Social media helps nab an alleged burglar in Marseilles

Not long after posting pictures on their Facebook page, the Marseilles Police Department arrested a man accused of stealing money from a Casey’s General Store.

Police say Louis Babcock of Ottawa stole money from a cash register while the worker was waiting on a customer and then left. It happened early Monday morning.

The police department posted the photos Monday afternoon.  Babcock was arrested Monday by the Ottawa Police Department and was taken to the La Salle County Jail. He faces a charge of burglary.

Morris man injured during I-80 accident

Road construction began this week on Interstate 80 between Marseilles and Ottawa and already there was a crash.

Kenneth Mack of Morris was injured after police say he hit the semi trailer ahead of him Friday afternoon.   The accident happened near the Marseilles exit and stopped westbound traffic.

Mack was taken to a hospital by helicopter.  His condition wasn’t available.  The semi driver was not harmed. 

It’s being investigated by the Illinois State Police District 17.

Donation box stolen from Middle East Conflicts Memorial Wall

The Middle East Conflicts Memorial Wall along the Illinois River in Marseilles attracts thousands of visitors who want to pay their respects to military personnel killed overseas.  One visitor apparently felt like taking instead of giving back. 

A cash box for donations was stolen from the memorial last Thursday or Friday according to Marseilles City Commissioner Jim Buckingham.  The box was later found under the bridge a few feet from the water but the money was gone.

If you know anything about the theft call the Marseilles Police Department. If you took the money, Buckingham says you can remain anonymous and leave the money in an envelope it in the city hall drop box.

Investigators are looking at the donation box for fingerprints and also checking nearby security cameras.

X-Derby races return to Marseilles

Thrill seekers are excited about the 2nd Annual X-Derby in Marseilles.

For $30 you can ride in a so-called “gravity kart” down the Rutland Street hill Saturday, August 23. You’ll reach speeds of 35 miles per hour, go down a 10-story decline and steer through a couple blind turns. Your guaranteed at least two trips and can win a trophy if you have the best time.

Part of the proceeds go to the Marseilles Rotary Club. You can sign up for the X-Derby the day of the races.

Listen to an interview about the X-Derby on the Classic Hits 103.9 WLPO news page by clicking http://wlpoamandfm.com/news/