Two arrested in connection with OD death
Also, Alliance hosts Korean delegation; flowers returning to downtown
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On April 16, 2024, the Kokomo Police Department Patrol Division responded to a southside home in reference to a report of an unconscious/unresponsive female. The female was deceased, and the Howard County Coroner’s office responded and assisted with the investigation.
An autopsy was performed along with a forensic toxicology request. The cause of death was determined to be combined intoxication of methamphetamine, duloxetine, acetyl fentanyl, fluorofentanyl, and fentanyl.
The case was investigated by the Kokomo Police Department Drug Task Force and Criminal Investigation Section. As a result of the investigation, warrants were issued for the arrest of Donald Riggs of Gas City and Steven Cole of Fairmount, each for one count of Dealing in a Controlled Substance Causing Death -- a Level 1 Felony -- and Dealing in a Narcotic Drug, a Level 4 Felony. The warrants were issued out of Howard County Superior Court 4.
On April 5, 2025, Donald Riggs was arrested by the Gas City Police Department. Steven Cole has not been located at this time.
This case remains active for investigation. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Lt. Aaron Tarrh (765-456-7204), the Kokomo Police Department Hotline at (765) 456-7017, or the local jurisdiction where Steven Cole may be located. You may qualify for a cash reward by calling Central Indiana Crime Stoppers at 1-800-262-TIPS with your anonymous tip.
Remember all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Alliance staff welcomes Korea delegation
In April, the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance welcomed representatives from the Korea Economic Institute of America (KEI) during their recent visit to Kokomo. KEI is a leading Washington, D.C.-based policy and research organization dedicated to strengthening the economic and strategic relationship between the United States and South Korea.
Their visit focused on exploring the growing impact of South Korean foreign direct investment, including the more than $6 billion StarPlus Energy electric vehicle battery plants. While in Kokomo, KEI’s delegation, led by Director of Communications Arius Derr, met with Alliance staff, local elected officials, and community partners to better understand how international investment is shaping the future of cities like Kokomo.
By connecting with the Alliance, KEI gained firsthand insight into the local community’s evolving economic landscape, and their interest signals just how significant Kokomo’s role has become in the broader story of U.S.-Korea economic collaboration.
Flowers returning to downtown
On April 3, more than 60 volunteers planted thousands of flowers that will adorn downtown gardens and light poles throughout the community this summer. As part of the Keep Kokomo Beautiful initiative, volunteers planted 1,112 flower baskets and 1,664 flowerpots.
Keep Kokomo Beautiful is in its 11th year and has enjoyed tremendous community support since its beginning. At its core, this Greater Kokomo Downtown Association initiative isn’t about flowers. These planting events and the resulting beautiful blooms this summer aim to nurture a sense of pride among residents, empowering them to take ownership over the community and its future.
There will be two more chances to volunteer with the beautification effort. Interested residents are encouraged to join the Keep Kokomo Beautiful campaign and make a lasting impact on the community. Organizers are looking for volunteers for two upcoming planting days.
The annual planting day will be Saturday, May 10, from 9-11 a.m. at the City Hall Gazebo, 100 S. Union St., Kokomo. Sign up to volunteer by clicking here.
Container and alley planting will take place Wednesday, May 14, from 1-4 p.m. on the Courthouse Square at the corner of Main and Sycamore streets. Sign up here to volunteer by clicking here.
Whether it is a business team, advocacy group, or individuals or families just wanting to lend a hand, The Keep Kokomo Beautiful initiative needs help. Sign up today and be a part of keeping Kokomo beautiful. Learn more about the Keep Kokomo Beautiful program by clicking here.