Blumer Armstrong Died: Saturday 03/28/2026 Family Gathering: Friday 04/10/2026 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Visitation: Friday 04/10/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Saturday 04/11/2026 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home Burial: Saturday 04/11/2026 Following Service, St. Peter Church Cemetery, St. Peter Road, Ruston
Rhoda Holtzclaw December 30, 1940 – April 6, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1:00PM – 2:00PM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 2:00PM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Final Resting Place: Sibley Cemetery, 2091 Hwy 145, Choudrant
Kira LaSean Norman June 27, 1967 – April 5, 2026
Anestha Marsha Young Tuesday 01/08/1946 — Sunday 03/29/2026 Memorial Service: Saturday 04/11/2026 11:00am, China Grove Baptist Church, 406 Vernon Street, Ruston Private Burial
Linda Faye Armstrong Thursday 03/05/1964 — Friday 04/03/2026 Visitation: Thursday 04/09/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Friday 04/10/2026 1:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Friday 04/10/2026, Hopewell Cemetery, Dubach
One in a series on unsolved cases in Ruston and Lincoln Parish.
by Wesley Harris
Case No. 5
Antonio Robinson
Type of Case: Homicide
Date: July 7, 2025
Status: Unsolved
At about 2:30 a.m. on July 7, 2020, the Ruston Police Department was notified the Northern Louisiana Medical Center emergency room staff was treating a gunshot victim.
Patrol officers went to the emergency room and launched an initial investigation. As officers were interviewing witnesses and attempting to identify evidence, the victim died from his wounds.
Antonio Robinson, 20, of Minden, was a recent Minden High School graduate and father to an infant daughter when he was killed.
The shooting occurred on North Service Road west of U.S. 167. Robinson was a passenger in a vehicle traveling west on the North Service Road after leaving the Whataburger restaurant. The vehicle then stopped at the Exxon station at Vienna Street and the Service Road before continuing left west on the North Service Road when the suspects began shooting.
Robinson was struck in the back about where the North Service Road—Woodward Avenue—passes the underpass below Interstate 20. The driver continued to the hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.
Robinson’s case remains unsolved but not forgotten by Ruston Police.
Five years after Antonio Robinson was shot and killed, the family approached the news media seeking help in finding answers.
In a July 2025 television interview, Robinson’s family said their pain hasn’t faded.
“I feel broken and shattered,” his mother, Alishia Robinson, told KNOE-TV.
Robinson’s daughter was just eight months old at the time of his death. She continues to ask about the father she never got to know, according to her grandmother.
“She didn’t get a chance to know him, but she loves her dad,” said Robinson’s mother. “She’s crazy about him.”
Despite their grief, his family gathered on a Sunday in July 2025 to celebrate his life rather than focus solely on his death. They shared stories, remembered his kindness, and expressed hope someone will come forward with new information that will resolve the case.
“My baby would give you the shirt off his back,” Alishia said. “He didn’t bother anybody.”
In the 2025 interview, the family said they wanted to mark the scene of the shooting to honor Antonio and keep his memory alive.
“If they can just tell us where it happened, we can put something there,” said Robinson’s mother. “Let these people know an innocent loved one died there.”
In the past year, the Ruston Police Department has prioritized taking a new look at unsolved cases. Investigators are combing through dozens of cold cases of homicides and missing persons, hoping fresh eyes will catch untested evidence or an opportunity to reinterview a witness.
Technology that didn’t exist at the time of the crime has also been applied to some of the cold cases.
One cold case homicide was cleared by an arrest just a month ago.
Hannah Laborde, an investigator with RPD, has been working on the Robinson case for several months as part of this renewed effort.
Anyone with information on the Antonio Robinson case can contact Laborde at 318-255-4141 or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 318-255-1111.
The Louisiana Tech University College of Engineering and Science (COES) has officially introduced its newest and most innovative ambassador: CHIP, a robotic dog enhanced and programmed by COES students.
Unveiled during the College’s 2026 Commitment Day, CHIP made its first public appearance as a symbol of the applied and collaborative learning that defines the COES experience. More than a mascot, CHIP represents the future of engineering education where disciplines intersect, ideas flourish, and students bring technology to life.
CHIP stands for Canine Hybrid Intelligence Platform, a name submitted by senior Computer Science student Kieran Gilpin, and selected through a college-wide naming contest voted on by the COES student body.
“I wanted a name that reflected both the technology behind the robot and the human creativity that brings it to life,” said Gilpin. “CHIP represents that blend of innovation and collaboration that defines COES while also including four of the 12 Tenets of Tech.”
CHIP serves as a platform for interdisciplinary student innovation:
Computer Science students developed robotic systems and behavior
Electrical Engineering students lead system integration
Mechanical Engineering students contributed custom design elements, including a 3D-printed bulldog head
Civil Engineering students will design and build CHIP’s doghouse
CHIP’s personality reflects the values of the college, serving as a curious explorer, supportive teammate, problem solver, and optimistic builder. With a mission rooted in caring, hope, integrity, and pride, CHIP is designed to engage prospective students, inspire future engineers and scientists, and celebrate the achievements of the COES community.
CHIP was made possible through philanthropic support. Rosilynn Gillum, COES director of development, worked alongside a COES Electrical Engineering alumnus to secure the funding that brought the robotic dog to campus.
“Projects like CHIP show what’s possible when our alumni invest in student experiences,” said Gillum. “This is more than a donation. It’s an opportunity for students to engage, create, and see their ideas come to life in a meaningful way.”
As COES continues to expand opportunities for experiential learning and innovation, CHIP will play a central role in outreach, student engagement, and storytelling, bringing engineering to life in a way that is both accessible and inspiring. From classrooms to community events, CHIP is poised to become a recognizable and beloved presence, an embodiment of the college’s commitment to shaping the next generation of innovators.
Bradi Gallaway (right) was a mere kid when her older sister, Preslee (left), starred for the Bulldog softball team. Now it’s Bradi’s turn to wear the uniform.
By Malcolm Butler
Josh Taylor vividly remembers the first time he saw Bradi Gallaway.
It was April 2, 2022, during Taylor’s inaugural season as the head coach for Louisiana Tech.
Bradi, just 14-years-old and a freshman at Whitesboro (Texas) High School at the time, had returned to Ruston with her older sister, Preslee, for Softball Alumni Weekend.
Preslee was one of 50-plus former Tech players to return that weekend and little sister tagged along … as she had for most of her life.
Following on-the-field recognition of the alums following the conclusion of the game that Saturday, a variety of events were scheduled as part of the celebration, including a facility tour of Origin Bank Softball Complex, dinner, and open hitting on Dr. Billy Bundrick Field.
Hundreds of people stuck around to enjoy the festivities.
One of those was Bradi Gallaway.
And just like she had most of her young life, she managed to open eyes without really trying.
Taylor was standing on the concourse level of the facility overlooking the field – eating some jambalaya and visiting with alumni and fans — when he saw some kid hit ball after ball out of Dr. Billy Bundrick Field.
“I wasn’t even dressed for it,” joked Bradi. “I was in hi-top Vans and skinny jeans.”
And of course, a Louisiana Tech Softball T-shirt.
It did not matter how Bradi was dressed. She stopped Taylor in mid-conversation.
“I didn’t know who the kid was,” said Taylor. “Until Preslee started yelling up to me, ‘That’s my sister. That’s my sister.’”
As little sis continued to swing away and big sis continued to beam with pride, Taylor continued to watch from afar.
It was the starting point of a three-year process of evaluating and then ultimately recruiting Bradi, the Bulldogs current-day shortstop.
“The interaction with Preslee during that Alumni Weekend … you could just see the competitiveness in both of them,” said Taylor. “It was one of those moments that you felt grateful for because Bradi got plopped right in front of us because of who her sister was and the fact she came back with her to Alumni Weekend that year.”
Funny thing is, Bradi said she really did not want to hit. But, Preslee made her.
“She waved me and my friend to come down to the field,” said Bradi. “Preslee was like, ‘You need to go hit. You need to go hit.’ I was not sure about it at first, but other people were doing it.
“Preslee was getting angry at me. So, I grabbed a bat and my first two swings I sent over the left field fence.”
It was just the start of the recruitment process.
“What I witnessed that day blossomed into us being curious and wanting to see more,” said Taylor.
_______________________________
Bradi Gallaway practically spent half of her childhood in Ruston, or at least that is how she remembers it.
Bradi was an eight-year-old when her sister started her collegiate career with the Bulldogs under then head coach Mark Montgomery.
During Preslee’s four years, Bradi came with her parents to every home game and many of the road contests.
She became as much of a fixture at the old Lady Techster Softball Complex as her big sister.
“My memories revolve around watching everything Preslee did,” said Bradi. “Whether it was in the bullpen or in the dugout or while she was on the field – just commanding the field. I would chase her down and watch her in the bullpen. Or sit behind home plate.”
Who could blame her? Those teams were fun to watch and big sister was a big reason why.
Preslee became one of the most decorated pitchers in Tech Softball history. She was a three-time all-conference performer and earned the Conference USA Pitcher of the Year award during her junior season. She ranks in the top 10 in program history in wins, strikeouts, saves, innings pitched, and appearances.
“Everywhere she went, she was like a light,” said Bradi. “And I had to follow the light.”
But unlike most kids her age, Bradi was not running around the ballpark while her older sibling was playing.
No, she was zeroed in, watching and learning.
“I remember her as a kid running around the complex after games, always paying attention,” said former Bulldog Morgan (Turkoly) Childress, who played during the same four-year stretch as Preslee.
“She’d run by and say, ‘Good game, Mo,’ and you could tell she had actually watched the games, not just played with some of the other kids off to the side.”
Bradi watched – even studied – some pretty good softball during that time as Preslee, Morgan, and the Bulldogs won 146 games and three league titles from 2016 to 2019 while playing in a pair of NCAA Regionals.
The memories of those times still loom large in her mind.
“Sometimes Preslee would let me hang with them if they had a team dinner and it was cool to be around Morgan (Turkoly), and Berkley (Calapp), and Marilyn (Rizzato),” said Bradi, who attended her first Tech softball camp at age eight. “I looked up to all of them so much.”
_______________________________
Bradi Gallaway is fearless.
It is a Gallaway trait for anyone who knows the family.
However, she admits that during the recruiting process, she felt a little twinge of anxiety when it came to playing at the same school as Preslee.
“Yes, there was some fear,” said Bradi. “My freshman and sophomore year (of high school), I was like, ‘I want to create my own path. I am not going to go to the same college. That’s just following her. I want to create my own name.’”
An admirable goal for any high-level athlete.
However, a talk with Preslee started to calm those fears.
“We had that conversation – me and Bradi – away from mom and dad,” said Preslee. “I told her that the only person that was still a part of the program that knew what I did was Malcolm (Butler). No one else is there. That gave her peace of mind.”
It made sense.
“I didn’t want anyone at practice to go, ‘Hey, your sister made that play. Hey, your sister did this or did that.’ I didn’t want any of that for her,” said Preslee. “I told her when she goes to practice every day, yes, Malcolm is going to be there, but he isn’t going to say, ‘Hey, your sister did this or that.’ I told her, go make your own story, whether that’s at Tech or not.”
The conversation helped.
“Preslee always told me she didn’t think I would be following her,” said Bradi. “It’s a different coach. It’s a different program. It’s a different field. It’s a different staff. Everything is different besides the town and the name on the jersey.”
None of her family pushed her towards Ruston, although her mom Michelle wanted her to stay within reasonable driving distance.
“She told me I had a five-hour radius,” laughed Bradi. “She said, ‘If I have to fly to see you, it’s too far. If I am falling asleep during the drive to see you play, it’s too far.’”
They all just wanted her to be comfortable and happy with whatever decision and whatever program she chose.
“She didn’t want to live in Preslee’s shadow, and that was a compliment to her,” said Jeff Gallaway, the girl’s father. “She admires her sister greatly, but she has always wanted to stand on her own two feet and blaze her own path and make a name for herself.”
Bradi remembers much of the advice she received.
“My Dad said he didn’t care where I went to play ball,” said Bradi. “He just wanted me to have fun. He said, ‘I want you to have fun and have faith, I don’t care where you go. Those are the two things you must take with you.’
“He was one of the ones who said, ‘You can’t think you are following in Preslee’s shadows by going to Louisiana Tech.’ He was one of the first ones to say, ‘You aren’t following her. That’s not what it is. She is different. You are different. Two completely different people. Two completely different generations.’”
As the recruiting process intensified for the younger Gallaway, some doubts still remained until September 1 of her junior year at Whitesboro High School rolled around – the first day college coaches could officially reach out per NCAA rules.
Bradi attended camps at a number of college campuses – something that is legal prior to the September 1 deadline – including Louisiana Tech, Texas State, Wichita State and many more.
It allows the camper to get a feel for the coaching staffs and program and the coaches to get time with the recruits.
Josh Taylor had told Bradi at one of those LA Tech camps that she would be getting a call from him on the first day of September. But she admits, she was not sure what the call would entail.
“She had other options,” said Taylor. “We knew that, but we also knew she was a legacy and that her sister’s experience at Louisiana Tech was extremely positive. As we got to know Bradi and her family, the more we liked everything we saw.
“But Bradi’s ability and her competitiveness and who she is as a person is what really got us excited. We knew there was work that we needed to do with her swing, but we knew there was an explosiveness to it.”
Around 8 a.m. on September 1, 2023, she received a text message from Taylor.
“His message just said, ‘Let’s set up a phone call.’ I had phone calls throughout the night, but his was the one I was the most surprised about,” said Bradi.
That night Bradi’s phone rang with Taylor’s name on the caller ID.
“The first thing he said was, ‘Hey kid. I am cutting right to it. Here is your offer. I want you to think about it. We will talk about more details later, but we want you to come to Louisiana Tech. We want you here. We know you can succeed here,’” said Bradi.
One of the things Bradi said stood out about the conversation was that when she asked about a deadline for the decision, Taylor did not apply pressure.
“When he made me the offer, I asked him what my timeline was,” said Bradi. “And he said, ‘You don’t have one.’”
Two weeks later, Bradi committed to be a Bulldog.
_______________________________
Life has a way of coming full circle sometimes.
For Bradi Gallaway, one of those moments will be this weekend.
More than 20 former Tech players have RSVP’d to return to campus on Saturday for the 5th Annual Tech Softball Alumni Weekend.
Tech will host FIU in a three-game series at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field starting Friday.
And the once bright-eyed eight-year-old Bradi Gallaway will have a chance to play in front of not only her sister, but so many of the players she began idolizing a decade ago.
“It’s so crazy to me,” said Bradi. “When I was growing up, these girls were larger than life to me. Even just two years ago when I came to Alumni Weekend with Preslee, we sat with a lot of them. Even though we all aged five or six years, I still felt like I was eight years old. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s Berkley. Oh my gosh, that’s Morgan.’”
Berkley (Calapp) Oblender and Morgan (Turkoly) Childress will be on hand. So will Marilyn Rizzato and Katie Smith. And of course, big sis.
And they all will be sitting in the stands, watching Bradi with the same intensity that she viewed them with during their playing days.
Coincidentally enough, Bradi has a chance to set a Louisiana Tech freshman record for home runs, currently held by none other than … Morgan (Turkoly) Childress. Morgan hit 10 in 2016, and Bradi is sitting at nine.
“It’s been really awesome to see her now at our alma mater, especially with the success she’s already had as a freshman,” said Morgan. “I am so proud of her and can’t wait to follow the rest of her career. I hope she goes on to set many records of her own.”
None of this first-year success surprises anyone who knows Bradi Gallaway. She has had little trouble making a name for herself in her first season of college ball, even playing at the same school as her sister.
“She respects everything Preslee did at Louisiana Tech,” said Taylor. “They will always be sisters, but they will certainly have their own journeys at Louisiana Tech. That is what makes them unique, and I think it is what makes Bradi special.
“She has been everything we could have wanted. And the scary thing about Bradi is that she hasn’t even come close to her potential.”
Bradi was named the Conference USA Freshman of the Week Monday after hitting two more home runs and driving in eight runs last week. She is currently hitting .331 with seven doubles, nine home runs and a team-high 36 RBI (another one of Morgan’s freshmen records she is chasing: 43).
She has saved some of her biggest hits for clutch moments, including the walk-off solo home run in the bottom of the 11th inning to beat ULM 3-2 on February 19.
Bradi’s defense at shortstop has been next level, committing just five errors in over 135 chances this year.
“We knew defensively she was going to be a Division I player right away,” said Taylor. “She is the kind of kid who is going to continue to work. Her potential far outweighs what we have already seen this year.”
Bradi Gallaway roamed the stands and the outskirts of the bullpen area while watching her big sister and teammates lead Tech to conference titles almost decade ago.
This weekend she will roam the actual field for the Bulldogs. And she said she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“It’s been nothing short of a spectacular experience for me,” said Bradi. “It’s so awesome. I have built such a sisterhood with these girls. It’s like everybody is here for you. It’s home away from home, something that I was searching for. And I found it.”
Less than one full season into her collegiate softball journey, Bradi is writing her own legacy in Ruston.
Preslee (left) and Bradi (right) pose for a photo following a Bulldog game in Oklahoma City almost 10 years ago.
The 18th Annual Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office Senior Expo is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Ruston Sports Complex (Indoor Complex) located at 2103 Champions Way.
This event will feature speakers, information relevant to seniors, entertainment, delicious food, and prizes (participants must be 55 years or older and present to win a door prize).
“This event is a way to honor our senior citizens for their vital contributions to our community and parish life,” stated Sgt. Iris Winston from the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office Community Services Division. “Our main goal is to share valuable information that can positively affect our seniors’ daily lives.”
Winston noted that previous expos have featured speakers addressing topics such as frauds and scams, Medicare and Medicaid, wellness and balance, funeral planning, and more. This year’s lineup includes Cardiologist Dr. Michael Langiulli from Willis-Knighton Cardiology Ruston speaking on heart health as well as local lawyer Ryan Madden talking about power of attorney and estate planning.
“This entire event focuses on our seniors. We want to express our gratitude for their contributions to the community,” explained Winston. “Everything is tailored for senior citizens, showcasing what Lincoln Parish offers and the various services available. We have been hosting this event for 18 years, and many seniors eagerly anticipate it each year.
“We are aiming to make this year’s event even bigger and better. We encourage all seniors in our community to come out and enjoy.”
The LPSO expresses gratitude to major sponsors for the event: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes, City of Ruston, Rolling Hills Ministries, Willis-Knighten Cardiology of Ruston, Morris & Dewitt Personal Injury Attorney, Entergy, Origin Bank, FYZICAL, and Trenton Dental.
For more information, to make a donation, or if your organization wishes to reserve a booth, please reach out to Sgt. Iris Winston at 318-251-6440 or via email at iwinston@lpsheriff.org.
Participants learn to dust for fingerprints at a previous cadet academy.
Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office announced the dates for this summer’s Youth Cadet Academy sessions.
The program offers local youth grades 6-8 an opportunity to learn about law enforcement, leadership, and community service in a fun and engaging environment.
2026 marks the fifth consecutive summer LPSO has hosted the Youth Cadet Academy. This year’s schedule includes two session: 1st Session: June 23–25 and 2nd Session: July 21–23.
Participants will take part in hands-on activities, team-building exercises, and educational sessions led by deputies and staff from the Sheriff’s Office. The academy is designed to inspire responsibility, teamwork, and respect while giving students a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement operations.
Activities in the past have included crime scene processing, K-9 operations, patrol procedures, jail operations, SWAT, and much more.
Applications are available at your child’s school or through a QR code on LPSO’s Facebook page. Complete the form and email to iwinston@lpsheriff.org. Parents can also contact Sgt. Iris Winston for additional information at 318-251-6440 or email to listed address above.
Deadline is May 4, 2026. Spaces are limited, so apply early.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
MAKING HIS PITCH: After his best overall performance in major championships in 2025, Sam Burns opens The Masters this morning at 8:19 bidding for more success at Augusta National. (Photo courtesy masters.com)
By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports
AUGUSTA, Ga. – Sam Burns tees off in his fifth Masters this morning at 8:19 to begin the 2026 majors season after his best across the board performance in golf’s big four tournaments last season.
Burns, 29, was one of less than two dozen golfers to make the cut in all four major championships in 2025, highlighted by a tie for seventh at the U.S. Open and 19th at the PGA Championship.
The Choudrant resident, who plays out of Squire Creek Country Club, tied for 45th at Augusta last April. He had a best Masters finish of T29 at the 2023 event, when he opened with his best round at Augusta National, a 68, and finished the tournament at 1-over par.
Burns, a Shreveport native and Calvary Baptist graduate, ranks 13th on the PGA Tour this year in shots gained putting and 17th in driving distance, two aspects of the game that are vital in this week’s tournament.
But his career average score at Augusta National is 73.67, almost 2-over.
This season, Burns has made four of seven cuts and earned $1.25 million. If he makes the cut this week, it will bump his official career earnings over $36 million – he’s sitting at $35,985,076 entering today.
Burns will play with 2022 British Open champion Cameron Smith and Jake Knapp in the first two rounds. Knapp has won $2.4 million this season by making six of seven cuts.
After this morning’s early tee time, they go off Friday at 11:27.
Burns has three top 10 finishes in his last 10 stars and five top 10s in his last 20 tournaments. He is 35th in the FedEx Cup standings for 2026 and 33rd in the Official World Golf Rankings. He finished seventh in the 2025 FedEx Cup and made his second Ryder Cup appearance for the USA.
TV coverage today and Friday is on Golf Channel “Live from The Masters” from 7 a.m.-2 p.m., with Prime Video providing streaming tournament coverage from noon-2 and ESPN from 2-6:30. Extensive coverage is available at masters.com.
On the evening of Sunday, March 29, a quarterfinal game was played in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament between UConn and Duke. If you have watched any highlights of the tournament, you have no doubt seen the incredible comeback that UConn made to win that game. In fact, the last ten seconds of that game will no doubt be one to remember for years to come.
However, it’s not the last 10 seconds that are the most impactful to me. In fact, the most impactful moment in that game isn’t just for basketball fans.
Duke was in total control of that game through the first half. Early in the second half, Duke was ahead by 19 points. UConn was not playing well to say the least.
However, there was a timeout several minutes into the second half and UConn was down 16 points at the time. During the time out, UConn’s coach, Dan Hurley, could be heard telling his team, “I can feel it. The momentum is starting to change.”
I don’t know that the momentum was really changing, but Hurley wanted his team to believe it. He needed them to believe to create hope and spark action. I don’t know if we will ever know if Hurley saw something that I didn’t see, but it doesn’t matter. The only thing that mattered was that his team believed it.
Leadership, to a great degree, is transferring belief to another.
Belief is essential for hope. Belief is the foundation for conviction. Belief guides us to identity, purpose, and impact.
I’m not a fan of Coach Hurley at all. I don’t like his coaching style, his language, or his conduct toward officials, but I can’t argue with his success, and I can’t say enough about his approach to a positive mindset.
When we believe and create hope, we focus on the possible and the positive.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the negative. When we focus on life’s trials, adversity, and disappointments, we can easily spiral in that direction. When we focus on disappointment, we see more disappointment.
We see what we look for!
However, when we reset and change our mindset, we can see hope even in the midst of disappointment. When we look for the positive, we will see differently.
Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”.
The world is full of doubt, darkness, and disappointment. However, we can choose hope, optimism, and joy.
A good day is not necessarily one free from adversity or disappointment, but rather one that finds a way to have a good day anyway. It’s about mindset, perspective, and choice.
As Coach Hurley showed us, it starts with one person sharing a belief.
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
A Tennessee man was arrested in Ruston last week after drugs were found in his vehicle during a traffic stop.
Nathan A. McCorkhill, 30, of Rocky Top, Tennessee, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia on April 2.
McCorkhill was stopped by a Louisiana state trooper on East California Avenue for blocking the roadway and improper backing. During a pat down for weapons, the trooper found a syringe in McCorkhill’s front left pants pocket.
During a search of the vehicle, the trooper found a glass smoking pipe used for consuming methamphetamine, several small bottles of liquid saline and cotton balls, and a bag containing a baggie of suspected methamphetamine and more drug paraphernalia.
In addition to the drug charges, McCorkhill was cited for improper stopping in the roadway and improper backing.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Force Investigation Unit were requested to investigate a shooting incident following a multi-parish pursuit involving Troopers and multiple agencies.
The incident occurred on Louisiana Highway 28 near Dewey Wills WMA Road. Investigators are working to process the scene, gather further information, and determine all agencies involved.
One subject was shot and has been pronounced dead. No law enforcement personnel were harmed during the incident. This is an active investigation; further information will be released when it becomes available.
Anyone with information and/or pictures and video is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. You may anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting lsp.org and clicking on Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
QUITMAN — In a tightly contested pitchers’ duel, Simsboro came up just short Tuesday night, falling 3-2 to Quitman despite a strong outing on the mound from Noah Thomas.
Thomas delivered one of his most efficient performances of the season, working six innings while allowing just four hits and three runs — only two earned — while striking out seven and walking one. The right-hander kept Simsboro within striking distance throughout, but Quitman managed to capitalize on a handful of key moments.
Quitman struck first in the second inning when Asher Rhodes delivered an RBI single to take a 1-0 lead.
Simsboro answered in the top of the third, taking advantage of a Quitman miscue. A defensive error allowed two runs to score, giving the Tigers a 2-1 advantage despite managing just one hit through the first three innings.
The lead didn’t last long. Quitman responded in the bottom half of the third with an RBI groundout from Maddox Duck to even the score at 2-2. An inning later, Cail King provided what proved to be the difference, driving in a run on a groundout to give Quitman a 3-2 lead.
From there, both pitching staffs took control. Quitman’s Hudson Pullig went the distance, holding Simsboro to four hits and two unearned runs over seven innings while striking out four and walking two.
Simsboro scattered four hits on the night, with Maximus Lee, Chris Harrell, Chris Stevens, and Thomas each recording one. The Tigers were clean defensively, committing no errors, and Stevens led the way with eight chances in the field.
Quitman also finished with four hits, getting one apiece from Rhodes, Zach Smudricks, Kace West, and Tucker Barnett. Aggressive base running played a key role, as Quitman swiped five bases to help generate offense in a game where runs were hard to come by.
Simsboro will look to bounce back when it travels to Southwood on Monday.
Weston pulls away early, hands Choudrant 10-0 road loss
WESTON — Choudrant ran into an early surge from Weston on Tuesday and couldn’t recover, falling 10-0 to the Wolves in a district matchup.
Weston broke the game open in the bottom of the second inning, capitalizing on a mix of timely hitting and Aggie miscues. Liam Weaver delivered an RBI single to center, and two Choudrant errors along with a walk by Drew Browning helped plate multiple runs as Weston grabbed control early.
The Wolves added to their lead in the third inning behind a Dawson Griffin single and another Aggie error, extending the advantage and putting Choudrant in a difficult position the rest of the night.
Weaver set the tone on the mound for Weston, tossing five shutout innings while allowing just three hits. The left-hander struck out three and walked one in an efficient outing.
Cash Camp took the loss for Choudrant, striking out five over three innings but allowing seven runs — only two earned — as defensive miscues proved costly.
Offensively, the Aggies managed three hits, with Rhett James, Cam Bagwell, and Josh Sellers each collecting one.
Weston finished with a balanced attack, as Colton Blundell, Browning, Weaver, Griffin, and Easton Borders each recorded a hit. Browning and Griffin led the way with two RBIs apiece, while the Wolves also showed patience at the plate, drawing six walks.
Defensively, Weston played a clean game without an error, with Jase Borders leading the team in chances.
Choudrant will look to bounce back Friday when it travels to Caldwell Parish.
Cedar Creek Arms Combine for Shutout in 4-0 Win Over St. Mary
RUSTON — Cedar Creek leaned on dominant pitching and timely hitting Tuesday night, shutting out St. Mary 4-0 behind a combined effort from Connor Yates and Brett Bell.
Yates set the tone with a strong start, working six scoreless innings while allowing just two hits. The right-hander struck out seven and walked two, keeping St. Mary off balance throughout his outing. Bell came on in relief and closed the door, recording the final out to secure the shutout.
The Cougars broke through in the top of the sixth inning after a scoreless battle early. Kade Luker delivered the key hit, singling to bring home the game’s first run. Cedar Creek added to its lead later in the inning to create separation.
Offensively, Luker led the way from the top of the lineup, going 2-for-4 to pace Cedar Creek’s attack. The Cougars played a clean game defensively, committing no errors, with Bell leading the team with eight chances in the field.
St. Mary managed just two hits in the contest, with Johnson and Nelson accounting for both.
With the win, Cedar Creek continues to build momentum and will look to carry it into Saturday’s road matchup at Captain Shreve.
Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Thursday, April 9 9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) Noon: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (Cypress Springs Elementary School) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal hosted by 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry (Ruston Housing Authority Maryland Plaza location, 615 N. Farmerville Street. All are welcome.) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
Friday, April 10 1 p.m.: GSU softball 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Saturday, April 11 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market Noon: GSU softball 2 p.m.: GSU softball 2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 2 p.m.: LA Tech softball 3 p.m.: GSU baseball
Sunday, April 12 11 a.m. LA Tech softball 1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 1 p.m.: GSU baseball
Monday, April 13 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting (Ruston City Hall) 6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street) 6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, April 14 10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish Courthouse)
Wednesday, April 15 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, April 16 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library) 5 p.m.: Library Board of Control meeting (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Climbing Everest with guest speaker John Kyte (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6:30 p.m.: Books and Bites Book Club (Lincoln Parish Library; registration required by calling 318-513-5510)
Friday, April 17 1 p.m.: GSU softball 1 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Adala Health (902 S. Vienna St., Ruston) 4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Saturday, April 18 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market Noon: GSU softball 2 p.m.: GSU softball 2 p.m.: LA Tech softball 3 p.m.: GSU baseball 6-8 p.m.: India Night (For tickets, call 682-321-9914 or 318-957-9298) (Louisiana Tech)
Sunday, April 19 11 a.m.: LA Tech softball Noon: GSU baseball
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
RUSTON — Ruston High had a solid showing on the Louisiana Sports Writers Association 5A All-State teams with junior Ahmad Hudson earning 5A Outstanding Player and sophomore Darren Ford named to the All-State team.
A 6-foot-8 junior forward, Hudson was named the LSWA Class 5A Outstanding Player after leading the Bearcats to the state title game. He averaged 19.7 points, 13.4 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game while earning his third consecutive first-team All-State selection. He was also previously named the Gatorade’s 2026 Louisiana Player of the Year.
Hudson was joined on the All-State first team by Ford, who averaged 20.7 points per game, giving Ruston two of the five first-team selections in Class 5A.
Ruston also placed two additional players on the All-State list as junior KeShun Malcolm earned honorable mention recognition, while junior Kearra Wilson represented the Lady Bearcats on the girls honorable mention team.
Rhoda Holtzclaw December 30, 1940 – April 6, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1:00PM – 2:00PM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 2:00PM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Final Resting Place: Sibley Cemetery, 2091 Hwy 145, Choudrant
Kira LaSean Norman June 27, 1967 – April 5, 2026
Anestha Marsha Young Tuesday 01/08/1946 — Sunday 03/29/2026 Memorial Service: Saturday 04/11/2026 11:00am, China Grove Baptist Church, 406 Vernon Street, Ruston Private Burial
Linda Faye Armstrong Thursday 03/05/1964 — Friday 04/03/2026 Visitation: Thursday 04/09/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Friday 04/10/2026 1:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Friday 04/10/2026, Hopewell Cemetery, Dubach
RUSTON — Ruston High had a solid showing on the Louisiana Sports Writers Association 5A All-State teams with junior Ahmad Hudson earning 5A Outstanding Player and sophomore Darren Ford named to the All-State team.
A 6-foot-8 junior forward, Hudson was named the LSWA Class 5A Outstanding Player after leading the Bearcats to the state title game. He averaged 19.7 points, 13.4 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game while earning his third consecutive first-team All-State selection. He was also previously named the Gatorade’s 2026 Louisiana Player of the Year.
Hudson was joined on the All-State first team by Ford, who averaged 20.7 points per game, giving Ruston two of the five first-team selections in Class 5A.
Ruston also placed two additional players on the All-State list as junior KeShun Malcolm earned honorable mention recognition, while junior Kearra Wilson represented the Lady Bearcats on the girls honorable mention team.
RUSTON — The Lincoln Parish School Board has reached a key milestone in its search for a new superintendent, with the application period officially closing April 3 and the next phase of the process now underway.
School board president Gregg Phillips said the district followed a structured and transparent process to secure and review applications. All submissions were directed to a designated post office box, which remained sealed until April 7.
“The deadline to apply ended last Friday,” Phillips said. “As agreed, I, along with (LPSB Vice President) Donna Doss and two representatives from the Central Office, drove to the post office. There we met with our legal representative and opened the box in front of everyone. We felt this was the most transparent way to do it.”
The board will retain the original application materials, while copies were provided to legal counsel.
The use of a post office box was intended to protect the integrity of the process and ensure confidentiality for applicants. By keeping submissions secured and unopened until the deadline passed, officials aimed to prevent leaks and encourage a broader pool of candidates.
All applications will now be forwarded to a third-party school system for verification of credentials and certifications. Once that review is complete, the board will receive a list of qualified applicants.
The Lincoln Parish School Board is scheduled to meet Thursday at noon at Cypress Springs Elementary for its regular monthly meeting and will publicly release applicant information.
The board will then schedule the interview process for the announced qualified candidates.
According to a document filed in the United States District Court Western Division of Louisiana (Monroe Division) on March 31 (see below), the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System on behalf of Louisiana Tech will begin mediation with Conference USA today.
This is a facilitated negotiation — a mutual step in the right direction — as both sides look to find an agreeable and fair financial compensation that Louisiana Tech would pay Conference USA upon its departure on July 1, 2026.
According to the recent filing, the two parties agreed on March 20 to discuss possible mediation and then agreed to it on March 26, with the date set for today.
In arbitration, both parties are bound to the decision of the arbitrator (or judge), while in mediation, neither side is legally bound to a decision or recommendation by the mediator.
Louisiana Tech accepted the Sun Belt Conference’s invitation last July and immediately notified Conference USA of its intentions to depart the league on the last day of June, 2026.
However, the two sides have not been able to agree to financial terms.
On Monday, April 6, 2026, shortly after 6:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Hwy 34, just north of Louisiana Highway 810. The crash claimed the life of 20-year-old Jason Taylor of Chatham.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2024 Kawasaki Motorcycle, driven by Taylor, was traveling east on Louisiana Highway 34. At the same time, a 2025 Kenworth Tractor, pulling a wood chip trailer, was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 34. For reasons still under investigation, the Kawasaki veered left, crossed over the centerline, and struck the Kenworth head-on in the westbound lane of Louisiana Highway 34.
Taylor, who was wearing a DOT-approved helmet, died at the scene. The driver of the Kenworth was properly restrained and uninjured. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers urge all motorists to prioritize safety on the roads. Avoid driving while distracted or impaired at all costs, as these choices pose severe threats to yourself and others sharing the road. Stay focused, alert, and responsible whenever you get behind the wheel. Your commitment to safety is a crucial step towards ensuring the well-being of everyone in our community.
The City of Ruston announces that, weather permitting, smoke testing will begin on April 8, 2026, in the sewer systems along Abby Ln, Redwood St, Creekwood St, Tanglewood Dr, Lovers Ln, Woodhaven Rd, and adjacent areas (see map above).
This testing is necessary to allow the City of Ruston to assess the current condition of their sewer system. Testing is anticipated to last approximately three weeks. The smoke used during this testing is non-toxic and leaves no residual.
Please be aware that smoke may enter a home or business if plumbing facilities of that structure are defective or improperly installed. Should you have any questions please contact the City of Ruston Public Works Department at (318) 242-7703.
