A life sentence in a Johnson County murder trial, big academic gains for Russellville schools, a little school board controversy, and an opportunity for Arkansas Tech students to give back. We’ve got a lot to catch up on this Wednesday morning!
🎙️ Here’s what’s in today’s briefing:
⚖️ Coal Hill murder trial: A Johnson County jury found 26-year-old Colton Contant guilty of first-degree murder in the Veterans Day 2025 shooting death of Kenneth Michaels at Coal Hill City Park. Contant received a life sentence plus 15 years for a firearm enhancement. We take a closer look at the testimony, the verdict, and what happened in the courtroom.
🏫 Russellville School Board: The district is celebrating significant academic improvements and recognizing seven National Merit Scholars — its largest group since 1993. Plus, the board approved a resolution involving business dealings with companies owned by board member Luke Duffield.
💚 Arkansas Tech gives back: ATU is looking for community projects for its November 14 Green and Gold Give Back. Find out how residents and organizations can get free help with outdoor projects.
🏛️ Dover City Council: Some exciting news came out of Tuesday night’s meeting. We’ve got a preview, with more coverage coming from River Valley Record.
🦌 Deer season is here! Arkansas’s alternative firearms deer season is underway, and muzzleloading season looks a little different these days. We talk about what’s changed and the hunting opportunities ahead.
🌤️ Wednesday’s weather: A chilly start around 47 degrees, warming all the way to 80. Just another Arkansas fall day!
📰 Local news, from someone who’s actually there.
River Valley Record is an independent, digital-first news platform covering Russellville, Pope County, Yell County, and the surrounding Arkansas River Valley. We’re bringing you local government, courts, breaking news, schools, and community stories that matter.
