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.