Howell County, Missouri was originally named after which American Revolutionary War hero?

The Howell County Sheriff's Department SWAT team executed a narcotics-related search warrant at a residence in West Plains, following a lengthy investigation by Deputy Kyle Hambleton.

Despite previous enforcement efforts, drug activity was found to be continuing at the location.

Willard Martin was taken into custody during the search, but other suspected parties were not present.

The search revealed items consistent with drug distribution, including Methamphetamine and prescription narcotics.

Charges are pending upon analysis results from the Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Lab.

Martin had previously been arrested during a search warrant in April and was out on bond from those charges.

Casey Orion Oshaughnessy, 42, is wanted by the Howell County Sheriff's Office on multiple outstanding warrants, including for tampering with a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance.

 

She has evaded authorities since 2023 and is also sought by other counties.

 

Oshaughnessy’s last known addresses include Mountain View, West Plains, and Summersville, Missouri, as well as cities in Kansas, Montana, and Minnesota.

 

The Sheriff’s Office urges the public to report any information on her whereabouts by calling 417-256-2544 or emailing Investigations@howellcountysheriff.gov.

 

Do not attempt to approach or apprehend her; instead, let authorities handle the case.

 

Through its “Wanted Wednesday” initiative, the department has succeeded in recent fugitives’ arrests, highlighting community tips as vital to public safety.

 

Your vigilance helps protect Howell County.

Located at 662 Missouri Ave in West Plains, The Ozark Café offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with classic American diner fare.

Known for its hearty breakfast options like the Belly Buster Omelet and Ozark Stuffed French Toast, the café also serves up lunch and dinner favorites such as Chicken Fried Chicken, Ozark Bacon Burgers, and Homemade Pizza.

Their homemade cinnamon rolls and pies are local favorites, rounding out a satisfying meal.

With generous portions, friendly service, and a cozy setting, it's a beloved spot for both locals and travelers

The Howell County Health Department has issued a rabies alert starting June 16, 2025, after four confirmed cases involving skunks, a kitten, and a bat near Mountain View and West Plains.

 

Rabies is a deadly illness spread by infected animals’ saliva, most often through bites.

 

Wildlife such as skunks, bats, and raccoons are common carriers, making it vital for residents to avoid handling wild or stray animals, since rabies cannot be recognized by appearance.

 

Environmental Public Health Supervisor Justin Frazier urges pet owners to check their pets’ rabies vaccination records and take prompt action if shots aren’t current.

 

If bitten or scratched, thoroughly wash the area, control bleeding, and seek medical care, then alert the health department.

 

Unvaccinated pets exposed to rabies risk euthanasia or lengthy quarantine, while vaccinated pets only need a booster and brief monitoring at home.

 

Protect your loved ones by keeping pets vaccinated and avoiding animal encounters that seem suspicious.

Q&A Questions

Q: What are the major industries in Howell County, Missouri?

A: Agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Q: What are some popular outdoor recreational activities in Howell County?

A: Hiking, fishing, and camping.

Q: How is the education system in Howell County, Missouri?

A: The county is served by several school districts, including West Plains R-7 School District and Willow Springs R-IV School District.

Richard Howell