More than half of the Top Ten Webster Parish Journal stories published in 2023 were crime-related. The number at the end of each stories reflects the number of readers. To see a breakdown of readership numbers for the entire year, see Thursday’s Webster Parish Journal.

Top 10 Stories of 2023

10. A Minden businessman was arrested for theft and mingling substances. The man stole prescription drugs and replaced them with other pills. 4,619

9. When you’re full of Bull, don’t brag about it. A Cotton Valley woman posted on Instagram how she stole a Red Bull energy drink at a convenience store. 4,649

8. City employee under suspension following accident. A Minden City employee drove his city-owned vehicle to Shreveport and was in an accident on Interstate 20. 4,821

7. Webster Parish woman dies in accident. A woman died inside Springhill city limits on Hwy. 371 when the vehicle she was driving struck the rear of an 18-wheeler. 5,017

6. Minden Police: Right place at right time brings in alleged shooter #6. A Dubberly man who showed up for court on a lesser charge, was arrested for four counts of attempted second degree murder and illegal use of a weapon during a crime of violence in the Ewell Park shooting. 5,196

5.  Murder suspect has warrant for arrest. In May, a subject was identified in the murder of Daniel Merritt. 5,260

4.  Bear sightings bear out.  In September, there were several black bear sightings in the Minden City limits. 5,297

3. Fight escalates into stabbing. In September, a group brawl led to a stabbing near Minden Housing Authority on East and Marion streets. 5,584

2. Concerns continue over Witches Ride. An October Witches Ride parade was discussed in a public breakfast meeting in August. 6,100

1. UPDATE: 2 arrested in Ewell Park shooting that injured 4 people. Reginald Moore Jr., 19, of Heflin, is charged with 4 counts of attempted second degree murder and 1 count of illegal use of weapons. Jamontae Holyfield, 21, of Homer is charged with 4 counts of attempted second degree murder and 4 counts of carjacking. Holyfield allegedly entered a car with persons who were not involved in the shooting and then demanded to be taken to another location. 6,112