanes open to traffic at night

No signed detour

Drivers should find alternate routes

Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone
Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

Weather and/or scheduling delays could alter the work schedule.

This is part of a project that began last year and included work along Jasper County routes M & BB and Loop 44.

Project information

Prime contractor: APAC-Central Inc., Springfield
Total project cost: $5.4 million
Completion date: August 1, 2024

Newtonia Battlefields featured on next Newsmakers program

(From KGCS)

Two Civil War Battles in Newtonia, Missouri are bringing historic status to the site which will become part of the National Park Service. This week on Newsmakers, members of the Newtonia Battlefields Protection Association share the history of the site and the Mathew Ritchey mansion. Sen. Roy Blunt played a role in the site gaining historic status and becoming part of the National Park Service.

Marion Liles, Tom Higdon and Eddie McAlister detail the steps the group has taken over more than 20 years to protect the property and push for its preservation. A video story offers history through a tour of the property including a nearby Civil War cemetery.

Newsmakers is airing nightly at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. the week of June 30 on KGCS-TV and will air at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, July 6 on KOAM-TV. It is also posted on the station’s YouTube channel: KGCS - Missouri Southern State University.

KGCS programming can be seen on channel 21 and is also available on regional cable television systems such as Sparklight, Mediacom and Optimum Internet in Carthage. The station operates as a service of the Department of Communications at Missouri Southern State University.

Joplin city offices to close for Independence Day, trash routes to operate as usual

(From the City of Joplin)

The City of Joplin offices will be closed for Independence Day on Thursday, July 4. This closing includes the Recycling Center and MAPS Transportation services. All City services will resume their regularly scheduled hours on Friday, July 5.

Please note that Republic Services has notified us that they will be running their regular routes, so residential trash and curbside recycling will not change due to the Independence Day holiday.

 

Public meeting scheduled on U. S. 60 intersection improvements in Newton, Barry counties

(From MoDOT)

Intersection Improvements on Route 60 in Newton & Barry Counties Focus of Public Meeting July 9

The public is invited to participate in an in-person public meeting to learn more about plans to make intersection improvements along U.S. Route 60 in Newton and Barry counties, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

The in-person meeting will be held 4:30-6 p.m., Tuesday, July 9 at Lampo Center, 500 E. Spring St., in Neosho.

A virtual (online) meeting also will be available Monday, July 1 through Monday, July 15, and can be accessed at www.modot.org/southwest.

Beginning in the spring of 2025, contractor crews will make intersection improvements at these six (6) locations along Route 60 in Newton and Barry counties:

In Newton County

Turn lanes at Routes Y/CC
Turn lanes at Hammer Road west of I-49
Turn lane at Oak Ridge Drive in Neosho
Roundabout at Newton County Route HH east of Neosho
Turn lanes at Routes M/W east of Granby

In Barry County

Roundabout at Missouri Route 97 in Barry County near Monett Regional Airport in 2026

The estimated cost of the project is $13.8 million.

Those unable to access either the in-person or online public meetings are encouraged to contact MoDOT’s Southwest District Office at 417.895.7600 and accommodations will be made to share the information and gather feedback.

Newton County Sheriff seeking Neosho man on assault warrant

(From the Newton County Sheriff's Office)

Warrant Wednesday!

This individual has an outstanding Newton County felony warrant. We would like the public's help in locating him.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact our dispatch center at 417-451-8333.

You can also submit anonymous tips on our website.
https://www.nc-so.org/tip.html

**Do not attempt to apprehend**

 

Carthage Police Department plans alcohol compliance checks

(From the Carthage Police Department)

In the near future, the Carthage Police Department will be conducting a series of alcohol compliance checks at licensed retailers in the City of Carthage. The purpose of these checks is to assess the level of accessibility of alcohol within our community and prevent the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors, thus creating a safer and healthier environment for our youth.

Underage buyers, working under the supervision of law enforcement, will visit retailers in the near future and attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages. Employees and employers caught selling alcohol to minors will by cited and the case will be referred for appropriate prosecution.

Our hope is that all retailers will refuse to sell alcoholic beverages to all underage buyers. To achieve this goal, The Alliance of Southwest Missouri provided a free server training program for businesses and their employees. 

The program provided information and tools to assist employees in checking identification and ensuring they know the law, their responsibilities, and their rights. Better trained and prepared employees will help ensure that we all achieve our goal of reducing underage drinking and its negative consequences.

Search warrant executions at Pittsburg homes net three arrests, confiscation of meth, fentanyl

(From the Pittsburg Police Department)

On Wednesday morning, June 26, 2024, beginning at approximately 06:45 AM, law enforcement officers with the Pittsburg Police Department, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation executed drug search warrants at 405 W 5th Street, 506 W 4th Street, 2107 Timber Lane, and 512 W 4th Street. 

The search warrants stemmed from an investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine and counterfeit fentanyl pills. Upon execution of the search warrants several individuals were detained and evidence was collected.

 
As a result, 26-year-old Lachelle Ranee Ann Hinman, of Parsons, 48-year-old Casey Lee Gibson, and 25-year-old Dmitri Alexander Stamm, of Pittsburg, were arrested and transported to the Crawford County Sheriff’s office for booking.

 
Ms. Hinman was arrested for a misdemeanor failure to appear warrant out of Pittsburg Municipal Court. Ms. Hinman has since bonded out for her warrant posting a $349.00 cash bond.

Ms. Gibson was arrested for felony distribution of methamphetamine (within 1,000 feet of any school property), felony possession of methamphetamine, felony possession of drug paraphernalia, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Ms. Gibson is currently being held without bond.

Mr. Stamm was arrested for felony distribution of narcotics (within 1,000 feet of any school property), felony possession of narcotics, felony possession of stolen property (vehicle), and felony possession of drug paraphernalia. Mr. Stamm also had a warrant for his arrest out of Linn County Kansas District Court for probation violation stemming from a 2021 distribution case. Mr. Stamm is currently being held without bond.

While at the jail, Mr. Stamm was found to be in possession of suspected fentanyl pills. Further charges anticipated to be requested from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.

In total, an estimated nearly 1,000 suspected fentanyl pills were located stemming from this investigation.

 
Ms. Hinman, Ms. Gibson, and Mr. Stamm are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing at this time. Anyone having information related to this incident, or other crimes, is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at (620) 231-1700, or at our automated tip line, (620) 231-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous.

Nevada Police Department arrests longtime non-compliant sex offender

(From the Nevada Police Department)

On Monday, June 24, 2024, Nevada Police were called about a suspicious person in the 1000 block of S. Adams St. When speaking with the subject officers believed the individual was giving them false information.

 
Officers begin to investigate throughout the day attempting to follow up on his alleged identity. The investigating officer was able to determine the subject in question was actually a wanted fugitive with multiple warrants from the Kansas City area.

 
On June 25, 2024, Nevada Police were able to locate the subject in question in the 600 block of S. Pine St. A mobile fingerprint scanner was utilized to confirm the subject’s identity and he was taken into custody on the outstanding felony warrants from the Kansas City area.

 
During the arrest, it was also discovered that the individual was a non-compliant sex offender who had not been registered since 2020.

 
The subject was taken into custody and transported to the Vernon County Jail for holding by Nevada Police.

 
The subject has been identified as follows:

Errin A. Green, age 54 of Kansas City, Missouri.

On June 25, 2024, the following charges were filed against Errin A. Green through the Vernon County Associate Court:

One (1) Count of Fail to Register as a Sex Offender – Unclassified Felony

Green is being held in the Vernon County Jail in lieu of a $25,000 cash only bond.

 
Citizens are encouraged to contact the police if they have any information that would be helpful to combat crime.

 
To report criminal activities call 911, contact the Nevada Police Department at (417) 448-5100 or use the Nevada Police Department’s Tip Hotline (417) 667-8477.
Any and all information can be kept confidential if requested.

City of Joplin to open tree limb dropoff site

(From the City of Joplin)

This morning’s storm and high winds damaged tree limbs throughout Joplin. Public Works crews responded to calls regarding limbs blocking streets, sidewalks, and right-of-ways from fallen limbs. Joplin building officials investigated an isolated incident of fallen bricks from a building along Main Street.

Due to the number of tree limbs down across the community, the City has opened the Tree Limb Drop-Off facility today until 5 p.m. and will be open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, June 27, through Saturday, June 29, to provide citizens with a place to dispose of tree limbs.

 

The drop-off site is located at 1702 North Schifferdecker Avenue, just about a half-mile north of Belle Center Road on the west side of Schifferdecker. Please remember that this facility cannot accept other types of debris.

Another option for residents is to bundle limbs and branches cut to 4-foot maximum length and place them at the curbside for pick up on their regularly scheduled trash service day.

The next regularly scheduled time for the drop-off site to open is 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, July 19, and Saturday, July 20. The site is open on the third Saturday and preceding Friday from March through October.

Joplin woman injured in collision on 43

A Joplin woman was injured in a two-vehicle collision 8:40 a.m. today on MO 43 at Fountain Road two miles north of Joplin.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2013 Ford Escape driven by Cheyanne C. Lane, 31, Carterville, stopped abruptly and was struck by a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Walter S. Walkup, 59, Fayetteville, Arkansas.

A passenger in the Walkup vehicle, Vicki J. Moorhouse, 68, Joplin, was treated for moderate injuries at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin.

Highway Patrol Arrests June 25-26

Ashton W. Page, 22, Elkland, felony unlawful possession of a firearm, no seat belt

Preston E. Hembree, 24, Joplin, driving while intoxicated, failed to drive on right half of roadway, no insurance, no valid plates

Harley J. Thiele, 29, Reeds Spring, felony resisting arrest, driving while revoked, no insurance, displayed plates of another, speeding, Greene County felony warrant for failure to appear on probation violation, Probation and Parole felony warrant for failure to appear on parole violation, Barry County felony warrant for failure to appear on probation violation

Gary L. Herring, 60, Stratford, Texas, felony driving while intoxicated-chronic offender

 

Body found under Spring River bridge north of Carthage, investigation continues

(From the Jasper County Sheriff's Office)

On June 25th, 2024, at approximately 4:13 PM, Jasper County Deputies and detectives responded to the area of I-49 under the Spring River bridge just north of Carthage in reference to a deceased person in the river. 

A truck driver had called and said while driving over the bridge, he noticed the individual in the water.

The deceased subject was recovered from the river and has been identified. An autopsy has been scheduled. Initial investigation indicates that he may have jumped off the bridge. The name is not being released at this time as the investigation is ongoing. 

The investigation is being conducted along with the Carthage Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Next of kin has been notified.

Portion of Hall Street in Webb City to be closed

(From the Webb City Police Department)

Hall Street between Tracy and Garrison will be closed from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. tomorrow (Wed, June 26th) and Thursday (June 27th)


The Water Crew is installing a new valve.

Parsons Police investigating apparent suicide of 17-year-old boy

(From the Parsons Police Department)

At approximately 6:11 PM, Parsons Police Officers were dispatched to the 2600 block of Grand following a report of a gunshot. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 17-year-old male victim, who appeared to have sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The tragic incident is shocking to the community, prompting an immediate and thorough response from the Parsons Police Department. Three juvenile witnesses were present at the scene, and due to the sensitive nature of the case and the ages of those involved, no names will be released at this time.

Investigators are actively collecting all relevant information, examining evidence, and conducting interviews to determine the exact circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event. The investigation remains ongoing, and the police department is committed to providing support to those affected.

Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "The death of any young person is profoundly painful and tragic. I am deeply saddened by the loss of a life with so much potential and promise. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this devastating event. Our community grieves together, and we are committed to providing support and seeking answers."

Chief Spinks emphasized the importance of community support during such difficult times. "In moments like these, it is crucial for us to come together as a community to support one another. We must be vigilant in recognizing the signs of distress in our loved ones and encourage open conversations about mental health. No one should feel alone in their struggles."

The Parsons Police Department is collaborating with Labette Center for Mental Health to offer counseling and support services to those impacted by this tragedy. Community members are encouraged to reach out if they or someone they know is in need of assistance.

In addition, the police department is urging anyone with information related to this incident to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be vital to the investigation.

The Parsons Police Department appreciates the community's patience and cooperation during this time.

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.

Pittsburg man arrested after allegedly exposing, touching himself at Schlanger Park splash pad

On Tuesday afternoon, June 25, 2024, at approximately 2:30 PM, law enforcement officers from the Pittsburg Police Department arrested Walter Lalimo for a probation violation arrest warrant. Mr. Lalimo was located at his residence and was taken into custody without incident.

Mr. Lalimo was transported to the jail at the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office for booking. Mr. Lalimo is being held without bond.

This incident is still under investigation. Anyone having information related to this, or other incidents, is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at (620) 231-1700, or at our automated tip line, (620) 231-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous.

Earlier news release

On Friday afternoon, June 21, 2024, at approximately 4:40 PM, law enforcement officers from the Pittsburg Police Department were dispatched to Schlanger Park, located in the 700 block of E. 6th Street, in Pittsburg, in reference to a report of a male suspect exposing himself and inappropriately touching himself in view of others at the park’s splash pad.

Upon arrival, an officer observed the suspect, who was later identified as 19-year-old Walter Lalimo, of Pittsburg, near the intersection of 7th Street and Short Street. Upon seeing the officer, Mr. Lalimo turned and began to flee southbound into the park. The officer began to chase Mr. Lalimo through Schlanger Park to the south parking lot area along E. 4th Street, where another officer apprehended Mr. Lalimo. Mr. Lalimo was taken into custody without further incident. Mr. Lalimo was treated on scene by Crawford County EMS for minor injuries he received during his apprehension.

Mr. Lalimo was arrested for felony lewd and lascivious behavior in the presence of a person less than 16 years of age and for interference with law enforcement. Mr. Lalimo was transported to the jail at the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office for booking and is currently being held in lieu of a $7,500 bond.
Mr. Lalimo is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This incident is still under investigation. Anyone having information related to this, or other incidents, is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at (620) 231-1700, or at our automated tip line, (620) 231-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous.