KTBB News, Weather, Talk

TYLER — UT Health East Texas officials said Monday, they will launch a vaccine signup this week for those who need help signing up for the COVID-19 vaccine. UT Health says this particularly benefits those without internet access. Starting Tuesday, individuals can call (903) 747-4VAC (4822) weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for help. Those with internet access do not need to call and should continue to sign up directly by clicking here. Officials say that more appointments will become available at the link, as more vaccines are received. The shots will be given at UT Health North Campus Tyler on U.S. Highway 271.

LONGVIEW — CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System continues to work to improve communication and access for both patients and providers. In a prepared statement Monday, Todd Hancock, President and Chief Execcutive Officer said, “CHRISTUS Good Shepherd is proud to be at the forefront of the electronic integration that is revolutionizing how care is provided across the country. New tools like Epic and MyChart will make it easier for our patients and doctors to interact, thus improving communication and creating more ways for patients to access health care services.” Statistics show that this form of care improves patient care and workflow. Learn more about MyChart here.

LONGVIEW — The city of Longview will be testing early warning sirens this week. In a prepared statement Monday, the city said, “This is part of Eastman’s commitment to the safety of employees and operations. The Longview site will be installing a new emergency siren system and conduct a series of tests.” Testing is set to begin Tuesday at 9 a.m. A series of siren tests are planned to confirm they are fully operational. Sounds from the evaluations will vary and include at least nine different tests throughout the day. Read more here.

TYLER – The Texas Department of Transportation has announced construction and maintenance work this week in Tyler. On Monday, TxDOT said, motorists in Tyler, should be prepared for major changes on the U.S. 69 project at FM 346. TxDOT says a switch, originally planned for Monday, was postponed. Intentions are to move U.S. 69 traffic to the new bridge permanently on Tuesday. The traffic switch should be completed by mid-week. Expect lane closures. The U.S. 69 work zone speed limit is 60 mph. The project consists of building a new U.S. 69 bridge over FM 346. In Longview, maintenance plans include mill and inlay work on SH 31 from South Street to US 80. Read more here.

TYLER — An Arlington man has been indicted for capital murder after allegedly shooting Starville Methodist Church Pastor Mark McWilliams in January of this year. According to our news partner KETK, Mytrez Deunte Woolen, 21, was on the run from Smith County deputies and Department of Public Safety Troopers on the night of Saturday, January 2. After hiding in the Starville church overnight, he was discovered by Pastor McWilliams just before service was set to begin. Police say the pastor pulled out a gun and tried to hold Woolen until police arrived. But Woolen fought for the gun and shot the pastor before fleeing the scene. Continue reading Man indicted in fatal East Texas church shooting

WOOD COUNTY — Deputies have captured a man that was considered armed and dangerous. According to the Smith County Sheriff’s Department, Samuel Salas, 34, was arrested late Monday morning at a residence just outside of Mineola. Salas is accused of shooting a woman east of Lindale Friday morning. The shooting occurred on CR 498 off FM 16. Salas is charged with shooting the woman and fleeing the scene. The woman was taken to the hospital where she was listed in stable condition. The weekend long manhunt included a drone, helicopter, and dogs in tracking Salas.

TYLER — Consumer fraud involving gift cards is on the rise according to the Better Business Bureau and the trend has accelerated during COVID lockdowns. Losses reported to the BBB’s Scam Tracker nearly tripled between 2017 and 2020. According to the BBB, scammers extract money from victims by convincing them to purchase a gift card from a well-known retailer like Target, Wal-Mart or Amazon in order to make immediate payment to avoid arrest for unpaid taxes or the termination of electric utility service. Once a card is purchased, the scammer tells the victims to read the numbers from the back of the card. Scammers then steal the value loaded on the card. Read more here.

HENDERSON — Rusk County authorities arrested two women Thursday for having more than 1,000 grams of THC edible candies. According to our news partner KETK, Angelique Propes, 21, and Alisabeth Currey, 22, were arrested after the sheriff’s department executed a search warrant on College Street and identified methamphetamine, marijuana, firearms, along with 1,190 grams of the THC candies. The infused candies have a similar look to Sour Patch Kids. Continue reading 2 women arrested with THC edible candies, firearms, methamphetamine

LONGVIEW — The Gregg County Historical Museum is reminding the community that an exhibition that started in February, in celebration of Black History Month, continues. The GCHM presents “Stitching a Legacy- The Symbolism in African American Quilts.” The display will run through April 3. Also, on March 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., organizers will host a special presentation by the Pleasant Hill Quilt Club, that tells the story of how quilts were used in the underground railroad. Learn more by calling 903-407-7243, or email [email protected]

ATHENS — The upstart soccer program at Trinity Valley Community College received a boost from a local business this week. First State Bank awarded TVCC a $1,000 gift of support. TVCC soccer will play a club schedule this spring before its first NJCAA-sanctioned season this fall. Soccer Coach Antonio Ledesma will host tryouts April 10, at the soccer field on the lower level next to Cardinal Gym. Tryouts for women are set for 9 a.m.-noon. Tryouts for mean are set for 1-4 p.m. Tryouts fees are $25. Registration forms are available by clicking here. For more information, email Ledesma at [email protected].

SMITH COUNTY– DPS investigated a fatal crash late Friday night, involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. The accident took place 12 miles South of Tyler on Highway 155. Sgt. Jean Dark said on Saturday night the investigators preliminary report indicates that the driver, Eryn Macen Pryor, 18, of Frankston was traveling northbound in the left lane of SH-155. A pedestrian, Melissa Renee Chreiman, 33, of Frankston was attempting to cross the roadway from east to west. Chreiman died at the scene and was taken to Lighthouse Funeral Home in Tyler.

HARRISON COUNTY — We now know more details about an accident Thursday night that killed a Smith County man. DPS said Friday, Jody Anthony Bobeck, 55, of Whitehouse died after the 18-wheeler he was driving rolled into a ditch on I-20. Investigators say, Bobeck was in the left lane and started to cross over into the center median lane, they believe Bobeck tried to merge back into the left lane, but the vehicle jackknifed. The trailer rolled over to the right and stopped in the south ditch of IH-20. The truck went the other way and landed upright in the ditch. Bobeck, was taken to CHRISTUS Good Shepherd – Longview. He later died there, and was transported to Stewarts Funeral Home in Tyler.

HALLSVILLE — A Hallsville man has been charged with sex and drug crimes by the Harrison County Sheriff’s office. According to our news partner KETK, Kevin Fernandez is suspected of giving the girl gummy candy infused with THC, and alcohol then sexually assaulting her. THC is a compound found in cannabis. Fernandez is charged with sexual assault and possession of a controlled substance. Authorities say the investigation led them to believe that Fernandez provided THC gummies to the juvenile as well as alcohol. The girl has been moved to a juvenile center.

MARSHALL — An east Texas community is rallying resources in an attempt to stop violent and drug crimes in Harrison County. On Friday, Sheriff Brandon Fletcher, Marshall Police Chief Cliff Caruth, and District Attorney Reid McCain announced the alliance of forces. The move, in effect, brings the agencies together in a more proactive stance against violent crimes and drug crimes, which are often associated with violence. The media brief says the teams intend to form a task force environment enabling shared resources, streamline communication and a “common cause” and make the area safer.

TYLER — Firefighters spent Thursday night battling a fire in downtown Tyler. According to our news partner KETK, the Tyler Fire Department fought the flames at an abandoned strip mall on N. Spring Ave. and Broadway Ave. The large blaze was called in at 8:20 p.m. Tyler police were on the same as well, with the road closed for some time. There were no reported injuries in the fire that had 4 engine trucks respond. Investigators have not released a cause for the fire at this time.

LONGVIEW — A Longview man is facing charges in connection with raping an intellectually disabled woman. According to an arrest warrant obtained by our news partner KETK, Timothy Mussared, 60, was arrested Tuesday on a sexual assault charge. The warrant indicates Mussared was staying at a motel with three other people on March 2. One of the travelers came out of the shower and found Mussared allegedly raping the victim, who was saying, “Get off me.” Mussared denied any knowledge of the incident to police earlier this week. Detectives interviewed the victim and learned that another traveler threatened to break off their relationship with the victim if she did not have sex with Mussared. Mussard is currently in the Gregg County Jail on a $75,000 bond, His first court date has not yet been set.

KILGORE — The Kilgore College Rangerettes kicked off Rangerette Revels on Thursday night. In a prepared statement, the dance troupe said, this marks the start of a two-weekend run, adapting its traditional schedule and ticket sales due to COVID-19 protocols. Show dates remain through this weekend, with repeat performances March 18-20. Start times are nightly at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances are Sunday the 14th, and Saturday the 20th at 1 p.m. “This Stage, Our Story,” will highlight multiple dance genres, including the Rangerettes signature high kick production for the finale.

TYLER — A 17-year-old Kilgore teen was arrested earlier this month, accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl in February. According to our news partner KETK, Jaxson Downey was arrested March 3, and has since posted a $50,000 bond and has been released from the Smith County Jail. In an arrest warrant, the victim told police the alleged assaults occurred twice in February and she made an outcry after the second incident. In a police interview, Downey said he had been drinking but did not remember the alleged assaults. Downey later admitted remembering the second incident. His first court appearance has yet to be scheduled.

TYLER — Time is running out to enter a major fund-raiser for the East Texas Crisis Center. The organization said Friday, the raffle for a vintage burgandy1965 Mustang Coupe will take place at 4 p.m. March 20, at Traditions Restaurant in Tyler. Proceeds fund services provided to survivors of violent crime. The East Texas Crisis Center serves Smith, Henderson, Van Zandt, Wood and Rains Counties. Raffle tickets are $10 each and can be purchased by clicking here.

TYLER — Honorees announced in January of 2020 will soon be celebrated at the Women in Tyler luncheon. On Friday, the organization invited the community to commemorate “Women Who Turned the Tables” next week. Last years affair was canceled due to the pandemic. But the 2021 soiree will take place next Thursday at The Tyler Rose Garden at 11 a.m. The luncheon has been modified to observe all social distancing guidelines. Women in Tyler began over two decades ago as a way to celebrate Women’s History Month, and through the years has continued to praise pioneers in their fields, organizations, and in the arts, to name a few. Learn more here.

ATHENS — CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Athens will be giving out COVID-19 vaccinations to Athens ISD educators and support staff that wish to receive the shot on Saturday. CHRISTUS announced the partnership with AISD Friday and in an official statement said that health caregivers will give the immunizations on-site at their CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, located on HWY 19 S, on March 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Athens ISD is scheduled to observe spring break beginning Monday and is not expected to return to class until March 22.

TYLER — The East Texas Anti-Gang Center conducted an operation mission Thursday night that resulted in the arrest of Isaac Capetillo. Capetillo, 29, of Tyler is also known as “Grizzly” and was wanted on charges of engaging in organized criminal activity. Authorities say Capetillo was actively avoiding law enforcement. Capetillo was arrested after leaving a Tyler hotel. Reports indicate large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, a large sum of cash and four assault-style rifles were found in his car and hotel room. Capetillo is in the Smith County Jail with bond set at $1.95 million and faces numerous charges.

TYLER — Tyler Legacy High School announced the death of an educator Wednesday night. According to our news partner KETK, Tim Johnson died Tuesday. Principal Dan Crawford spoke with Johnson’s wife, Felicia, before sharing the news, “She wanted me to thank the coaches, teachers, students, athletes and parents who accepted Tim into our school, as this was his first year with us.” Johnson was a science teacher and a football and basketball coach. He was diagnosed with pneumonia and experienced other complications. His wife said his death was not related to COVID-19.

AUSTIN — Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced Thursday, $762 million will be sent out to different entities as a result of local sales tax allocations for March. Overall, this is a half percent less for the state than in March of 2020. The city of Tyler will receive $3.6 million, while Longview will be allotted $2.5 million dollars. These allocations are based on sales made in January by businesses that report tax monthly. To learn about other cities in Texas, click here, and scroll down, enter a city of interest and the press the reset button.

TYLER — The city of Tyler is welcoming attendees to Hit the Bricks this weekend. On the second Saturday of every month, Downtown Tyler hosts the event. The Junk Hippy flea market will be on the square from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Various vendors will offer handmade goods and vintage finds. Admission is free. Gallery Main Street’s new display, Caldwell Arts Academy Exhibit, will welcome the works of young artists. This exhibit features the works of artists in preschool through middle school and will be displayed in two parts. Part one is available to view until March 30. Part two of the Caldwell exhibit will be available to view from April 1 to May 5. Visit the exhibit in person at Gallery Main Street in the Plaza Tower Atrium or online. All art is available for purchase. Gallery is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Read more here.

MARSHALL — The city of Marshall is addressing excess water usage following winter storms the week of February 15. On Thursday, the city said many properties located inside the city registered consumption above their usual average. The water billing department noted over 100 accounts that have used thousands of gallons above their normal rate. Those who have usage of ten thousand gallons or more over above normal amounts, are encouraged to stop by the water bill department for a possible adjustment.

HENDERSON — A new commercial kitchen is bringing future opportunities to many culinary high school students at Henderson High School. HISD Culinary Arts Teacher Kristal McNew told our news partner KETK how the changes have “spiced up” their department with the hands-on experience. “It’s definitely improved the program. The students are able to get their industry-based training in here that’s needed for, you know, future opportunities out in the real world.“ The new workspace is a result of the High Demand Job Training grant from the Henderson Economic Development Corporation. The new cookhouse includes convection ovens, multiple gas stoves, industry-grade refrigerators and new prep tables.

TYLER — A local Catholic church is opening to 100% capacity starting this weekend. In a prepared statement, Bishop Joseph Strickland of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Tyler said, “Many have already returned to Mass, and I encourage everyone to do so now, aware of the centrality of the Mass to our lives as Catholics and the obligation attached to it.” He added that one does not have an obligation to attend Mass if they are sick or in a high-risk category for COVID-19. Bishop Strickland said that there is no requirement to wear masks and that the decision is up to the individual. I ask and expect all clergy and faithful to continue to take measures to keep everyone safe. Read more here.

TYLER — Dozens of law officers in Smith County converged Wednesday afternoon on a house where they believed a man who was running from officers was located. According to our news partner KETK, law enforcement officers spent several hours trying to make contact. They eventually entered the home after getting no response. Smith County Public Information Officer Larry Christian said the man was not in the residence on Highway 271, at County Road 332, when police got inside. The suspect has been identified as Bryan Mayfield. Continue reading Man thought to be barricaded in Tyler house still on the run