A late-night snack run led to the arrest of a Shreveport man after police said he stole $19.88 worth of food from a Circle K.

At approximately 12:34 a.m. Aug. 11, Shreveport Police responded to the Circle K at 809 Olive Street after a store clerk reported that a man entered the business, grabbed several snacks, filled a fountain drink and left without paying.

Police said the items included three packages of small donuts, two packages of honey buns, one package of pound cake and a fountain drink, totaling $19.88.

The suspect left the area, and an officer searched nearby but initially did not locate him. Police said the suspect then returned to the store while officers were still nearby.

The suspect was detained and identified as John Alex Jordan.

Further investigation revealed Jordan was also wanted in connection with the recent burglary of the Elks Lodge, where property had been stolen from the business. Detectives had previously been working to identify the suspect in that case.

Jordan also had an outstanding theft warrant in connection with another investigation.

Jordan faces one count of theft, one count of simple burglary and an additional outstanding theft warrant.

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The Holiday Inn Express & Suites on Traffic Street in Bossier City celebrated its grand reopening following renovations to its guest rooms.

The hotel welcomed guests back with a refreshed look and upgraded accommodations.

The Bossier Chamber of Commerce hosted the celebration, bringing the business community together to recognize the occasion.

The city congratulated the Holiday Inn Express & Suites team on its continued investment in Bossier City.

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Originally published in Webster Parish Journal

From Shreveport Police:

Shreveport investigators today obtained an arrest warrant for Al Jewel Myles III after he was identified as the suspect in a TikTok video where he allegedly threatened to sneak up on and shoot a Shreveport Police officer. During the video, what appeared to be the grip of a firearm was also visible.

Myles reportedly traveled to Springhill where he allegedly shot himself at Camelot Apartments. Springhill Police are investigating.
Myles was wanted for: Cyberstalking — RS 14:40.3 and Threatening a Public Official — RS 14:122.2

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The River Bend Rotary Club of Shreveport welcomed Dorian Ford of Giving Education Your All (GIA) as its guest speaker during Tuesday night’s meeting.

Ford shared how her organization works to bridge the gap between home and school through tutoring, family support and accountability.

Ford also discussed the Shreveport Family Christmas Festival & Parade, which has grown from serving 25 families to a major community celebration featuring a Christmas parade, gingerbread house competition, gumbo cook-off, family talent show, giveaways and more.

This year’s celebration will be held Dec. 19. Ford invited River Bend members and other community organizations to get involved and help make its ninth year the biggest yet.

The meeting also included Rotary International visitors from India, who presented their club flags.

River Bend Rotary has several upcoming opportunities to serve and get involved over the next few months.

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The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier Red Apron Pantry is now serving neighbors in the 71104 ZIP code. The pantry is located at 2601 Line Avenue, Suite D.

The client-choice food pantry allows families to choose the items that best meet their needs. Distribution is held on the third Thursday of every month from 4 to 6 p.m. The next distribution day is Aug. 20.

Residents should bring proof of residence or identification.

Learn more at JLSB.org/redapronpantry

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Harold E. Kelleher Jr., born September 20, 1953, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, following a long-term illness.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Mooringsport Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mooringsport, LA officiated by Alan Porreca.

Harold was a hardworking and dedicated machinist who took pride in his work and the life he built. He will be remembered by his family and loved ones for the memories they shared and the lasting impression he made throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Debra Sue Taylor, his mother, Georgia Cornwell Kelleher, his father, Harold E. Kelleher, and his daughter, Jean Anne Vaughn

Harold is survived by his son, Harold Evan Kelleher; his sisters, Gloria Kelleher Anthony and Heather Kelleher Gardner; and his beloved partner, Beverly Brown.

Harold will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

May he rest in peace.

Pallbearers will be David Deitz, Alan Porreca, Christopher Ian Anthony, Conner Vaughn, Terry Vaughn, and Evan Kelleher.

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Phyllis Annette Hughes Elmore, 82, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026. She was born on June 2, 1944, in Henrietta, North Carolina, to Kenneth Hughes and Margaret Allen Hughes, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Steve Hughes and Arnold Hughes.

Phyllis grew up in Henrietta and graduated from Chase High School. She continued her education by taking college courses and went on to build a career marked by hard work and dedication. Throughout her life, she served as a teacher’s aide, worked for Hallmark as a card stocker, worked at Walmart, and concluded her working career as a slot attendant at Horseshoe Casino and Hotel.

More than any job title, Phyllis will be remembered for her generous heart, welcoming spirit, and contagious smile. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel accepted and loved. Whether someone was family, a friend, or a complete stranger, she was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her laughter could brighten any room, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Phyllis found joy in photography, sewing, crafts, and spending time searching for treasures at yard sales. She especially loved decorating for holidays and was known for having decorations for every occasion, though Christmas held a special place in her heart. Family gatherings and holiday celebrations were among her greatest joys.

Known affectionately as “Memaw,” she was not only a beloved grandmother to her own family but also a cherished Memaw to many others whose lives she touched. Her greatest happiness came from spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories they will treasure forever.

She is survived by her daughter, Michele Travers and husband, Warren Travers, and her son, Jonathan Elmore and wife, Ruth Rodriguez; her grandchildren, Jamin Elmore, Christopher Hebert, Madison Elmore, and Aiden Travers; her beloved bonus grandchildren, Zacchaeus “Zack” Travers, Teyan Offer, Warren “Trey” Travers, Tristan Travers, and Ailyn Granados. She is survived by her great-grandchildren, Presley Rae Stafford, Milo Hebert, and Sevyn Stafford, and her bonus great-grandchildren, Javon Travers, Gevin Phill, Geremiah Phill, Leana Pack, Gabe Pack, Tesia Offer, Lawrence Wiggins, and Alayja Travers.

Phyllis’s life was guided by simple but meaningful words that reflected the way she lived: “Live, Laugh, Love.” Another favorite saying that brought smiles to those around her was, “What happens at Memaw’s stays at Memaw’s.”

Though she will be deeply missed, the love, laughter, and countless memories she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and unconditional love will never be forgotten.

She leaves behind a family who adored her and will forever cherish the warmth, love, and laughter she brought into their lives.

“Live, Laugh, Love.”

Because Phyllis never met a stranger and always kept her door open to anyone in need of friendship, laughter, or a place to feel at home, her family invites all who knew and loved her to join them for a Celebration of Life and Remembrance on August 15, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at her home, 856 Linden Street. In the spirit of Memaw’s hospitality, all are welcome to come share stories, memories, and laughter as they honor a life so well lived. To Phyllis, everyone was family, and her family would be honored to celebrate her life with all whose lives she touched.

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Shreveport Police Department patrol officers responded to the Homewood Suites on Aug. 9, located at 5485 Financial Plaza, following reports of a stabbing.

Initial information indicated that the male victim had left the scene following the incident while the suspect remained at the hotel.

Responding officers located the suspect, identified as Sebastian Martinez (DOB: 11/16/2007). During the investigation, Martinez told officers that he had been involved in a verbal altercation with other individuals that escalated into a physical confrontation. Martinez stated that during the confrontation, he armed himself with a knife and stabbed the victim.

While officers were investigating, they learned that the victim had arrived at a nearby medical facility for treatment.

Officers responded to the medical facility and interviewed the victim. He provided a different account of the incident, telling officers that he and Sebastian Martinez were involved in a verbal altercation when Martinez stabbed him. The victim denied that a physical altercation occurred prior to the stabbing.

Based on information gathered during the preliminary investigation, Sebastian Martinez was taken into custody and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Dangerous Weapon.

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A Keithville man who showed pornography to and fondled a tender-aged female must serve 80 years in prison and register as a sex offender for life, a Caddo Parish judge has ordered. 

Jimmy Wendt, 68, convicted July 10, was sentenced Wednesday, August 12, 2026 by District Judge Chris Victory. Judge Victory ordered Wendt to serve 65 years at hard labor without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence, for sexual battery of a victim under age 13. Wendt also must serve 15 years, also at hard labor without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence, for indecent behavior with a juvenile under age 13. The terms are to be served consecutively.  

The victim was between ages five and seven during the time of the offense, though she did not disclose the abuse until last year. She went to a child advocacy center, where she gave a statement about what happened to her. It was determined the criminal acts occurred in Caddo Parish off Barron Road.

Assistant District Attorneys Courtney N. Ray and Victoria Washington prosecuted Wendt, who was defended by Michael Enright and Carter Lawrence.

The case was docket No. 413022.

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A Shreveport man pleaded guilty Monday, August 10, 2026, to attempted second-degree murder in connection with an attack on a female acquaintance in September 2024.

Joshua Anzalone, 43, made his plea before District Judge Donald Hathaway Jr., who sentenced him to 20 years in prison at hard labor without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.

On September 22, 2024, Shreveport police were called to a motel where they found a female victim on the floor of a room, unresponsive but alive, with blood around a wound on her neck. It was found that a knife, later found in a nearby room, was used to cut the woman’s neck. Anzalone later was found in a different motel room and detained. 

Assistant District Attorneys Michael Anderson and Stephen Folk-Cruthirds prosecuted Anzalone, who was defended by Harry Johnson.

The case was docket No. 404234.

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BeBossier.com- Two decades ago, few people would have imagined that a stretch of farmland in Bossier City would become a national hub for cyber education, defense innovation, and workforce development.

Today, the National Cyber Research Park (NCRP) represents a remarkable transformation that has reshaped the local economy and how Louisiana contributes to the nation’s defense priorities. As the NCRP anchor, the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC) has continued to guide that evolution to meet changing times.

The story begins in 2007, when local leaders launched an ambitious effort to create a technology-driven future for northwest Louisiana. The NCRP was born and the CIC was envisioned as the future headquarters for the U.S. Air Force’s provisional Cyber Command. While that mission ultimately evolved in a different direction, the CIC’s leadership recognized an opportunity that would prove even more impactful in the years ahead.

When the Department of War stood up Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) at nearby Barksdale Air Force Base, the CIC and local leaders quickly adapted their vision. The center’s state-of-the-art facility, strategic location, and growing partnerships positioned it to support this new major command. 

“Working alongside city, parish, and state officials, the CIC refined its mission around supporting national security, technology innovation, and workforce development,” said Kevin Nolten, CIC president. “The result is more than a building. It’s an ecosystem that connects government, industry, academia, and the military to accelerate innovation in defense and workforce education.”

That partnership with AFGSC led to a collaborative model for solving complex defense challenges through rapid prototyping, market research, and data analytics. The result was STRIKEWERX, AFGSC’s innovation hub that matches emerging technologies with Air Force needs.

Today, STRIKEWERX has delivered dozens of innovative solutions and is projected to have saved the U.S. Air Force nearly $300 million. 

“Our goal is to support the warfighter and ensure that AFGSC’s lethality and agility remain at the top of the force,” Nolten said. “How that translates to a local level is that our success in STRIKEWERX has positioned Bossier City as a contributor to national defense innovation rather than only being home to Barksdale AFB.”

While these moves were being made, CIC leaders recognized another equally important challenge in the lack of qualified cybersecurity professionals entering the workforce. 

To help address that gap, the CIC partnered with the Department of Homeland Security to establish CYBER.ORG. The initiative was built around educating future professionals starting at K-12, no matter their proximity to Bossier City.

“What began as a regional pilot program has since grown into one of the nation’s leading K-12 cybersecurity education initiatives,” Nolten highlighted. “Through curriculum development, teacher training, and classroom resources, CYBER.ORG has reached more than 5 million students and 45,000 educators across all 50 states, inspiring a new generation to pursue careers in cyber and technology fields.”

As these initiatives expanded, so did the influence of the NCRP. The 3,000-acre development attracted major defense contractors, technology firms, and research organizations seeking proximity to Barksdale AFB and the ecosystem cultivated by the CIC. Together, these organizations have helped transform Northwest Louisiana into a destination for technology investment and high-skilled employment.

The economic impact has been substantial. According to 2025 statistics, the NCRP supports more than 2,600 jobs, has generated approximately $1.5 billion in household earnings, $1.45 billion in sales activity, and $70 million in tax revenue since its inception.

“Those numbers tell an important story, but they do not tell the whole story,” Nolten cautioned. “Behind every statistic are students who discovered new career paths, entrepreneurs who found new opportunities, and families who built a future here. That might be the CIC’s greatest achievement.”

Having grown from a vision for farmland to today, the CIC has become something that even its founders may not have imagined. It is proof that communities can reinvent themselves. 

“Our story is one of people who chose to make a bold investment in their community’s future and rode all the waves to reshape not only our corner of the state, but way beyond,” Nolten concluded.

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The City of Bossier City recognized the family of Captain Louis Vernon Landry, M.D., during a presentation at VFW Post 4588.

The family was presented with the Bronze Medal, honoring Landry’s distinguished service, sacrifice and dedication to the nation.

The city said Landry’s commitment to serving the country represented the best of the American spirit and recognized his service alongside his family and fellow veterans.

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The City of Shreveport Department of Public Works is reminding residents that regular garbage collection days have not changed, despite temporary delays on some routes in recent weeks. The delays are the result of a shortage of qualified truck drivers within the Solid Waste Division.

Public Works currently has employees available to staff the back of garbage trucks but is 11 drivers short of the staffing level needed to operate a full collection schedule.

The department’s goal is to have approximately 40 garbage trucks operating each week. Currently, staffing levels allow the City to operate approximately 30 trucks, which has made it difficult to complete the heavier Monday and Tuesday collection routes on schedule. Thursday and Friday routes generally have lower collection volumes and have experienced fewer delays.

Residents should continue placing their garbage cans at the curb on their regularly scheduled collection day. Collection days have not changed. If a can is not serviced on its scheduled day, residents are asked to leave it at the curb so crews can complete the route as soon as possible.

“Garbage collection is a basic City service, and our residents have every right to expect it to be reliable,” said Mayor Tom Arceneaux. “Right now, we simply do not have enough qualified drivers to put the number of trucks on the road that we need. That is the problem, and we’re working to fix it. In the meantime, the employees we have are working extended hours in difficult summer conditions to serve this city, and I appreciate the work they’re doing. We know we need to get these routes caught up, and that is our priority.”

The City is actively recruiting qualified drivers to help address the shortage. Applicants must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and at least one year of professional driving experience.

“We need drivers, and we’re hiring now,” said Mayor Arceneaux. “If you have a CDL, the required experience, and you’re looking for steady work serving your community, I encourage you to apply. We have positions available and we need good people to fill them.”

Interested applicants can apply through the City of Shreveport’s website by visiting ShreveportLA.gov, selecting the Human Resources tab and clicking Current Job Openings.

Applicants may also apply directly through the City’s online job posting for Driver Repairer: governmentjobs.com/careers/shreveportla/jobs/5442427/driver-repairer

Public Works typically experiences greater staffing challenges during the hottest months of the year, when outdoor working conditions are particularly demanding. At the same time, collection volumes fluctuate throughout the year.

With the beginning of the school year and an anticipated seasonal decrease in residential collection volume, the department expects conditions to improve as it continues recruiting drivers and working through delayed routes.

The City asks residents for patience as crews work to return all routes to their regular schedule and reminds residents not to change the day they place their carts at the curb.

For missed collections or other service concerns, residents can submit a request through Port City 311, available through the City’s website at ShreveportLA.gov, by downloading the Port City 311 app, or by calling 318-673-5510.

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A memorial service to celebrate the life of Alicia Kay Farley, 38, will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Erik Crain.

Alicia was born on June 4, 1988, to Robert Joseph Kuchar and Nancy Kay Traylor in Shreveport, Louisiana, and passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at her home in Doyline, Louisiana.

Alicia loved spending time with her children, and nothing brought her more joy than being involved in their lives. Whether it was a simple outing, a shared hobby, or just being together, she found her greatest happiness in the moments she spent with them. Her devotion to her kids was the heart of who she was, and she poured her love into every day she had with them.

She was the kind of person who lit up every room she walked into, naturally becoming the center of attention with her bright personality and infectious energy. Alicia had a gift for making people laugh, lifting spirits, and turning ordinary moments into memories. Her humor, warmth, and lively presence made her unforgettable to everyone who knew her.

Alicia was preceded in death by her grandmother, Connie Ebarb; her aunt, Billie Rutledge; and many other dearly missed family members.

Left to cherish her memory are her father, Robert Joseph Kuchar; her mother, Nancy Kay Traylor; her daughter, Shiangel Kuchar; her son, Chayce Farley; her brother, Robert Earl Traylor; her step‑brothers, Walter Spragg and Michael Spragg; her step‑sisters, Quatie Spragg and Naomi Spragg; along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and many beloved extended family members and friends.

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We are honoring the life and legacy of Robert “Bob” Ashley Jahnke who passed away peacefully at home at the age of 81. Bob’s life was defined by the consistency of his character. Kindness, trustworthiness, service, humility, and a sincere, gentle spirit made him who he was. Bob was a father, grandfather, husband, brother, man of family and faith, lawyer, community member, soldier, and person of honor, generosity, and dignity. His commitment to his family and community was evident throughout his life.

Bob was born in Kerrville, Texas on March 11, 1945 to father Oscar Lorenz Jahnke and mother Frances Alene Hunt Jahnke. At age three, his parents moved the family to a new home in Shreveport’s Broadmoor neighborhood, their backyard tucked along the 16th hole of Querbes Park Golf Course. He began golfing on Querbes at age five and never stopped, playing regularly into his 70s. Of all the courses he played, Querbes was the one he always returned to. 
Before he entered grade school at A.C. Steere, Bob peddled soda pop and found golf balls up and down Querbes’ 16th hole. At age eight, he became a paperboy in Broadmoor and stayed with it until he graduated from C.E. Byrd High School, using his earnings to buy his first car.

After graduating from LSU and LSU Law School, he began his career as a general practice attorney and continued for fifty-two years. He practiced law with deep respect for both his profession and his clients and was honored by the Louisiana State Bar Association for five decades of continuous service prior to his retirement.

While raising a family and practicing law, Bob served in the Army Reserve, eventually retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel after 28 years of service. He was a life-long member of the Shreveport Kiwanis Club and always looked forward to working their annual pancake breakfast fundraiser. He was an active and engaged member of Christ United Methodist Church for over fifty years. He lived his Christian faith with emphasis on loving one’s neighbors, bringing peace and harmony to one’s community, and avoiding judgement of others.

After retirement, Bob traveled far and wide, visiting his adult children and grandchildren and remaining engaged in their lives until his last day. He also became a regular at the Lash Family YMCA in Southeast Shreveport. While struggling with Alzheimer’s disease, Bob still maintained his daily workouts and established many new friendships at the YMCA. He was the most loving and kind father his children could have ever hoped for.

Above all, Bob was a principled man of service whose humbleness, integrity, and quiet kindness was seen and felt by all those who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and sister, Paula Jahnke Maxwell.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Frances Jahnke (née Lowe), his sister Janie Jahnke Roling, his children Erin Elizabeth Seffrood and her husband Ben Seffrood, his son Jonathan Ashley Jahnke and his wife Chiharu Sakai, his son Justin Robert Jahnke and his wife Anne Eugenie Palermo, as well as his grandchildren, Annabelle Virginia Tarter, Delaney Grace Seffrood, and Marcella Cole Palermo Jahnke and his beloved Shih Tzu dog, Doug. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law James “Buddy” Maxwell, nephews Jem Maxwell and Josh Roling, and nieces Katie Rodebaugh and Jennie Maxwell.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center, 851 Olive St. Shreveport, LA 71104, (318) 656-4800,  and/or Christ United Methodist Church, 1204 Crabapple Dr. Shreveport, LA 71118, (318) 686-2553.

We want to thank the Lash Family YMCA, The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center, and Willis-Knighton Hospice Care for the extraordinary amount of love, compassion, energy, and encouragement they gave to Bob and his family over the last two years. The family plans a remembrance of life service at a later date.

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Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives have arrested Ara Thompson Jr., 72, of Tupelo, Mississippi, following an investigation into allegations involving juvenile victims.

The investigation began after detectives received statements from victims regarding alleged sexual offenses. Following the investigation, detectives obtained and executed a warrant.

Thompson was subsequently arrested on July 30, 2026.

Thompson was charged with four (4) counts of Molestation of a Juvenile (Under 13), one (1) count of Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, and one (1) count of First-Degree Rape.

Thompson was transported to the Bossier Maximum-Security Facility, where he remains in custody. His total bond has been set at $1,500,000.

Detectives with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office continue to aggressively investigate cases involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These investigations are conducted in partnership with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, utilizing advanced investigative techniques and technology to identify offenders and protect vulnerable victims.

Anyone with information regarding any crime involving the abuse or exploitation of children, is encouraged to contact the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318) 965-2203.

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The Caddo Parish Tax Assessor’s Office, in coordination with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office and Parish of Caddo, has officially opened a satellite location in Oil City.

The location offers many services that otherwise would have required residents to travel to Shreveport.

The grand opening was held Tuesday, Aug. 11, at 10 a.m. at 11411 Hwy. 1 in Oil City.

Dr. Regina Webb serves as assessor.

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Hot and mostly sunny conditions are expected across Caddo and Bossier parishes through Monday, with afternoon highs in the upper 90s throughout the outlook period.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s. Southwest winds will be 5 to 10 mph. Wednesday night will be clear, with lows in the upper 70s and south winds of 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday will be sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s and southwest winds of 5 to 10 mph. Thursday night will be clear, with lows in the mid 70s.

Friday will be mostly sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s. Friday night will be mostly clear, with lows in the mid 70s.

Saturday will be mostly sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s. Heat index values could reach 105 in the afternoon. Saturday night will be clear, with lows in the upper 70s.

Sunday will be mostly sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s and heat index values up to 105 in the afternoon. Sunday night will be mostly clear, with lows in the upper 70s.

Monday will be mostly sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s.

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Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux and members of the City Council joined members of the Caddo-Bossier Port Commission to officially reopen Fire Station 20.

Located at 804 E. Flournoy Lucas Road, Fire Station 20 has been revamped with facility improvements, new equipment and additional resources to strengthen emergency response for the Port and residents of South Shreveport.

The project was made possible through the support and generous contributions of the Port of Caddo-Bossier, which provided funding and resources for improvements to the facility.

“Reopening Fire Station 20 strengthens our ability to protect the people, businesses and industries in this important part of Shreveport,” said Mayor Tom Arceneaux. “We are grateful to the Port of Caddo-Bossier for investing in this facility and working alongside the City to provide our firefighters with the equipment and resources they need to serve the community safely and effectively.”

The reopened station will enhance the Shreveport Fire Department’s presence in the area and help provide a faster, more efficient response to fires, medical emergencies and other calls for service.

“The Port of Caddo-Bossier shares a proud, foundational history with the City of Shreveport and Fire Station 20,” said Josh Williams, president of the Port of Caddo-Bossier. “Originally dedicated in February 1999 through a vital partnership between the City, the Red River Waterway Commission and the Port, this station stands as a testament to what collaborative leadership can achieve. Today, we are proud to reopen a modernized facility that brings gold-standard, Class 1 fire protection to both our Port tenants and the residents of Southeast Shreveport. We are honored to partner with the exceptional men and women of the Shreveport Fire Department as they continue to keep our community safe.”

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The Bossier Parish Police Jury has issued a parishwide burn ban effective immediately at the request of parish fire chiefs due to extreme heat and a prolonged lack of rainfall across the area.

Officials said dry ground conditions and stressed vegetation have significantly increased the risk of wildfires and the rapid spread of outdoor fires.

“We’re experiencing very dry ground and vegetative conditions,” said Ian Snellgrove, director of the Bossier Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. “These conditions will remain and could worsen if we do not receive adequate rainfall in our area.”

Under the burn ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited throughout Bossier Parish until further notice. This includes campfires, burning in barrels and burn pits, and any other open burning activities.

Cooking on gas or charcoal grills is allowed, provided residents use caution and properly extinguish coals after use.

The burn ban will remain in effect until sufficient rainfall is received to alleviate the dry conditions and reduce the fire danger.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that lane closures have been scheduled for I-49 southbound at the Pierremont Road/Hollywood Avenue interchange (Exit 203) in Shreveport.

The closures are scheduled for:

• Tuesday, Aug. 18: Two outside (right) lanes will be closed.
• Wednesday, Aug. 19: Two inside (left) lanes will be closed.

The closures are scheduled from approximately 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day and are necessary for DOTD crews to perform roadway repairs resulting from heat-related buckling.

The ramps at the interchange will remain open.

Periods of extreme heat can cause pavement to expand, resulting in cracks and buckling at the roadway joint, commonly referred to as a “blow up.” DOTD crews remain prepared during the summer months to address these issues as they arise.

No detour is necessary for the work.

The work will be performed weather permitting.

DOTD reminds motorists to drive with caution through the construction site, watch for work crews and equipment, and leave plenty of room between vehicles. Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking or biking near an active construction zone.

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Mrs. Margaret Anne Pou passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM. A graveside service will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Forest Park East Cemetery. Mrs. Margaret Anne Pou was a native of Shreveport, Louisiana and a resident of both Shreveport and New Orleans— where she was a proud member of many clubs and societies.

She was a graduate of C.E. Byrd High School in Shreveport, Louisiana; long time member of St. Joseph’s Church and Adoration Chapel for over twenty-one years; member of Pi Beta Phi at Sophie Newcomb in New Orleans, Louisiana; The Symphony Guild; a member of Colonial Dames-XVII Century of America; Schumpert Hospital Guild; New Orleans Bar Auxiliary; Shreveport Medical Society Alliance; East Ridge Country Club; and a member of the Ladies Golf Associate, and Circle of Catholic Women.

Mrs. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, J. Brice and Margaret Anne Head. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband of thirty years, Dr. Jack W. Pou; and Judge Edmond C. Salassi, father of her three children. She is survived by two daughters, Margaret Anne Bird and Kathryn Elisabeth Abney; one son, Edmond Cunningham Salassi Jr.; seven grandchildren, Killian Beatrous and partner Anthony, Dr. Stephen Carter Bird and wife Dr. Christina Bird, Jordan Brice Bird and wife Sarah, Halstead Kent Abney and wife Caitlin, Grant Cunningham Abney and wife Katie, Jackson Reade Abney, and Madison Salassi Farris and husband John Jarod; and nine great grandchildren.

Honorary pallbearers will be the late Dr. James Zum Brunnen and Margaret’s five grandsons.

The family requests that memorials be made in lieu flowers to St. Joseph’s Church and the Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Jazzlyn Loveless, the doctors and nurses Ochsner LSU and St. Joseph’s Hospice. 

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Memorial services for William C. (Bill) Hanson, Jr. will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at the Ellerbe Road Methodist Church, Shreveport, Louisiana with Reverend John M. Korlaske, Pastor of the Ellerbe Road Methodist Church officiating.

Bill will lie in state at Rose-Neath Funeral Home on Marshall Street from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026.

Bill was born June 22, 1934 in Texarkana, Texas to William C. Hanson and Dovie Ledbetter Hanson and died Wednesday, August 5, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana after a brief illness. Bill and his family moved to Shreveport when he was three years old. He attended public schools in Shreveport and graduated from C. E. Byrd High School in 1954. He then attended Louisiana Tech University. Bill was employed by Internal Revenue Service for 37 years and worked in New Orleans and Shreveport. He then became an Enrolled Agent to practice before the Internal Revenue Service for 21 years. He was a member of First Methodist Church of Shreveport where he was a Sunday School teacher in the five year olds and a member of the Church Council and was Chairman of the Inviting Ministry. Bill was an usher for 51 years.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Billie Kathryn Gardenshire, Juanita Johnson and Mary Lou Franks. He is survived by his wife, Sally Givens Hanson, and numerous nieces and nephews.

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Shreveport police arrested Braden Perry following a violent robbery at a Circle K in the 2000 block of Bert Kouns Industrial Loop.

On Aug. 4, surveillance video showed a masked suspect stealing merchandise and attacking a store clerk after the clerk attempted to intervene. The suspect continued taking items, including several packs of cigarettes, before fleeing the scene on a bicycle.

Patrol officers continued investigating the case, identified Perry as the suspect and took him into custody Aug. 6 at approximately 5 a.m.

Police said Perry was reportedly wearing some of the same clothing seen during the robbery.

Perry faces robbery, theft and battery charges.

The Shreveport Police Department credited patrol officers who continued working the case and brought the suspect into custody.

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