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Articles by Blake Wallis
Centralia business targeted by scammer posing as sheriff’s deputy
Centralia police are warning residents about a scam that targeted a local business Saturday evening. According to the Centralia Police Department, officers were made aware of the scam around 7:24 p.m. Saturday night. Police said someone claiming to be a county sheriff’s deputy told an employee to take money from the business’s cash register and go to stores in town to put the money on prepaid gift cards. The caller also asked employees for personal information, according to police.
CMHS waives adoption fees this week as part of nationwide campaign
The Central Missouri Humane Society is waiving adoptions fees for adult dogs and cats this week as part of the nationwide Clear The Shelters campaign. Adoption fees will be waived Sunday through Aug. 29 for dogs and cats 6 months and older, according to a CMHS news release. The promotion is part of NBCUniversal Local’s annual Clear The Shelters campaign, which runs through Aug. 31 and encourages pet adoption at shelters across the country.
Cole County deputies make appearance in movie filmed in Jefferson City
Some Cole County deputies will make an appearance in an upcoming mystery movie filmed in Jefferson City, according to a Cole County Sheriff's Department social media post. The department said Thursday that some of its deputies took part as extras in "Trivia Night Mysteries: A Question of Murder." "We're used to responding to calls, but 'ACTION!' is a new one for us!" the department said in the post.
Crash closes portion of Forum Boulevard near Wilson's Fitness
Columbia police responded to a crash involving at least two vehicles outside Wilson's Fitness on Forum Boulevard on Saturday. By at least 3:50 p.m., police had closed traffic in both directions on the affected portion of Forum Boulevard. KOMU 8 crews at the scene saw the vehicle crash blocking both directions of traffic on Forum Boulevard. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. To report an error or typo, email news@komu.com.
Driver dies in head-on collision on Forum Boulevard Saturday afternoon
COLUMBIA — Columbia police responded to a fatal head-on collision involving two vehicles outside Wilson's Fitness on Forum Boulevard on Saturday. Police responded to the crash around 2:55 p.m. in the 2900 block of Forum Boulevard, according to a news release from the Police Department. The driver of one of the vehicles, a 46-year-old Columbia man, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the news release.
Former Mizzou forward Mark Mitchell commits to Kentucky after successful court ruling
Former Missouri men's basketball forward Mark Mitchell has committed to Kentucky after receiving temporary court protection that allowed him to pursue a fifth season of college basketball. Mitchell entered the transfer portal Friday after a Kentucky judge granted temporary relief from NCAA eligibility and transfer restrictions.
Columbia man accused of firing gun at woman with children inside home
A Columbia man allegedly pointed a handgun at a woman during an argument over money and fired in her direction, according to a probable cause statement filed Friday. Clinton M. McLain, 47, was arrested Thursday after deputies from the Boone County Sheriff's Office responded to a reported assault with a weapon at a home in the 10800 block of East Bozarth Lane, according to the sheriff's office.
Kansas City approves $600M commitment for new Royals stadium
The Kansas City Council approved a package of agreements Thursday that includes a $600 million city funding commitment toward a new Kansas City Royals stadium and team offices near Crown Center. The council passed an ordinance authorizing the city manager to execute funding, lease, development and community-impact agreements with the Royals for the project in the Washington Square Park and Crown Center area.
Hardy, Green headline 4 Mizzou preseason All-SEC selections
Four Mizzou football players earned spots on the 2026 Coaches Preseason All-SEC teams, according to Mizzou Athletics. Running back Ahmad Hardy and left tackle Cayden Green were selected to the first team, while long snapper Brett Le Blanc earned second-team honors and linebacker Robert Woodyard Jr. was named to the third team. The selections were voted on by all 16 SEC head coaches.
Missouri changes deer hunting regulations ahead of 2026 season
Missouri deer hunters will face several regulation changes this fall, including a reduced buck limit for nonresidents, an earlier youth season and changes to chronic wasting disease management rules. The Missouri Department of Conservation said nonresident hunters using nonresident deer hunting permits will now be limited to one antlered buck, down from two. Nonresidents who qualify for nonresident landowner permits can still harvest two.
Mizzou football opens 2026 at No. 25 in AP preseason poll
Mizzou football will begin the 2026 season ranked No. 25 in the Associated Press preseason Top 25, giving the Tigers a preseason AP ranking for the second time under coach Eli Drinkwitz. Missouri is also No. 25 in the U.S. LBM preseason Coaches Poll, marking the second time in the past three seasons the Tigers have opened ranked in both major polls. Mizzou began the 2024 season at No. 11 in both. The Tigers entered last season outside the AP Top 25, receiving 33 votes in the preseason poll.
New head coach brings physical edge to Camdenton Lakers in 2026
Cole Walker may be Camdenton’s new head football coach, but he needs no introduction to Lakers football. He grew up in Camdenton, played for the program and helped the Lakers win their most recent state championship in 2005. Walker said Camdenton is also the only place he has coached since joining the staff in 2013. So when former head coach Par Pitts retired because of a back issue, Walker put his name in for the job. “I’ve been here. I grew up here, played here,” Walker said.
Mizzou Evans Scholars set to caddie at BMW Championship
Fifty of the PGA Tour's top players have descended on Bellerive Country Club this week, bringing the FedExCup Playoffs back to St. Louis and giving a pair of Mizzou caddies a chance to be part of the action. The BMW Championship is the second of three FedExCup Playoff events. The field was trimmed from 70 players last week in Memphis to the top 50 in the FedExCup standings. Only the top 30 after Bellerive will advance to the season-ending TOUR Championship, according to the PGA Tour.
Former NFL MVP Cam Newton visits Mizzou football during fall camp
Former NFL MVP and Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton made an appearance at Mizzou football practice Monday during the Tigers’ fall camp. Newton’s visit comes with several connections to Missouri’s program, most notably senior wide receiver Cayden Lee. Lee said earlier in fall camp that Newton has served as a mentor to him for years and helped him through his decision to transfer to Missouri after leaving Ole Miss. Lee played for Newton’s C1N 7-on-7 program while growing up in Georgia.
Missouri changes deer hunting regulations ahead of 2026 season
Missouri deer hunters will face several regulation changes this fall, including a reduced buck limit for nonresidents, an earlier youth season and changes to chronic wasting disease management rules. The Missouri Department of Conservation said nonresident hunters using nonresident deer hunting permits will now be limited to one antlered buck, down from two. Nonresidents who qualify for nonresident landowner permits can still harvest two.
Public safety tax, Third Ward appointment top Jefferson City Council meeting agenda
Jefferson City residents could be asked to approve another quarter-cent sales tax this fall, as the Jefferson City Council prepares to consider several measures affecting taxes, public safety, utilities and transportation. The council is scheduled to meet 6 p.m. Monday at the John G. Christy Municipal Building. Residents of the Third Ward are expected to learn who will represent them on the city council. The agenda calls for the council to appoint and swear in a Third Ward council member.
Mark Mitchell’s eligibility fight explained: What’s going on and what comes next
Mark Mitchell thought his college basketball career was over. A change to NCAA eligibility rules — and a growing wave of court rulings — has given the former Missouri standout a chance to change that. A federal court ruling in Colorado has already protected Mitchell and other qualifying athletes who began competing in 2022-23 from being denied a fifth season solely because they previously used four seasons of competition.
Father Tolton unveils new turf field, track as Phase 1 of project wraps up
Father Tolton Catholic High School unveiled major upgrades to its outdoor athletic facilities Thursday evening. The school held a ribbon cutting and blessing for its new artificial turf field and all-weather track, replacing the grass playing surface used last season. The Columbia Chamber of Commerce listed Thursday’s ceremony as a celebration of the new turf field and track. The event was held on Tolton’s campus on East Gans Road. The upgrades are part of Tolton’s Blazers – Game On! campaign.
Columbia to host second recycling drop-off event Aug. 29
The city of Columbia Solid Waste Utility will host its second recycling drop-off event later this month, according to a city news release. The event will run from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Grissum Building, 1313 Lakeview Ave. It follows the city’s first recycling drop-off event on June 13 at the same location. Residents attending the Aug. 29 event will be able to drop off mixed containers, mixed fibers and glass bottles and jars.
Father Tolton unveils new turf field, track as Phase 1 of project wraps up
Father Tolton Catholic High School unveiled major upgrades to its outdoor athletic facilities Thursday evening. The school held a ribbon-cutting and blessing for its new artificial turf field and all-weather track, replacing the grass playing surface used last season. The Columbia Chamber of Commerce listed Thursday’s ceremony as a celebration of the new turf field and track. The event was held on Tolton’s campus on East Gans Road. The upgrades are part of Tolton’s "Blazers – Game On!" campaign.
Better Business Bureau warns of gas and grocery voucher scam targeting Missouri consumers
The Better Business Bureau, or BBB, is warning Missouri consumers about postcards promising hundreds of dollars in free gas and grocery vouchers that may instead be attempts to obtain payment information. According to a BBB news release, consumers have reported receiving postcards claiming they qualify for free gas or grocery vouchers, rebates or shopping rewards. Recipients are typically directed to call a phone number or visit a website and pay a processing fee to claim the offer.
2026 Jefferson City football preview: Veteran Jays rally around ‘One Vision’
Jefferson City football enters 2026 with experience at key positions and a team-wide focus on “one vision.” The Jays return proven contributors including 1,000-yard rusher Zavion Finney, leading tackler Nick Redcay and all-state offensive lineman Ethan Leonard as Eric Thomas begins his third season as head coach. Thomas was hired to lead his alma mater in 2024. Jefferson City finished 4-6 last season after going 3-7 in Thomas’ first year.
No trial delay for Boone County dog breeder, judge says
A Boone County judge on Monday denied a request from Boone County dog breeder Melissa Sanders to delay her October animal abuse trial. An attorney from the law firm Rosenblum, Schwartz & Fry seeking to take over the defense for Sanders asked the court in late July to delay the October trial, stating his team would need additional time to review a large amount of evidence, interview witnesses and potentially hire a forensic veterinary expert, according to previous KOMU 8 reporting.
New QB, new field for new-look Trailblazers
Father Tolton football will look much different in 2026. The Trailblazers graduated 20 seniors from last year’s team, leaving eighth-year head coach Michael Egnew with a refreshed roster as Tolton prepares to build off a 7-4 season. One of the players Egnew will look to is quarterback Owen Tipton. Tipton is not new to the program’s biggest moments.
Man charged after Jefferson City police chase ends in crash
A man faces four charges after police said he fled a traffic stop at more than 100 mph before crashing a vehicle carrying an adult and two children. Jaden Vance Bennett is charged with aggravated fleeing a stop or detention causing physical injury, two counts of first-degree child endangerment causing physical injury and driving while intoxicated, according to a warrant issued in Cole County Circuit Court.
No trial delay for Boone County dog breeder, judge says
Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email A judge denied a requested trial delay from Boone County dog breeder Melissa Sanders' prospective attorney, who wanted more time to review evidence. Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save A Boone County judge on Monday denied a request from Boone County dog breeder Melissa Sanders to delay her October animal abuse trial.
Helias football coach Chris Hentges to step down after 2026 season
Helias Catholic High School head football coach Chris Hentges will step down after the 2026 season. Hentges announced the decision to his players Monday morning following the Crusaders’ first official practice of the season, according to a Facebook post. The upcoming season will be Hentges’ 14th overall as Helias’ head coach. He enters the year with a 128-31 record across two stints leading the program. Hentges first served as Helias’ head coach from 2006 to 2010, compiling a 50-12 record.
BBB warns of gas, grocery voucher scam targeting Missouri consumers
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning Missouri consumers about postcards promising hundreds of dollars in free gas and grocery vouchers that may instead be attempts to obtain payment information. According to a BBB news release, consumers have reported receiving postcards claiming they qualify for free gas or grocery vouchers, rebates or shopping rewards. Recipients are typically directed to call a phone number or visit a website and pay a processing fee to claim the offer.
Three Mizzou golfers set to compete at U.S. Amateur, most to ever represent the Tigers
Three Mizzou men’s golfers are competing at the U.S. Amateur Championship this week. Brock Snyder, Veikka Viskari and Trent Mierl make up the largest group of current Tigers to compete at the championship in program history, according to Mizzou Athletics. The trio is part of the 312-player field competing at Merion Golf Club and Philadelphia Country Club in Pennsylvania. Missouri is one of 26 schools with three current players in the field.
Mizzou volleyball embraces youth, new faces entering the 2026 season
Mizzou volleyball will have a much different look in 2026. The Tigers return 10 players from last season’s roster but added eight newcomers, leaving head coach Dawn Sullivan with a young group as Missouri prepares for its fourth season under her leadership. The 2026 roster includes just three seniors: Kimani Johnson, Kaylen Rush and transfer Ainoah Cruz. Sullivan said Monday that the newcomers have quickly found their place within the program. “I think they’re killing it,” Sullivan said.
Health alert issued for chicken products sold in Missouri over potential contamination
Two ready-to-eat chicken products distributed in Missouri are included in a federal public health alert because they contain jalapeños that may be contaminated with salmonella, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The alert includes 9.25-ounce Deli Kitchen Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Wraps sold at Kroger and Dillons stores. The wraps have use-by dates from Aug. 7 through Aug. 13. They were distributed in Missouri and as many as 10 other states.
Health alert issued for chicken products sold in Missouri over potential Salmonella contamination
Two ready-to-eat chicken products distributed in Missouri are included in a federal public health alert because they contain jalapeños that may be contaminated with Salmonella, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The alert includes 9.25-ounce Deli Kitchen Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Wraps sold at Kroger and Dillons stores. The wraps have use-by dates from Aug. 7 through Aug. 13. They were distributed in Missouri and as many as 10 other states.
Hartsburg man killed, 2 injured in Osage County crash on Highway 63
A Hartsburg man was killed and two other people were injured Saturday afternoon in a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 63 in Osage County, according to a crash report by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The crash happened around 1:50 p.m. at Highway 63 and County Road 512. According to the report, a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado driven north by a 54-year-old Boonville man crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2017 Harley-Davidson head-on.
Pastrami, corned beef recalled over possible listeria contamination
City Foods Inc. is recalling around 3,215 pounds of ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced Saturday. The products were produced July 16 and have a 60-day shelf life, according to the FSIS. The recall includes 10-pound boxes containing 2- to 5-pound pieces of Midamar Premium Beef Pastrami.
Boone Health sues cardiologists, Pulsepoint over alleged noncompete violations
Boone Health filed a lawsuit against two Columbia cardiologists and their new practice, alleging in a petition filed in Boone County Circuit Court that they violated noncompete agreements by operating Pulsepoint Clinic. The petition, filed Monday, names Dr. F. Martin Tibuakuu, Dr. James E. Fairlamb, Pulsepoint Cardiovascular and Pulsepoint Missouri MSO as defendants. kAmq@@?6 w62=E9 :D 2D<:?8 E96 4@FCE E@ AC@9:3:E %:3F2<FF 2?5 u2:C=2>3 7C@> @776C:?8 4@>A6E:?8 D6CG:46D H:E9:? 2? 2C62 DA64:7:65 :?
Ohio man sentenced to more than 13 years for enticing a Missouri minor
An Ohio man who federal prosecutors said traveled to Missouri to engage in sexual activity with a teenage girl was sentenced Tuesday to more than 13 years in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri. U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp sentenced Andrew Raymond Crum, 33, of Toledo, Ohio, to 160 months in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Two cats killed in Montgomery City house fire Wednesday morning
Two cats died in a house fire Wednesday morning in Montgomery City, according to the Montgomery Fire Protection District. Firefighters responded to a home on Garden Place shortly after 10 a.m. Aug. 5, the Fire District said in a Facebook post. Light smoke was visible when crews arrived, with smoke throughout the ground floor and heavy smoke in the basement. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire, which the Fire District said had nearly smothered itself.
Boone Health sues cardiologists, Pulsepoint over alleged noncompete violations
Boone Health filed a lawsuit against two Columbia cardiologists and their new practice, alleging in a petition filed in Boone County Circuit Court that they violated noncompete agreements by operating Pulsepoint Clinic. The petition, filed Monday, names Dr. F. Martin Tibuakuu, Dr. James E. Fairlamb, Pulsepoint Cardiovascular and Pulsepoint Missouri MSO as defendants.
Ohio man sentenced to more than 13 years for enticing Missouri minor
Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Save An Ohio man who federal prosecutors said traveled to Missouri to engage in sexual activity with a teenage girl was sentenced Tuesday to more than 13 years in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri. U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp sentenced Andrew Raymond Crum, 33, of Toledo, Ohio, to 160 months in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
South Providence Medical Building closing through the weekend due to cooling issue
MU Health Care’s South Providence Medical Building will close at noon Friday and remain closed through the weekend because of an issue with the building’s air conditioning, according to a news release from MU Health Care. The system was having issues cooling the air and removing the humidity, MU Health Care spokesperson Eric Maze told KOMU 8 News. MU Health Care said clinics are contacting patients with appointments scheduled for Friday afternoon to discuss telehealth or rescheduling options.
Columbia police arrest person after burglary alarm at environmental research center
Columbia police arrested a person Friday morning after responding to a commercial burglary alarm at the Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia Police Department spokesperson Brian McNeill said in an email. Officers found a person who was not authorized to be inside the building and arrested them, according to McNeill. Officers continued searching the building after the arrest but did not find anyone else inside. To report an error or typo, email news@komu.com.
Man charged with 7 felonies in I-70-U.S. 63 connector shooting
A man accused of driving a vehicle from which someone allegedly fired shots at another vehicle near the Interstate 70 and U.S. 63 connector faces seven felony charges in Boone County, according to court documents. Mechoal Lamar Lewis, 52, is charged with first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon, two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm and three counts of armed criminal action, according to court records. A judge ordered Lewis be held without bond.
Columbia woman charged after child allegedly found in unsanitary conditions
A Columbia woman is facing a felony child neglect charge after police allegedly found a child with a developmental disability in her care malnourished, injured and living in unsanitary conditions.
UM System Board of Curators approves names for parts of Memorial Stadium
The UM System Board of Curators unanimously approved names for two spaces in the new north end zone at Memorial Stadium on Tuesday. The new Rock M Club will be named the Farmer Companies Rock M Club, while the West Plaza will become the Hayes and Jessica Barnard Family Plaza. The naming opportunities are part of the $250 million Memorial Stadium Centennial Project, which is nearing completion ahead of the stadium’s 100th season.
Cardinals build for future, Royals stockpile pitching at MLB trade deadline
Missouri’s two Major League Baseball teams entered Monday’s trade deadline outside the postseason picture and used the opportunity to reshape their organizations, though the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals followed different plans. The Cardinals accelerated an organization-wide youth movement by trading several established major leaguers for four prospects who immediately entered MLB Pipeline’s ranking of the club’s top 22 prospects.
Three juveniles arrested after more than 13 Columbia vehicle break-ins
Columbia police arrested three juveniles in connection with more than 13 vehicle break-ins reported Tuesday morning. According to a news release from the Columbia Police Department, the break-ins happened around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday near Monterey Drive and Sieville Avenue. Police said the juveniles were reportedly checking vehicle doors and ran away when officers arrived.
Three juveniles arrested after more than 13 Columbia vehicle break-ins
Columbia police arrested three juveniles in connection with more than 13 vehicle break-ins reported Tuesday morning. According to a news release from the Columbia Police Department, the break-ins happened around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday near Monterey Drive and Sieville Avenue. Police said the juveniles were reportedly checking vehicle doors and ran away when officers arrived.
Drinkwitz expects renovated Memorial Stadium to transform Mizzou’s home field
TAMPA, Fla. — For nearly a century, the Rock M has stood above an open end of Memorial Stadium. When Missouri returns home in September, the landmark will instead sit at the center of a rebuilt north end designed to change what fans see, what opponents hear and how the football program presents itself nationally. The $250 million Memorial Stadium Centennial Project is nearing completion ahead of the building’s 100th season.
Drinkwitz previews quarterback battle, offensive line and injury concerns
TAMPA, Fla. — Much of Missouri's appearance at SEC Football Media Days centered on a roster that looks significantly different from the one that won 10 games two seasons ago.
Mizzou football heads to Tampa for 2026 SEC Media Days
Missouri football will take its turn in the spotlight Monday as the Southeastern Conference opens its annual football media days in Tampa. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz will represent the Tigers alongside running back Jamal Roberts, linebacker Nicholas Rodriguez and offensive tackle Cayden Green. Missouri will appear on the first day of the four-day event with Kentucky, Oklahoma and Tennessee. SEC Media Days will run Monday through Thursday.
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