K-9 collars Springfield man who allegedly stole car, crashed into a house

(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Today, Shelby S. Shaffer, 28 years old of Springfield, was charged with Tampering with a Motor Vehicle 1st Degree, Resisting Arrest, and Leaving the Scene of an Accident with a $50,000.00 Open Court Bond.

 
*A charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Previous news release

On February 27th, 2023 at 10:38am a deputy attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle for equipment violations in the Kay Pointe subdivision. The suspect failed to yield to the deputy and a 50 second pursuit occurred at which time the deputy terminated his attempt to stop the suspect due to his dangerous driving.

 
The deputy encountered the suspect a second time in the neighborhood and again, although the deputy did not attempt to stop him a second time, the suspect drove away at a high rate of speed, disregarding a stop sign before he lost control and crashed into a house in the 700 block of South Hemlock. The driver fled on foot but was apprehended quickly by the pursuing deputy’s canine partner, Rocky.

The driver was taken in to custody and transported to a local hospital for treatment of the apprehension bite he received. He will then be booked into the Greene County Jail for several outstanding arrest warrants and charges stemming from his actions today.

Troopers from the Missouri State Highway Patrol assisted in this investigation. Occupants of the residence were uninjured.

Bridge over Turnback Creek northeast of Mount Vernon to be closed

(From MODOT)

Contractor crews are set to CLOSE the Lawrence County Route M bridge over Turnback Creek northeast of Mt. Vernon beginning the week of March 6 to replace the bridge, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Crews will CLOSE the bridge until the end of June, as they demolish the existing single-lane bridge and replace it with a new two-lane bridge. 

In addition, the contractor will add new barrier walls, object markers at the ends of the bridge and new permanent striping. The current bridge is 14-feet wide and will be widened to 24 feet to accommodate two (2) 10 foot lanes and two foot shoulders on either side of the new bridge.

This bridge was built in 1951 and is in a deteriorating condition. Approximately 325 vehicles cross the bridge daily.

Traffic Impacts

All lanes of Route M will be CLOSED over Turnback Creek for the duration of the project.

Drivers will have access to driveways and entrances on either end of the bridge, but will not be able to drive through the work zone.

Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone.

Drivers should consider alternate routes during the project.

Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

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

This work is part of a three-year project to improve 25 bridges within 15 miles of I-44 across the Southwest District. Of the 25 bridges in the project, known as the I-44 Corridor Bridge Bundle, seven (7) are mainline I-44 bridges, five (5) are I-44 overpass bridges and the remaining bridges are on adjacent routes over various features. Sixteen (16) bridges will be replaced and nine (9) bridges will receive major rehabilitation work.

More information about this project can be found on the project website – I-44 Corridor Bridge Bundle.

Project Details

Prime Contractor – The ESS TeamEmery Sapp & Sons, Inc. – Columbia
Parsons Transportation Group, Inc. – St. Louis
Total Project Cost: $43.2 million
Contract Completion Date: September 30, 2024

The ESS Team is a partnership of engineering and construction firms that will design and construct the project with oversight by MoDOT and the Federal Highway Administration.

 

Stockton man killed when vehicle rolls backward into Stockton Lake

A Stockton man was killed in a one-vehicle accident 4:30 p.m. on Highpoint boat ramp access on Stockton Lake three miles northwest of Aldrich.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2000 Ford F150 driven by Caleb L. Montoya, 40, Stockton, rolled backward into Stockton Lake and immersed in the water.

Montoya was pronounced dead by Dr. Butuila at Citizens Memorial Hospital in Bolivar.

The fatality was the 12th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

 

Branson man arrested in connection with shooting

(From the Branson Police Department)

On February 21, 2023, following an investigation into a shooting incident, the suspect, identified as Eric Boehme of Branson, was arrested and booked into Taney County Sheriff's Office Jail. Taney County Prosecuting Attorney has filed charges for the incident.

Original news release

Branson Police were dispatched to the area of Aaron Way at about 3:00 pm on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, on a report that a person had been shot. 

Arriving officers identified an adult male with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Branson MO Fire-Rescue and Taney County Ambulance District were also on scene. The victim was transported for medical treatment.

All parties have been identified, were known to each other, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Branson Police investigate discovery of human remains

(From the Branson Police Department)

Branson Police responded to the area of Violyn Drive in reference to possible skeletal remains. They are believed to be human remains. 

The Taney County Coroner's Office responded and took custody of the remains. The investigation is ongoing. The deceased has not been identified at this time.

Springfield Police Department arrests burglar, collars suspect in domestic disturbance

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Tuesday shortly before 9 a.m. SPD Officers were dispatched to a report of a commercial burglary in progress at 1208 E. Kearney. Management observed the burglary via surveillance cameras and provided a description of the suspect. The suspect fled the scene prior to officers arrival. 

While checking the area, an officer saw the suspect in the 1400 block of E. Kearney and chased him on foot. He initially eluded officers, but with the help of a SPD K-9 he was located and arrested. Felix Seals, 40, was booked into the Greene County jail for 2nd Degree Burglary and Felony Resisting Arrest.

 
Late Tuesday night, Officers responded to the 800 block of W. Lois Street regarding a domestic disturbance involving the theft of a motor vehicle. 

When officers arrived on scene, the suspect, later identified as Deva’nte Robinson, 23, attempted to walk away and resisted detention. While officers were placing Robinson in custody, Robinson grabbed items on an officer’s duty-belt and assaulted the officer. Robinson was arrested and booked into the jail on multiple charges.

Branson Police investigate shooting

(From the Branson Police Department)

Branson Police were dispatched to the area of Aaron Way at about 3:00 pm on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, on a report that a person had been shot. 

Arriving officers identified an adult male with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Branson MO Fire-Rescue and Taney County Ambulance District were also on scene. The victim was transported for medical treatment.

All parties have been identified, were known to each other, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Springfield bicyclist killed following collision with van

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Feb.. 15 at 6:34 p.m., officers with the Springfield Police Department responded to the area of National and Lakewood regarding a motor vehicle crash involving a vehicle and a bicyclist.

A gray 2013 Chrysler Town and Country van, driven by Edwin Atterberry (76, of Springfield), was eastbound on Lakewood, and made a left turn to go onto northbound National. 

The Chrysler struck a westbound Orbea Gain bicycle ridden by Samuel Sullivan (79, of Springfield). Sullivan was transported to Cox South Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries on Feb. 18. Sullivan's family have been notified. Anyone with any information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department.

The investigation is ongoing as to the circumstances involved in the crash. This was the fifth fatality motor vehicle crash in Springfield in 2023.

Rogersville man killed, Republic woman injured in collision at West Bypass and Battlefield

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Feb. 20 at 6:58 a.m., officers with the Springfield Police Department responded to the area of West Bypass and Battlefield regarding a motor vehicle crash.

A white 2018 Jeep Renegade, driven by Amy Cummings (53 of Republic), was southbound on West Bypass, and made a left turn to go eastbound on Battlefield. 

The Jeep was struck by a northbound black 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Riley W. Fly (19, of Rogersville). Fly was transported to Cox South Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. The driver of the Jeep was transported by EMS for moderate injuries.

The Fly family has been notified.

Anyone with any information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department.

The investigation is ongoing as to the circumstances involved in the crash. This was the sixth fatality motor vehicle crash in Springfield in 2023.

Willard woman killed in fiery crash

A Willard woman was killed in a one-vehicle accident 11:37 p.m. Saturday on Route Z, two miles north of Willard.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2010 Toyota Prius driven by Bailey T. Collins, 33, Willard, ran off the roadway, struck a tree, overturned and caught fire.

Greene County Medical Examiner Stephanie Muse pronounced Collins dead at the scene.

The fatality was the 11th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Springfield Public Schools announces new deputy superintendent, Parkview principal, HR director

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools announced on Wednesday a series of leadership updates for the 2023-2024 school year, including the selection of Dr. Travis Shaw as deputy superintendent of operations and Mrs. Megan Brown as principal of Parkview High School. In addition, Dr. Bill Redinger will retire as chief human resources officer after 29 years of service in public education, effective July 1.

Deputy Superintendent of Operations

Following the retirement of Dr. John Mulford, Dr. Travis Shaw will serve as the district’s deputy superintendent of operations, effective July 1.

Dr. Shaw has served SPS in his current role as executive director of operations for six years, overseeing facility maintenance, nutrition services, custodial/grounds, transportation, purchasing/distribution, school police and capital construction - including all projects funded by 2019’s Proposition S. This includes responsibility for the design, management and construction of 43 separate projects over three years.

Prior to joining SPS in 2017, Dr. Shaw served five years as superintendent for the Aurora R-VIII School District and Crane R-III School District. Other administrative experience includes eight years of service as a middle school principal in Hollister and Stockton. 

His educational career began with seven years of service as a middle school math teacher and coach of baseball, basketball, football and golf in Salina, Kansas, and St. James, Missouri. Dr. Shaw completed undergraduate studies in education at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, graduate work at William Woods University and a doctorate from Lindenwood University.

“I am extremely honored and humbled to serve as the next deputy superintendent of operations,” said Dr. Shaw. “I am very grateful to Dr. Lathan and the Board of Education for entrusting me with these new responsibilities. I look forward to working collaboratively and to the continued success of our district.”

Parkview High School Principal

Mrs. Megan Brown, the current Parkview High School assistant principal, will become principal on July 1. Her tenure will follow Dr. Natalie Cauldwell’s two years of interim leadership. Mrs. Brown’s previous experience at Parkview includes serving as coordinator of site interventions.

Prior to joining SPS in 2021, Mrs. Brown led Homer Adkins / Bayou Meto Elementary as assistant principal and principal in the Jacksonville North Pulaski School District in Arkansas. Her education career began as a teacher in Arkansas for the Pulaski County Special School District. Mrs. Brown completed undergraduate studies at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and graduate work in educational leadership at Arkansas State University.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the principal of Parkview High School,” said Mrs. Brown. “I am committed to maintaining and continuing to build a supportive and collaborative learning environment in which all students can succeed. Together, as a school community, we will build on the traditions of the past and meet the challenges of the future in innovative and exciting ways.”

Chief Human Resources Officer

Dr. Bill Redinger, chief human resources officer, will retire at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. His exemplary career includes 29 years of service to public education. In his role, Dr. Redinger is responsible for hiring, onboarding, evaluating and supporting the diverse workforce of Missouri’s largest school district, which employs more than 3,500 individuals.

Prior to joining SPS, Dr. Redinger served 10 years as assistant superintendent of human resource services for the Park Hill School District. Other administrative experience includes leading the Lone Jack School District as superintendent; East Lynne School as superintendent/principal; Pleasant Hope Middle School as principal; and Prairie Star Middle School in Overland Park, Kansas, as assistant principal. Dr. Redinger began his career in education as a teacher at Harrisonville Middle School. 

He completed his undergraduate studies at Missouri State University, graduate studies in school administration at University of Central Missouri, an education specialist degree from Southwest Baptist University and a doctorate in education leadership from Saint Louis University.

“While retirement at this time was not part of my original plan, it is necessary for health reasons. For over 20 years, I’ve managed a chronic digestive condition while working as a school and district administrator,” explained Dr. Redinger. 

“Over the past several months, this condition has progressed and it is more difficult to manage while maintaining a work schedule. I need to take the time necessary to focus on my health and retirement will allow me to do that. I am thankful for the opportunities provided by SPS and I wish the district great success moving forward."

Mountain View man sentenced to 21 years for murdering his wife in a national park

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Mountain View, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for murdering his estranged wife during an argument when they met in a national park.

Dylan J. Hanger, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.

On May 10, 2022, Hanger pleaded guilty to one count of murder in the second degree. Hanger admitted that he met his estranged wife, Brittany Gorman, at the Buck Hollow Access Area, along the Jacks Fork River, within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Texas County, Mo., on May 20, 2020. An argument ensued, during which Hanger stabbed Gorman several times in the chest, which caused her death.

According to court documents, Hanger began planning to kill his wife (with whom he shared three children ages 5, 7, and 10) in the months leading up to May 2020. When they met at the Buck Hollow Access Area, Hanger stabbed his wife at least four times. He took her body and dumped it in a remote location.

For nine days, Hanger maintained to both Gorman’s family and law enforcement that Gorman was missing and suggested that it was due to her drug connections. He finally admitted what he had done and revealed the location of Gorman’s body on May 30, 2020.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine L. Stockard. It was investigated by the Texas County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Vietnamese national sentenced for meth trafficking in Springfield area

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Vietnamese national has been sentenced in federal court for illegally possessing methamphetamine to distribute and a firearm.

Hon Chau, 44, no known address, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool on Monday, Feb. 13, to 14 years and two months in federal prison without parole.

On Aug. 16, 2022, Chau pleaded guilty to one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

Chau was arrested on Feb. 27, 2020, when he drove a Chrysler 200 and parked in the driveway of a Springfield residence while law enforcement offices were executing a search warrant. Officers ordered Chau to get out of his vehicle, but he refused. Instead, Chau backed his vehicle into the officers’ vehicles parked behind him. Officers broke out the driver’s side window and attempted to remove Chau from his vehicle, but Chau continued to resist and reach towards his right hip. Officers used a Taser and were able to get him out of the vehicle. Chau had a loaded IMEZ .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol in a holster on his right hip. This pistol had been reported as stolen.

Chau had a baggie that contained 287 grams of pure methamphetamine inside his sweater pocket. Officers found $6,943 in cash inside Chau’s vehicle.

Chau, who had a dozen prior state felony convictions prior to this federal case, had been released from the Missouri Department of Corrections less than a year earlier.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Springfield police blotter includes auto theft, DWI arrest, trespassing collar

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Early Wednesday morning, Officers responded to the 900 block of W. Portland regarding a trespassing. The 911 caller stated two suspects loaded property in a vehicle and left the scene westbound. The caller provided a license plate and a detailed description of the vehicle and suspects. The suspects were later identified as Kevin Muzzy, 57, and Richard Rathbun, 53.

When officers arrived on scene, they used the information provided by the witness in combination with police resources to locate Muzzy and Rathbun inside the vehicle in the 1300 block of W. Poplar.

Officers reviewed video footage provided by the caller of Muzzy and Rathbun walking in the direction of the construction site and leaving with a large item. Officers checked the construction site and discovered the orange plastic construction barrier knocked down, fresh muddy walking path, and a hole in the fencing. Officers arrested Muzzy and Rathbun.

On Thursday night, officers responded to the intersection of Sunshine Street and Kansas Expressway regarding a motor vehicle accident involving three vehicles. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered one of the drivers fled the scene on foot. 

Officers conducted a search of the area and located the driver, later identified as Dusty Weter, 21, in a nearby creek bed. After officers concluded their investigation, Weter was arrested for DWI involving a physical injury and leaving the scene of an accident involving a physical injury.

Early Monday morning, officers were dispatched to Patton Alley Pub for a report of 1st degree tampering with motor vehicle. The 911 caller stated the suspect, Kaylynn Black, 23, was being detained on scene by witnesses. When officers arrived on scene, they placed Black in custody.

The victim was at Patton Alley Pub and prior to leaving started their car to warm up and walked back inside. The victim and some friends were watching the vehicle while standing inside the business, when they observed Kaylynn Black enter the car through the driver’s door. They ran outside to approach Black. 

Black responded by running westbound from the parking lot. When Black exited the vehicle, the vehicle was in reverse gear and rolled backwards striking another vehicle. One of the victim’s friends caught up with Black and stayed with her until police arrived. Black was arrested for 1st degree tampering and an outstanding Greene County warrant for driving while revoked.

Springfield City Council votes to purchase Hammons Field, parking lots

(From the City of Springfield)

The City of Springfield is the new owner of Hammons Field. City Council voted to approve a combination $12 million purchase agreement that includes the stadium and parking lots directly across Trafficway south of the stadium and to the west of the stadium, not currently marked for parking. 

A long-term lease agreement with the Springfield Cardinals, Double-A affiliate of the 11-time Major League Baseball (MLB) World Champion St. Louis Cardinals is also part of the deal, along with the City's commitment to fund $4 million in stadium improvements. 

The lease agreement going through 2038 ensures the 2012 Texas League Champion Springfield Cardinals remain in Springfield where they have played since the affiliate’s founding in 2005.

Unrestricted savings from the General Fund and monies earmarked for “Economic Vitality” from the Level Property Tax Fund will be used to fund the investment.

Documents:Purchase and Sale Agreement – Hammons Field Stadium
Purchase and Sale Agreement – Hammons Field Parking Areas
Amended and Restated Ballpark Lease Agreement
Settlement Agreement

“We have the Double-A franchise of the most popular Major League team in the Midwest,” said Springfield Mayor Ken McClure. “They add a vibrancy, excitement and level of entertainment as well as foster a great degree of community pride. Having a major league club own its minor league affiliate is very rare. We plan to be the home to the Springfield Cardinals for generations to come.”

“The St. Louis Cardinals have long enjoyed a strong relationship with the Springfield community, and we look forward to continuing it for many years to come,” stated Cardinals’ President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak. “The Cardinals organization shares a special connection with Springfield and Southwest Missouri, and we cherish the enthusiastic support you have provided our team and players for nearly two decades.”

Hammons Field is also home to the Missouri State University Baseball Bears, who played their first game in 2004 in the opening day of Hammons Field. Hammons Field has hosted five Missouri Valley Conference Tournaments and the 2015 NCAA Division I Regional (won by Missouri State). Missouri State will continue to play its home games at Hammons Field under the provisions of their lease.

 

Hammons Field opened in 2004 on the corner of Sherman Avenue and Trafficway Boulevard as the centerpiece of a major downtown development project. The investments along the Jordan Valley Corridor in the 1990s and early 2000s have changed the landscape of Springfield’s downtown and ushered in a new era of revitalization. A part of Vision 2020, the community’s comprehensive planning process, enhancements also included the addition of Jordan Valley Park and Jordan Valley Ice Park. The Park is a green oasis at 635 E. Trafficway, between the Ice Park and Hammons Field. Once a blighted industrial area, the 15-acre park opened in 2002 with a mix of open plazas, rolling hills, play features, picnic areas, walking paths and the tumbling Ozarks Stream and Fountain.

The stadium has a seating capacity of 6,750. It is unique due to its baseball specific outbuildings. The stadium currently has two large buildings just outside the right-field walls. The larger of the two serves as a fully furnished indoor practice facility complete with Astroturf, batting cages, and a small diamond for drills. The smaller building serves as administration, including general manager offices, as well as housing Springfield Cardinals and Missouri State University Baseball Bears clubhouses, a cardio workout facility, and the physical trainer's office. Hammons Field also boasts one of the largest high-definition video boards in Minor League Baseball.

The City issued bonds in 2002 in order to lend the late Springfield developer/philanthropist John Q. Hammons the money to construct Hammons Field on land the City acquired. The City’s redevelopment agreement with Hammons required him to make an annual rent payment in the amount equal to the City’s annual bond payment.

The idea was that once the bonds were paid off, the City would sell him the stadium and a portion of the land under it for $1. The redevelopment agreement also required the City to provide Hammons with a 50-year ground lease on the remaining portion of the land under the stadium.

Under the bankruptcy plan, the court ordered that the bonds be paid off and that the John Q. Hammons Charitable Trust (a new trust created to honor the legacy of the benevolent hotelier) be required to acquire the stadium in order to sell it. Once the bonds were paid off, it became clear during discussions that the community would benefit the greatest if the City eventually became owner of the stadium.

The Springfield Cardinals compete as a member of the Texas League's North Division. The Cardinals began play in 2005, winning three Texas League North 1st Half Division titles, two Texas League North 2nd Half Division titles, two Texas League North championships and one Texas League championship (2012).

Through the 2022 season, a total of 126 former Springfield Cardinals have gone on to make their Major League debut with St. Louis with an additional 30-plus others debuting with different MLB teams.

The lease agreement with the Cardinals has been structured to ensure the stadium is paying for itself and for the improvements and maintenance required by Major League Baseball. Part of the team’s rent will be split between operating and capital funds. The Cardinals have an incentive to keep costs low, because any revenue left over at the end of the year goes into a fund for capital improvements. The City will create an initial $4 million capital improvement fund to make the immediate Major League Baseball mandated improvements that address player health and safety and spectator experience. After that, the agreement is expected to cover the operation costs and for future improvements and maintenance.

“The Springfield Cardinals offer great entertainment and are a source of pride for fans in the region, and we’re happy to see Mayor McClure and the City Council consider this step to ensure Springfield remains the Cardinals’ home for years to come,” Gov. Mike Parson said. “The investment is not only a win for sports fans but means economic opportunity for businesses and people in southwest Missouri.”

History

Springfield, Missouri, has hosted professional baseball teams since as early as 1905, when the Springfield Highlanders began play. For nearly 30 years, the team was variously called the Highlanders, Jobbers, and Merchants. There were several years when no team existed at all.

The original White City Park was built in 1901 on Boonville, near West Lynn Street and North Campbell, but caught fire and was rebuilt in 1921. In its heyday, the original Springfield Cardinals were the kings of the Western Association in the same way that they are consistently atop the Texas League today. The Cardinals would serve Springfield until 1942 when World War II came. Some famed future MLB All-Stars of Major League Baseball came through this ballpark including a future Hall of Famer.

In 1931, the St. Louis Cardinals purchased a minor league team, renamed it the Cardinals, and relocated it in Springfield. That year, the team won the first of several Western Association titles. With a front office led by future Hall of Famer Branch Rickey, Springfield also went to the playoffs in 1931, 1932, 1934, 1935, 1937, 1938, 1939, and 1941, and won league titles in 1931, 1932, 1934, 1937, and 1939.

Following World War II, St. Louis moved the team to St. Joseph, Missouri, where it remained until 1953. The City of Springfield saw a brief re-emergence of minor league baseball when the rival Chicago Cubs moved its affiliate to Springfield for one season taking the name Springfield Cubs, playing in Memorial Stadium in West Springfield.

Though there was a gap of 63 years, most in the Springfield and St. Louis organizations consider the current Cardinals the same group which existed in 1932. Many pieces of fan apparel actually say, "Springfield Cardinals circa 1932." The deck on top of the Cardinals dugout also has the championship banners from the 1930s and 1940s.

Springfield played host to several players that would go on to play in Major League Baseball. Stan Musial played 87 games in Springfield; other players to come through Springfield are Dizzy Dean and his brother Paul, Pepper Martin, and Joe Medwick.

Through the 2022 season, a total of 126 former Springfield Cardinals have gone on to make their Major League debut with St. Louis with an additional 30-plus others debuting with different Major League Baseball teams.

Recent stars are Matt Carpenter, Luke Voit (also a former Bear), Matt Adams, Jason Motte, Lance Lynn and 2013 NLCS MVP Michael Wacha.

We also have hosted rehab assignments of stars like Yadier Molina, Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright.

Other teams’ brightest stars have come through Hammons Field as prospects. All-Star Players like Mike Trout, Salvador Perez, Nolan Arenado, Alex Bregman, Troy Tulowitzki and 2022 American League Rookie of the Year Julio Rodriguez.

Springfield Police Department makes one DWI arrest, issues 67 citations during saturation patrol

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Feb. 11, 2023, officers from the Springfield Police Department conducted a DWI saturation patrol. Officers utilized marked patrol vehicles to enforce hazardous moving violations commonly associated with intoxicated driving.

During this operation, officers conducted 99 traffic stops which resulted in one DWI arrest and 67 citations. SPD officers also issued 63 warnings.

The Springfield Police Department periodically conducts these saturation patrol operations to ensure the motoring public’s safety. These extra enforcement efforts are funded through a Missouri Department of Transportation safety grant.

Springfield City Council to vote on purchase of Hammons Field Tuesday

(From the City of Springfield)

Springfield City Council will vote on the agreement to purchase Hammons Field at a special City Council meeting at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14 at the Busch Municipal Building in the Councilman Denny Whayne Conference Room, fourth floor. 

The meeting will be livestreamed at https://cityview.springfieldmo.gov/livestream/.

Springfield man sentenced to 20 years for heroin conspiracy

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for leading a conspiracy to distribute heroin.

Dawuan White, 48, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 20 years in federal prison without parole.

On April 26, 2022, White pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin from Feb. 1, 2017, to Feb. 15, 2018. White admitted that he sold heroin to a confidential law enforcement source on three occasions in December 2017 and January 2018.

A task force officer contacted White, who was on foot near the intersection of Grant Avenue and Norton Road, on Feb. 15, 2018. White immediately began running. During the pursuit, the officer saw White throw two plastic bags. The officer caught up to White and arrested him, then located the two plastic bags, which contained 35.8 grams of heroin. The officer also searched a residence that investigators had determined to be a stash house for White, and found a plastic bag that contained 15.2 grams of heroin as well as drug paraphernalia.

White was on state parole for a drug-trafficking conviction during this federal investigation into his drug-trafficking conspiracy.

According to court documents, White provided heroin to his co-defendants to distribute. White is the sixth and final defendant to be sentenced in this case.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine L. Stockard. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Purdy woman airlifted to Cox South following single-vehicle crash

Two people were injured in a one-vehicle accident 10:30 a.m. Sunday on Farm Road 1095 two miles northeast of Purdy.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2010 Dodge Challenger driven by Kimberly A. Clay, 46, Purdy, who was suffering from a medical issue, traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.

Clay was taken by air ambulance to Cox South Hospital, Springfield, with serious injuries.

A passenger, 59, Purdy, was treated for minor injuries at Cox South.

 

Silver Dollar City announces final year for Fire in the Hole ride

 (From Silver Dollar City)

Calling all riders, park fans and fanatics and Fire In The Hole aficionados...THE WORLD’S MOST HISTORIC INDOOR ROLLER COASTER will take its final rides through the iconic burning town of Marmaros during the 2023 season. It’s your last chance to squeal in delight as you plummet through the darkness and scream “FIRE—IN—THE—HOLE!”

Built half-a-century ago, the legendary coaster has ushered over 25 million guests onboard and now is the time to add yourself and your loved ones into the final count of riders. 

“Today’s riders include grandparents who remember riding when they were kids and now they share the fun with their grandkids!” said Brad Thomas, president of Silver Dollar City. And, this year we are asking you to come share in the fun so that you can say you were a part of Fire In The Hole’s history.

With fire brigade-like trains that call to volunteers to join in the twisting and turning journey catching the bad guys and saving the citizens, the ride’s storyline is based on the real-life town of Marmaros that was set ablaze by the infamous gang of Baldknobbers. Onboard you’ll meet townsfolk like Red Flanders’ wearing only his signature red long johns at the hotel or the tavern owner making a hasty getaway out the swinging front doors. And, along the way you’ll catch glimpses of the notorious Baldknobbers causing all the trouble. Not to mention, traveling over the burning Kinney Bridge or nearly getting hit by the train coming down the tracks before dropping through a splash down all in an effort to extinguish the flames!

Springfield man killed in collision west of Republic

A Springfield man was killed in a two-vehicle collision 4:22 a.m. today on MO 360, one mile west of Republic.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2011 Peterbilt tractor attempted a u-turn and and became disabled, blocking the roadway.

A 2018 Ford Taurus driven by Gary C. Sawyer, 74, Springfield, struck the passenger side of the tractor's towed unit.

Sawyer was killed in the crash.

The fatality was the ninth this year for Highway Patrol Troop D. 

Aurora man killed in crash

An Aurora man was killed in a one-vehicle accident 3:50 p.m. today on Farm Road 2212, three-quarters of a mile east of Aurora.

According to the Highway Patrol report, 2007 Chrysler 300 driven by Paul W. Sheridan, 57, Aurora, ran off the left side of the road and struck a gate and the corner post of a fence.

Sheridan was pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. Hawks of Mercy Hospital at 4:26 p.m.

The fatality was the 10th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

 

Cassville Police: Do you know this man?

 

Nixa man killed in motorcycle accident

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Feb. 10, 2023, at 2:38 a.m., officers with the Springfield Police Department responded to the area of Grant and Grand regarding a single motor vehicle crash involving a motorcycle.

A red 1994 Honda motorcycle, driven by Bobby Jones (43 of Nixa), was eastbound on Grand and lost control. Jones was ejected from the motorcycle. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Jones’ family has been notified.

Anyone with any information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department.

The investigation is ongoing as to the circumstances involved in the crash. This is the 4th fatal motor vehicle crash in Springfield in 2023.

Springfield Police handle domestic assault involving handgun, robbery at Papa John's

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Saturday night, officers responded to a domestic assault in the 1300 block of W. Phelps. The suspect, later identified as Amanda Pratt, 38, fired a handgun at the victim.

During an argument, Pratt told the victim to leave the residence. When the victim refused to leave, Pratt retrieved a handgun. Pratt pointed the firearm in the direction of the victim and fired one round which did not strike the victim. The victim exited the residence. When police arrived on scene, the victim was outside and officers arrested Pratt for 1st degree domestic assault.

***
Officers responded to a robbery late Saturday night at Papa John's on W. Kearney.
Two employees were closing the store when the suspect, later identified as Anthony Costa, 50, walked in the front door armed with a handgun demanding money. 

While pointing the handgun at the employees, Costa pushed them into the walk-in freezer and attempted to lock the door handle with a pen. When the employees heard the door chime, they exited the walk-in freezer. Costa had left the store and all the cash was missing. Costa was later arrested and charged for 1st degree robbery and kidnapping.

***
On Monday night, officers were dispatched to 3000 block of W. Calhoun regarding a male suspect, later identified as Thomas Gamble, 34, aggressively banging on residential doors and entering unlocked vehicles. Gamble entered an occupied residence through a window. The occupant exited the residence as officers arrived on scene. Gamble was arrested for 1st degree burglary.

Monett Police Department Activity Report

 

Aurora traffic stop leads to discovery of syringes pre-loaded with meth

(From the Aurora and Marionville Police Department)

A traffic stop in Aurora resulted in the discovery of syringes that had been pre-loaded with methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested and is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 
We continue to offer help and can connect you to services that can help with mental health and addiction. This does not have to be your life. You do not have to become a felon. You do not have to live this miserable existence. Let us help. 417-678-5025

Arrest and photo credit to Officer B. Baldwin

Suspect arrested in Springfield shooting

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Jan. 28, 2023, at 6:48 p.m., Springfield Police were dispatched to the 2500 block of S. Linden after a 911 caller stated shots were heard in the area. When officers arrived, they found evidence of a shooting at the intersection of Linden and Sunset. While checking the area, officers located a vehicle in the parking lot of Glendale High School at 2727 S. Ingram Mill Rd. that had been struck multiple times by gun fire.

While officers were processing the scene, a male arrived at a local hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. During an interview with the male, he stated he was shot at the above location but would not give any further details regarding the incident.

 

SPD Violent Crimes detectives were able to identifiy Keyshawn McElroy as the suspect in the shooting. On Feb. 1, 2023, Republic Police Department officers located McElroy and his vehicle at 332 W. Grace in Republic, Missouri.

The Springfield Police Violent Crimes Unit, with the assistance of the Missouri Highway Patrol and Republic Police Department, obtained a search warrant for the residence in Republic. Prior to the search warrant being served, McElroy left the residence and was arrested. He was booked into the Greene County jail for 1st Degree Assault and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

 

On Feb. 2, 2023, the case was presented to the Greene County Prosecutor’s Office for review and consideration of filing criminal charges.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this shooitng to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810. If you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

Suicidal Springfield man shot to death after pointing gun at police officers

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Feb. 1, 2023, at 1:46 p.m., Springfield Police Officers were sent to Tom Watkins Park at 2100 W. High St. to check the well-being of a male who was making suicidal statements. 

When the officers arrived, they contacted the man in the middle of the park. While officers were talking with him, he said he had a gun and proceeded to draw a handgun from his waistband. The officers immediately ordered him to drop the gun, but he failed to comply and instead pointed the handgun toward them. 

The officers fired their handguns at the man, striking him several times. The officers immediately took him into custody and performed life-saving measures while awaiting the arrival of paramedics. However, he did not survive.

 

The deceased male has been identified as Justin M. Barker, 33, from Springfield. Barker’s family has been notified.

The four officers involved in the shooting incident have been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation. The results of a concurrent criminal investigation will be presented to the Greene County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

The Springfield Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is investigating this incident. Detectives are asking anyone who has additional information to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

Springfield man charged with illegally possessing firearm

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Springfield, Mo., man has been charged in federal court with illegally possessing a firearm.

Timothy Zegar, 39, was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court in Springfield on Tuesday, Jan. 31, with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Zegar, who was arrested today, remains in federal custody pending a detention hearing on Feb. 6, 2023.

The complaint alleges that Zegar was in possession of a Spike’s Tactical .556-caliber rifle between Jan. 18 and 21, 2023.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Zegar has a prior felony conviction for fleeing and eluding law enforcement.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, the FBI began investigating Zegar for illegally trafficking firearms in August 2022. An undercover special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives contacted Zegar about purchasing a firearm on Jan. 18, 2023. The undercover agent met Zegar at his residence and purchased the Spike’s Tactical rifle from Zegar on Jan. 21, 2023.

The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.