Standoff, fire and shooting

A nearly 10-hour standoff with a southern Illinois truck driver who rammed into a trucking facility has ended after the man shot himself in the head. The 51-year-old from Alton has been taken to a St. Louis hospital for treatment. His condition wasn’t immediately available  Saturday afternoon. Authorities say he rammed his truck into the Schneider National trucking facility in Edwardsville at about 2 a.m. Saturday. He’s a driver for Schneider. The crash ignited a fire that burned itself out. Police received a 911 call from the driver at the time of the crash saying he had no intention of being taken into custody alive. Police say he shot himself just before noon. Madison County state’s attorney Tom Gibbon says about 50 emergency responders were at the scene.

 

Wellness check becomes tussle

A LaSalle police officer is sent to 1139 Crosat on a wellness check late Saturday night. He wasn’t expecting to be attacked. One occupant, 18-year old Richard Taylor of LaSalle was charged with aggravated battery to an officer, obstructing an officer, resisting an officer and unlawful consumption of alcohol by a minor. Taylor was taken to the county jail to await a bond hearing. 18-year old Jessica Kaszynski, also at the scene, was arrested for unlawful consumption of alcohol and given a notice to appear

Bald Eagle Watch continues

Visitors to Starved Rock and the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center are learning about eagles, raptors and the Valley’s history this weekend. Bald Eagle Watch is occuring jointly at the Lodge and across the river at the Visitors Center. Displays, Live raptor shows, Rich Escutia, Master Falconer are part of the program at the Lodge. Live raptor shows and displays can be found at the Waterway Visitor’s Center. Live shows are free but you must pick up a ticket in advance. Hours are both locations are 9 – 5 today.

Bridal Show today

The 32nd Annual Illinois Valley Bridal show is today inside Mendota Civic Center.   Starting at 11, you can visit with any of the 49 exhibitors.  A style show will be held at 2.  If you are a bride-to-be and have not registered,  you can do so at the Civic Center.  All registered brides are eligible to win $500 dollars to be spent at any of the show’s sponsors.  The drawing is after the style show. Admission is free.