Local News
Multiple Agencies Responding to Helicopter Crash Near Riverlands Way in West Alton

WEST ALTON, MO (St. Charles County) — Emergency crews are responding to a helicopter crash on the Mississippi River near U.S. Highway 67.
According to initial reports, a helicopter went down in the river and was believed to have collided with a barge.
Early dispatch information indicated the aircraft was on fire; however, incident command has since confirmed there is no active fire at the scene.
Boats from both Missouri and Illinois are currently on the water assisting with the response and recovery efforts.
Authorities have confirmed that two individuals were on board the helicopter at the time of the crash.
Their conditions remain unknown at this time.
The situation remains fluid, and responders are actively working to assess the scene and locate those involved.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Local News
55-year-old Willie Martin killed in crash with deer on Alabama road

Talladega County, Ala. – Authorities have confirmed that a 55-year-old Sylacauga man was killed in an early morning ATV crash after colliding with a deer in Talladega County.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Monday, September 29, 2025, on Oakland Road, about two miles west of Sycamore.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division, the victim has been identified as Willie F. Martin.
Investigators reported that Martin was operating a 2020 Yamaha YFZ450 ATV when the vehicle struck a deer in the roadway.
Following the impact, the ATV veered off the road and overturned. Martin was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries.
He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Trooper Jaylon James of ALEA confirmed the details of the crash and said that no other vehicles were involved.
The collision remains under investigation by ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division, and no additional information has been released at this time.