Your Local News

GOLF REGISTRATION

2010-05-28T10:26:00.002-05:00

The First Tee of Greater Texarkana will hold Summer Registration from 10 am to 6 pm on Tuesday June 1st at the First Tee Clubhouse at New Haven Golf Club in Texarkana, Arkansas. The program is for children ages 3-17. Registration is $35 dollars for new members and $10 dollars for currently enrolled participants. For more information phone (870) 774-golf thats 774-4653.

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS

2010-05-28T10:20:00.003-05:00

There will once again this year be a Veterans Memorial Day Event in Texarkana. It will get underway Monday May 31st with a Veterans Memorial Service at the Miller County Courthouse at 11 a.m. Immediately folling there will be Mmeorial Day Walk from the courthouse to the Korean-Vietnam Memorial at 7th at Stateline. The days events will conclude with a service at the Hillcrest Memorial Park on Highway 67 West in Wake Villege. That service will include an avenue of over 285 U.S. Flags and observe over 1200 U.S. Flags marking the graves of veterans. The service will include music, a guest speaker a 21 gun salute and a red, white and blue balloon release.

HIGH SCHOOL RODEO

2010-05-28T10:15:00.002-05:00

Southwest Arkansas High School Rodeo invites you to come our and support area youth at the Finals Rodeo this Friday and Saturday May 28th and 29th. It all gets started at 6 pm on Friday and 5 pm on Saturday evenings. The Top 15 in each event are competing for over $60,000 thousand dollars in saddles, buckles, scholarships, and other prizes. There will be Bull Riding, goat tying, roping events, barrel racing and more. Saturday night there will even be a Bikini Barrel Race with some of the members parents. It is one of the funniest things you will see this year.

BULLDOG 100

2010-05-21T10:27:00.002-05:00

The Bulldog 100 Mini-Nascar Race is going on this weekend at Texarkana College. The annual event to raise money for the Rising Star Scholarship Fund at T.C. is going on today and Saturday, with qualifying today and the races tommorrow. Besides the racing there will be food and fun activities for the entire family.

FAMILY WEEKENDS AT CENTRAL MALL

2010-05-06T11:39:00.002-05:00

Central Mall in Texarkana, Texas has announced plans for weekend family time at the shopping center. The new Family Weekends@5 program calls for guests under the age of 18 to be accompanied by a parent\guardian after 5 pm on Fridays and Saturday evenings. The parent\guardian must be 21 or older and may not be responsible for more than four unrelated youth. All guests must abide by the mall's Code of Conduct.

Mall security may request to see a valid photo ID to verify age. Colored wristbands will denote individuals who have been checked and proven to be 18 or older. Teens employed at the mall must present proof of employment. Unaccompained youth who are under 18 will either be directed to a designated waiting area to await transportation, or be instructed to return home the same way they arrived at the mall.

The new Family Weekends @ 5 program will begin at 5p.m. on Friday May 14th, 2010.

LOCAL ARREST

2010-05-04T09:58:00.002-05:00

The Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department has arrested 50 year old Gary Allen Underwood on charges of filing a false police report, a felony crime in the state of Arkansas. The arrest was a result of a 6 month investigation, which authorities say stemmed from a report allegedly filed by Underwood in October of 2009, alleging that he had been kidnapped at gunpoint and forced to drive his SNAP-ON company vehicle into the Sulphur River.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is strongly urged to contact Sgt. Bobby Jordan or Det. Les Moody of the Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department at (903) 798-3154 or Texarkana Area Crime Stoppers at (903) 793-STOP.

MOVIES IN THE PARK

2010-05-04T09:56:00.002-05:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas Parks & Recreation Department will kick off its Spring Movies in the Park at Spring Lake Park this Thursday May 6th. The 1st movie will be "The Blind Side" (rated PG-13). The show starts at 8 p.m. This is a free event. For more information call the Parks office at (903) 798-3978.

CODE RED EXPANDS TO INCLUDE SEVERE WEATHER

2010-04-30T09:13:00.004-05:00

Texarkana Emergencey Management Coordinator Dave Hall says the Code Red System is expanding to include Severe Weather Warnings for anyone in Texarkana, or Bowie and Miller Counties. The new warning system works much the same as Code Red. It will call any residence or business which may be in the path of a Severe Thunderstorm or possible Tornado. Even if you are already registered for CodeRed, you must regsiter for the Severe Weather alerts. You can do so by going to the city web site at www.txkusa.org and clicking on the CodeRed link at the bottom of the page. You may enter both a home or business number and a cell phone number. If you do not have access to a computer you can call (903) 798-3181 to register. Although the web site says to allow up to 2 weeks for your information to be entered, in light of the potential for Severe Weather this weekend they will be entered as soon as possible. The available warnings include Tornado Warnings, Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, and Flash Flood Warnings.

RELAY FOR LIFE TO GO ON INDOORS

2010-04-30T09:10:00.001-05:00

The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life Activities will be going on this evening despite the prediction for severe storms. All of the events planned starting at 6 pm and running through the overnight hours will go on as planned. However all activities have been moved inside the Four States Fair Entertainment Center to keep participants dry in case of rain.

VEHICLE BURGLAR ARREST

2010-04-30T09:04:00.002-05:00

Texarkana, Texas Police have made an arrest in connection with several recent vehicle burglaries around the city. Authorities have arrested and charged 31 year old Jamison Leon Rodgers. Police believe they also recovered a large amount of suspected stolen property some of which has been identified from various other property crimes. The suspect along with 27 year old Erin Underwood was also charged with possession of a controlled substance. The investigation continues and more charges are likely in the case.

CITY GARAGE SALE RESCHEDULED

2010-04-23T11:23:00.003-05:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas Parks and Recreation Department has rescheduled their annual Spring Community Wide Garage Sale for Saturday May 15th. The sale is being rescheduled because of the threat of severe weather in our area for later today and tonight. The Garage Sale will be held on Saturday May 15th and will be a one day only sale with over 100 booths. The Sale will be held in Spring Lake Park between Swanger Field and the old swimming pool.

SEVERE WEATHER

2010-04-23T11:21:00.002-05:00

The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for the Texarkana area until 5pm. Weather forecasters are concerned about the potential for severe weather this afternoon and evening and then again later overnight as a second round moves through the area. Heavy Rain, High Winds, Large Hail, Dangerous lightning and isolated strong tornadoes are possible.

COMMUNITY WIDE CLEAN-UP DAY

2010-04-21T11:35:00.002-05:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas is holding its April Community Clean-Up Day this Saturday April 24th from 8 am to 2 pm. There will be two collection locations: National Guard Armory on Park Road near Spring Lake Park and the Liberty-Eylau High School parking lot at 2905 Leopard Drive. Roll-off dumpsters will be in place at these locations to allow residents and opportunity to dispose of buldk items such as furniture and appliances. Please note that refrigerators must have had the Freon removed and the certification tag in place. Residents will need to show their valid Texarkana, Texas driver's license and their current water bill to dispose of their items. No harzardous maters or paint will be accepted at any of the collection sites.

BLUE RIBBON COMMITTEE MEETING

2010-04-21T11:33:00.003-05:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas Blue Ribbon Committee will meet this Thursday April 22nd from 6 to 8 pm at the T.I.S.D. Services Building at 1600 Waterall Street. The Topic for this meeting is the City's Street Department-which includes Streets, Sign & Signal, Engineering, and Stormwater Utility.

SUPREME COURT DENIES NEW TRIAL

2010-04-20T09:45:00.001-05:00

The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from a Northeast Texas man on death row for nearly three decades. Delma Banks contended he did not receive a fair trial when he was convicted of murdering a Texarkana teenager back in 1980. The High Court yesterday left in place the murder conviction of Banks in connection with the shooting death of then 16 year old Richard Whitehead of Texarkana after robbing the victim. A divided federal appeals court in New Orleans, Louisiana had upheld the conviction.

VEHICLE BURGLAR ARRESTED

2010-04-20T09:37:00.002-05:00

Texarkana Texas Police have arrested a Texa side man on burglary charges. Authorities were called to the 4300 block of Mall Drive on a vehicle burgly in progress. Officers saw a person matching the suspect description running from the area. 18 year old Devan Wade Lewis was apprehended and police allege items taken from vehicles from the area was recovered. Lewis charged with Evading Arrest, Burglary of a Vehicle and Theft of a firearm. The suspect was booked into the BI-State Justice Center Jail and bond set at $45,000 thousand dollars. The case if still under investigation. Texarkana Texas Police remind citizens that items of value that are left in vehicles make tempting targets and they ask that you remove valuables such as purses, GPS Devices, cell phones, etc. or lock them in the trunk out of view.

VEHICLE FATALITY

2010-04-20T09:32:00.002-05:00

Texarkana Texas Police are investigating a fatality. Authorities were called to the 7600 block of University Avenue on a vehicle that had been driven into Bringle Lake. Officers were told by witnesses that a blue Ford Taurus that was traveling eastbound on University Avenue failed to stop at the end of a boat ramp and have went into the lake. Fire department rescuers located the vehicle submerged in approximately 7 feet of water with the driver still inside. Rescure personnel removed the driver who was identified as 51 year old Starlet Hazelwood of Texarkana, Texas. She was transported to Christus St. Michael Hospital where she was pronounced dead. This case is still being investigated at this time.

ANNUAL FISH FRY

2010-04-16T11:07:00.001-05:00

The Rondo United Methodist Church is having its Annual Fish Fry this Saturday April 17th at the church from 4 pm to 7:30. All you can eat Farm Raised Catfish for $8 per person. Take Highway 82 East then turn north onto Highway 237 beside the Baptist Orphanage then go 1 mile. For more information phone (870)772-6704.

AMTRAK REVIEW

2010-04-14T11:24:00.000-05:00

Amtrak is re-examining timetables and finding other ways to improve its 15 national routes to bring in more riders and revenue. Routes under review this year include the Texas Eagle which runs between Chicago, Illinois and San Antonio, Texas through Texarkana. Amtrak is on pace in 2010 to top its record ridership of 28.7 million passengers set in 2008. The agency sites an improving economy and high fuel prices as factors in the increased ridership.

RICHMOND ROAD CONSTRUCTION

2010-04-14T11:20:00.000-05:00

The Texas Department of Transportation is doing prep work on the Richmond Road Overpass over Interstate 30 this week. They are preparing for the demolition of the old bridge during the last weekend of April. Various lanes on the overpass will be shutdown during the nighttime hours this week between 9 pm and 6 am.

BENEFIT FISH FRY

2010-04-09T10:55:00.000-05:00

The Arkansas Masonic Lodge #341, located at 4102 East 9th Street in Texarkana, Arkansas is holding its Annual Scholarship Fund Raising Fish Fry this Saturday April 10th from 12 Noon until 3 pm. Its $5 dollars to eat in or take out and kids under 6 eat free. Each plate helps toward the Lodge's Scholarship Recipients College Tuition.

VEHICLE VANDALISMS

2010-04-09T10:51:00.000-05:00

The Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department is currently seeking information regarding the suspect or suspects in a rash of recent vehicle vandalisms. During the most recetn on April 4th during the nighttime hours several vehicles were vandalized in the parking lot of a local apartment complex. If anyone has information regarding this crime they are asked to call Texarkana, Arkansas Police at (903) 798-3154.

E-MAIL & TEXT SCAM

2010-04-02T11:37:00.003-05:00

Guaranty Bond Bank is advising both customers and non-customers of fraudulent e-mails and text messages that appear to be from the bank, but are not. The scam e-mails and texts are telling people to click on a website link to update your debit card information. Text messages are also being sent stating that your account has been frozen and gives a specific phone number for you to contact. Please be aware that these are fraudulent communications, and do not under any circumstances release any information. Guaranty Bond Bank will never ask fro account information in an unsolicited telephone call, e-mail, or text message. If you have proveided thsi information in response to an e-mail or text message, please contact the Guaranty Bond Bank location nearest you.

TEXARKANA GOES GREEN

2010-04-02T11:27:00.002-05:00

Waste Management is elated to report with the new Curbside Recycling Program in Texarkana, Texas, residents are recycling 500% more than in 2009. That equates to 117tons of recycled materials being diverted each month from the solid waste stream. In addition, residential green waste is now being diverted from the waste stream and transformed into rich compost. The company says this program is having a tremendous positive impact in Texarkana, Texas.

PIPE BOMBS

2010-03-30T10:44:00.000-05:00

A Federal Agency says it will add resources to investigate a series of incendiary devices found in East Texas in recent weeks. The Bureau of ALcohol, Tobacco, Fireams and Explosives tells the Tyler Morning Telegraph Newspaper the agency believes at least some of the incidents are related.

The latest of a least a dozen incidents was a suspected pipe bomb found Monday in the front yard of a business in Tyler. A spokesman says additional agents will be used to conduct interviews and look at surveillance video. Federal official say they were investigating the discoveries of suspected incendiary devices during an investigation into Church fires last month. Two arson suspects have been arrested in connection with the Church fires.

I-30 LANE CLOSURES

2010-03-29T11:37:00.004-05:00

The Texas Department of Transportation has scheduled lane closures of Interstate 30 in Texarkana, Texas as work crews pour concrete decking for a new bridge over the Interstate at the US 59 Interchange. The lane closures will be in the West bound lane of I-30 Tonight(Monday) from 9pm to 6 am Tuesday Morning. All detour routes will be signed accordingly. The department urges motorists to use extra caution driving in and around construction zones. Flagmen and police officers will be at the intersection to help direct traffic back onto Interstate 30.

FISH FRY BENEFIT

2010-03-26T10:26:00.000-05:00

The Texarkana Area Veterans Council is holding a Fish Fry this Saturday March 27th from 12 noon to 2 p.m. at the American Legion Post, at 525 East Broad Street in Downtown Texarkana. $9 dollars for adults, $5 dollars for children, and $7 dollars for Military (active duty). All funds fo to the Texarkana Area Veterans Council to purchase a van which will transport veterans to clinics and other important needs.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY AT PG NEW SCHOOL

2010-03-26T07:59:00.002-05:00

The Pleasant Grove Independent School district is hosting an open house this Sunday for the brand new Intermediate School. Guests are invited to tour the facility from 3until 5 pm on Sunday Afternoon. The new school is located on FM 989 next to the district's Central Services Office. Students in 3rd, 4th and 5th grades will begin classes on Monday. Starting Monday the elementary will house Pre-k through 2nd grade.

COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP DAY

2010-03-24T11:33:00.000-05:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas is holding its March Community Clean-Up Day this Saturday March 27th from 8 am to 2pm. There will be three locations: Pleasant Grove Middle School on Cooks Lane, Dunbar Elementary School on West 10th Street, and the City's parking lot, Downtown at the southwest corner of 3rd and Spruce Street.

Roll-off dumpsters will be in place for residents to dispose of bulk items such as furniture and appliance. Please note that refrigerators must have the freon removed and the certification tag in place.

Residents must show a valid Texarkana, Texas drivers license and a copy of their current water bill in order to dispose of the items. Tires and batteries will be accepted at all locations and electronics recycling will be available at the Downtown parking lot at 3rd and Spruce location.

No hazardous material or paint will be accepted at the Clean-Up Day sites.

For questions and more information contact teh City's Environmental Services Unit at (903) 798-3944.

TEXAS ELECTION RESULTS

2010-03-03T11:28:00.004-06:00

Texas voters went to the polls yesterday and cast ballots in the Primary Elections in both the Democratic and Republican Parties. Texas Governor Rick Perry won an easy victory over two opponents Kay Bailey Hutchison and Debra Medina. Perry received 51% of the vote and avoids a runoff. Hutchison finished 2nd with 31% and Medina third with 18%. Perry will face Democrat and former Houston Mayor Bill White in the general election in November.

Ralph Hall the longtime U.S. Congressman from the 4th district also avoided a runoff by capturing nearly 58% of the vote in a crowded field of candidates.

Bowie County will have a new District Attorney come next January. Jerry Rochelle beat Jasmine Crockett 59% to 41% in the Democratic Primary. No Republican ran so Rochelle will take the job next year. Long time D.A. Bobby Lockhardt decided against running for another term.

A couple of other local elections saw Josh Morriss winning in the 6th District Court of Appeals with 51% of the vote over his challenger. And in the Texas State House Race District 1 there oould be a recount as Jack Ballard finished ahead of George Lavender by just 39 votes out of over 6,700 cast. The winner will take on incumbent Democrat Stephen Frost in the November General Election.

TEXANS VOTE TODAY

2010-03-02T11:16:00.002-06:00

Texas Voters are heading to the polls today to cast ballots in the March 2nd Primaries in both the Democratic and Republican Parties. Everything from county precinct chairs to the Govenorship is on the ballot.

The race receiving the most attention has been the Republican race for Governor between incumbent Rick Perry, U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, and Tea Party Activist Debra Medina. If no one candidate garners at least 50% of the vote in todays election there will be an April runoff between the top 2 vote getters.

COOPER TIRE REPORTS 4TH QUARTER EARNINGS

2010-03-02T11:12:00.002-06:00

The Cooper Tire and Rubber Company today reported net income of $39 million dollars for the quarter that ended December 31st, 2009, a $183 million dollars improvement over the same time period in 2008. Net sales were $773 million dollars, an increase of $137 million or 22% from the previous year. Operating profit was $60 million for the quarter a $224 million dollar improvement from a loss of $164 million in 2008.

Cooper Tire operates a plant in Texarkana, Arkansas.

MORE WORK THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 30

2010-02-22T11:46:00.002-06:00

The Texas Department of Transportation will once again this week be doing bridge work at the Interstate 30 Interchange with U.S. 59 or Loop 151 in Texarkana, Texas.
The work will be conducted each night between 9pm and 6 am weather permitting through Sunday February 28th. Lane closures on both the East and Westbound I-30 Lanes may be needed and detours will be set up. Please drive carefully in the construction areas especially during the times of day that workers are actually on the scene.

I-30 WORK TO CONTINUE IN TEXARKANA, TEXAS

2010-02-17T10:03:00.003-06:00

The Texas Deparment of Transportation is continuing its construction work at the I-30-Highway 59 Interchange. Work crews are placing steel beems across the Interstate as they continue building new overpasses.

The work this week will go through Thursday Night. Each night between 9 pm and 6 am some or all of the Interstate will be closed at times while the work is underway. Both east and westbound traffic will likely be affected and detours will be in place.
Police officers and highway flagmen will be on scene so please drive carefully in the construction zone.

TEXARKANA TEXAS FIRE CHIEF TO RETIRE

2010-02-15T11:57:00.002-06:00

Texarkana, Texas Fire Chief Harry Simms is retiring after over 30 years service. Simms retirement is effective March 1st. The city will honor Simms with a reception this Wednesday at Texas side city hall. Simms was elevated from Interim Chief to permanent Texarkana, Texas Fire Chief in 1994.

Chief Simms is credited with modernizing the department and elevating the ISO from a level 4 to a level 2 department with reduced individual insurance premiums for Texas side residents by around 10%.

No word on a replacement for Chief Simms.

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY

2010-02-11T10:12:00.002-06:00

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the immediate Texarkana until tommorrow. Snow will be increasing in intensity and coverage throughout the afternoon into the evening hours. Snow accumulations of 2 to 3 inches are possible across the Texarkana area, with amounts of 3 to 5 inches possible south of a line from Jefferson Texas to Shreveport Louisiana.

OVER 40 BASKETBALL LEAGUE

2010-02-09T11:41:00.002-06:00

The Texarkana, Texas Parks and Recreation Department has extended the deadline for the " Over 40 Basketball League " until Thursday February 11th at 5pm. The age limit has also been lowered to 35 years of age. Games will be played in the Southwest Center Gym with tournaments beginning on February 11th. Each team must have at least 8 players and no more than 10. Registration forms are available at the Southwest Center and the fee for each team is $200.00. For additional information, please contact the Parks Department at (903)798-3978.

DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES OF SEXTING

2010-02-05T11:04:00.002-06:00

The Texarkana, Texas Police is encouraging teenagers to refrain from so called "sexting", the practice of sending sexually explicit messages or images electronically, primarily between mobile phones. Some teens are using technology to easily distribute photographs, video's and explicit messages to boyfriends, girlfriends and even strangers they have only met online.

The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy surveyed 1,300 teens about sexting and found some troubling results:

71% of teenage girls and 67% of teen boys who have sent or posted sexually suggestive content say they have sent it to a boyfriend or girlfriend.

15% of teens who have sent or posted nude or semi-nude images of themselves have done so to people they only knew online.

44% of both teenage girls and boys say it is common for sexually suggestive text messages to get shared with people other than the intended recipient.

The social danger for teenagers is that the message sender has no control of its distribution. Unintentional circulation of inappropriate material can lead to suspension from school or athletic participation and other embarrassment. Compromising photos and videos can hinder teens attempts to get into colleges, receive scholarships and even gain employment.

Teenagers in possession of sexually suggestive images of classmates or companions oould face jail time.

Parents need to have frank conversations with their children about the potential for embarrassment and legal ramifications of sexting.

If teens do not want a photo or text message to fall into the wrong hands-including strangers, potential employers, teachers and others, should not send it. A lack of privacy can put them at risk.

Authorities say teens, parents, teachers, and law enforcement must keep an open line of communication to combat the ever increasing problem of "sexting".

PIRATED MOVIES

2010-02-04T11:16:00.000-06:00

Texarkana, Texas Police acting on information obtained from the local FBI office, has arrested a male suspect for illegally selling pirated movies on DVD format.
Authorities have charged 46 year old Ira D. Thompson with felony Labeling, a violation of the Texas Business and Commerce Code.

Recently officers have been receiving complaints of a suspect approaching shoppers at local retail establishments attempting to sell illegal pirated movies.

Two Texas side police detectives and a police officer were able to locate and arrest the suspect. Authorities also allegedly retrieved over 500 individual DVDs.

The investigation is open and ongoing and no bond has been set for the suspect.

CITY BOARD MEETING TONIGHT

2010-02-01T10:35:00.002-06:00

The Texarkana Arkansas City Board of Directors meet tonight at 7pm at Arkansas Side City Hall. Included on the agenda is a resolution authorizing the City Manager to seek bids from outside audit firms to conduct an audit of the Texarkana Water Utilities and an evaluation regarding allocation of cost of Texarkana, Arkansas and Texarkana, Texas. The public is invited to attend tonights meeting.

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY

2010-01-29T11:24:00.000-06:00

The National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Texarkana Area until midnight tonight. There is a chance for a mixture of rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow ending by midnight. Little or no ice or snow accumulation is expected but with temperatures near freezing bridges and overpasses and rural roads could have icy patches on them.

Texarkana Arkansas Announces Economic Projects

2010-01-27T11:03:00.002-06:00

Texarkana, Arkansas City Manager Harold Boldt announced two important economic projects at a Tuesday News Conference at Arknasas Side City Hall.

Boldt revealed the name of the local investor who wants to bring a Hotel/Convention Center complex to Texarkana, Arkansas. Texarkana Physician Hiran Patel is the man financing the project. The City Manager said that after Patel completes a hotel project on the Texas side of town he will turn full attention to the Arkansas side Hotel/Convention Center.

Also at the same news conference Boldt announced plans for a new restaurant to locate in Texarkana, Arkansas. Copeland's of New Orleans is slated for groundbreaking later this spring and possible fall grand opening. The 8,000 square foot restaurant will seat 300 patrons and employee over 170 local workers.

The restuarant is a growing national chain which spans 12 states and 40 locations and offers a "steakhouse" style expanded menu and features New Orleans cuisine and specializes in cheesecake desserts. The Copelands of New Orleans restaurant is being brought to Texarkana, Arkansas by two local investors who have chosen to remain anonymous.

Both the Restaurant and the proposed Hotel/Convention Center Complex are to be built in the Cross-Roads Business Park which is being developed north of I-30, east of stateline and west of Jefferson Avenue.

The city of Texarkana, Texas is currently also looking at building their own Hotel/Convention Center Complex, which if built would be located just east of Central Mall in an area east of Cowhorn Creek Road and North of Kennedy Lane in a currently undeveloped piece of property.

TEXARKANA CITY COUNCIL TO MEET

2010-01-25T10:59:00.002-06:00

The Texas Side City Council meets tonight at city hall. The council members are expected to discuss the planned hotel/convention center to be located near Central Mall. The session begins at 6pm with both an open session and a closed executive session. The public is invited to attend the open portion of the council meeting.

AGGRAVATED ROBBERY SUSPECTS SOUGHT

2010-01-21T11:00:00.002-06:00

Texarkana, Texas Police are looking for a suspect in connection with an aggravated robbery which occured earlier this month. 19 year old Reginald Dowon Tookes is wanted by authorities. Tookes and another male suspect allegedly made forced entry into the apartment of an elderly female, produced a knife and demanded money. After obtaining a small amount of currency, the suspects then allegedly proceeded to take electronic items from the residence and then fled the scene. The victim was unharmed.

The suspect is described as a 19 year old black male around 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing around 160 pounds.

If you know the whereabouts of Reginald Dowon Tookes you are asked to contact Texas side Police at (903)798-3116 or Texarkana Area Crimestoppers at (903)793-STOP.

ESCAPEES CAUGHT

2010-01-20T11:14:00.001-06:00

**************UPDATE*****************************

Texarkana Authorities say the two inmates who walked off from the Southwest Arkansas Community Punishment Center have been found and apprehended.

JAIL ESCAPEES

2010-01-20T10:22:00.002-06:00

Texarkana Area Authorities are looking for a couple of inmates who apparently walked away from the Southwest Arkansas Community Correction Center in downtown Texarkana this Wednesday morning.

Authorities searching for 20 year old Sydney Bradbury and 25 year old Jeremy Goforth who are workrelease inmates.

Both are nonviolent offenders serving time for theft of property.

The two were supposed to be wearing yellow pants and flip flop shower shoes at the time they escaped the facility.

ROBBERY ARRESTS

2010-01-19T10:47:00.001-06:00

Texarkana Arkansas Police have made 4 arrests in connection with a recent robbery at a local financial insitution. Authorities say the suspects in the holdup at the Texas Federal Credit Union Jefferson Avenue Branch are behind bars.

Police were called last Friday to the 4800 block of Jefferson Avenue in reference to a robbery having just occured. Officer Kevin Bounds and K-9 partner Bruno searched the area for evidence and found a sweatshirt allegedly belonging to one of the suspects. Inside a pocket was over $13,000 dollars in cash and a toy pistol.

A surveillance was set up and four suspects were eventually apprehended. Aggravated robbery charges have been filed against 24 year old Justin Banks, 18 year old Darrell Banks, 20 year old Phillip Gamble, and 19 year old Addrion Maddox, all of Texarkana.

If you have any information regarding this crime your are encouraged to notify FBI Agents, Texarkana Arkansas Police Detectives, or you can always call Texarkana Area
Crimestoppers at (903) 793-Stop.

LOCAL BASESBALL HITTING CAMP

2010-01-18T10:00:00.002-06:00

Texas High School Baseball will be hosting a Hitting Camp on Saturday January 23rd. The camp will be hld in the THS Indoor Multi-Purpose Facility.

Camp for students ages 7-10 will be held from 9:00am-noon with registration at 8:45 in the morning. The camp for students ages 11-14 will be from 1:00-4:00 with registration at 12:45 in the afternoon.

The hitting camp will allow participanst to receive hands on instruction along with on-field and batting cage drills.

The cost is just $30. Participants are asked to bring a glove, helmet and baseball bat.

For more information contact THS Head Baseball Coach Glenn Welch at (903)793-7731 or
(903)748-9566.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION

2010-01-18T09:53:00.002-06:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas Engineering Department has advised that Wednesday January 20th, the DG&E Railroad will be repairing the railroad crossing at Westlawn Drive. The entire roadway will be closed during the repairs which should take 2 days.

Detours, with clear signage, will be set up to allow traffic to bypass this area. Citizens should allow extra time for these detours and possible delays.

Bomb Scare Related to Scam

2009-11-25T11:52:00.003-06:00

Texarkana, Texas Police have uncovered information regarding the incident last Saturday at a local hotel whne a suspicious suitcase was found prompting an evacuation of the area.

The investigation reveal the suitcase and its contents were part of a scam originating in Africa. The scam works that someone is contacted via e-mail in an effort to get a face to face meeting on the pretense of delivering them a large amount of money from a supossed deceased family member overseas. The e-mail is "fishing" to get a response and a meeting with the victim.

The victim is then convinced that certain fees and taxes have been incurred and must be paid before the larger amount of money can be released.

Victim of scam is shown some " black money". The money is described as U.S. Currency which has been dyed balck in order to pass the money through customs.

The victim is then provided a demonstration of a special liquid which removes the dye from the money. Actual money is used during the demonstration with the remainder of the cash in the suitcase actually being colored paper rather than real currency. The victim is then told he must purchase the cleaning solution. Once the taxes and fees have been obtained the scam artist leave and the victim is left with a suitcase filed with colored regular bond paper.

Police believe these scam artist may have visited the area on at least one or more occassions. Authorities say to try and remember the old adage " if it seems or sounds too good to be true, it probably is!!!!!

Texarkana, Texas Hotel/Convention Center

2009-11-25T10:26:00.002-06:00

The Texarkana, Texas city council is moving forward with plans for a convention center to be built adjacent to a privately developed hotel. The council authorized the negotiation and purchase of real property for the location of the complex. Multiple sites are being considered. The developer will announce the site when the selection process is completed.

"After extensive research and review, we have determined that city ownership of the convention center is the most efficient and fiscally beneficial method to accomplish our goal of a catalyst to increase Texarkana area hotel occupancy" explained Mayor Steve Mayo.

Funding for the project will come from the city's conventon center set-aside fund from hotel occupancy tax revenue which has been accumulating for approximately 3 years with no effect on the taxpayers of Texarkana, Texas.

Holiday Safe Shopping Tips

2009-11-25T10:18:00.002-06:00

Police on both sides of Texarkana have some advice on shopping safely during the holiday season.

Authorities say to stay alert to your surroundings and shop with a friend, remember safety in numbers. You should also avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

When it comes to packages do not overburden yourself with too many shopping bags and put purchases in your trunk out of plain view.

Have your keys in hand and ready before leaving the store and if you are shopping after dark park in a well lit area as close to the stores doors as is possible and watch the surroundings around you to make sure you are not being followed.

You should have a plan worked out with your children in the event that they get seperated from you or lost.

And lastly at home make sure you do not display gifts beneath the Christmas tree that cann be seen from the outside and as always lock all doors and windows.

Thanksgiving Holiday Safety

2009-11-25T10:14:00.000-06:00

Law enforcement authorities throughout the area urging you to drive safely this long Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend.

Authorities will be out in extra patrols to enforce safety laws including seat belt usage and making sure children are buckled in proper restraints and safety seats.

Do not drink alcohol and get behind the wheel, drive the speed limit and obey construction zone signs.

AHS ON THE EAGLE

2009-11-18T10:41:00.002-06:00

Arkansas High's State Class 6A Quarterfinal Playoff game against the Wildcats in El Dorado Friday will be heard on KYGL Eagle 106.3 FM. Air Time is 7:00 p.m. with the pre-game for a 7:30 Kickoff.

If you can not make it to the game or listen on the radio, you can also catch the play-by-play on KYGL.COM

GO HOGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Arkansas High Football

2009-11-18T10:32:00.002-06:00

The Arkansas High Razorback football team will be on the road Friday Night November 20th to take on the El Dorado Wildcats in a state quarterfinal playoff matchup.

This is the second time the Razorbacks have played the Wildcats this season. El Dorado won 15-14 on their home turf back in early October during the regular season.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Razorback Athletic Foundation is urging Razorback fans to make the short trip to El Dorado on Friday night to cheer on the Hogs.

Each fan will receive a Thunderstick as they enter the visitors side of the stadium.

Remember El Dorado's football stadium is alot like Razorback Stadium plenty of room on the visitor's side.

We need a huge and loud crowd of Razorback supporters to support our players.

The winner of this game moves on the State Class 6A Semi-Final game next Friday night against either Watson Chapel or Jonesboro.

GO HOGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Arkansas Side Arrests

2009-11-18T10:22:00.002-06:00

Texarkana Arkansas Police have made several arrests involving a recent rash of home burglaries on that side of town.

Authorities have arrested 18 year old Bobby Watson, 18 year old William Threadgill, and 18 year old Kevin Epps, all of Texarkana, Arkansas. Each suspect is charged with 10 counts of residential burglary, which is a felony in the state of Arkansas.

All of the stolen property has not been recovered. Authorities say flat screen televisions, other electronics and jewelry are hot commodities on the street. Police say to be careful in purchasing any of these so called " good deals" because purchasing stolen property could potentially land you a signifigant find and even some jail time.

If you have any information on these crimes or this stolen merchandise you are asked to call Texarkana, Arkansas Police or Texarkana Area Crimestoppers. That Crimestoppers number is (903)793-Stop and remember Crimestoppers does not want your name, just your information and if your information leads to an arrest you could receive a cash reward.

U.S. 59 Bridges Set For Demolition

2009-11-18T10:18:00.002-06:00

Traffic on I-30 at the U.S. 59 Interchange will be detoured Thursday and Friday Nights November 19th and 20th weather permitting.

Crews will be demolishing the bridges crossing the highway at the I-30, U.S. 59 Interchange. All I-30 traffic will be detoured onto the frontage roads in each direction and may have stopped elays of up to 20 minutes during some points in the demolition of the bridges.

The demolition process is currently scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. each night and completed by 6 a.m. the following morning, weather permitting.

Arkansas High Pep Rally

2009-11-12T11:28:00.003-06:00

Arkansas High is hosting a community-wide Pep Rally and Bonfire at Razorback stadium next to the Athletic Fieldhouse. The rally begins at 5:30 this evening (Thursday evening). Come support the Hogs this evening as they get ready to hit the road for their state playoff game against the Patriots tommorrow night in Marion.

GO HOGS!!!!

Major I-30 Traffic Changes

2009-11-12T11:19:00.002-06:00

Some more big changes coming to I-30 traffic in Texarkana, Texas as the construction process continues.

Starting Thursday November 12th the exit ramp from eastbound I-30 to Richmond Road will temporarily relocate from its current location to just east of Kings Highway. I-30 East motorists needing to reach Richmond Road will take the exit just east of Kings Highway and go down the frontage road to the New Boston road turnaround then on to Richmond.

A permanent exit will be constructed closer to Richmond Road once the bridges crossing I-30 at the US 59 interchange are removed. Also motorists needing to get to Richmond from us 59 North will need to take the New Boston Road exit and follow the frontage road to Richmond road.

On Friday November 13th the new flyover connection between northbound US 59 and I-30 eastbound will open along with a new exit ramp from US 59 to the eastbound frontage road. Motorists needing to go eastbound on I-30 will need only to take the flyover directly to I-30, motorists needing to go westbound on I-30 will need to tamporarily take the flyover to eastbound I-30 and then take the Summerhill road exit follow the frontage road turnaround at Summerhill Road to get back to the westbound frontage road then take the entrance ramp onto I-30 westbound near Richmond Road.

Stay tuned more changes are coming!!!!!

High School Football Playoffs

2009-11-11T11:32:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to all the area high school football teams that have made the playoffs including all 4 Texarkana teams.

Liberty-Eylau and Pleasant Grove have 1st round byes and have this weekend off, while Texas High takes on Jacksonville Saturday at 2pm in Nacodoches and the Arkansas High Razorbacks travel to Marion to take on the Patriots Friday night.

The Arkansas High game can be heard on KYGL Eagle 106.3 FM with the pre-game at 7:00 p.m. and the kickoff at 7:30 Friday night.

If the Razorbacks win Friday night that would set up a rematch with the Wildcats in El Dorado the following Friday night

GO HOGS!!!!!!!!!!

Swine Flu in Arkansas

2009-11-11T11:27:00.003-06:00

The Arkansas Department of Health now says that 18 people have died from complications of swine flu since August 1st. The agency says that more vaccines are arriving in the state and more is on the way.

The department says those in higher-risk groups should check with their doctors to see if the vaccine is available. Those groups include pregnant women, health care and emergency workers, people who live with or care for infants, people under the age of 24 and older people with underlying medical conditions.

The state also says that a second round of mass vaccination clinics at schools is planned.

Don't forget children under age 10 need a second dose of the swine flu vaccine about a month after receiving the first dose according to health officials.

I-30 Fatality Wreck Update

2009-11-11T11:23:00.002-06:00

The names of the 4 people killed in yesterday's fiery fatal crash on I-30 east of Texarkana have been released. The Arkansas State Police identify the victims as 43 year old Vaughn Gentry of Dallas, 51 year old Albert Pruitt of Addison Texas, also 77year old Walter Carpenter and 64 year old Victory Barker both of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Authorities say Carpenter and three other drivers were stopped in a construction zone near the 4 mile marker in Miller County Arkansas when an Eighteen Wheeler that Gentry and Pruitt were in hit the bck of Carpenter's car causing an explosion. Police say they could not determine who was actually driving the big rig at the time of the accident.

Westlawn Kindergarten Family Night

2009-11-10T11:40:00.003-06:00

Westlawn Elementary School's Kindergartne family fun night is tonight Tuesday November 10th. They are calling it fun with a purpose as students are collecting admission tickets in the form of one canned food item each.

The event is from 5:50 to 7 p.m. at the Westlawn Elementary School at 410 Westlawn Drive.

Parents/Guardians of Kindergarten students will enjoy Frito Pie, Drinks, & Dessert along with special music performed by the Kindergarten students.

All proceeds from the canned food collection will be donated to Harvest Texarkana.

For more information, phone (903) 223-4252.

Texas side Police make Robbery Arrest

2009-11-10T11:35:00.002-06:00

Texarkana Texas police have made an arrest in an alleged robbery at the Dollar General Store in the 3500 block of New Boston Road. Officers discovered a vehicle matching the description given by Arkansas side authorities as possibly being used in robberies on that side of Texarkana.

After a search of a residence a suspect was found hiding beneath some laundry in a back bedroom. 37 year old Erik Hiegelmann has been charged with felony reobbery and other charges.

I-3O Fatality Wreck

2009-11-10T11:27:00.002-06:00

Traffic was shutdown for hours this morning on Interstate 30 east of Texarkana. Arkansas State Police say the accident claimed the lives of 4 people. The accident occured pre-dawn near the 4 mile marker and involved 3 Eighteen wheelers a pickup truck and a car. Two of the vehicles caught fire. The investigation into what caused the deadly crash is underway but we do know it did occur in an area which is currently under construction.

I-30 traffic was shutdown on both sides for hours before limited eastbound traffic was allowed, it was almost noon before westbound traffic was allowed through the accident site.

12 DEAD, AND 31 WOUNDED IN ATTACKS AT FORT HOOD

2009-11-05T16:55:00.001-06:00

By ANNE GEARAN and APRIL CASTRO
Associated Press Writers
FORT HOOD, Texas (AP) - A soldier opened fire at a U.S. Army base in Fort Hood, Texas on Thursday, unleashing a stream of gunfire that left 12 people dead and 31 wounded. Authorities killed the gunman, and apprehended two other soldiers suspected in the attack.

The shooting began around 1:30 p.m., Lt. Gen. Bob Cone said at a news conference. He said all the casualties took place at the base's Soldier Readiness Center, where soldiers who are about to be deployed or who are returning undergo medical screening.

"It's a terrible tragedy. It's stunning," Cone said.

Little was known about the three soldiers suspected of taking part in the attack. The soldier used two handguns, Cone said. It was not clear if the gunman had stopped to reload.

A graduation ceremony for soldiers who finished college courses while deployed was going on in an auditorium at the Readiness Center at the time of the shooting, said Sgt. Rebekah Lampam, a Fort Hood spokeswoman.

Greg Schanepp, U.S. Rep. John Carter's regional director in Texas, was representing Carter at the graduation, said John Stone, a spokesman for Carter, whose district includes the Army post.

Schanepp was at the ceremony when a soldier who had been shot in the back came running toward him and alerted him of the shooting, Stone said. The soldier told Schanepp notto go in the direction of the shooter, he said. Stone said he believes Schanepp was in the theater.

The base was locked down after the shootings. The wounded were dispersed among hospitals in central Texas, Cone said.

In Washington, President Barack Obama called the shooting "a horrific outburst of violence." He said it's a tragedy to lose a soldier overseas and even more horrifying when they come under fire at an Army base on American soil.

"We will make sure that we get answers to every single question about this horrible incident," the commander in chief said. "We are going to stay on this."

Covering 339 square miles, Fort Hood is the largest active duty armored post in the United States. Home to about 52,000 troops as of earlier this year, the sprawling base is located halfway between Austin and Waco.

Around the country, some bases stepped up security precautions, but no others were locked down.

Fort Hood officially opened on Sept. 18, 1942, and was named in honor of Gen. John Bell Hood. It has been continuously used for armored training and is charged with maintaining readiness for combat missions.

___

AP National Security Writer Anne Gearan and Associated Press writers Lolita C. Baldor and Devlin Barrett in Washington, D.C., and Associated Press Writer Jay Root in Fort Worth, Associated Press Writers Linda Stewart Ball, Anabelle Garay and Andre Coe in Dallas contributed to this report.

ARMY ID'S ONE SHOOTER...AND MORE.

2009-11-05T16:52:00.001-06:00

FORT HOOD, Texas (AP) - A soldier opened fire at a U.S. Army base in Fort Hood, Texas on Thursday, unleashing a stream of gunfire that left 12 people dead and 31 wounded. Authorities killed the gunman, and apprehended two other soldiers suspected in the attack.

A law enforcement official says the shooting suspect at Fort Hood has been identified as Army Maj. Malik Nadal Hasan.

The official said Hasan, believed to be in his late 30s, was killed after opening fire at the base. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the case publicly.

The official says investigators are trying to determine if Hasan was his birth name, or if he changed his name and converted to the Islamic faith at some point in his life.

The shooting began around 1:30 p.m., Lt. Gen. Bob Cone said at a news conference. He said all the casualties took place at the base's Soldier Readiness Center, where soldiers who are about to be deployed or who are returning undergo medical screening.

"It's a terrible tragedy. It's stunning," Cone said.

Little was known about the three soldiers suspected of taking part in the attack. The soldier used two handguns, Cone said. It was not clear if the gunman had stopped to reload.

A graduation ceremony for soldiers who finished college courses while deployed was going on in an auditorium at the Readiness Center at the time of the shooting, said Sgt. Rebekah Lampam, a Fort Hood spokeswoman.

Greg Schanepp, U.S. Rep. John Carter's regional director in Texas, was representing Carter at the graduation, said John Stone, a spokesman for Carter, whose district includes the Army post.

Schanepp was at the ceremony when a soldier who had been shot in the back came running toward him and alerted him of the shooting, Stone said. The soldier told Schanepp not to go in the direction of the shooter, he said. Stone said he believes Schanepp was in the theater.

The base was locked down after the shootings. The wounded were dispersed among hospitals in central Texas, Cone said.

Covering 339 square miles, Fort Hood is the largest active duty armored post in the United States. Home to about 52,000 troops as of earlier this year, the sprawling base is located halfway between Austin and Waco.

In a statement released just after 4:00 pm, Col. Steven Basham, the 2nd Bomb Wing Commander at Barksdale Air Force Base, said the Bossier City base was now at a heightened state of alert due to the shootings at Fort Hood.

"Any time any one witnesses suspicious activity they should report it immediately. We take appropriate measures to protect our people and resources. The safety and security of our Airmen and families is always first and foremost in our mind. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our fellow servicemembers and their families at Ft. Hood who are impacted by this tragedy," Basham said.

Fort Hood officially opened on Sept. 18, 1942, and was named in honor of Gen. John Bell Hood. It has been continuously used for armored training and is charged with maintaining readiness for combat missions.

President Barack Obama on Thursday called a mass shooting at a Texas Army base "a horrific outburst of violence."

"We will make sure that we get answers to every single question about this horrible incident," the commander in chief said. "We are going to stay on this."

He said it's a tragedy to lose a soldier overseas and even more horrifying when they come under fire at an Army base on American soil.

Obama also said his thoughts and prayers are with the wounded and families of the fallen.

SHOOTINGS AT FORT HOOD!!!

2009-11-05T15:24:00.004-06:00

There has been a shooting at Ft. Hood in Texas and the base is locked down...as many as nine dead, and 20 wounded.

Here is a link to CNN's live streaming video from Ft. Hood...
http://www.cnn.com/video/flashLive/live.html?stream=stream1

Here is a link to CNN for more....
http://www.cnn.com/

WEATHER UPDATE--10/29/09!!!

2009-10-29T14:06:00.000-05:00

A TORNADO WATCH HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THE TEXARKANA AREA UNTIL 7 P.M.
A FLASH FLOOD WATCH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 A.M. FRIDAY.

FROM THE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Following are the highlights of a National Weather Service conference call this morning regarding the severe weather

The threat of both heavy rain and severe thunderstorms exist until Friday. Most of the area is under a flash flood watch through tomorrow morning. 3-4" of rain will be common across the area with some areas potentially receiving up to 8-10". As a front approaches, there will be a rain potential ahead of the front. However once the front passes through this evening or later tonight, the rainfall will increase in intensity behind the front and continue overnight into late tomorrow afternoon.

The front has slowed down considerably which means the worst of it will not move into the area until around 7 p.m. Ahead of the front there is a possibility of strong, gusty winds of 30-40 mph. Severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes are also possible along and ahead of the front.

Creed at the Centurytel Center

2009-10-22T12:23:00.001-05:00

Sent from my GAPberry.

Southwest Arkansas Counties on Disaster List

2009-10-22T09:45:00.002-05:00

Five Southwest Arkansas counties are among twenty counties in the state eligible for state aid to make repairs from flooding rains after Governor Mike Beebe made disaster declarations.

Columbia, Lafayette, Miller, Nevada, and Union counties are included in the declarations that were issued after several serious rain events over a number of weeks.

Also Columbia, Lafayette, and Nevada counties are eligible to receive Individual Assistance Program funds to ehlp with repairs to homes. Governor Beebe has authorized $ 100,000 thousand dollars from the Governor's Disaster Fund to assist these three counties.

For Union county its becoming a reoccuring situation as this is the third time this that it has been declared a disaster area.

Blue Ribbon Committee Meeting Tonight

2009-10-22T09:35:00.002-05:00

The City of Texarkana, Texas Blue Ribbon Committee is meeting tonight (Thursday Oct. 22nd)
from 6 until 8 p.m. at the TISD Services Building 1600 Waterall Street. Over one hundred Blue Ribbon Committee members will gather to offer their opinions and input regarding the city's future.

The topic for tonights meeting is Parks and Recreation.

Power Point presentations from past Blue Ribbon Committee meetings are posted on the city website www.ci.texarkana.tx.us They may be accessed through the links at the center of the home page in the "Blue Ribbon Committee" section just below the "Important Links" section.

Robbery Suspect Arrest

2009-10-21T11:15:00.002-05:00

Texarkana Arkansas Police have made an arrest in regards to the recent robbery of an elderly citizen. Sgt. Jason Shores observed a vehicle eastbound on East 9th street and recognized it from a recent robbery report. On October 9th an elderly female was followed to her residence from a local grocery store and robbed of her purse by an unknown male suspect.

Officer Shores and Det. Les Moody made contact with the suspect in the parking lot of a gas station on East 9th street. The suspect identified as 58 year old William Davis of Haynesville, Louisiana was reportedly wearing the same hat he allegedly had on the day of the robbery.

Davis was arrested for possessing an instrument of a crime and reckless driving, both misdemeanors. After interviewing the suspect while in custody, Detective Moody obtained and served a felony warrant on Davis for the robbery.

Bankruptcy Case of Alamo Re-Opened

2009-10-21T09:54:00.002-05:00

A bankruptcy judge has agreed to re-open the closed Oklahoma bankruptcy case of a member of the Tony Alamo Christian Ministries.

A trustee overseeing the case of Thomas Scarcello asked to re-open the case to look for possible assets Scarcello may have not reported.

Scarcello filed for Chapter 7 banruptcy in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

The leader of the ministries Tony Alamo was convicted in Texarkana this past summer and is awaiting sentencing next month.

Vacant house catches fire in Texarkana

2009-10-21T00:14:00.001-05:00

TEXARKANA, AR (KSLA) - Fire officials in Texarkana are still trying to figure out why a house caught fire early Sunday morning.

The call came in around 3:30 am at the corner of Ferguson and Rose Streets in Texarkana.

Crews arrived on scene and found flames shooting from the rear of the home.

Investigators say the home was reportedly vacant.

Texarkana man gets 15 yrs. for corpse abuse and battery

2009-10-21T00:10:00.001-05:00

TEXARKANA, AR - An Ark-La-Tex man will spend the next 15 years of his life behind bars for allegedly not letting authorities know his wife was deceased.

50-year-old David Walker of Magnolia, Arkansas was sentenced Monday by a Texarkana, Arkansas judged to 15 years on two charges.

Walker will serve 10 years on an abuse of a corpse charge and five years on a battery charge.

Authorities say a maintenance man found 33-year-old Jacey Walker dead inside her home at the Sterling Crest Apartment Complex, back in March 2009.

Hours later, authorities arrested Walker on drug charges.