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Articles by Libby Gerdes
23 suspects identified in Williamson County drug, firearms trafficking investigation
HERRIN, Ill. — A 10-month investigation into suspected drug and firearms trafficking led to raids at seven locations and 23 identified suspects early Friday morning, the Williamson County Sheriff's Office announced Saturday afternoon. A sign from the Williamson County Sheriff's Office stands outside a Herrin home following a drug and firearms trafficking investigation Friday, Nov. 6.
23 suspects identified in drug, firearm trafficking investigation
HERRIN — A 10-month investigation into suspected drug and firearms trafficking led to raids at seven locations and 23 identified suspects early Friday morning, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office announced Saturday afternoon. With 15 arrest warrants from the investigation, the sheriff’s Special Response Team carried out seven search warrants at 4:30 a.m. Nov. 6.
Kroger sign
You are the owner of this image. You have permission to edit this image. You voted: Going for a walk or hike Sitting around a bonfire Taking fall photos Hunting or fishing Taking a scenic drive Spending time on the porch
SIU strips insurance benefits for student dependents
CARBONDALE — Southern Illinois University graduate assistant Adam Turl faced a big surprise when they tried to register for student health insurance at the start of this semester. Adam Turl and their spouse Tish Turl are no strangers to SIU. They both received their undergraduate degrees at the university. The 2026 spring and summer semesters, Tish and Adam received master’s and doctoral degrees, respectively.
Adam, Tish Turl
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'What is truth?' The Varsity asks in play, panel
CARBONDALE — Last weekend The Varsity and Varsity Productions presented “The Lifespan of a Fact,” a play in which a writer, fact-checker and editor contend with the definition of truth. A panel of local experts spoke on the topic after Sunday’s matinee. The play is based on the book of the same title by John D'Agata and Jim Fingal. kAmp7E6C AF3=:D9:?8 2 3@@< @7 6IA6C:>6?E2= 6DD2JD[ y@9? s’p82E2 H2D 2AAC@24965 3J w2CA6C’D >282K:?6 E@ HC:E6 2?
SIU professor killed in shooting, wife arrested
JACKSON COUNTY — Sunday the Jackson County Sheriff's Office announced a Southern Illinois University Carbondale professor was shot and killed by his wife, who was arrested, Saturday. JCSO said officers responded to reports of a shooting at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, off of Lake Road between Murphysboro and Carbondale. kAm%96 G:4E:>[ cg\J62C\@=5 z@7: p<2>2?:[ H2D E2<6? E@ E96 |6>@C:2= w@DA:E2= @7 r2C3@?52=6[ H96C6 96 H2D AC@?@F?465 5625[ 244@C5:?8 E@ yr$~]k^Am kAmz@7: p<2>2?: H2D 2 AC@76DD@C :?
Marion Carnegie Library new sign
You voted: Going to fairs, festivals or community events Spending time at the lake or pool Grilling out and backyard cookouts Camping, hiking or fishing outdoors Watching baseball, racing or other summer sports
Teens arrested after fight at sports game
CARBONDALE - Five teens were arrested after allegedly engaging in a physical fight at a sports game Friday night. Saturday afternoon, Carbondale Community High School District Superintendent Daniel Booth called for the community work together to prevent future incidents. At 8:40 p.m. Aug.
Teens arrested after fight at sports game
CARBONDALE — Five teens were arrested after allegedly engaging in a physical fight at a sports game Friday night, the City of Carbondale Police Department announced Saturday afternoon. At 8:40 p.m. Aug. 21, 2026, CPD officers received information that multiple people were engaged in a physical altercation at a Carbondale Community High School District 165 sporting event.
Carbondale PD: 5 teens arrested after fight at high school sporting event
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Five teens were arrested after allegedly engaging in a physical fight at a sports game Friday night. Saturday afternoon, Carbondale Community High School District Superintendent Daniel Booth called for the community work together to prevent future incidents. Carbondale Community High School on Giant City Road in Carbondale is pictured. At 8:40 p.m. on Aug.
Armed man apprehended after 'driving erratically' onto SIU campus
CARBONDALE — Haley Zaker was in a classroom on the first floor of Faner Hall when she saw police lights flashing through trees and two people take off running.
Armed man apprehended after allegedly driving erratically onto SIU campus Original
CARBONDALE — A man was apprehended on the Southern Illinois University campus on Friday, Aug. 14 after allegedly driving erratically onto the campus. SIU Department of Public Safety sent a release to students stating that officers used an SIU Police drone to locate the individual near Morris Library and apprehend him in under three minutes.
Gov. JB Pritzker honors July 25 as Emmett Till Day
CHICAGO — Gov. JB Pritzker honored Saturday as Emmett Till Day after signing a law for the designation Thursday. k5:G 4=2DDlQI`cKh>A I2Eac4C I`=K:H2< I`GG<3D IE=GJ`D I`ae<ha2Qmk5:G 5:ClQ2FE@QmQp?5 :E :D H:E9 566A 9F>:=:EJ 2?5 8C62E AC:56 E92E x D:8?65 =68:D=2E:@? E9:D H66< 2E #@36CED %6>A=6 E@ 564=2C6 9:D 3:CE952J 2D E96 x==:?@:D s2J @7 #67=64E:@? 2?5 #6>6>3C2?46 @7 t>>6EE %:== 2?5 |2>:6 %:==\|@3=6J[Q 96 HC@E6]k^5:Gmk5:G 5:ClQ2FE@QmkAm(9:=6 G:D:E:?8 72>:=J :? |:DD:DD:AA: :?
SIU campers explore art forms, make friends
CARBONDALE - While summer camps can stress incoming seventh-grader Grace out, meeting new friends became her favorite part of SIU's Art Explorers camp. "I have never been a fan of camps. They just get me really stressed, especially when I don't know anyone there," she said. "But this camp is definitely a game changer.
SIU campers explore art forms, make friends
CARBONDALE — While summer camps can stress incoming seventh-grader Grace out, meeting new friends became her favorite part of SIU’s Art Explorers camp. “I have never been a fan of camps. They just get me really stressed, especially when I don't know anyone there,” she said. “But this camp is definitely a game changer. I really love this camp so much… I really like meeting other people who like to use the same intensive art as me.” kAmvC246’D 72>:=J 92D 2?
Kevin Lucas to perform benefit concert for St. Francis CARE Sunday
MAKANDA — While Kevin Lucas is no stranger to playing charity concerts in Southern Illinois, this year’s concert is his first supporting St. Francis St. Francis Community Animal Rescue and Education — a cause close to home. St. Francis Furry Fundraiser will take place 2 to 5 p.m. July 26 at Blue Sky Vineyards. And if the weather isn’t too hot, puppies may be present, Lucas said. kAm{F42D A=2JD 2? 6?E:C6 DE286 7F== @7 A6C4FDD:@? :?DECF>6?ED[ E9@F89 96 7@4FD6D @? E96 >2C:>32 — 2 F?:BF6 :?DECF>6?E @7E6?
Anna Petrelli
You voted: Going to fairs, festivals or community events Spending time at the lake or pool Grilling out and backyard cookouts Camping, hiking or fishing outdoors Watching baseball, racing or other summer sports
Community blooms CPL's build-a-bouquet bar
CARBONDALE — When Eve Jacobson and Justin Wimberly learned of the ‘Build Your Own Bouquet Bar’ event at the Carbondale Public Library, they thought it would be the perfect opportunity to have a date night and visit the library for the first time. Originally from St. Louis, Jacobson moved to Carbondale a year ago with her boyfriend. kAm“xVG6 366? >62?:?8 E@ 86E >J =:3C2CJ 42C5 7@C 2 H9:=6[ D@ H96? x 2=D@ D2H E92E E96J H6C6 5@:?8 E9:D 6G6?E[ x H2D =:<6[ Q%9:D :D DF49 2 A6C764E @AA@CEF?:EJ[” y24@3D@?
Community blooms at library's build-a-bouquet bar
CARBONDALE — When Eve Jacobson and Justin Wimberly learned of the ‘Build Your Own Bouquet Bar’ event at the Carbondale Public Library, they thought it would be the perfect opportunity to have a date night and visit the library for the first time. Originally from St. Louis, Jacobson moved to Carbondale a year ago with her boyfriend. kAm“x’G6 366? >62?:?8 E@ 86E >J =:3C2CJ 42C5 7@C 2 H9:=6[ D@ H96? x 2=D@ D2H E92E E96J H6C6 5@:?8 E9:D 6G6?E[ x H2D =:<6[ “%9:D :D DF49 2 A6C764E @AA@CEF?:EJ[” y24@3D@?
Residents displaced after fire destroys apartment complex
CAMBRIA — A Saturday night fire consumed a four-unit apartment complex and displayed its residents, according to Cambria Fire Chief Randall Simmons. None of the residents were home at the time of the fire, Simmons said. kAmx? 2 AC6=:>:?2CJ :?G6DE:82E:@?[ $:>>@?D 7@F?5 E96 7:C6 DE2CE65 27E6C 2 EC66 =:>3 76== @G6C E96 @G6C9625 A@H6C =:?6[ C:AA:?8 E96 7@FC A@H6C =:?6D 2H2J 7C@> E96 4@>A=6I]k^Am kAm“qFE x 5@ 36=:6G6 E92E E96 7@FC A@H6C =:?6D 42F89E E96 2EE:4 @? 7:C6[ 2?5 E96?
Saturday night fire destroys Cambria apartment building, displaces residents
CAMBRIA, Ill. — A Saturday night fire consumed a four-unit apartment complex and displaced its residents, according to Cambria Fire Chief Randall Simmons. None of the residents were home at the time of the fire, Simmons said. In a preliminary investigation, Simmons said he discovered that the fire started after a tree limb fell over the overhead power line, ripping the four power lines away from the complex.
Woman treks 27 hours from Du Quoin to Belleville during Walk Across America
On her journey walking across America, Rin Lee made her longest straight stretch right here in Southern Illinois. Lee knew she wanted to walk from coast to coast since she saw a couple called Golden Road walk do so years ago. "I found out the idea was possible, and it just kind of stuck with me as a sort of bucket list item," she said. At 18, she joined the Air Force as an aerospace ground equipment mechanic.
Woman treks 27 hours from Du Quoin to Belleville during Walk Across America
On her journey walking across America, Rin Lee made her longest straight stretch right here in Southern Illinois. Lee knew she wanted to walk from coast to coast since she saw a couple called Golden Road walk do so years ago. kAm“x 7@F?5 @FE E96 :562 H2D A@DD:3=6[ 2?5 :E ;FDE <:?5 @7 DEF4< H:E9 >6 2D 2 D@CE @7 3F4<6E =:DE :E6>[” D96 D2:5]k^Am kAmpE `g[ D96 ;@:?65 E96 p:C u@C46 2D 2? 26C@DA246 8C@F?5 6BF:A>6?E >6492?:4] p7E6C 7@FC J62CD[ D96 3@F89E 2 G2?[ H9:49 D96 =:G65 :? 7@C 2 J62C 2?5 2 92=7 @?
Liberty Tree dedication honors America 250
MARION - The Sons of the America Revolution Long Knives chapter, in coordination with the Friends of Crab Orchard Refuge, celebrated America's 250th birthday with a Liberty Tree dedication and reenactors Saturday. Jim Osborn, president of the Friends of Crab Orchard Refuge, shared how he believes in the importance of educating future generations about history and the founding of the country. "I think it's important for all Americans to understand the history of this country," he said.
'Turn around, don't drown': Officials stress flood safety after heavy rain
METROPOLIS — With the extensive rainfall that's befallen the region as a result of severe weather over Saturday, while many were lucky to see minimal damage across the region, the most prevalent issue rose quickly: cars facing high water levels. While storm damages included downed trees and powerlines, the main concern for this round of severe weather turned out to be flooded roads.
Liberty Tree dedication honors America 250
MARION — The Sons of the America Revolution Long Knives chapter, in coordination with the Friends of Crab Orchard Refuge, celebrated America's 250th birthday with a Liberty Tree dedication and reenactors Saturday. Jim Osborn, president of the Friends of Crab Orchard Refuge, shared how he believes in the importance of educating future generations about history and the founding of the country.
Marion Carrnegie Library, flowers
You voted: Going to fairs, festivals or community events Spending time at the lake or pool Grilling out and backyard cookouts Camping, hiking or fishing outdoors Watching baseball, racing or other summer sports
2 dead, 5 injured after tornado in Jefferson County
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ill. — A tornado struck Jefferson County on Sunday evening, causing multiple deaths, injuries, and significant damage to homes, Sheriff Jeff Bullard announced that night. On Monday, he released the names of the two residents who lost their lives. “We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those lost in this tragic event,” Bullard said in a news release. kAm$9@CE=J 27E6C d A]>][ 2 E@C?25@ H2D C6A@CE65 E@ 92G6 E@F4965 5@H? :? E96 ?@CE962DE6C? A2CE @7 y6776CD@?
First responders deliver Father's Day baby
ZEIGLER, Ill. — On a memorable Father’s Day for one growing family, first responders delivered a healthy baby boy. Three of the first responders, prior to the delivery, had received their emergency medical responder licenses a week earlier. This involved multiple training courses to receive or renew their licenses. Jennifer Diuguid, EMR, said it was incredible timing. kAm“x H2D?’E DFC6 H92E H6’C6 8@:?8 E@ F?E:= x 8@E :? E96 42C[ 2?5 E96?
2 dead, 5 injured after tornado
JEFFERSON COUNTY — A Sunday evening tornado resulted in multiple deaths, injuries and home damages, Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Bullard announced later that night. "We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those lost in this tragic event," Bullard said in a news release. kAmpE D9@CE=J 27E6C d A]>] 2 E@C?25@ H2D C6A@CE65 E@ 92G6 E@F4965 5@H? :? E96 ?@CE962DE6C? A2CE @7 y6776CD@? r@F?EJ[ 9625:?8 :? 2 ?@CE962DE6C=J 5:C64E:@?[ qF==2C5 D2:5] %96 D96C:77’D @77:46 h`` 46?E6C 3682?
BREAKING: Tornado touches down in Southern Illinois causing damage, deaths and injuries
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ill. — A Sunday evening tornado resulted in multiple deaths, injuries and home damages, Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Bullard announced later that night on Facebook. "We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those lost in this tragic event," Bullard said in a release. Shortly after 5 p.m., a tornado was reported to have touched down in the northeastern part of Jefferson County, heading in a northeasterly direction, Bullard said.
First responders deliver Father's Day baby
ZEIGLER — On a memorable Father's Day for one growing family, first responders delivered a healthy baby boy. Sunday morning the Ziegler Fire Department announced the news with permission of the parents. kAmQ%96 r:EJ @7 +6:8=6C u:C6 s6A2CE>6?E H@F=5 =:<6 E@ 6IE6?5 @FC 962CE76=E 4@?8C2EF=2E:@?D E@ E96 AC@F5 >@E96C 2?5 72E96C @? E96 3:CE9 @7 E96:C D@? 2?5 E96 ?6H6DE 255:E:@? E@ E96:C 72>:=J[Q E96 56A2CE>6?E D2:5] Q%96 2CC:G2= @7 323J qCF46 @? u2E96C’D s2J >2<6D E9:D @442D:@? 6G6?
Metropolis alderman dies
METROPOLIS - The community is mourning the sudden death of Alderman Chad Lewis, local officials announced Saturday afternoon. Chad was a dedicated public servant who cared deeply about our community and worked to make Metropolis a better place for all who call it home," the City of Metropolis said in an announcement.
'Bigfoot Day' draws families to Garden of the Gods Outpost for community event
HEROD — Cryptid enthusiasts turned out to the Garden of the Gods Outpost in celebration of "Bigfoot Day," an event of mystery and fun for visitors of all ages. Owners of the Garden of the Gods Outpost, Jessica and Andrew Hoffman said that Bigfoot is a well-known and beloved legend for the area. kAmp?5C6H w@77>2?
Metropolis community mourns death of city alderman
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Metropolis alderman dies
METROPOLIS — The community is mourning the sudden death of Alderman Chad Lewis, local officials announced Saturday afternoon.
Carbondale Bikes hosts second ride around historical spots
CARBONDALE - In honor of Bike Month and Preservation Month, the City of Carbondale hosted the second Carbondale Bikes ride throughout historic spots in the city Thursday. The initiative kicked off earlier this year to get people of all ages and experience levels to come together and ride, according to Dena Haun, tourism and special events coordinator. "We really want to encourage even new bikers to get out and enjoy our incredible biking infrastructure here in Carbondale," Haun said.
Carbondale Bikes hosts second ride around historical spots
Dena Haun, left, talks to bikers. CARBONDALE, Ill. — In honor of Bike Month and Preservation Month, the City of Carbondale hosted the second Carbondale Bikes ride throughout historic spots in the city Thursday. The initiative kicked off earlier this year to get people of all ages and experience levels to come together and ride, according to Dena Haun, tourism and special events coordinator.
Carbondale Bikes hosts second ride around historical spots
CARBONDALE — In honor of Bike Month and Preservation Month, the City of Carbondale hosted the second Carbondale Bikes ride throughout historic spots in the city Thursday. The initiative kicked off earlier this year to get people of all ages and experience levels to come together and ride, according to Dena Haun, tourism and special events coordinator. kAm“(6 C62==J H2?E E@ 6?4@FC286 6G6? ?6H 3:<6CD E@ 86E @FE 2?5 6?;@J @FC :?4C65:3=6 3:<:?8 :?7C2DECF4EFC6 96C6 :? r2C3@?52=6[” w2F?
HerrinFesta celebrates heritage, return of grape stomping competition
HERRIN — The HerrinFesta Italiana returns for its 36th year for a celebration of community, tradition and the return of the grape stomping competition after a COVID hiatus. The HerrinFesta Italiana is a traditional and vibrant celebration of Italian heritage over Memorial Day weekend. kAm$:?46 `hh`[ E96 6G6?E 92D 3C@F89E 2== D@CED @7 A6@A=6 E@ w6CC:? 7@C 6?E6CE2:?>6?E @7 2== <:?5D[ H:E9 =:G6 >FD:4 — :?4=F5:?8 yFDE:? q:KK=6 2?5 %J=6C #:4<E@?
SCSO: Shooting leaves suspect dead, victim injured
ELDORADO — A shooting Saturday left the suspected shooter dead and another wounded, according to Saline County Sheriff Whipper Johnson. At 10:56 a.m. Saturday, May 23, Saline County Central Dispatch received a call of a domestic active shooter in rural Eldorado, Johnson said. kAm&A@?
SCSO: Shooting leaves suspect dead, victim injured
ELDORADO, Ill. — A shooting Saturday left the suspected shooter dead and another wounded, according to Saline County Sheriff Whipper Johnson. At 10:56 a.m. Saturday, May 23, Saline County Central Dispatch received a call of a domestic active shooter in rural Eldorado, Johnson said. Upon arrival, law enforcement found the suspect dead and a victim wounded, who EMS transported to the hospital.
ISP investigating death of Eldorado CUSD student
Pictured is an ISP trooper vehicle. RALEIGH, Ill. — The Eldorado Community Unit School District 4 community is mourning the death of a student following an ongoing investigation in Saline County. Superintendent Cody Cusic released a statement Thursday evening confirming that sophomore Nathaniel Potts died May 20. Cusic said the district was focused on supporting students, staff and the community following the loss.
ISP investigating death of Eldorado CUSD student
RALEIGH — The Eldorado Community Unit School District 4 community is mourning the death of a student following an ongoing investigation in Saline County. Superintendent Cody Cusic released a statement Thursday evening confirming that sophomore Nathaniel Potts died May 20. Cusic said the district was focused on supporting students, staff and the community following the loss.
Eldorado CUSD 4 mourns high school student
RALEIGH, Ill. — The Eldorado Community Unit School District 4 is mourning the death of a student. Thursday evening, Superintendent Cody Cusic released a statement about the passing of sophomore Nathaniel Potts on May 20. "During times like these, it is important that we come together to support one another," Cusic wrote.
Eldorado CUSD #4 mourns student, ISP confirms Saline County death
RALEIGH — The Eldorado Community Unit School District #4 is mourning the death of a student. Thursday evening, Superintendent Cody Cusic released a statement about the passing of sophomore Nathaniel Potts on May 20. kAmQsFC:?8 E:>6D =:<6 E96D6[ :E :D :>A@CE2?E E92E H6 4@>6 E@86E96C E@ DFAA@CE @?6 2?@E96C]Q rFD:4 HC@E6] Q(6 2D< @FC 4@>>F?:EJ E@ <66A }2E92?:6=VD =@G65 @?6D :?
'Week of the Young Child' celebrates children, honors educators
CARBONDALE — The Carbondale community is honoring children and educators through the annual "Week of the Young Child," recognizing the importance of early childhood education. The kickoff event at Attucks Park saw families gather for an afternoon of entertainment and activities. Organizer Yolanda Dean said that the aim of WOYC is to celebrate children and offer parents resources to help educate a growing child. kAmx? 255:E:@?
Two SIU grads nominated for Oscars, one makes history with win
CARBONDALE - SIU alums Jack Piatt and Hilla Medalia were nominated for Academy Awards. For just the seventh time in history, a tie gave Piatt an Oscar for producing the short film "The Singers." While serving as a sergeant in the 82nd airborne division, Piatt visited a friend he met during duty who was attending SIU and "fell in love with the school" and decided to attend. He studied journalism and advertising and worked at the Daily Egyptian, SIU's student newspaper. "I love SIU. I love Carbondale.
Two SIU grads nominated for Oscars, one makes history with win
CARBONDALE — SIU alums Jack Piatt and Hilla Medalia were nominated for Academy Awards. For just the seventh time in history, a tie gave Piatt an Oscar for producing the short film “The Singers.” While serving as a sergeant in the 82nd airborne division, Piatt visited a friend he met during duty who was attending SIU and “fell in love with the school” and decided to attend. He studied journalism and advertising and worked at the Daily Egyptian, SIU’s student newspaper.
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