West Plains Daily Digest Sunday, June 28, 2026
Ty's Take
Drug sweeps across three counties in one week, vehicle wrecks sending kids to the hospital in Springfield, and the usual run of summer trouble—this is the stretch we hit every July, when heat and idle time seem to pull at people the wrong way. The sheriff's office and state police know the calendar same as we do, and so does the fire department, which is why West Plains is already putting out the safety reminders before the fireworks even light up. Meanwhile, the town's still looking for good people to sit on the Charter Review Commission, which tells you something about how this place runs: even in weeks like this one, somebody's got to think about next year and the year after that. The Amelia Market is rebranding and planning ahead too. That's how small towns survive—you acknowledge what's happening right now, you take precautions, and you keep building.
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Weather Alerts
Heat Advisory
Heat Advisory issued June 27 at 11:52PM CDT until June 28 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...For the Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 107 expected. For the Extreme Heat Watch, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 111 possible. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...For the Heat Adviso...
Extreme Heat Watch
Extreme Heat Watch issued June 27 at 11:52PM CDT until July 2 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...For the Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 107 expected. For the Extreme Heat Watch, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 111 possible. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...For the Heat Adviso...
Ozark Radio News
Gainesville to Light Up the Sky July 4
Gainesville will host its Independence Day fireworks display on July 4 at dark, presented by the Ozark County Chamber of Commerce. Residents can watch the celebration from either the town square or the Gainesville Saddle Club Arena rodeo grounds.
Six arrested after narcotics search warrant served in eastern Douglas County
Douglas County Sheriff's deputies arrested six Ava residents on June 24 following execution of a narcotics warrant in eastern Douglas County. Officers seized methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and firearms during the search.
Man arrested after reported theft in Gainesville
A Gainesville man was arrested in connection with a reported theft after deputies reviewed video evidence from the incident. The arrest came following an investigation by the Ozark County Sheriff's Office in late April.
Caulfield man arrested after narcotics search warrant
The Ozark County Sheriff's Special Enforcement Team arrested a Caulfield resident following a narcotics search warrant executed at a property in town on April 25. Officers discovered drugs and related items during the search.
Business Women’s Expo Rebrands as The Amelia Market
The annual Business Women's Expo has been renamed The Amelia Market in a rebranding effort by the Amelia Network and Ozarks Small Business Incubator. The event continues to serve women business owners and leaders throughout the West Plains area and surrounding communities.
Ellsinore Man Arrested and Charged with Multiple Felony Child Sexual Offenses
An Ellsinore man has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges related to child sexual offenses involving a victim under age 14. Willard Campbell was taken into custody on June 25 after a detailed investigation by the Carter County Sheriff's Office.
Three Alton Residents Inured in Accident Near Thayer
Three Alton residents were injured Friday when their Chevrolet Silverado rolled over on Highway 19 near Thayer. The southbound truck left the roadway and overturned in the afternoon crash, resulting in a total loss of the vehicle.
Two Ava Teens Airlifted After Accident
Two 16-year-old boys from Ava required airlift transport after a serious vehicle crash Saturday on Missouri Route Y west of town. The westbound Dodge Dakota struck a tree after leaving the roadway in the early afternoon accident.
West Plains Seeking Residents to Serve on Charter Review Commission
West Plains is recruiting residents to serve on the Charter Review Commission, which examines the city's governing charter every 10 years. The commission ensures the charter continues to address the community's current needs and organizational structure.
The West Plains Fire Department is sharing July 4th safety reminders as residents prepare for Independence Day celebrations. The department offers guidance for those planning fireworks and holiday festivities in the coming week.
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