Community Mourning, Rising Safety Concerns, and Recent Emergency Incidents: An Update

Our community remains deeply affected by recent losses and ongoing safety challenges that underscore the urgent need for collective vigilance and proactive measures. As we continue to honor those we've lost, new incidents and developments highlight the importance of strengthening safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and community resilience.

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Continued Community Mourning and Memorial Arrangements

The community mourns the passing of several beloved residents, with funeral services and memorials scheduled to honor their lives:

• Shirley Campbell Presley (79), whose peaceful passing on February 4, 2026, in Conway, AR, was marked by a heartfelt funeral at First Baptist Church on February 7. Shirley was celebrated for her devotion to family and community service.

• Jesse Cole Biscamp, Sr. (25), whose sudden death on February 11 shocked Kirbyville. His funeral, initially set for February 15 at Kirbyville Community Funeral Home, has been rescheduled to February 17 at 2:00 pm at Call Junction. Community members are encouraged to confirm details with the venue.

• Melissa Jane Donahoe Carruth (55), a dedicated community volunteer from Brookeland, Texas, who passed on February 16. Her funeral is scheduled for February 18 at 10:00 am at Stringer & Griffin Funeral Home. Her legacy of compassion continues to inspire many.

• Sherry Lynn Hood (65), of Call, who died on February 20. Her graveside service will be held at Davis Cemetery on Monday, February 23, at 2:00 pm. Known for her warmth, Sherry's memory remains strong among family and friends.

• Sandra Marie Cottongin (77), of Jasper, who peacefully left us on February 12. A memorial gathering will be announced soon to honor her gentle presence and enduring kindness.

These services serve as poignant reminders of the lives that have touched our community deeply, inspiring us to cherish and support one another.

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Recent Tragedies and Escalating Safety Concerns

Industrial Incident: Oklahoma Refinery Explosion Claims a Resident

Adding to our community’s grief, a devastating refinery explosion in Oklahoma claimed the life of a Kirbyville resident. Described as "Truly one of a kind soul,", this tragedy has intensified calls for stricter industrial safety regulations. Local officials are actively reviewing existing protocols and advocating for enhanced oversight to prevent future incidents, emphasizing the risks faced by residents employed in or near energy sectors.

Rural Road Dangers: Vehicle and Animal Collisions

• Highway 62 Horse Collision: A recent incident involved a vehicle striking and killing a horse on Texas Highway 62 near Kirbyville. The event underscores the dangers posed by rural roads, especially with limited signage and driver awareness. Community concerns are rising over inadequate warnings, prompting officials to consider installing additional signage and stricter driving regulations to better protect both motorists and animals.

• Highway 63 East Fire Closure: A significant fire near Jasper forced the temporary closure of Highway 63 East for just over an hour. The fire, which erupted about four miles east of the Jasper-Newton County line, was caused by a controlled burn that went out of control, resulting in the destruction of two storage buildings near Brookeland. Winds out of the south contributed to the rapid spread, challenging firefighters' efforts.

Traffic Accidents and Law Enforcement Response

• Pickup Truck Rollover South of Jasper: Emergency responders investigated a rollover accident that critically injured at least one individual. The incident is under review, with authorities urging caution during adverse weather conditions.

• Crash at Dam B on Highway 190: A late-night crash prompted response from the Beech Grove Fire Department. Details remain under investigation, but the event highlights the hazards of high-speed rural travel, especially in poorly lit conditions.

• Juvenile High-Speed Pursuits: Law enforcement responded to multiple reports of reckless juvenile driving, including a high-speed chase in Jasper County that ended with two juveniles crashing into a tree west of Kirbyville. The suspects sustained injuries but were swiftly apprehended using drone surveillance and K9 units, emphasizing the community’s concern over juvenile reckless driving.

Arrests for Dangerous Driving

Adding to community safety concerns, Newton County law enforcement announced the arrest of two men following reports of erratic and dangerous driving. Sheriff Colton Havard stated, "We are committed to cracking down on dangerous drivers to keep our roads safe. Residents should remain vigilant and report unsafe behavior immediately." These actions reflect ongoing efforts to curb reckless behavior on local roads.

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New Emergency Response and Safety Initiatives

Expanding Healthcare and Emergency Preparedness

In a major development, a $2.4 million state grant has been awarded to CHRISTUS Health to expand clinical simulation training at facilities in Orange and Jasper. This initiative aims to:

• Enhance medical training for trauma and emergency response
• Improve preparedness for complex situations
• Strengthen the community’s capacity to respond effectively during crises

Title: Grant will expand clinical simulation training at CHRISTUS facilities in Orange and Jasper
ORANGE, Texas — CHRISTUS Health has received a $2.4 million state grant to expand clinical simulation training programs at its Orange and Jasper facilities. This investment aims to elevate the quality of medical training, especially in trauma and emergency response, ensuring that healthcare professionals are better prepared to handle complex situations and save lives in our community.

This effort is part of a broader strategy to bolster emergency response capabilities, reduce fatalities, and improve patient outcomes during industrial accidents, natural disasters, or health crises.

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Current Status, Community Action, and Outlook

• Funeral arrangements for Presley, Carruth, Hood, and Cottongin are confirmed and progressing smoothly.
• Jesse Biscamp’s funeral has been rescheduled to February 17, with residents encouraged to verify details.
• Investigations into recent accidents—including highway crashes, juvenile pursuits, and the refinery fire—are ongoing. Law enforcement and emergency agencies are working diligently to determine causes and implement safety improvements.
• Safety measures, such as increased patrols, enhanced signage, and use of drone and K9 surveillance, are being deployed in high-risk areas like Highway 62, Dam B, and rural roads.
• The $2.4 million CHRISTUS grant reflects a community-wide commitment to improving emergency response, healthcare, and safety infrastructure.

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Final Reflection

As we mourn the loss of Jesse Biscamp, Shirley Presley, Melissa Carruth, Sherry Hood, and Sandra Cottongin, their memories serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, vigilance, and compassion. Their legacies motivate ongoing efforts to create a safer environment through enhanced safety protocols, community engagement, and proactive policies.

While grief remains pervasive, recent incidents underscore that collective vigilance, advocacy, and shared responsibility are essential to forging a safer, more resilient community. Through continued safety initiatives, improved emergency preparedness, and community support, we honor their memories and work towards a future where tragedies are minimized, and safety is prioritized for all residents.

May they rest in peace. May our shared commitment to safety, kindness, and community guide us forward.