Two Arrested After Violent Assault and Vehicle Theft in Irondale

Washington Co., Mo. (KFMO) - A brutal assault and robbery in the Irondale area on the evening of January 20, 2025 has resulted in two arrests, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies responded to a call regarding a man who had been viciously attacked and robbed. The victim reported that a male suspect struck him in the head with a hammer and beat him with a wooden object before stealing his cellphone and vehicle. His dog was inside the vehicle at the time of the theft.

Emergency crews airlifted the victim to Mercy South Hospital, where medical staff determined he had suffered two broken arms and a brain bleed due to the attack.

Authorities later discovered the stolen vehicle burned in Camp Irondale. After an extensive investigation, law enforcement identified and arrested two suspects in connection with the incident.

Robert Radford Jr., of Park Hills, and Halie Driscoll, of Irondale, have been charged with First-degree robbery, First-degree assault, Tampering with a motor vehicle, Stealing an animal, Knowingly burning or exploding property. Radford has also been charged with Armed criminal action.

Radford is being held without bond and Driscoll’s bond is set at $50,000 cash only. Both suspects are currently in custody at the Washington County Jail.

Despite the traumatic incident, detectives successfully located the victim’s dog and returned it safely. The investigation remains ongoing.

Potosi, Mo. (KFMO) - The Potosi R-3 School District is excited to announce the appointment of Nicole Portell as the new Assistant Superintendent, effective July 1, 2025. Portell, who currently serves as Principal of Trojan Intermediate School, brings 24 years of experience in education and a lifelong dedication to the community to this leadership position.

Portell began her career as a teacher, serving in that role for 12 years before transitioning to administration, where she has spent the last 12 years. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she has earned a reputation as a passionate advocate for student success and staff development.

A proud lifelong resident of Washington County and a 1994 graduate of Potosi High School, Portell’s deep roots in the community make her a natural choice for the role. Her appointment continues a tradition of excellence within the Potosi R-3 School District.

"We are excited to welcome Nicole Portell as our new Assistant Superintendent," said Superintendent Alex McCaul. "Mrs. Portell’s experience, passion for education, and dedication to our students and community will be invaluable as we continue to provide high-quality education and support to all of our schools."

In her new role, Portell will collaborate with district leaders to oversee educational programs, foster staff development, and ensure the success of all students.

"It is with immense pride and gratitude that I step into the role of Assistant Superintendent," said Portell. "The opportunity to serve the very community that has supported me throughout my life is a responsibility I take with great pride. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to creating an environment where every student and educator has the support and resources they need to succeed. In my new role, I look forward to working alongside the dedicated district educators, staff, parents, and community members to ensure our schools continue to thrive.”

Portell expressed her thanks to Superintendent McCaul, Assistant Superintendent Randy Wilson, and the Potosi R-3 School Board for entrusting her with the role, stating, "Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me. I am excited to collaborate with all of you as we work together to provide a brighter, stronger future for our children. I truly love purple and live gold."

The district looks forward to Portell’s leadership and is confident that she will play a key role in shaping the future of education for students and families in Potosi.