Saturday, January 16th
Verden Police Seek Pursuit Suspect
Verden police are asking for help in finding a man who led police on a pursuit through rural parts of Grady and Caddo County yesterday. The suspect crashed his car then was able to elude authorities on foot. The chase began about 3:30 yesterday. The pursuit went south of Verden then into Caddo County, where the suspect crashed and rolled upside down about four miles south and one mile east of Anadarko. The highway patrol said CR 1360 and Turnpike Road was closed for about 45 minutes. Verden police posted on its Facebook page that they are looking for Trevor Jay Stevens of Chickasha in connection with the pursuit. In a check of on-line court records, Stevens had an emergency protective order filed against him in Grady County in May of 2019. Anyone with information is asked to contact Verden police, the Grady County Sheriff's Office, or local law enforcement.
Rollover Accident East of Chickasha
Emergency crews are on the scene of a rollover accident east of the Tabler Y at this hour (7 a.m. Saturday). The Highway Patrol, Grady county sheriff's deputies, and Chickasha EMS were called out about 6:15. The accident is on State Highway 39 about a ½ mile west of Highway 19C which is the Alex Highway. Unconfirmed reports indicate a car was westbound on Highway 39 when the driver lost control and crashed. A passenger was ejected and was transported to the hospital. It was reported the driver left the scene.
Fire Destroys Barn
Also this morning, firefighters were summoned to a barn fire north of Alex. The barn is said to be a total loss. Buddy Myers with the Grady County Fire Department says volunteers with the Alex Fire Department were called out about 6:30 a.m. to the fire, which is about two miles norht of Alex. No word yet on what might have sparked that blaze.
Stephens County Gets 'Purple Heart' Designation
Motorists in Stephens County will soon see road signs indicating that it is known as a Purple Heart County, recognizing military veterans who died or suffered injuries while serving in the armed forces. Stephens County deputy sheriff Robbie Blackford came up with the idea last fall. He tells KSWO TV that he first talked to the sheriff and then approached county commissioners, who quickly approved the suggestion. Blackford was awarded a Purple Heart while in combat in 2007 and that he wanted to pay respect to his brothers and sisters who died and those who survived their injuries. Blackford got some help for the project from the Mt. Scott Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. The signs will be posted at the county lines on U.S. Highway 81 north and south, Highway 7 east and west, and on Highways 29 and 53.
Sheriff's Office Updates Wanted List
The Grady County Sheriff's Office has updated its list of outstanding warrants. Here's public information officer Lisa Hatchett.
If you have information regarding any of these individuals, your asked to contact the sheriff's office by calling 405-222-5085.
Talk Show Topic
Here's what we're talking about this weekend. Zelda Sullivan with the Oklahoma Blood Institute is our guest on the KOOL Konversation. Find a link to the program under the Community tab on this website.
Obituaries
Natalie Rutherford
Graveside service for Natalie Rutherford, 86, of Duncan will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18th at the Bradley Cemetery. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.
Juanita Van Skike
Services are pending for Juanita Van Skike of Las Vegas, Nevada, formerly of Chickasha. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.
Friday, January 15th
Proposed RV Parking Ordinance goes to Chix City Council
(This story story is revised from a previous edition which included the wrong date for the city council meeting. This version has the correct date. We apologize for the error) - A new ordinance being proposed by Chickasha city leaders would regulate the parking of recreation vehicles, boats, and water craft in the city limits. A public hearing on the proposal will be held during next week's city council meeting. Officials say there currently is not an ordinance concerning the parking of RVs on any residential, commercial, or industrial-zoned property. Some of the proposed guidelines in residential areas would include that no part of an RV should extend over a public easement or right-of-way; and an RV should not be used for housekeeping, living, or sleeping quarters. If it’s in the front yard, it must be parked on a paved surface but not an improved gravel surface. A gravel surface would be ok for the side or back yard. The issue has been recommended for approval by the Planning Commission and administrators. The city council will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19th at city hall.
Suspect Faces Child Molestation Allegations
A Grady County man is accused of child molestation. 57-year old Ron Merritt of Ninnekah was arrested by a Grady County deputy Tuesday afternoon after a warrant had been issued for his arrest. A probable cause affidavit alleges that Merritt sexually assaulted a 10-year old girl three times between October and November of last year. Prosecutors have charged Merritt with two counts of lewd acts to a child. He is out of jail after posting a $50,000 bond. Merritt is to announce his attorney on Feb. 5th with a preliminary hearing conference set for Feb. 24th.
Former Kiowa Tribe Chairman, J.T. Goombi, Dies
The former Chairman of the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma, J.T. Goombi has died. Goombi passed away Tuesday night after a battle with COVID-19. He was 83. Goombi was an advocate for numerous Native American tribes across the country for years. Most recently, he was elected to serve on the Kiowa Tribe's legislature. Among the many groups he worked with include the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the National Congress of American Indians, he served as chairman of the United Tribes of Oklahoma and Texas, and chairman of the 28 Treaty Tribes of Oklahoma. He had been hosting a weekly radio program, Issues from a Native Perspective on our sister station, New Country 985 KACO. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19th at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Ft. Cobb.
Silver Alert for Fletcher Woman Canceled
A Silver Alert which had been issued for a missing Fletcher woman has been canceled. The Comanche County Sheriff’s Office originally issued the alert for 60-year old Cassie Riley Thursday evening. An e-mail from the sheriff's office just after 9:00 a.m. today (Friday, Feb. 15th) indicated that Riley had been located and she is OK.
More Okla. Counties OK'd for Fed Storm Damage Funds
More Oklahoma counties have been approved for federal help to pay for recovery and clean-up costs related to last October's ice storm. McClain, Stephens, and Comanche counties are among the 16 additional counties approved for FEMA assistance. That's 29 total counties approved to get FEMA funds to help in their recovery work. Previous counties approved include Grady, Caddo, Canadian, and Oklahoma counties. Total damage and recovery costs statewide are estimated at $30 million. In Chickasha costs are estimated around $1.5 million and in Anadarko it’s about $200,000.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $53.47 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $56.42.
Natural gas is $2.66 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,851 and silver is $25.42.
Obituary
Herman Waters
A family service will be held at a later date for Herman Waters, 91, of Chickasha. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.
Thursday, January 14th
Wildfire Threat Elevated
Conditions will be favorable for an outbreak of wildfires today and tomorrow. Buddy Myers with the Grady County Fire Department says all the pieces needed for wildfires will be in place.
Myers encourages residents to do what they can to prevent wildfires. That includes putting off the burning of any trash or brush piles, being mindful of towing trailers and equipment by making sure there are no dragging chains, and by not throwing cigarette butts out the window.
Fire Damages Alex Mobile Home
Firefighters were dispatched to a mobile home fire in Alex early this morning. Volunteers from the Alex and Bradley departments were called out just before 1:30 a.m. to the fire that was within a few blocks of the fire department. Crews saw fire and smoke coming from a bedroom when they arrived. No one was home when the fire started. Crews were able to contain the damage to the bedroom of the 1,800 sq. ft. mobile home which is a rental owned by Danny Harrison. Investigators believe a short in an electric space heater may be to blame but they'll know more when they return to complete their investigation this morning. Estimated damage was about $15,000. Fire crews spent about two hours putting that fire out.
State National Guard Troops Head to Nation's Capitol
Members of The Oklahoma National Guard are headed to the nation's capitol to help provide security for next week's inauguration of president-elect Joe Biden. The Oklahoman reports that 400 soldiers and airmen will be part of what is expected to be 20,000 guard members from across the country to help guard against any violence that may erupt. The FBI has warned that armed protests are possible at all 50 state capitals and in Washington, D.C. in the days leading up to the inauguration next Wednesday. In a news release, the Oklahoma National Guard indicates it will assist the District of Columbia National Guard with crowd management, traffic control, communications, logistical, and medical support. In Oklahoma City, state lawmakers and state employees are being advised to stay away from the capital building should any protests break out there.
Suspect Pleads No-Contest in Drunk Driving Arrest
A Chickasha man will serve 90 days in jail and have a seven-year suspended sentence after pleading no contest to a felony DUI charge. Documents filed in Grady County District Court indicate that back in September, 61-year old Ted McKenna was at the wheel of a car that caused a traffic accident south of 29th and Grand Avenue and that he left the scene on foot. He was found an hour later about two miles from the accident site. McKenna's blood-alcohol level at the time was 0.13 which is well over the limit considered to be under the influence of alcohol. McKenna also pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of leaving the scene of an accident. He was also ordered to pay $600 in fines. On-line court records indicate McKenna pleaded guilty to a previous felony DUI charge in 2008.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $52.91 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $56.06.
Natural gas is $2.71 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,838 and silver is $25.24.
Obituary
Paula Lucas
A memorial service for Paula Lucas, 87, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16th at the Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church. Arrangements are with Sevier Funeral Home.
Wednesday, January 13th
Sheriff's Vehicles to get Dash Cams
A grant awarded to the Grady County Sheriff's Office will help pay for dashboard cameras to be installed in many of the sheriff's office vehicles. Sheriff Jim Weir said the dash cams will be able to work hand-in-hand with other equipment the deputies have.
Weir says the video systems will be useful in showing the deputy's performance should their actions be called into question.
Amber Mayor Elected Prez of Oklahoma Council of Mayors
Amber Mayor Craig Parham will be leading a statewide group of mayors this year. Parham was elected president of the Mayors Council of Oklahoma which includes mayors from small towns and large cities alike. Norman Mayor Breea Clark will serve as vice president of the group. Mike Fina is the executive director of the council. In a press release, Fina said both Parham and Clark have shown strong leadership skills that will be important as they enhance the goals and objectives of the council. Parham has served as Mayor of Amber since 2001 and has helped to oversee the construction of a new community center, administrative offices, water tower, sewage system, improvements to the cemetery, and improvements to the fire department.
Pair Arrested for Alleged Drug Trafficking, Child Neglect
Two Chickasha men face drug trafficking and child neglect charges. 48-year old Daniel Lee Maxwell and 33-year old Matthew Dan Lane were arrested by Chickasha police last week. A probable cause affidavit indicates that authorities responded to a call at a home near 15th and Dakota regarding a man being held at gunpoint. The homeowner gave police consent to search the house where Maxwell, Lane, and Lane's teenaged son had been staying. The affidavit alleges investigators found meth, drug items, and numerous firearms. Maxwell and Lane both remain in the county jail. Bond was set at $75,000 for both men.
Alleged Stalker Behind Bars
Another Chickasha man is jailed after being arrested for stalking. An arrest warrant affidavit filed by Chickasha police indicates that Ronnie Dean Yates violated a protective order filed against him last September. Police were called to a home in mid-December where Yates was allegedly throwing rocks at the residence, and that he had been sending threatening messages to the victim. Yates was taken into custody last Friday and this week was formally charged with stalking, threatening violence, and violation of a protective order. He remains in jail on a $50,000 bond.
Ag Marketing Meeting for Livestock Producers Set
Insects, mites and other pests that affect livestock is the subject of the next ag marketing meeting with Grady County OSU Extension. Dr. Justin Talley will discuss controlling insects which are known by the scientific name of arthropods. The meeting will be next Tuesday, Jan. 19th at 7 a.m. at the Grady County office. It will also be available via the Zoom platform. Masks will be required for producers who would like to attend in person.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $53.21 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $56.58.
Natural gas is $2.75 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,852 and silver is $25.31.
Obituary
Patty Sisco
A memorial service for Patty Sisco, 76, of Chickasha will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16th at First Assembly of God. Arrangements are with Ferguson Funeral Home.
Tuesday, January 12th
Fire Destroys Cement Area Home
Another area family is picking up the pieces after a fire destroys their home. It happened south of Cement in the pre-dawn hours Monday. Firefighters from Cement, Acme, New Hope, Apache and Comanche County were dispatched to the fire just before 4 a.m. Media reports indicate the home was occupied when the fire started. KSWO-TV cites neighbors as saying the individuals in the home were able to get out safely. There's no word on how that fire may have started. Fires have destroyed three homes over the last three days. The others occurred west of Rush Springs and in Bradley.
Church to Serve as COVID-19 Vaccination Site
A Chickasha church is working with the state health department to provide a location for COVID-19 vaccinations. The vaccinations will be available this Friday at Epworth Methodist Church. However, the health department's vaccine portal indicates that no appointments are available. Church officials announced via social media that the church does not have any control over appointments. Oklahomans wanting to get the vaccine can register through the portal: which is vaccinate.oklahoma.gov
There is a questionnaire users will have to fill out. Those currently eligible to get the vaccine include health care workers, first responders, and individuals who are 65-and-older.
Public Hearings set for Chix Planning Commission
Some public hearings are scheduled in front of the City of Chickasha's Planning Commission this afternoon. Brannan Bordwine is asking to re-zone property at 828 S. 4th Street from local commercial use to general commercial use. Cedar Creek Consulting has public hearings for preliminary plats of The Villas Addition along Grand Avenue. Another hearing concerns a recreational vehicle parking and storage ordinance. Regardless of rulings made by the planning commission the issues will be forwarded to the city council for final approval or denial.
Second Arrest Made in Dibble-area Theft
Grady County authorities have made a second arrest in connection with the theft of some items from a Dibble area home. 29-year old Ronald Ralf Alspaugh of Blanchard was taken into custody last week after a warrant had been issued for his arrest. Prosecutors have charged him with felonies that include knowingly concealing stolen property, conspiracy, and having a firearm after former felony conviction. Previously, Stormy Kirkland was arrested and charged in connection with that mid-December theft. On-line court records indicate that last summer, Alspaugh was given a three-year suspended sentence after pleading no contest to a felony domestic assault charge following a 2019 arrest. Alspaugh is out of jail on the most recent charge after posting bond.
Suspect Faces Vehicle Theft Charge
A Chickasha man is arrested and charged in connection with an auto theft. 29-year old Jacob Daniel Farley was taken into custody last week after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Farley was wanted in connection with the theft of a vehicle in the Rush Springs area last October. Farley has been formally charged with larceny of a vehicle and he remains in the county jail pending a $10,000 bond. Farley pleaded guilty to a previous charge of having a stolen vehicle after a 2018 arrest by Chickasha police and was sentenced to one year in jail and one year of probation.
Energy and Metals
Crude on the NYMEX is $52.25 is per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $55.66.
Natural gas is $2.74 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,860 and silver is $25.56.
Obituary
Charles Dungan
A private family graveside service will be held at Fairlawn Cemetery for Charles Dungan, 86, of Chickasha. He owned and operated Chickasha Lumber from the 1960s to the early 1990s. Arrangements are with McRay Funeral Home.
Monday, January 11th
Couple Hospitalized After Propane Explosion
A man and his wife suffered severe burns in a propane explosion at a home between Rush Springs and Sterling. It happened about 6:00 p.m. Saturday on the west edge of Grady County on CR 1530. Grady County Fire Department Public Information Officer Buddy Myers says the couple was staying in an 1,800 sq. ft. metal building while a new home was under construction. Myers says investigators believe there was a propane leak which was ignited by an unknown source. Todd and Pam Fasett were both air-lifted to an Oklahoma City hospital where they are being treated for severe burns. Farwell and Acme firefighters spent about 2 1/2 hours at the scene. The loss to the metal building and its contents were estimated at more than $160,000.
Fire Destroys One Mobile Home, Damages Another
Volunteer firefighters also responded to a fire in Bradley that destroyed one mobile home and damaged another. Alex, Bradley, and Naples fire fighters responded to that call about 5:00 p.m. Sunday. Myers said the mobile home that was totaled was being used for storage and was next to the other mobile home which was occupied by the owners. The second mobile home received minor damage from the radiant heat of the initial fire. No one was injured. Investigators believe the fire started in the living room and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was estimated at $6,000. 23 firefighters and 12 trucks were sent to battle that blaze and were on the scene for about two hours.
Co-op Agreement Would Allow Pioneer Students
to Play Spring Soccer at Chickasha Middle School
A co-op agreement to allow 7th and 8th grade students at Pioneer School to play soccer at Chickasha Middle School will be considered by the Chickasha school board tonight. It's the first such co-op agreement to be discussed after Chickasha schools revised its policy to allow students from other districts to compete in extra-curricular activities which aren't offered by a student's home school district. If approved, the agreement would be for the upcoming spring soccer season. The school board will also consider accepting a more than $400,000 grant from the Chickasaw Nation to help pay for distance-learning costs associated with COVID-19. The panel will meet at 6:00 o'clock tonight at the Chickasha High School Activity Center Auditorium. The meeting will also be video-streamed on the school's YouTube channel. A link can be accessed on the district's website.
Anniversary Marked for Sipuel-Fisher's Civil Rights Work
This week marks an historic week for civil rights in America and it has a Chickasha connection. It was 73-years ago that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher, allowing her to become the first black student to attend the OU School of Law. Dr. R.P. Ashanti-Alexander, Chickasha City Councilman and principal at Chickasha’s Lincoln School, says the action was one of the many steps leading to the Supreme Court’s Brown vs. Board of Education ruling which led to desegregation in public schools throughout the country. Sipuel-Fisher graduated from Lincoln High School in 1941. Ashanti-Alexander says he'll spend part of the week helping his students learn of Sipuel-Fisher’s work.
It was Jan. 12, 1948 that the Supreme Court unanimously ruled in Sipuel-Fisher's favor just four days after hearing arguments in the case. Chickasha Mayor Chris Mosley has proclaimed this week as Dr. Ada Lois Sipuel-Fisher Educational Justice week in the city.
Energy and Metals
Crude oil on the NYMEX is $52.24 per barrel.
London-based Brent crude is $55.99.
Natural gas is $2.70 per million BTUs.
Gold is $1,849 and silver is $25.22.
Obituary
Troy Rodney Certain
Funeral for Troy Rodney Certain, 55, of Lawton will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16th at Friendship Pentecostal Church in Lawton. Arrangements are with Brown-Thomas Funeral Home.
