JazzFest This Weekend

JazzFest is this Friday and Saturday, May 2nd and 3rd.  For more on the festival, click the audio link below.

(((AUDIO))) Bryan Barrett reports on JazzFest

Murfreesboro Police Service Awards

The Murfreesboro Police Department presented awards to 22 employees at their “Twenty and Thirty Year Award Ceremony” on Wednesday.  Police Chief Glenn Chrisman tells WGNS News it’s the first time they’ve had such a ceremony and one which they hope will become an annual event…

(((AUDIO))) Glenn Chrisman

Honored for 20-years of service:
Captain Chris Guthrie
Lieutenant Eric Cook
Lieutenant Tom Sissom
Sergeant David Johnson
Sergeant Larry Nobles
Sergeant William Sykes
Detective Bill Heringlake
Detective Mike Robinson
Detective Kerry Thorpe
Police Officer Eddie Burgess
Police Officer Deric Haynes
Department Coordinator Linda Stacy
Communications Supervisor Donna Smith
Telecommunicator Janie Lawrence
Custodian Tony Thompson

Honored for 30-years of service:
Chief Glenn Chrisman
Deputy Chief Randy Garrett
Assistant Chief Roy Fields
Major Hiram Lester
Captain Anita Flagg
Sergeant Eddie Peal
Detective John Singleton

County Mayor Speaks Out on Bible Park Plans

(((AUDIO))) County Mayor Burgess 1

That’s Rutherford County Mayor Ernest Burgess -  touting a tough economic climate and limited means to collect revenue – Wednesday speaking out in favor of the proposed Bible Theme Park USA…

(((AUDIO))) County Mayor Burgess 2

County Mayor Ernest Burgess worked with SafeHarbor Holdings, the developer of the proposed park, to create a “memorandum of understanding.”  The memo would address many of the public’s concerns about the impact of the park, both economically and with funding requests.  Burgess says SafeHarbor must meet all of the requirements for the project for it to happen.  The requirements of this memo will be added to the rezoning request that will be considered by the full County Commission May 15th.  The county mayor spoke Wednesday before the county’s Industrial Development Board.

Robbery at Checkers NEW

The Checkers Drive Through restaurant on Broad Street at Medical Center Parkway was robbed at gunpoint. A worker there said he was approached from behind while taking the trash out. The unknown culprit, dressed in camouflage, forced the worker back into the business. Employees inside were told to lay face down on the ground. Each complied and the robber got-a-way with a little over $400. One of the workers at Checker’s told police the robber was a black male who had a yellow bandanna covering his face. The employee went on to report the culprit was wearing a yellow ball cap with the letter “P” on the front center. Police are still on the lookout for the thug.

Pizza delivery man robbed NEW

A Domino’s Pizza worker was robbed at gunpoint in the Domino’s parking lot located on MTCS Drive near Northfield Blvd. The victim said a black make armed with a snub nosed revolver approached him as he got out of his vehicle after making a delivery. The restaurant employee told police he handed the culprit the money he had just obtained during a delivery. The subject, who was dressed in black wearing a blue bandanna over his face, took the $19 and fled the scene. So far, no arrests have been made.

Latest News: Longtime Murfreesboro resident Danny Page named WGNS / MTSU Liaison. For more on this story, CLICK HERE.

Danny Page of WGNS has been named the 2008 – 2010 WGNS / MTSU Liaison. Page will be in charge of all MTSU radio broadcast on WGNS FM 100.5, FM 101.9 and AM 1450. Page will oversee all MTSU related contest that are aired on WGNS throughout the football and basketball season.

30-second interview with Page 
(Click above to listen)

During a meeting held with Nelligan Sports on Tuesday, Page noted, “We MUST fill the stadium.” This has been a life long dream of Page who is passionate about the Raiders success in 2008 and beyond.

Page can be contacted by calling WGNS at 615-893-5373 or by email at dannypage@bellsouth.net. Page is a WGNS ADVERTISING CONSULTANT.

Vice president of WGNS Scott Walker stated, “Page is one of the most friendly, personable staff members WGNS has ever had. He does a great job and loves to watch businesses succeed.”

Donate Your Old Vehicle…Help The Red Cross

Your unwanted vehicle may save a life.  Donate that old car, boat, truck, or motorcycle to the Red Cross Motors program. Local Red Cross CEO Greg King said, “This will help the Heart of Tennessee Chapter to provide emergency services. That includes everything from tornados to a fire destroying your home.” He noted that the gift will also assist families of deployed soldiers communicate with them during an emergency. Gifts to the Red Cross also support lifesaving training in CPR and First Aid.  A simple call to the Red Cross Motors toll-free phone number, 1-877-RCDONOR (1-877-723-6667) takes care of everything.  You may call 24 hours a day.  There is no charge for vehicle pick-up.  King commented, “You will also qualify for a tax deduction.” When calling to arrange a vehicle pick-up, have your vehicle certificate of title and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) handy. Last year the Heart of Tennessee Chapter responded to more than 150 local emergencies, assisted 348 people with their immediate disaster-related needs. That includes shelter, clothing, food, prescription medications and mental health counseling.  The local Red Cross taught 8,237 Rutherford, Bedford and Cannon county residents lifesaving skills in CPR, first aid and aquatics, as well as important educational programs like babysitter’s training. The Murfreesboro Red Cross office is at 836 Commercial Court, around the corner from UPS. That is also where they have five blood drives weekly. Their website is www.midtnredcross.org

State Tax Collections Not Meeting Budget

The State Funding Board met Tuesday (4/29/08)  and heard from economists on predictions for Tennessee’s revenue collections for the remainder of this fiscal year. The board will reconvene on Thursday (5/1/08)  to issue their consensus opinion on what tax collections Governor Phil Bredesen and the 105^th General Assembly should count on from now until the current fiscal year ends on June 30^th. Back in January when Governor Bredesen initially presented his budget, it assumed $180 million less in new revenue. It appears that tax collections will be much less than that.  Early next week, Governor Bredesen will bring to the legislature his recommendations on how to balance this year’s budget. Finance and Administration Commissioner Dave Goetz, who is a member of the Funding Board, notes that the governor will probably recommend that legislators also adjust spending for the new fiscal year that begins July 1^st.

LaVergne Police Arrest Suspect Wanted In 3 States

An alert LaVergne police officer spotted a car that had been reported stolen in Mississippi.  Officer Doug Stack pulled the suspect over and questioned him about the vehicle.  Kenneth Ray Herbert of Louisiana reportedly told Stack that he borrowed it from a friend.  A vin number check confirmed that the car was stolen, and that Herbert did not have a drivers license.  As electronic notices were sent-out by the LaVergne Police, they discovered that Metro Nashville had a drug related probation violation against him and Smyrna wanted him on an earlier driving without a license charge.  Herbert asked for an attorney when police discovered properties of other persons in the vehicle.  Detectives then learned that the Lake Arthur, Louisiana man was wanted in Mississippi in connection with a strong-armed robbery of an elderly woman at a Wal-Mart store there.  He reportedly took her credit cards and check book.  At this time, LaVergne Police have charged Herbert with possession of stolen property valued at more than $10,000 and driving without a license.  Theft of vehicle charges from Louisiana and strong armed robbery charges from Mississippi are added to the list.  He is now in the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center.  Kenneth Ray Herbert is scheduled to appear in the Rutherford County General Session Court on June 11th.   

Drivers turning in keys for bus fare

The “Relax and Ride” commuter bus that goes between Nashville and Murfreesboro reports the number of bus riders has increased 33 percent from last year. They reported 6,621 monthly riders in January 2008, compared to the 4,401 in January 2007. With gas prices more than $3.50 a gallon in most places, people are looking to other means of transportation. Relax and Ride runs between Nashville and Murfreesboro between 5:42 a.m. and 5:40 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Rape case continued

The case involving a former Riverdale student accused of raping a girl on a school bus has been continued. The accused, 18 year old Brandon Stover reportedly laughed and played with an electronic device in the court room. Judge David Loughery continued the case until May 21, upon the request of Defense Attorney G. Christopher Holder because of new information they have obtained.

Local Man Busted On Child Porn Charges

A 47-year old LaVergne man is awaiting extradition from the Sunshine State on child pornography charges.  Larenzo Corleone is being held on a Fugitive from Justice Warrant.  Detectives in St. Lucie County, Florida alerted local agencies that Corleone was using the internet to chat about child molestation and transmit child pornography.  The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force teamed with Florida as well as Franklin and LaVergne Police Departments to build the case.  The courts in Florida set theLaVergne resident’s bond at a quarter of a million dollars.       

Murfreesboro: Change, Change, Change

Many changes are in store for the city of Murfreesboro over the next couple of years. The City Council recently approved plans for a new condominium to be built near Medical Center Parkway on Thompson Lane. One of the developers commented…

Thompson Lane (Click to Listen)

Other changes the city is facing include the Franklin Road Project. City Councilman Shane McFarland (PICTURED) stated that Franklin Road will be re-aligned in the near future. McFarland also mentioned the council voted to move forward on a greenway extension.

McFarland (Click to Listen)

The City Council will meet this Thursday night at 7 in the Murfreesboro City Hall.

Leaf Avenue Triple Shooting

The Murfreesboro Police Department is investigating a triple -shooting early Tuesday morning in the 17-hundred block of Leaf Avenue.  Murfreesboro Police spokesman Kyle Evans says it happened around 3am…

(((AUDIO))) Evans on Shooting 1

The victims names are Damien Kuzina, Daley Thompson and Thomas Johnson.  Police reports indicate Thompson said the suspect wanted to sell him marijuana, but during the buy the suspect pulled a gun and demanded money.  When the suspect and two others with him fled, shots rang out.  That’s when the three men were shot…

(((AUDIO))) Evans on Shooting 2

Kuzina, Thompson and Johnson were all taken to MTMC, then flown by Lifeflight to Vanderbilt Medical Center.

WGNS Inside Sports Helps Raise Scholarship $$$

The Nathan Stephens Memorial Scholarship Fund was created after the former Blackman basketball standout collapsed on the basketball floor while at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.  He suffered a deadly heart attack.  A scholarship fund was created in January to help Blackman students who who exemplified the traits of strong academics, athletic participation and outstanding character that Stephens demonstrated while he was at Blackman.

To help put this scholarship fund on sound financial footing, WGNS Inside Sports held a fundraiser over the weekend at the Blackman – Riverdale softball game.  For every strike out and hit, various sponsors donated money.  Combining the contributions from Inside Sports, Melanie Davenport and Sherry Thomas at Cellular Concepts, Jeff Bowen at Bowen’s Body Shop, John Brockwell at IDEAS Screen Printing and Embroidery and Snow and Wall Realtor Beth O’Brien…$1,050 was raised.  With money raised at the game, over 14-hundred dollars was raised for the scholarship fund.  A special thanks to Sir Pizza, Champions Run Golf Course and Little Caesars Pizza donated prizes to give away.

Tax Free Weekend Went Well

The Tennessee Tax Free Weekend was held this past weekend. Amanda at Best Buy in Murfreesboro told us the computer section was the first isle hit by shoppers.

(((AUDIO)))  AMANDA

Chris, a clothing retailer, told WGNS…

(((AUDIO)))  CHRIS

Clint at Hot Topic in the Stones River Mall.

(((AUDIO)))  CLINT

A sales representative from JC Penny noted…

(((AUDIO)))  JC Penny

Again, the Tennessee Tax Free Weekend was held this past weekend. Merchandise that were sold as tax free included clothing, computers and other back to school related items.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship

WGNS’ John Claiborne was at the 25^th annual Honors Award Banquet on the MTSU campus this past Friday night. During the event a number of students received the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. scholarship. Mary Scales commented on the importance of the scholarship…

(((AUDIO Soundbyte))) Mary Scales 

The scholarships are awarded to seniors from schools right here in Rutherford County. This year’s winner was Olufemi O. Sokoya from Siegel High School.

St. Clair Street Senior Centers Helps In Many Ways

Murfreesboro’s St. Clair Street Senior Center brings fellowship into the lives of many of this areas age 60-plus population.  In addition to fitness classes, programs showing how to enjoy a computer, games of pool, bridge and more–the local complex broke all records in helping seniors prepare their income taxes.  Senior Center Commission member Joe Christian (pictured above) is the volunteer who heads the tax service.  He and nine volunteers prepared a record number of 1,215 tax returns this year.  In addition, another 400 economic stimulus payment requests were made for persons who did not file a tax return.  When you compare that to the 59 persons who used the service when it was first offered in 1968, the AARP Tax Service has obviously exploded with our local population.  It also introduced many residents to what is available at the St. Clair Street Senior Center.  Center Director Linda Burt noted that from January through March 952 persons visited the center for the first time.  She said, “This is an excellent way to help residents, while also letting them see the variety of activities available.”   The St. Clair Street Senior Center is at 325 St. Clair Street in Murfreesboro.  For more information, phone 848-2550.

Are They Giant Mosquitoes?

They look like giant mosquitoes, but a lot friendlier.  WGNS’ Trey Newton has more…

(((AUDIO))) Crane Flies

 

Common Names:
Crane fly, gollywhoppers, and skeeter eaters. 

For more information, call the Rutherford County Agricultural Extension Service (898-7710). 

Fire Safe Cigarettes

Legislation that would allow for only fire-safe cigarettes to be sold in Tennessee is being considered by the governor.  WGNS’ Dan Eidem (EYE-dum) has more…

(((AUDIO))) Fire Safe Cigs

24/7 Bible Reading Marathon Underway

Rain did not dampen the spirits at the 13th Annual Middle Tennessee Bible Reading Marathon.  On Sunday (4/27/08)  afternoon at 3:00 organizer Ken Sharp welcomed the crowd who was gathered under a large tent in front of the Cannonsburgh welcome cabin.  The Christian musical group Encounter warmed everyone up and then the (above photo) Eagleville High School ROTC presented the Colors while MTSU music major Melissa Nanny sang our National Anthem.  The reading of the entire Bible around the clock over the next few days began with the blowing of the shofar by Fort Campbell Chief Warrant Officer Rene Llanos.  Volunteers will be reading the Bible around the clock until noon this coming Thursday (5/1/08).  That will usher-in the National Day of Prayer service at Cannonsburgh.  Sharp said, “We welcome families, individuals, civic and church groups, everyone to drop by and read from the Bible.” (L-R: State Representative John Hood, Rev. Ken Sharp, Bobbie Patray)

Football Great Jim Brown Was In ‘Boro

National Football League Hall of Famer Jim Brown was in the ‘Boro this weekend to give a shot in the arm to his AMER-I-CAN program.  The 73-year old is best remembered as running back for the Chicago Bears and the wide receiver for the Tampa Buccaneers.  Brown founded the program in 1988 to give troubled youth guidance from mentors who will teach them life skills.  A pilot program in the Volunteer State is being started at Oakland High School.  State Senator Jim Tracy is pushing the concept that may be available in the 2009-2010 school year across the state.  It was no accident that Murfreesboro was chosen as this state’s pilot site.  1972 Murfreesboro Central grad Bobby Glanton Smith works with Brown’s Los Angeles organization.  Smith shared these plans with WGNS listeners in a recent Action Line broadcast.  Oakland Principal Butch Vaughn sees the potential of the AMER-I-CAN program and is working to make it a reality with this pilot program.  At a time when divorces outnumber successful marriages, sex out of wedlock is common, and when gangs are taking the place of families–Brown notes the AMER-I-CAN program has the power to change life’s path to a positive direction for many at-risk youngsters.  WGNS News will be keeping you informed on this exciting program.

Embassy Suites Worker Falls 11-Stories To Death

A sheet rock worker fell to his death Saturday (4/27/08)  at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center being constructed on Murfreesboro’s Medical Center Parkway.  WGNS’ Scott Vaughn has the story…

(((AUDIO))) Scott Vaughn Report

The 32-year old male was thought to be at lunch, so the fact that he was missing was not immediately noticed.  Reports indicate that the deceased man was a subcontractor for a Tulsa based construction firm.  His body was found on the second floor level of an air shaft.  Paramedics commented that he apparently was not wearing a safety harness, and fell through a small 24 by 42-inch hole on the eleventh floor.  That’s a distance of 110-feet.  The air shaft goes from the roof to the basement, and is designed to remove smoke from the structure in the event of a fire.  Detectives from the Murfreesboro Police Department as well as Tennessee’s arm of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) are conducting an investigation into the worker’s death.  Flintco is a century old firm that reportedly has an impeccable safety record with no fatalities in the past 30-years.  Corporate officials have flown here to be a part of the investigation.

Note:  The Embassy Suites Hotel will have 283 rooms and is owned and operated by Springfield, Missouri based John Q. Hammons Hotels and Resorts.  The adjacent Conference Center has 80,000 square feet.  The complex is scheduled to open in mid-September.    

Creative Thinking With International FolkFest

The popular International FolkFest date will be here before you know it.  Director Steve Cates says dancers and musicians from Germany, India and Indonesia will join our own Cripple Creek Cloggers for shows on June 15th through 22nd.  Each year the question arises on where do you economically house and feed more than fifty visitors?  Creative thinking brought-up the new Rutherford County Correctional Work Center.  The beautiful new complex that just opened last week on South Church Street will only be partially used in the beginning.  That’s because there is not enough staff to operate the entire complex at this time.  County Mayor Ernest Burgess and Work Center Superintendent Alan Miller graciously rolled out the red carpet for this summer’s international visitors.  As it stands, the troupe of twenty from India are scheduled to stay in this multi-million dollar facility. 

PUBLIC SHOW:  Friday night, June 20th, at 7pm in the Leanna Community Center (4303 Sulphur Springs Road).  Admission is only $5.00.  All groups will perform at this time! 

Website:  http://www.mboro-international-folkfest.org/

Missing Teen Arrested In Nashville

The missing teen alert issued by the LaVergne Police Department has taken an unexpected twist.  The 14-year old girl who left her home over a month ago was arrested Friday afternoon (4/25/08)  by the Metro Nashville Police.  Since Mai Khantikone is a juvenile, Metro is unable to release details around her arrest.  Again, the LaVergne teen who left home March 14th has been found, in fact she was arrested by the Metro Police. 

Golf Scramble May 16

The ninth annual Smyrna Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (SPCAAA) golf scramble will be May 16. The event will be held at the Cedar Crest Gold Course, and helps the association support community programs such as Shop with a Cop, and National Night Out Against Crime. The entry cost is $250.00 per team with a maximum of four members; which includes car rental, greens fee and meals. Mail your entry form to PO Box 1333, Smyrna, TN 37167 by May 9; checks should be made out to SPCAAA. For more information, contact Tom Harmon at 615-785-0260.

Shadowens New MTCS Football Coach

After a vote of the Middle Tennessee Christian School Board of Directors Thursday night, former Smyrna football coach Philip Shadowens was officially offered the job.  He accepted and was introduced as the Cougar’s new head coach Friday.  Shadowens, who led Smyrna to the county’s first ever back-to-back 5-A football championships will coach the Single-A MTCS team, which is only in its fourth year.  He was a player at Smyrna and coach for 15-years before resigning a few weeks ago.  Matt Williams was chosen by Smyrna principal Robert Raikes to succeed Shadowens.

SCAM: Someone Poses as Volunteer Firefighters

There’s someone in the Walter Hill community posing as a volunteer firefighter, soliciting money donations.  Rutherford County Fire Coordinator Larry Farley tells WGNS News it’s a scam…

(((AUDIO))) Larry Farley

You should contact authorities if you’re encountered with such a solicitor. 

Correctional Work Center Now Open

Rutherford County residents are safer – thanks to the opening of the new Correctional Work Center. WGNS broadcast the ribbon-cutting of the new facility live. Superintendent Alan Miller says the facility has been a long time coming…
(L-R) Alan Miller, Jim Tracey, John Hood, Gary Farley, Rick Hall and military representatives line-up for the opening of the Rutherford County Correctional Work Center.

(((AUDIO))) Alan Miller

Grant Kelley, who serves on the Correctional Work Center Board, says the county saved millions on the building…

(((AUDIO))) Grant Kelley

County Commissioner Gary Farley believes the money it took to build the Correctional Work Center was worth it, in terms of safety of Rutherford Countians…

(((AUDIO))) Gary Farley

Commissioner Rick Hall is chairman of the Property Management Committee…

(((AUDIO))) Rick Hall

Committee member and Commissioner Mike Sparks tells WGNS News…

(((AUDIO))) Mike Sparks

County Mayor Ernest Burgess says the Correctional Work Center became a reality because of the work of former County Mayor Nancy Allan and several commissioners not currently serving…

(((AUDIO))) Ernest Burgess

The new Correctional Work Center is open on South Church Street, behind the old County Workhouse…which was built sometime in the early 1940’s. The 87-thousand square foot facility, which along with the new Juvenile Justice Center, cost 23-million dollars. It will serve as a minimum-security facility for inmates who are allowed to work outside of the property.

National Volunteer Week…Red Cross Wants You!

Did you realize that April 27^th through May 3^rd is National Volunteer Week? Heart of Tennessee Red Cross CEO Greg King knows first hand what a difference those who give their time and talents make. King said, “Without volunteers, the American Red Cross could not complete its mission to provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.”  At the Heart of Tennessee Chapter, more than 156 volunteers help people affected by domestic and international disasters, support blood drives, teach lifesaving skills and serve members of the military and their families.  Recently nearly 50 volunteers helped raise vital funds for the 2008 “Join the Red Cross Campaign.”   King commented, “The Heart of Tennessee Chapter welcomes volunteers of all ages and skills.  Right now we especially need people who are interested in becoming part of our Disaster Action Team to help local disaster victims to get emergency food, clothing and shelter.”  He noted that to volunteer, contact Kiel Hargrove at the local Red Cross (615-893-4272 extension 107).

Chamber Hosting Talk On Exploding Faith Tourism

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce continues its support for Bible Park USA.  They are bringing World Religious Travel Association’s President Kevin J. Wright to Murfreesboro to share news of the new era of faith tourism.  Data indicates that 25 per cent of Americans are now interested in faith-based vacations.  The World Tourism Organization shows that religious tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors.  Wright commented, “With 600-million faith-based trips per year, 300-million religious travelers globally, and major world-class travel companies entering the marketplace today, faith-based travel is the greatest story never told in today’s tourism industry.”  There is no admission fee, however since it will be at the Chamber’s office at 501 Memorial Boulevard, space is limited.  If you wish to attend the 8:00 o’clock event on Wednesday morning, May 8th, phone 893-6565 to make reservations. 

CASA WALK with First Lady on Friday

The walk to benefit the Rutherford County Child Advocacy Center is tomorrow (FRIDAY). Registration begins at 9. CASA Director Sharon DeBore told us what the program means for children…

DeBoar (Click to Listen)

The First Lady of Tennessee Andre Conte (pictured), the governor’s wife, will lead the walk. Registration is at the Murfreesboro Civic Plaza at the corner of Church and Vine Streets on Friday morning at 9.

Gas thieves HIT THE PUMPS, for free

Buying gasoline when the gas station is closed is a difficult task… especially when your up to no good. In nearby Nashville, a gas stealing scheme landed at least two people in hot water. Metro’s South Precinct couldn’t help but to notice a line of cars pulling into the Shell Station on Harding Place after the filling station had already closed for the evening. After blocking in 21-year old college student Brandi Washington, it was realized the after dark customers weren’t buying gas at all, they were allegedly stealing fuel.

Washington and another motorist by the name of Christopher Sims, told officers they were accessing the gasoline by manipulating the credit card machine. One officer on the scene commented that although gas was being pumped, no dollar amount was showing on the digital readout. Washington told police she learned of the scheme from a fellow college student. Sims, who is from Nashville and does not know Washington, told authorities his wife taught him how to steal the fuel from closed pumps. Sims said she learned of the trick while at work.

Evidently, its easy to catch thieves who steal from gas pumps after hours because it can take as long as 45-minutes to fill a single tank. When the gas pumps are closed, they do not flow at the regular speed as when they are open. The station management in Nashville told police they were unsure of exactly how much gas station was stolen but, NUMEROUS receipts were found around the pumps… Each receipt stated the cost was ZERO.

Washington and Sims were issued state misdemeanor citations charging theft.

Early Thursday Morning Fatal Crash UPDATE

NAMES RELEASED BELOW: Shortly after 3:00 o’clock Thursday morning (4/24/08), there was a fatal crash in Murfreesboro between a car and a pickup truck.  The accident occurred at the intersection of Thompson Lane and Windsor Green Drive.

A Murfreesboro police officer clocked a Nissan Altima traveling along Thompson Lane at speeds near 100 miles per hour. The Altima, driven by 22-year old  Nono O. Oketa, crashed into a Ford F-150 pickup truck after loosing control on a curve near LeeAnna Road. The truck was driven by 49-year old Willie Barker, Sr. After Oketa struck Barkers’ truck, he ran into a brick mailbox. Barker, who was behind the wheel of the truck, was not seriously injured. Paramedics say Oketa was flown by LifeFlight Helicopter to Vanderbilt Medical Center. His condition is not known at this time. Alcohol was NOT detected in Barker’s truck or on his person. Alcohol was however detected on those inside the Nissan Altima.

21-Year old John Morissey was a passenger in the Altima and reports show he died at the scene of the accident. A second passenger in the Altima by the name of Brock W. Marlin was taken to Middle Tennessee Medical Center.

Thompson Lane was closed to traffic for more than 3-hours while officers treated the injured and completed their investigation.  The road was re-opened at 6:30.

The Fatal Accident Crash Team continues to investigate the wreck.

Robbery leaves Rockvale man in ICU

There was a robbery on the Murfreesboro Greenway trail earlier this week. Reports indicate a 43-year old Rockvale resident was sitting on a park bench near Front Street shortly after the sun set.  Around 8:30 in the evening, he was approached by three Hispanic males. When the culprits asked the victim for money, he refused!  Seconds later, the three thugs beat the victim with their fist and a stick until he lost consciousness.  Two-hours later, unknown persons found the victim.  The Good Samaritans ran to Captain D’s and dialed 9-1-1. The robbery victim is in the I.C.U. at Middle Tennessee Medical Center.  The Rockvale man is being treated for several rib fractures, a lacerated spleen and numerous facial injuries. The three bandits got away with $14-dollars in cash.  If you saw or heard anything suspicious that might help police solve this strong armed robbery, call CrimeStoppers at 893-STOP (7867).  You remain anonymous, and not even the police know who you are.  Plus, you could receive a CASH reward of up to $1,000 if your tip leads to an arrest and conviction.

Drug suspect CAUGHT

Crimes dealing with drug possession continue to increase across Middle Tennessee. In Murfreesboro, 24-year old Kenny L. Cross of Courtland Street has been apprehended on felony cocaine possession charges. The Tennessee native has also been charged with resisting arrest. City police officers accuse Cross of trying to run from them after they found a bag of cocaine in his possession. The foot pursuit didn’t last long thanks to the quick work of Murfreesboro Officer’s Hobbs, Lyons and Price.

After being placed in handcuffs, Cross was booked into the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center under a $15,500 bond. He will appear before a judge on June 10th.

UPDATE: Man badly beat behind bar, suspect caught

19-year old Alonzo Pedro Olvera has been arrested in connection to the hold-up and beating of a Shelbyville man behind a Murfreesboro night club. The victim in the case is recovering but a police report dated April 20th indicates during the attack he was allegedly kicked in the face and badly beaten. Olvera, who was caught by Plaza Mexico security guards, faces aggravated assault and aggravated robbery charges. Plaza Mexico is a bar and nightclub off of South Church Street near I-24.

Olvera told arresting officers he does not have a drivers license or social security number. He told police he is a Murfreesboro resident who lives on Sherrill Blvd. Olvera will appear in court on May 12th.

Former detective confesses to identity theft

A former detective with the Rutherford County sheriff’s department has pleaded guilty to felony charges of aggravated identity theft. Warf resigned last year; he had been a patrol duty officer for years until being promoted to detective sergeant. He admitted to Judge Robert L. Echols that between December 2006 and August 2007, he had obtained names, social security number and other private forms of identification from several victims.

Smyrna Has A New Football Coach

Smyrna High School has a new football coach. Former Smyrna assistant Matt Williams has been hired to lead the Bulldogs. Principal Robert Raikes made the announcement Wednesday.  Williams leaves his current position as defensive coordinator at Blackman, where he coached with his brother, Mark…who is the offensive coordinator. Philip Shadowens resigned as coach earlier this month after 15-years at the helm and back-to-back state championships in 2006 and 2007.

Funeral Services for Joe B. Jackson Set

Funeral services for former Murfreesboro Mayor Joe B. Jackson have been set for 10am Saturday at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Reverend Fred Hembree will officiate the services. Visitation will be held from 2 until 8pm Friday, also at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Alive Hospice, the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association.

Link: Woodfin Memorial Chapel