KTBB News, Weather, Talk

JACKSONVILLE – Funeral service are pending today for Jacksonville mayor Kenneth Melvin. The 74-year-old Melvin died Tuesday afternoon at an area hospice. He was said to have been taken to a Tyler hospital this past weekend and later transferred to the hospice. According to the Jacksonville Daily Progress, Melvin became ill with pneumonia in October. He had been in rehab since then. Melvin was elected mayor of Jacksonville in 2013. In his absence, Mayor Pro Tem Hubert Robinson has presided over council activities.

KILGORE — Kilgore College Fire Academy No. 93 will hold its graduation ceremony this evening at 6:30 at the Bert E. Woodruff Adult Education Center Auditorium in Kilgore. The KC Fire Academy is accredited by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection and the State Firemen and Fire Marshal’s Association and approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The academy offers certification schools for NFPA 1001 Basic Structural Firefighter I and II certification, the Texas Volunteer certification, Fire Inspector and Fire and Arson Investigation courses. It is also a designated institution by the Canadian Province of British Columbia. Continue reading Kilgore College Fire Academy Graduation

LONGVIEW — An apartment fire was brought under control late Tuesday morning in Longview, but not before damaging at least four units and displacing 16 people in seven families. According to KETK, Longview Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary says the fire was called in around 10:15 a.m. Tuesday at the Belaire Manor Apartments on the 1500 block of Young Street. The building contains eight units, six of which were occupied. Zackary says fire, smoke, heat, and water caused the damage. He says there were no major injuries in the blaze. According to Zackary, the cause was a plug in an electrical cord close to a couch. He adds that the fire wouldn’t have been as bad if the complex had a sprinkler system. The Red Cross has been called in to help those who have been displaced.

MINEOLA — Six fire departments responded to a blaze that caused heavy damage at a Mineola restaurant in Tuesday’s predawn hours. KETK reports the initial call came in around 12:30 a.m. The Mineola Volunteer Fire Department and the other units battled the flames at the Ranchero Country Buffet in the 1000 block of N. Pacific Street. It took them about an hour to put it out. There was no immediate word on the cause. No injuries were reported.

CARTHAGE (Staff/AP) — There’s a new development in the case of Bernie Tiede, the killer made famous by the movie “Bernie.” Tiede was released from prison in May after serving 17 years of a life sentence. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals recently granted him a resentencing hearing, but the family of his victim, Marjorie Nugent, fears that won’t happen. They say Panola County District Attorney Danny Davidson had stated he will release Tiede with time served. Nugent’s granddaughter Shanna has sent Davidson a letter asking him to recuse himself. She admits she can’t force his office to do that, but says she considers it appropriate “in the interest of justice” and that she’s “basically calling on on his ethical responsibilities and obligations.” She would like to see the Texas attorney general take the case. Calls to Davidson’s office were not returned.

TYLER – Funeral services will be held this afternoon at 3:30pm at Marvin United Methodist Church in Tyler for longtime civic leader C.C. Baker Jr. Burial will follow at Tyler’s Rose Hill Cemetery. Baker, who was 74, died last Friday at The Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. The former John Tyler High School principal was also a development officer for Tyler Junior College. Continue reading Funeral Services Wednesday for C.C. Baker Jr.

NEW YORK (AP/Staff) – NFL star Adrian Peterson’s appeal hearing adjourned Tuesday after more than three hours. The Palestine native did not comment as he departed. His attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, says only that the hearing will continue Thursday. The proceedings were held before longtime hearing officer Harold Henderson. Continue reading Peterson Has Appeal Hearing in New York

KILGORE — Kilgore police are asking for the public’s help with catching a group of oil field thieves. According to KETK, surveillance video showed four men stealing company trucks from oil yards. The men are shown breaking into a gate and getting through a secured area. Once they get inside, they find keys to the company trucks and take off. The vehicles were later found by Rusk County and Gregg County sheriff’s deputies; some of those trucks are destroyed. If you have leads, you’re asked to call Gregg County Crimestoppers.

PALESTINE — Two Palestine men are behind bars following their Saturday arrest on drug charges following a traffic stop by police. KETK reports that Officer Katlyn Griffin conducted the traffic stop at approximately 8:20 p.m. on an SUV for defective equipment. The vehicle came to a stop on Brooklyn Street near Conrad Street. Officer Griffin reportedly saw one of the occupants trying to hide something behind him. The suspect was removed from the vehicle and several bags containing methamphetamine were located on the seat, according to police. During the continued search of the vehicle police were reportedly able to recover a set of digital scales, some pills and another small amount of methamphetamine in the back seat area of the vehicle. Continue reading Two East Texans Arrested for Drug Possession

VAN ZANDT COUNTY — The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens of Van Zandt County and surrounding areas concerning a scam that has affected many communities around the state of Texas. According to Sheriff Lindsey Ray, unknown individuals, purporting to be Officers of the Court, or employees of the local municipal and county governments, are calling citizens of the community and fraudulently informing the citizens that they have missed a scheduled jury duty. The caller subsequently informs the citizens that they have incurred a fine and then proceeds with instruction advising how the fines must be paid to avoid incarceration. Continue reading East Texas Sheriff Warns of Jury Scam

TYLER — As of December 1st, bells are ringing at over 35 locations around Smith County. Unfortunately, two weeks into bell ringing, in comparison to last year, kettle donations are down $6,000. In a news release, the Tyler Salvation Army says the funds raised during the holidays make up approximately 25% of the organization’s yearly budget. This year, donors have the opportunity to double the impact they make on the community by matching kettle donations dollar for dollar. Anyone who chooses can select the date and location of the kettle he or she would like to match. By matching, the Salvation Army’s fundraising goal can be reached must faster, thereby helping more people, according to the news release. Continue reading Kettle Donations Continue to Decline

HAWKINS — Authorities are investigating a body found in Hawkins off Highway 14. According to KETK, police say the man’s body was discovered in a home close to the Fred’s store, located near the intersection of Glazner Street and Highway 14. The Texas Rangers are investigating the death. No other information was released.

MARSHALL — The Marshall Police Department is attempting to identify the person or persons responsible for a Thanksgiving burglary at a local home’s shop. According to KETK, an unknown burglar or burglars broke into a shop on Farm Road 1793 between 11:00am and 2:30pm. The bandits destroyed items in the store and took a large amount of property. If you noticed any suspicious vehicles or individuals near Gainesville Road, on Fern Lake Road, or on Highway 59 around lunch or have information as to who may have been involved, you’re asked to contact the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office immediately. The homeowner is offering a $1000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest or arrests. Officials say any help is greatly appreciated.

LINDALE — The Lindale Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying a man who is believed to have used a stolen credit card at a local business. According to KETK, On November 30, a stolen credit card was used at the Walmart in Lindale. The card was taken from a car that was broken into at Cracker Barrel. A picture of the suspected thief was taken at Walmart. If you recognize this person, contact the Lindale Police Department at 903-882-3313.

WHITEHOUSE — The Whitehouse Police Department is warning homeowners about scam artists in the area. According to KETK, police said two to three men are showing up at homes and asking permission to “inspect” the home’s roof for leaks. When the residents give them permission, the “inspectors” ask for money. In a recent incident, the homeowner threatened to call police and the men immediately left the scene. If you are contacted in such a manner, you’re asked to obtain a license number and vehicle and occupant description if possible, and call authorities immediately at 903-839-2828.

JACKSONVILLE — The city of Jacksonville has a new fire chief following the resignation of Brent Smith. According to KETK, a Jacksonville Fire Department spokesperson says former Chief Smith (pictured) has taken another job. The position was not specified. Keith Fortner is now the acting fire chief.

LONGVIEW – A Longview woman accused of murdering her husband over the weekend is now being held on $1 million bond. According to KETK, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office alleges Alexis Walker, 30, shot and killed her husband, Anthony Updyke, 33. Deputies responded to a home in the 3300 block of Lansing Switch after 911 operators received a call requesting emergency responders around 3:50 Saturday morning. When deputies arrived, it was discovered that Anthony Updyke was shot and was not breathing. The alleged shooter was at the residence and was in the living room area when deputies arrived. Deputies reported a pistol that was found at the scene was the weapon allegedly used in the shooting. Judge Meghan Pinson was at the scene and pronounced the victim dead. An autopsy was ordered by Judge Pinson. Continue reading Bond Set for Longview Woman Charged with Husband’s Death

TYLER — A professor of biology at The University of Texas at Tyler, Dr. Blake Bextine, has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for excellence in research, Dr. Ross Sherman, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, announced. According to a UTT news release, Bextine received the USDA’s “2014 Partnership Award” for his outstanding contributions in helping manage Zebra Chip disease. The ailment is caused by a bacterium transmitted by the “potato psyllid” (Bactericera cockerelli). “Zebra Chip” creates a zig-zag appearance in the upper growth of an affected plant. Insects carrying specific species of the bacterium, Candidatus Liberibacter, feed on the plant, which is then infected. Continue reading UTT Professor Receives National Award for Research

TYLER — The search for Tyler’s next city manager has been narrowed to five highly qualified candidates who have been invited for interviews on Dec. 8 and 9, according to a city news release. One of those is a well-known local figure, while the others come from various parts of Texas. “Finding a city manager candidate who is both an exceptional leader and a fit for our community, City Council, and city staff is a high priority,” said Tyler Mayor Martin Heines. “Tyler is a unique community and it is vital that candidates selected for the interview process share the community’s vision, values and principles.” Continue reading Tyler Names Finalists for City Manager

TYLER – Among the new arrivals at Tyler’s Caldwell Zoo are some baby Chilean Flamingos. According to the zoo’s web site, the Chilean flamingos have taken their time laying eggs, but the zoo finally has a few little ones to add to the flock. These tiny birdies will be hand-raised by the zookeepers since it is much too cold for them to live outdoors. They’ll be introduced to the rest of the flock in the spring, once the weather warms up.

VAN – Authorities are trying to determine what caused a fire that damaged 25 to 30 acres of woods in Van Zandt County. The fire was reported around 1:30 Sunday afternoon at the Garden Valley Country Club. According to KETK, no homes were damaged and no injuries were reported.

TYLER – A motorcyclist has been killed in a one vehicle accident. It was reported around 2:30 Sunday morning in the 8700 block of Plauxy Drive. Killed was Spencer Wayne Scruggs of Tyler. A passing motorist discovered the wreckage. Scruggs, seen here in his Facebook picture, appeared to have been traveling southbound on Paluxy when he lost control of his motorcycle and went off of the roadway. The accident remains under investigation.

LUFKIN – A Lufkin man has been arrested after being accused of assaulting his girlfriend. Charged with assault of a family member/household member with a previous conviction is James Davis, 23. His bond was set at $4,000. KETK reports the incident happened at a car wash in the 900 block of Kurth Drive.

TYLER – Tyler civic leader C.C. Baker has died. Baker, who was 74, died Friday at The Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 3rd, at 3:30pm at Marvin United Methodist Church in Tyler. Burial will follow at Tyler’s Rose Hill Cemetery. Baker, a former principal of John Tyler High School, was also a development officer for Tyler Junior College. Continue reading Tyler Leader C.C. Baker Dies

TROUP — A Troup couple lost not only their home, but also their pet Friday afternoon, after their house in the 300 block of Joy Street erupted into flames. KETK was told the owners were outside when the fire sparked. They tried to make their way back into the house to save their family pet but were unable to get back inside. Smith County fire officials say the flames were so high they partially damaged a nearby house. The fire was put out by late afternoon. It’s still unknown how the blaze began.

LONGVIEW — At least six fire trucks were on the scene around 7:30 Wednesday morning when flames broke out at Longview’s Pine Knoll Apartment complex. Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary said the fire started in an upstairs unit of building three, the result of an unattended candle. Pine Knoll resident Chris Kemper tells KETK he learned of the fire when police beat on his door. Police evacuated all residents and their pets, and no injuries were reported. Kemper said his apartment did sustain smoke damage, but without the efficiency of the fire and police departments it could have been worse. “I don’t think there was any flame damage or any water damage, just a bunch of smoke, and I believe that’s completely because of the quick response of the Longview Fire Department,” Kemper said. Continue reading Apartment Fire Relocates Residents One Day before Thanksgiving

GILMER (Staff/AP) — Gilmer officials are reacting after yet another move by East Texas Medical Center to phase out care in Upshur County. ETMC earlier announced it would first close its hospital in the city, followed by the emergency room and physicians clinic. Now, effective March 1, 2015, ETMC EMS is discontinuing ambulance services. KETK spoke with Gilmer City Manager Jeff Ellington, who said, “To lose the facility, the operation, and all the jobs related to that is a very negative thing. And it is a concern to the entire community and obviously the city itself.” Continue reading Gilmer Reacts to Planned End of ETMC Ambulance Service

LINDALE — After 10 months of recovery from injuries sustained in a January house fire, firefighter Joe Yeakley got to return home to Lindale Wednesday, just in time for Thanksgiving. KETK reports Yeakley got to see his extended family lining the streets and riding alongside him in fire engines. “He’s been in Dallas this whole time and we’re just glad to have him coming back home and being part of our family,” said Lindale Fire Chief Cory Crowell. Continue reading Joe Yeakley Receives a Hero’s Welcome Home to Lindale

TYLER — Tyler’s Salvation Army served hundreds Thursday at its annual Thanksgiving meal. Many volunteers gathered on Thanksgiving to begin preparation for the feast. Chores included carving turkeys, chopping vegetables, and getting everything ready for the guests. An abundance of volunteers were on site Thanksgiving Day to help serve guests and spread the love of Christ as well as the joy of this holiday season, according to a Salvation Army news release. The Salvation Army is offering thanks to those in the Tyler community who make it possible to serve a Thanksgiving meal to so many in the community.

TYLER — Considerable damage is reported in a Thanksgiving Day house fire in Tyler. Around 10:30 Thursday morning dispatchers received a call about the fire at 2703 N. Grand Avenue, across from Texas College. Officials tell KETK the resident took a pan of dressing out of the oven, set it on a nearby washing machine, then left the room to talk on the phone. An ironing board covered with a cloth was next to the washing machine and is believed to have caught fire from the pan. The blaze then spread to the drapes, cabinets, walls, and attic. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained. The kitchen was destroyed by the fire and there is minor damage to the nearby hallway, with heavy smoke and water damage throughout the house. Officials want to remind residents to always stay in the kitchen with the food that is being prepared.