A Ruston woman is charged with attempted second-degree murder after she tried to stab a paramedic who was attempting to treat her The incident happened early Saturday morning on Evans Street That’s when Ruston Police and Fire Dispatch received a call around 3:15 requesting Ruston Ambulance Service for a medical issue at the residence according to a press release issued Saturday afternoon by RPD An ambulance was dispatched to 604 Evans Street where they contacted Kenya Horne she armed herself with a knife and tried to stab one of the paramedics while his back was turned All the paramedics were safely able to get away from Horne the releases said.Once officers arrived on scene they found Horne barricaded inside the residence police gave loud commands to Horne to come outside her residence and speak to them RPD was able to eventually get Horne safely out of her residence at which point she was arrested and booked for attempted second-degree murder With incidents of violence toward paramedics increasing around the United States RPD Chief Eric Watson said he and RPD stands firmly in support of all first responders and remain committed to ensuring their safety as they serve the community Click here to read Ruston Leader By KNOE StaffPublished: May 2025 at 11:11 AM CDT|Updated: 16 hours agoEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInRUSTON (KNOE) - Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker announced his endorsement of U.S “Senator Bill Cassidy is a true conservative who delivers for Ruston we’ve secured major federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the RAISE grant These are not just improvements on paper—they’re real projects creating jobs and making Ruston a better place to live and grow Whether it’s rebuilding infrastructure or pushing for smarter federal investment I’m proud to endorse Senator Cassidy because he’s a conservative who gets things done—and that’s exactly what we need in Washington." thanks for your continued partnership on projects that make Ruston a better place to live.” The Senate election will take place on Tuesday Subscribe to the KNOE 8 YouTube Channel. Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInRUSTON (KNOE) - A Ruston woman was arrested on Saturday after what police said was an attempted stabbing of a paramedic The Ruston Ambulance Service was called to a home on Evans Street at around 3:15 a.m Paramedics said they started to treat the patient and suspect at her home when she allegedly armed herself with a knife and tried to stab a paramedic while his back was turned and they asked the Ruston Police Department for help Horne was barricaded inside her home when they arrived RPD said Horne initially refused to come out Horne was arrested on one count of attempted second-degree murder “With the incidents of violence toward paramedics increasing around the United States Chief Watson and RPD stands firmly in support of all first responders and remains committed to ensuring their safety as they serve our community,” RPD said in a news release Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here May 5, 2025 | Business, Education and Human Sciences, Engineering and Science, Rankings Louisiana Tech University has earned national recognition for its commitment to student success and academic excellence from the Carnegie Foundation and American Council on Education as well as strong placements in the 2025 U.S News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings As part of the 2025 update to the Carnegie Classifications — the gold standard for organizing U.S higher education institutions — Louisiana Tech has been designated as a Professions-focused Undergraduate/Graduate-Master’s Large/Medium institution in the updated Institutional Classification and has retained its R2: High Research Spending and Doctorate Production status in the Carnegie Research Classification The University was also recognized in the inaugural Student Access and Earnings Classification with a designation of Lower Access reflecting Tech’s ability to improve social mobility and that leads to graduates’ life and career success “This recognition underscores Louisiana Tech’s commitment to transformational learning and our responsibility to create upward mobility for all students,” said Dr interim vice president for research and dean of the graduate school “We are proud of our faculty and students whose work continues to drive research and economic impact across our region and beyond.” Louisiana Tech’s graduate programs were again ranked among the best in the nation by U.S and Education and Human Sciences earned spots in the 2025 Best Graduate Schools rankings including a 44-spot rise from the previous year for the College of Education and Human Sciences: “We continue to work tirelessly to provide quality learning experiences for our students and the communities we serve,” said Dr dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences “Our faculty are dedicated to improving the human experience and this is evidence that what we are doing is working.” “Our graduate programs continue to deliver a relevant innovative business education from a nationally ranked research institution known for its strong return on investment,” said Dr “Climbing five spots in the latest rankings — alongside our continued growth in enrollment and career outcomes — reinforces the value our graduate programs provide to students Several individual programs in the College of Engineering and Science also received national recognition: “We are deeply committed to equipping our graduate students with substantive research opportunities that prepare them to make meaningful contributions to society,” Dr dean of the College of Engineering and Science “This commitment — driven by the dedication of our faculty to student development — aligns with our mission to become a destination university for engineering and science education through a dynamic and supportive educational experience while serving as a major engine of innovation and intellectualism that uplifts the region.” To explore more about the 2025 Carnegie Classifications and the latest graduate program rankings, visit carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu and usnews.com/best-graduate-schools Copyright © 2025 · Louisiana Tech University · 318.257.2000 · Ruston Department of Testing & Disability Services · Accessibility · Privacy Statement · EEO Statement Title IX/Power-Based Violence Webpage problems? Contact web@latech.edu Member of the University of Louisiana System © 2025 BVM Sports. Best Version Media, LLC. becomes Louisiana Tech's 7th commitment in its Class of 2026 they’re amazing when it comes to academics and I know that comes first before sports I’m ready to be a Bulldog." THE FILM --- Join the discussion on the Tech Drive for only $9.95 a month We are your #1 source for all things Louisiana Tech football We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it OK Privacy policy The teams will play a doubleheader tomorrow beginning at 10 a.m CT How to follow WKU Baseball: For complete information on WKU Hilltopper Baseball visit WKUSports.com or follow the program via social media @WKU_Baseball on X and @WKUBaseball on Instagram Game Recap: Softball | 5/3/2025 8:41:00 PM | Stephen Featherston T8 | Dogs are back 🔛🔝@AlexisGilio7 drives in @alliefurr_ on a sac flyLA Tech 5, SHSU 4 pic.twitter.com/b35nA9UJwm Thanks for visiting Game Recap: Softball | 5/3/2025 6:47:00 PM Thanks for visiting ! The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy. We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here. visit WKUSports.com or follow the program via social media @WKU_Baseball on X and.. Cedar Creek senior JB Robinson earned first-team all-district honors after the Cougars made another postseason appearance this spring Cedar Creek has placed seven athletes on the first-team 1-1A All- District baseball squad after the Cougars finished with another postseason appearance The Cougars’ firstteam selections include sophomore Kade Luker ( utility) we were very pleased to have had as many guys as we did on the All-District team,” Creek head coach Chad Yates said We put together a very competitive schedule with quality opponents that pushed our guys daily to be better in their processes to be able to go out and compete consis-tently but we were in a lot of ball games down the stretch that we felt prepared us for our playoffs I know those experiences will come into play as we keep working and developing to be more consistent with closing out games I am excited to be bringing back most all this team as we only graduate four seniors.” Luker is now a twotime first-team All-District selection after posting another 2.64 ERA with 83 strikeouts this year for the Cougars 12 RBIs) all improved their All-District standing after each making second team last year Cedar Creek freshman Cason Floyd and sophomore Ryan Coleman earned secondteam All-District while senior Aidan Crosby and 8th grader Noah Smith received honorable mention honors The Cougars finished 12-19 overall in 2025 with first- round playoff loss to St (KNOE) - One man is dead following a shooting in the Y2 Kuts Barbershop parking lot on Easter Sunday Ruston police officers were responding to a large crowd in a parking lot near the barbershop when they heard gunfire Police say officers quickly arrived at the scene and began administering first aid to victims One Ruston man died while five people sustained non-life-threatening injuries Witnesses told the Ruston Police Department that the incident was the result of an ongoing dispute between extended family members Ruston police were also told the argument began earlier in the day at Mayfield Park it is believed that multiple people involved in the incident were armed with handguns The Ruston Police Department released the following statement in response to the deadly shooting: “It is unfortunate that a day of family fun in a local park resulted in this violent act.” Police are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to contact them at (318) 255-4141 Subscribe to the KNOE 8 YouTube Channel. PLEASE LOG IN FOR PREMIUM CONTENT. Our website requires visitors to log in to view the best local news. Not yet a subscriber? Subscribe today! (KNOE) - The Ruston Police Department has identified the victim of the fatal shooting that happened on Easter Sunday was killed in the parking lot of Y2 Kuts Barbershop on April 20 Police said five other people sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the incident and were taken to a nearby hospital in private vehicles information suggests the incident stemmed from an ongoing argument among extended family members that began earlier that day Police believe multiple people involved in the incident were armed with handguns Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the Ruston Police Department at (318) 255-4141 Butcher has been named a suspect in the deadly Easter Sunday shooting in Ruston Police are seeking information on his whereabouts Ruston police have issued an arrest warrant for 23-year-old Zyheim T in connection with the Easter Sunday shooting here that left one person dead and several bystanders injured Kayla Loyd said Butcher is wanted on charges of one count of second-degree murder four counts of attempted second-degree murder one count of a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of manufacture or possession of a machine gun Butcher is suspected of killing 30-year-old Deontrell Marquis Hunter in an incident that occurred around 10 p.m Sunday in the parking lot of Y2 Kuts barbershop Investigators believe Butcher used a small device called a “switch” that converts a handgun into a machine gun Authorities said the shooting was not random but appeared to be the result of a dispute among extended family members that began earlier Sunday at Mayfield Park and erupted into violence later that evening She urged anyone with information on Butcher’s whereabouts or the shooting to contact the Ruston Police at 318-255-4141 was charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in a homecoming week shooting on the Grambling State University campus that left one person dead and seven injured and brought back to Lincoln Parish by Louisiana State Police detectives There are no records in the Lincoln Parish 3rd Judicial District online database for Butcher Butcher was arrested by Bastrop police in connection with a double homicide that occurred there in 2020 He was charged with two counts of second-degree murder At least one arrest has been made in connection with a fight in downtown Ruston on April 5 that left a Jackson Parish man with a broken jaw Ruston police on Friday arrested 17-year-old Detravion Williams A second person was also expected to be arrested later Friday on the same charge Police also issued a summons to Jake Elkins City police Chief Eric Watson said another person has been issued a summons for disturbing the peace but as of midafternoon Friday the suspect had not come to RPD Watson said he anticipates additional summonses will be issued in the incident that left 24-year-old Jacob Hudson with a broken jaw and another man slightly hurt Watson said RPD investigators also have reached out to a 16-year-old juvenile that they believe may have been involved in the fight None of the people involved in the altercation are from Ruston or Lincoln Parish RPD’s investigation has debunked most of what has been posted on social media about the incident that took place around 2:45 a.m The altercation apparently occurred in the Sexton Parking Lot and not in front of Ponchatoula’s Restaurant on East Park Avenue The parking lot is across the street from the restaurant “Our investigation has determined that none of the participants were without fault.” Social media reports that began surfacing Sunday claimed that Hudson was jumped after escorting a female to her vehicle who had reportedly said she was uncomfortable walking there alone because of a group of men who supposedly were taunting her Though RPD confirmed the young woman and the victims were acquainted Watson said they found no evidence that Hudson escorted her to her vehicle that was parked in the Sexton Parking Lot Police say the two victims did go to the parking lot but not with the woman She had gotten in her vehicle and left before the fight broke out Police determined the victims and other young men who were in the parking lot area apparently skirmished for reasons authorities haven’t determined Hudson wasn’t jumped by seven or eight people had apparently been drinking and were in a place where they shouldn’t have been “And our police department is not going to tolerate it,” he said The restaurants on West Park Avenue that have bars inside close at 2 a.m Watson said an RPD patrol unit drove by after the incident occurred but no one still on the street flagged down the officer Police were unaware of the fight until they got called to Northern Louisiana Medical Center where friends had taken Hudson Watson said RPD talked to as many as 10 people trying to ferret out what happened “An investigation takes as long as an investigation takes,” he said Ruston police have identified the victim of an Easter Sunday shooting as 30-year-old Deontrell Marquis Hunter Hunter was killed and five bystanders superficially injured in an incident that occurred around 10 p.m The investigation into the incident is developing RPD Chief Eric Watson said late Monday afternoon Police are urging anyone with information to come forward Authorities said the shooting appeared to be the result of a dispute among extended family members that began earlier Sunday at Mayfield Park and erupted into violence later that evening They said the investigation indicates multiple individuals involved in the altercation were armed with handguns RPD officers were in a nearby parking lot responding to a large crowd officers immediately went to the scene and began administering first aid to the victims Several of the injured individuals were taken to Northern Louisiana Medical Center via private vehicles Hunter had a list of arrests dating back to 2011 including one for attempted second-degree murder in 2019 He was arrested in January of this year after reportedly crashing a stolen vehicle on Tech Farm Road It’s good to be Ahmad Hudson right now and things are only going to become more fun over his next two years of high school Ruston High’s super sophomore was recently crowned the outstanding player on the 2025 LSWA Class 5A All-State boys basketball team Hudson was named to the LSWA Class 5A All-State football first team as a tight end 230-pound son of former Alma Brown (now Lincoln Prep) and LSU standout Antonio Hudson was elated to find out he’d earned his latest signature award CLASS 5A ALL-STATE: Ruston’s Hudson, Huntington’s Hamilton top the '25 LSWA Class 5A All-State basketball team TIMES ALL-AREA: Meet the Shreveport Times All-Area high school football team for the 2024 season “I’m pretty happy with it,” Hudson told the USA Today Network “I lost the race for Gatorade player of the year I was happy to accomplish something that really hasn’t been done at Ruston in a while.” Just about every SEC school with a recruiting budget has paid their respects to the Shreveport Times All-Area first teamer as he now holds about 20 scholarship offers in both football and basketball And Hudson is very specific in what he’s looking for in a college without divulging where he might be headed The opportunity to put in the time/effort and be able to play as a freshman,” he said “The option of getting my degree after being drafted Staff/coaches who have relationships on and off the field A staff that will continue to develop the skills I already have.” 14 rebounds and three blocks per game last season in leading the Bearcats to the state quarterfinals while being selected the All-District 2-5A MVP He’d like to play both sports at the collegiate level something that has proven nearly impossible to accomplish except by the elite few “But it won’t play a factor in which college I choose but the most important thing is it has to feel like home wherever I go.” Hudson has already taken a few college visits and has a few more planned for this summer providing time permits in his prodigious schedule Hudson had changed his focus from football and basketball to track and field a sport in which he’s yet to receive all-state honors “I didn’t make it last year because I was a little nervous,” he said of the regional meet His two best events are the discus (122 feet best throw) and the high jump (6-0) both of which need to be improved to become all-state quality “I’m still learning how to do both,” he said “And all (track and field) is for me is staying in shape.” Jimmy Watson covers Louisiana sports for the USA TODAY Network Email him at jwatson@shreveporttimes.com and follow him on Twitter @JimmyWatson6 Main Streets are the heart and soul of any community, and Louisiana houses plenty of them these busy corridors of the avenue serve as a melting pot of cultures culminating in a dynamic hub where tourists and locals alike remain in constant interaction Exploring them exposes newcomers to the dynamic history and diverse cuisine synonymous with the Bayou State the broad spectrum of attractions within the town square ensures everybody gets a taste of the touristy pie This post highlights top Louisiana towns with unforgettable Main Streets West Monroe is a lovely town in Ouachita Parish, known for its exciting Main Street area, which straddles the banks of the Ouachita River the main thoroughfare treats visitors to an eclectic shopping experience with its blend of antique malls You can find a range of souvenir merchandise at the Cotton Port Antique Mall from glassware and coins to jewelry and paraphernalia The same applies to Trenton Street Antiques and other collectibles adds to your shopping excursion Antique Alley hosts a nice share of trendy restaurants you can stop by JAC's Craft Smokehouse for sumptuous Southern-style barbecues and dishes Hammond won the Great American Main Street Award for its revitalized downtown district people visit the town to experience its impressive mix of attractions Families enjoy easy-going fun at Tangi Lanes the Hammond Regional Arts Center supports visual and performing arts in the community inviting guests to admire exhibitions and watch performances You can also catch an invigorating live performance at the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts This historic venue opened its doors in 1928 and hosts a lineup of plays Natchitoches is an antique gem in Louisiana chock-full of historical markers and sites Walking along the downtown streets reveals a cluster of plantation homes The Pruddhomme-Rouquier House offers a window into old-world Natchitoches This rustic French-Creole style dwelling was constructed in the early 1800s and is one of the oldest structures in the historic district the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame is an interesting attraction paying tribute to the athletes and other stakeholders who have played significant roles in elevating regional sports Main Street Natchitoches comes into its own during the Natchitoches Christmas Festival starting the first Saturday before Thanksgiving and set pieces breathe life into the town square as residents come out in numbers to mark a lasting tradition Sitting less than thirty minutes east of Baton Rouge this Livingston Parish suburb boasts a walkable historic district with diverse attractions The Denham Springs Antique Village invites tourists for a unique shopping experience Those traveling with kids can have a blast at Airborne Extreme Trampoline Park which allows them to interact with peers in a sprawling amusement park with endless fun The historic district attracts hundreds of vendors every Spring and Fall as the town hosts the Denham Springs Spring and Fall Festivals These annual celebrations breathe life into the neighborhood as it turns into a beehive of activities History and art collide in this beautiful city of Iberia Parish located approximately twenty miles from Lafayette Its glowing Main Street Historic District is jam-packed with exciting points of interest worth exploring Shadows-on-the-Teche offers a vivid glimpse of life in the past This Greek Revival plantation home dates back to 1834 and harbors a dark reputation where over two hundred enslaved people worked on its sugarcane plantation the Bayou Teche Museum showcases thousands of artifacts documenting the culture and industries of civilizations along the Bayou Teche corridor Guests can also catch an engrossing live presentation at the Sliman Theatre for the Performing Arts Since opening its doors to the public in the early 1900s the cultural hub has entertained locals with concerts This Webster Parish community is known for its colorful historical heritage and once hosted the Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant in the 1940s it offers numerous historical markers chronicling its rich past with most clustered around the downtown area The Dorcheat Historical Museum presents a timeline of intriguing stories in the region Tourists will fancy a glimpse into rural America at the Germantown Colony Museum this original building is full of artifacts depicting the experience of German colonists in Webster Parish Antique collectors exploring Main Street Minden can hunt for a vintage find at Heavenly Treasures where over fifty dealers exhibit handmade crafts Saint Francisville is an adorable village in West Feliciana Parish with a heritage stretching back to its establishment early in the 1800s It has a pedestrian-friendly historical square where newcomers can discover the community's dynamic past at the West Feliciana Historical Society and Museum by perusing artifacts You can't miss the imposing Grace Church of West Feliciana This landmark church traces its origins to the 1820s and survived the Civil War and is currently one of Louisiana's oldest Protestant churches Several restaurants along Commerce Street welcome tourists to try tasty Southern dishes One of the trendiest along the avenue is the Magnolia Cafe where you can enjoy a blend of Mexican and Southern cuisine with trademarks like fried shrimp and Magnolia chicken sandwiches on the menu Ruston features an unforgettable Main Street among Louisiana towns thanks to its youthful vibrance Its downtown district harbors dozens of old buildings housing restaurants The Lincoln Parish Museum preserves and presents regional history using a diverse collection of photos The college helps elevate the art scene in Ruston constantly attracting enthusiasts to the Dixie Center for the Arts with a showcase of quality concerts you can't ignore the vibrant sports culture in the small town The Joe Aillet Stadium is the closest to an NFL game atmosphere Ruston has to offer Visitors can join the locals in supporting the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs in their home arena This small town in Acadia Parish made a name for itself from its agricultural heritage earning the moniker "Rice Capital of the World." It celebrates the International Rice Festival yearly to mark one of the nation's oldest agricultural fairs Main Street Crowley offers a rich mix of attractions that showcase its vibrant theater scene The Grand Opera House of the South draws concert goers with premier opera performances in a restored turn-of-the-century venue You can watch more live presentations at the Rice Theatre which focuses on musical and theatrical events to connect locals with the arts Silver Screen enthusiasts head to the Crowley Cinema IV for a modern movie experience intimate facility screens the latest films on four different screens at discounted ticket prices Tammany Parish is famous for its Art district Walking through the downtown district exposes a rich mix of galleries Tammany Art Association is an excellent stop for art lovers and displays various art forms by regional creatives across its three galleries over 200 artists from across the nation converge along this famous street to mark the Three Rivers Art Festival Saturdays and Wednesdays are reserved for the Covington Farmers Market where vacationers can sort through farm produce A mix of small-town flair and laid-back vibes pulls travelers to this Rapides Parish municipality set along the picturesque banks of the Red River The vibrant town square offers notable points of interest starting with the Alexandria Museum of Art Enthusiasts congregate inside this restored bank building to admire a permanent and rotating collection of exhibits by regional artists the Louisiana History Museum displays interactive exhibits detailing the state's social evolution with a focus on the history of Central Louisiana those curious to sample the local wine and dine scene won't regret visiting the Tasting Room of Louisiana This romantic venue cooks up luscious Southern dishes to go with a fine selection of whiskies Beyond the crowded downtown scenes in major metros like New Orleans and Baton Rouge the Creole State offers numerous quaint towns where you can experience the state's rich history and delicious cuisine at a comfortable pace They also provide a true feel for the state through authentic experiences with down-to-earth residents Whether attending a festival in downtown Denham Springs or enjoying Southern cuisine in New Iberia these Louisiana towns with unforgettable Main Streets will have you planning a return trip photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com A Ruston man will serve 15 years behind bars for sexually abusing a minor pleaded guilty in February to one count each of molestation of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile after the 3rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office cut the charges down from the 82 counts on which he was originally arrested in 2023 3rd Judicial District Judge Monique Clement sentenced Jones to what amounts to 15 total years in prison These were apparently crimes against a family member according to a protective order filed in the case that will take effect when Jones is released Jones’ wife Laura was also arrested in 2023 after investigators learned Laura allegedly knew of Jason’s crimes court records showed Laura’s case was still ongoing What were originally 83 charges for her have since been reduced to five charges of accessory after the fact to indecent behavior with a juvenile and one count of failure to report the commission of certain felonies Laura Jones remained listed as a manager in the company’s latest business filings in 2024 Clement sentenced Jason Jones to 10 years in prison at hard labor without benefit of probation or suspension of sentence on the indecent behavior charge Clement sentenced Jones to 20 years at hard labor but suspended 15 of those years meaning Jones is set for 15 years in prison he’ll have five years of supervised probation One of the conditions for that probation is paying $75,000 in restitution to the victim a protective order will prohibit Jones from going within 200 yards of her or 100 yards of her residence He will also have to register as a sex offender According to Jones’ amended bill of information the indecent behavior crime occurred when the victim was 12 years old and the molestation crime occured in a time frame when the victim was either 12 or 13 Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives began investigating claims of sexual abuse of a minor on May 10 Investigators then discovered Laura Jones allegedly became aware of Jason’s acts several months earlier and did not report them Ruston High head football coach Jerrod Baugh confirmed to the Ruston Leader that Ruston High School defensive coordinator Kyle Williams informed the Bearcat football program Tuesday he'll be stepping down from his role and will not return for the 2025 season The Lincoln Parish Journal first broke the news a RHS graduate and former standout at defensive tackle for the Bearcats had worked as defensive coordinator since 2020 for Ruston High turning the Bearcats into of the best units in the state it’s quite obvious the impact he had on our team defensively,” Baugh said “The thing that I’ll always say with guys that leave here is wherever they decide to do is up to them and we support them “He and I had discussed this for a couple weeks but he wanted to take some time to make sure this was the right thing for him and his family Williams’ impact helped Ruston develop multiple Division I athletes and Jadon Mayfield (Louisiana Tech) in recent years Zheric Hill (LA Tech) and Aidan Anding (LSU) also signed with DI programs this past season During the Bearcats’ run to the state championship game since 2022 Ruston’s defense held opponent to under 19 ppg in the postseason Baugh said no one will be able to replace Williams one-for-one but filling the DC position remains a priority “I’m going to let the process play out as it goes I’m sure there will be interest in the position,” Baugh said I’m going to find the best coach to work here that I can but I’m going to find the best person I can That’s what we’re all about in what we do here is no matter what position you coach we want good people to be around these kids and we’ll have to find someone that can do the same.” Williams helped Ruston win the 2023 state championship with a defense that held its opponents to just 15.2 ppg Williams was a six-time Pro Bowl selection with the Bills in a 13-year NFL career He was a three-time All-American at LSU and was named 5A Defensive MVP as a senior at Ruston High Thanks for visiting (KNOE) - The completion date for the new Ruston Buc-ee’s has been pushed back and is now expected to be completed in mid-2026 Ruston mayor Ronny Walker confirmed bids for road construction to improve the traffic flow will go out in December 2024 The road construction will push back the timeline for completing the large chain gas station He explains what the changes and the timeline look like “That’s going to change from a three-lane bridge to a five-lane bridge,“ said Walker ”We’ve got to do construction on all the ramps The final game of Hahnville’s baseball season a 7-6 loss in extra innings of game two of its best of three opening round series at Ruston did not deliver the Tigers’ desired result he was as proud as he’s been of his team all season it was the fight his players showed in what was a wild back and forth slugfest with several lead changes – and heavy haymakers landed by both teams we played our best game in that last playoff game,” Vial said but the fight we showed in that game is what we wanted to pull out of them all year.”  Koa Romero hit two home runs while Luke Eusea delivered another for the No 12th seeded Ruston took the lead on Hahnville and twice the Tigers battled back to take the lead back for themselves scoring once in the bottom of the seventh to draw within one but closing no further It was Ruston’s JP Moak who was the hero for his team – his solo home run in the top of the eighth inning was the eventual difference Matthew Bedi and Austin Sanchez each collected two hits for Hahnville with Romero driving in three and scoring twice Bedi scoring a run and Sanchez earning an RBI Romero took the hill for Hahnville and went 6.2 innings allowing six runs (four earned) with seven strikeouts and a walk allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits Ruston led 4-3 when Romero launched one out in the fifth inning his teammate Eusea smashed one of his own to lift HHS ahead by one Dalen Powell tied the game in the top of the seventh when he scored on an error Ruston reclaimed the lead on a Jake Simmons RBI single Romero tied things up when his sacrifice fly plated Brayden Fontenot in the bottom half Hahnville’s backs were against the wall in game two after Ruston seized control of the series a day earlier with a 13-3 win in the series opener Bears leadoff batter Jackson Lee went 3-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored while teammate Dillon Williams was 2-for-2 with three runs scored and two RBIs to lead the Ruston offense Hahnville led 2-1 after an inning but could not slow the Ruston offense thereafter – Ruston scored nine of its 13 runs in the fourth and fifth innings to close things early by the 10-run rule Vial compared the first game to Hahnville’s first meeting with Destrehan this season “That second game (against Ruston) was how we wanted to come out for the first game “They’re a good team and they got up on us in that first game you make it bigger than what it is and give away some at bats and things snowball … that second game It’s a game where if one more thing goes your way but they’re an experienced team and it went in their favor.”  Hahnville began the season with a 7-8 record but battled through early injuries and inexperience to take off from there and finish 22-14 Vial said he’s excited for next year’s team which returns the majority of its starters We have some young talent like Austin Sanchez who stepped up and had his moments as a freshman,” Vial said it definitely gives you an optimistic view going forward A lot of young guys got a lot of experience this season.”  This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access. Central outlasts Destrehan in opening round series This summer, the touchdowns, interceptions and flag pulls aren’t just for the boys. […] William Degenhart Jr. knew he wanted to serve his country – the question left was, in what capacity?  […] Sheriff’s Reports 4-17-2025 […] Leader photo by Nancy Bergeron Eric Watson was named the new chief of the Ruston Police Department Monday Developing story updated March 3 @ 9:10 p.m The retired federal Drug Enforcement Administration agent and former RPD officer was unanimously confirmed Monday night by the city’s Board of Aldermen on the recommendation of Mayor Ronny Walker Watson said he expects to be at RPD sometime this week with a formal swearing-in possibly as soon as Friday Watson succeeds former Chief Steve Rogers who retired Feb Watson was chosen from a field of nine candidates seven of whom currently work for RPD and two who had worked for the department in the past Walker said recommending a new chief was probably the most important decision he’s made in his 10 years in office He said Watson’s experience in a variety of areas numerous numbers of new programs that the brought up,” propelled Watson to the top of the list some of which included work in the Middle East Watson was a Ruston police officer during the 1990s while he was a student at Louisiana Tech University He earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Tech in 2006 said he applied for the chief’s job because he’s always loved Ruston “I feel like I can help the Ruston Police Department and the general law enforcement community,” he said He said recruiting additional officers will be high on his priority list A number of former and current RPD officers along with some of the other applicants and their supporters filled the courtroom for Monday night’s announcement Walker met briefly with each applicant Monday afternoon but did not disclose his pick until the board meeting Watson was initially not expected to be at Monday’s meeting each of the applicants was interviewed by Walker and a panel that included mayoral assistant Beth Bennett public works Operations Manager Kevin McGivney and Human Resources Director Angie Robinson “I think it speaks volumes to the Ruston Police Department and the future that we had that many applicants who cared enough to apply and cared enough about the future of the police department of undergo that process,” Watson said Applicants had to pass a state civil service exam to be considered for the chief’s position Each of the five aldermen thanked the candidates and said they had gotten numerous phone calls from constituents about the opening “I got a lot of calls from people who had input and it was very evident to me we had a lot of great candidates,” District 5 Alderman Bruce Siegmund said He said he trusted Walker’s and the selection committee’s decision to go with Watson “This is the hardest decision I think we’ve had to make,” District 2 Alderwoman Angela Mayfield said It’s an ‘us,’” District 1 Alderwoman Carolyn Cage said addressing many of her comments to the RPD officers in attendance Thanks for visiting Construction on the infrastructure to accommodate the new Buc-ee's in Ruston will begin next week followed by early stages of construction on the travel center within five weeks "It's going to be a tremendous boost not just for Ruston and Grambling but for the entire region," Walker said in an interview with USA Today Network has developed a cult following among travelers who consider the stores tourism destinations rather than just giant convenience stores Every Buc-ee's has wide varieties of meat jerky like the signature Buc-ee's Beaver Nuggets (similar to caramel popcorn) "I had no idea how many people love Buc-ee's so much that they plan vacations around their locations," Walker said Ruston will finish its $8 million infrastructure project to improve the Tarbutton Road Interstate 20 interchange in 10 to 12 months while construction of the Buc-ee's campus will take 12 to 15 months The city later will extend the service road to connect with the I-20 Grambling interchange in Phase 2 Walker said the company projects 15,000 vehicles a day stopping at Buc-ee's with 80% coming from 200 miles or more away The mayor said he believes many of those visitors also will make other stops in Ruston and Grambling before or after leaving Buc-ee's "Many of them aren't just going to get a chopped beef sandwich and drive away," Walker said "They'll visit the Louisiana Tech University campus or the Eddie Robinson Museum." Ruston's Buc-ee's will employ at least 200 people at $18 to $20 per hour with benefits Texas-headquartered company has more than 40 stores in seven southern states and Colorado A new Buc-ee's store also is being built in Lafayette Buc-ee's owner Arch "Beaver" Aplin III's grandparents lived in Harrisonburg and he often spent summers there as a child opening a Buc-ee's in Louisiana is like coming home," Aplin said in a statement to USA Today Network "We are very excited about Buc-ee’s coming to Ruston." the Lincoln Parish School Board and Lincoln Parish Police Jury approved a tax incentive package that set the project in motion in 2022 More: Buc-ee's origin story began in Louisiana at a general store in tiny Harrisonburg Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana Ruston Police Deputy Chief Chad Hamlin (right) has been named interim police chief effective Friday when chief Steve Rogers retires Update: Tuesday's developing story has been replaced with a full report — Feb Ruston Deputy Police Chief Chad Hamlin has been named the city’s interim chief The announcement was made Tuesday morning by Mayor Ronny Walker coinciding with the departure of retiring Chief Steve Rogers “I just appreciate the opportunity (to serve as chief) no matter how long it is,” Hamlin said “There are good people in the department that work hard every day are on the list to be interviewed for the permanent chief’s job Walker said he’ll begin those interviews Thursday and make a recommendation for chief to the Board of Alderman at the board’s March 3 meeting it’s the board that names the permanent chief Candidates for the job include eight current RPD officers and two from outside the Ruston Police Department who retired in 2021 after almost 33 years with the department an RPD patrol officer in 1990s who recently retired as an agent with the U.S - Current RPD Deputy Chief and soon-to-be Interim Chief Chad Hamlin Walker wanted a permanent chief in place by the time Rogers left but January’s snowstorm in South Louisiana derailed that It was that delay that necessitated naming an interim chief “Due to the fact that we didn’t get the civil service test scores back in a timely manner from Baton Rouge we are having to push everything back,” Walker said Tuesday candidates must pass a state civil service exam the state civil service office in Baton Rouge that scores the exams was closed for four days in the wake of a rare South Louisiana snowstorm In accordance with state civil services rules Ruston’s Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board had to receive and approve the test results before Walker could get them and begin setting up interviews which has a cult-like following among travelers "We're on the move," Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said in an interview with USA Today Network The city's $8 million infrastructure project to improve the Tarbutton Road Interstate 20 interchange for the Buc-ee's campus will widen Tarbutton to five lanes to accommodate the anticipated increase in traffic last week and when people found out we were from Ruston they were asking about Buc-ee's," Walker said Ruston later will extend the service road to connect with the I-20 Grambling interchange in Phase 2 Walker said Buc-ee's is expected to break ground on its campus around May 1 while construction of the Buc-ee's will take 12 to 15 months The city secured federal and state funding to help pay for the infrastructure project which was noted by Republican Louisiana U.S as we did with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill it attracts private investment," Cassidy posted on X It was part of my vision when I worked on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill." has developed a loyal following among travelers who consider the stores tourism destinations rather than just giant convenience stores Every Buc-ee's has a wide variety of meat jerky and is also known for immaculate bathrooms A new Buc-ee's is also being built in Lafayette opening a Buc-ee's in Louisiana is like coming home," Aplin said in a previous statement to USA Today Network (This story was updated with additional information.)