Adams County Sheriff Travis Patton expressed gratitude to the sheriff’s department patrol division and to the agencies involved in a weekend search and rescue mission. Deputies responded Sunday to the area near Liberty Road and Garden City Road after receiving reports of a driver who became disoriented, lost cell phone service and GPS functionality, and ended up deep in the woods away from the roadway. Cellular service briefly returned long enough for the driver, Crystal Morgan, to send her GPS coordinates, which led to her rescue.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reporting a resurgence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the state’s wild bird population. State wildlife veterinarian Jonathan Roberts said that while many species are susceptible, geese and other waterfowl have experienced rising mortality levels. A significant number of reports have come from southwest Louisiana, including Cameron Parish and Vermilion Parish. The disease can also transfer to mammals, including pets, and in rare cases humans. Roberts said this strain is not considered a major risk to people, but individuals who encounter sick birds should contact the LDWF and avoid handling dead or dying birds.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol is participating in the 2025 Christmas holiday travel period, which began at 6 a.m. Monday and continues through midnight on December 26. Troopers are increasing patrols with high‑visibility units and safety checkpoints aimed at ensuring seatbelt use and removing impaired drivers from roadways. During last year’s holiday period, the MHP responded to 172 crashes, including four fatalities, and made 54 DUI arrests on state and federal highways.
The Powerball jackpot has risen to an estimated $1.7 billion for tonight’s drawing, making it the fourth-largest lottery jackpot on record. The prize has grown since it was last won on September 6. According to the Louisiana Lottery, ticket sales have surged as the jackpot surpassed the $1 billion mark. In the current run, 96 players have matched all five white balls but missed the Powerball, winning $1 million or $2 million depending on whether they purchased the Power Play option.
The Mississippi River at Natchez-Vidalia is at 11.5 feet and falling.
