Muskingum County • February 24, 2025
Good morning, Muskingum County. The familiar rhythms of small-town life have been disrupted by two deeply troubling cases that remind us how fragile our sense of security can be. As our community grapples with both a shocking family tragedy on Somers Street and the mysterious disappearance of Nathan Tabler, we're seeing an outpouring of concern from neighbors looking out for one another.
Yet even in difficult times, signs of economic vitality offer glimpses of better days ahead. The Newark-Heath corridor is buzzing with possibility as major retailers eye comeback opportunities, and the iconic Longaberger basket building may soon write its next chapter. These developments remind us that our region's story continues to unfold in unexpected ways.
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💔 Son and daughter-in-law charged in shocking murder of 80-year-old father. Following a tip about a deceased person, Zanesville police discovered David Cole Sr.'s body in an outbuilding on Somers Street. Brittany Cole, 37, faces murder charges while her husband David Cole Jr., 44, is charged with evidence tampering and related crimes. The couple remains in Muskingum County Jail on bonds of $1 million and $500,000 respectively. Officials are withholding details about the cause of death as the investigation continues.
🔍 Zanesville man vanishes without wallet or phone, sparking urgent search. Nathan Tabler, 37, was last seen leaving his home on January 11th wearing a cream pullover and blue jeans. The concerning disappearance has prompted Zanesville Police Department to launch a public appeal for information. Police note that Tabler may have entered a vehicle, though this detail remains unconfirmed. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact ZPD immediately at 740-455-0700.
🏪 Major retailers eye comeback in bustling Newark-Heath corridor. Meijer could return to Licking County after a 12-year absence, while Chick-fil-A is scouting locations along 21st Street and in Heath. The iconic Longaberger basket building may transform into a mixed-use development featuring condos or retail space, though its original hotel plans were derailed by COVID-19. The former Kroger space on Deo Drive is under contract with a mystery tenant, promising quick development. Meanwhile, the area faces retail challenges as stores like Big Lots and B-Wear Sportswear announce closures, though strong regional planning could help attract new businesses.
The Tuscarawas Valley Trojans turned West Muskingum's gym into their personal playground, cruising to a lopsided 54-26 victory that had fans checking their calendars to make sure it wasn't Groundhog Day with all those repeated stops-and-scores. With both teams sporting Trojan mascots in their upcoming Portsmouth matchup, Tuesday's game might need a "This is Sparta!" moment just to tell them apart.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
vs Unioto** | L 66-56 | |
vs Unioto* | L 66-56 | |
vs Tuscarawas Valley* | L 54-26 |
Move-in ready bungalow gem: This move-in ready 2-bedroom bungalow, listed at $169,900, features an oversized garage, hardwood floors, central air, and a well-equipped kitchen, making it a clean and updated gem for new owners.
Elegant Colonial with pool oasis: This charming 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath Brick Colonial, listed at $375,000, combines historic elegance with modern amenities on a spacious 1.5+ acre lot, featuring a gorgeous pool, gazebo, and versatile carriage house.
Lovely Kensington Village condo awaits: This gorgeous one-owner condo in Kensington Village, listed at $269,900, features three bedrooms, two baths, an open floor plan with modern amenities, and convenience to local dining and shopping. With a new roof coming in September 2024, it’s truly move-in ready.
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