Governor Kelly has directed flags to be flown at half-staff on all state buildings, grounds and facilities on Wednesday, September 3,&nbsp;in honor of Kansas City, KS police officer, Hunter Simoncic.

Officer Simoncic was killed&nbsp;in the line of duty on Tuesday, August 26.

“The death of a law enforcement officer is always a tragedy, and Hunter Simoncic diligently protected and served Kansans,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Beyond his work as a police officer, he was committed to leaving a lasting positive impact on the Kansas City community. My deepest condolences go out to his&nbsp;family and loved ones, and the Kansas City, Kansas community, as they again grieve this unimaginable loss.”

Officer Simoncic will be honored during services held on&nbsp;Wednesday, September 3.

Governor directs flags flown half-staff in honor of fallen officer

Salina Police arrest a suspect for allegedly setting a house on fire.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Monday, September 1 at around 11:30 am, witnesses in the area of the 700 block of N. 8th reported a that a home was on fire.

SPD and the Salina Fire Department (SFD) arrived to the scene and discovered the back of the home was on fire. Nobody was inside when during the event of the fire.&nbsp;

SFD determined the cause of fire was by 'arson.'

A witness reported about seeing a man running away from the residence. Afterwards, officers located the possible suspect in the 800 block of N. Broadway. Officers determined the suspect matched the description of the witness report.

Officers noticed the suspect smelled of gas and located methamphetamine on him as well. SPD further arrested 29-year old, Marquis Wellington.

Wellington was booked into the Saline County Jail for the requested charges of Arson and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Suspect arrested for alleged arson in North Salina

Suspect arrested after allegedly choking a woman inside a Salina home.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Sunday, August 31 just after midnight, a 41-year old woman reported a 27-year old man identified as Drew Southern, allegedly assaulted her at a home in the 900 block of S. Santa Fe.

Reportedly, the victim and Southern got into an argument when he allegedly knocked off her glasses, breaking them. Afterwards, Southern then put the victim in a chokehold, restricting her breathing before letting go.&nbsp;

The victim was able to call police shortly after and upon arrival, officers arrested Southern without incident. He was booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges:&nbsp;

Aggravated Domestic Battery, Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property (for breaking the victim's glasses).

SPD stated alcohol was suspected to be factor. 

The victim and Southern were acquaintances.

Suspect arrested after allegedly choking a woman inside a Salina home

Salina Police are searching for an unknown suspect who allegedly stole an e-bike valued over $2,000 from a home in South Salina.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Monday, September 1 at around 4:20 pm, a 71-year old man reported that his lime-green "Wired" (brand) electrical bicycle was stolen from his garage on the 100 block of W. Key.

The man stated he had his garage open when he was mowing in his backyard. Reportedly, an unknown suspect had entered his garage and stole the bike.

E-bike valued over $2,000 stolen from home in South Salina, investigation ongoing

A woman calls police after driving away from man who was following her throughout Salina.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Saturday, August 30 at around 1:30 pm, a 41-year old woman called SPD regarding a known acquaintance identified as 34-year old, Mark Storms was following her across town in a vehicle.&nbsp;

Before Storms was following her, the woman stated she received around 30 calls from him. The woman was in her vehicle when Storms was following her and she made several turns across town to get away from him.

As she was driving, the woman was on the phone with SPD and advised her to drive towards the police department's station. Storms followed her and when they arrived to the station, officers were on site awaiting their arrival.

Officers then arrested Storms without incident and was booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges:

Stalking and Harassment by Telephone.&nbsp;

Salina PD makes arrest after man follows woman across town

Salina Police are searching for a suspect who allegedly burglarized a bar.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Sunday, August 31 at around 6:30 am, employees of Hanks Tavern (116 S Broadway Blvd.) reported of an alleged burglary that occurred.&nbsp;

Reportedly, an employee noticed the bar had been forced open the night before. The employee stated an unknown suspect broke into cash registers and an arcade machine. SPD stated the suspect stole money from the machine only, but not from the cash registers since it was empty.

Furthermore, several bottles of alcohol were stolen and a vehicle parked in the back of the bar was broken into as well. The suspect allegedly stole a bottle of cologne from the vehicle.

Total loss and damage was listed to be around $1,700.

No identification of suspect was given at this time. SPD is currently awaiting surveillance video from the bar.

Unknown suspect allegedly burglarizes bar, loss and damage listed over $1500 

A series of showers and possible thunderstorms, along with mild temperatures are expected for this week.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) showers are expected to occur throughout the morning of Tuesday, September 2nd, Wednesday, Thursday evening and into the morning of Friday.

Mild temperatures are anticipated as well. The hottest day of the week being Wednesday with highs ranging from 83-90 degrees. 

Highs of 72-80 are expected for Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Series of showers along with mild temperatures expected for this week

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Salina Post obituary policy (subject to change)

Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.

Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.

If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

You can also call:&nbsp;(785) 656-9856&nbsp;during business hours.

Recent obituaries and service times

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;Eilert, Brian Christopher

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Wellington, Marquis Terell

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Arson; Intentional to dwelling of another without consent

NAME:&nbsp;Wilson, Nicole Alphonsine Elaine

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Counterfeiting currency; Distribute; &lt;$25K; Theft of prop./services:Value less than $1,500

Saline County Jail Bookings, September 2

For the 9th year in a row, the Local Food Works Foundation is hosting "Feast on the Fe" on Saturday, September 13.&nbsp;

In the middle of downtown Salina (200 block of Santa Fe), the Local Food Works Foundation will be holding their annual fundraiser. Check-in starts at 5:00 pm with a&nbsp;Cash Bar&nbsp;opening at 5:30 pm, and the dinner runs from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm.

This fundraiser celebrates the local food system, featuring a gourmet meal prepared by local chefs using local ingredients. It also helps raise awareness&nbsp;to showcase Saline County chefs and farmers.

Tickets are on sale now and are available for purchase:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/feast-on-the-fe-2025-tickets-1571952254509?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/feast-on-the-fe-2025-tickets-1571952254509?aff=oddtdtcreator</a>

All proceeds collected from this event go towards an annual grant that the Local Food Works Foundations gives to farmers, chefs, entrepreneurs and&nbsp; anyone providing local food to Saline County. 

Feast on the streets: "Feast on the Fe" occurring September 13, tickets on sale now

The Saline County AFA Community, in partnership with Agriculture Future of America (AFA), has awarded the prestigious AFA Leader and Academic Scholarship to Anna Karber and Caden Parry from Saline County, KS. 

Each scholarship, valued at $3,200, recognizes academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to pursuing a career in food, agriculture, and natural resources.&nbsp;

Anna Karber, a Southeast of Saline graduate, is attending Kansas State University this fall and is majoring in Animal Science and Industry. 

Caden Parry, also a Southeast of Saline graduate, is attending Fort Hays State University with a major in Agronomy and a minor in Agribusiness Management.&nbsp;

Through the Saline County AFA Community Scholarship, Karber and Parry will not only receive financial assistance but also gain access to the transformative AFA Leaders Conference in November. This premier leadership development experience equips students with the skills to bridge the gap between college and career.&nbsp;

“We are extremely proud to connect Anna and Caden to the AFA network through this scholarship and not only support them financially, but also help them gain access to opportunities that will help them build careers in the agriculture industry,” said Jason Kern, Community Coordinator for the Saline County AFA Partnership. “This scholarship would not be possible without the support of our local community donors, who show these kids that their local community believes in their future.”&nbsp;

AFA community scholarships are funded by dedicated volunteers across eight states who raise funds to support these awards. Donors raised locally are then matched by the national AFA organization to complete the award. 

Because of consistent donor support, Saline County has awarded more than 50 scholarships since the partnership began in 1998. Many of the scholarship recipients have come back to live and work in the Saline County community.&nbsp;

“AFA Leader and Academic Scholarships celebrate outstanding students who demonstrate a clear career vision, strong leadership, active community engagement, and financial need,” shares Mark Stewart, AFA President and CEO. "The collaboration with our community partners enables AFA to cultivate exceptional talent, ensuring that the agriculture industry continues to thrive with leaders who are deeply connected to their roots and driven by purpose."&nbsp;

To learn more about AFA Leader and Academic Scholarships or AFA Leaders Conference, visit <a href="http://www.agfuture.org">www.agfuture.org</a>. &nbsp;

The following donors made the 2025 awards possible:&nbsp;

Morton Buildings; Jackson Crop Insurance; Lang Diesel, Inc.; Wimer Family Charitable Foundation; Saline County Conservation District; Saline County Farm Bureau; Bennington State Bank; Tri-Valley Seed &amp; Service, LLC; Carrico Implement, Inc.; Nichols Financial, LLC; Everhart Precision Ag, LLC; Hedville Grain &amp; Feed, LLC; Kubota of Salina; Advantage Trust Company Star Seed, LLC; Kermit Dorf and Connie Cox-Dorf; Bill Mahanay &amp; Family; Trent &amp; Emily Page; Jason and Kristi Kern.

About Agriculture Future of America &nbsp;

AFA builds bridges for young leaders to foster engagement and innovation in food and agriculture through premier leader and career development experiences. In the last five years, AFA has provided 26,000 leader development experiences to college leaders and young professionals from more than 200 colleges and universities throughout 43 states since its inception in 1996. AFA has awarded more than $11.5 million in academic and leader development scholarships. 

For more information about AFA, visit <a href="http://agfuture.org">agfuture.org</a>.

Two Saline County college students receive prestigious agriculture scholarship

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 1 - September 3

Labor Day weekend weather forecast Salina, August 29 - September 1

Cool weather and isolated showers are expected to occur this Labor Day weekend in Central Kansas.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), the highs for this upcoming Labor Day weekend are only expected to reach 80 degrees in Central Kansas. Friday, August 29th is looking to only be around 75-79, with Saturday - Monday being 77-83 degrees.

Rain chances are anticipated to occur on Saturday and last into the start of next week.

Cool weather and isolated showers expected Labor Day weekend 

The US National Weather Service has issued a "Flood Watch" throughout parts of Central Kansas until Thursday afternoon.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), many locations in Central Kansas are expected to see heavy rainfall tonight (Wednesday, August 27) and into Thursday morning, with some areas likely observing over 2 inches.

Salina is listed to have a 77% chance of rainfall over 1 inch and low chance for it to be over 2 inches.

Wichita is listed to have 62% chance, while Hutchinson a 47% chance of rainfall to be over 2 inches.&nbsp;

Saline County Emergency Management is informing county residents to prepare for at least two rounds of thunderstorms. The first round this Wednesday afternoon is expected to be less severe. 

However, a stronger system is forecast to move in late tonight (Wednesday) through Thursday morning with a higher risk of heavy rainfall and localized flooding.

Safety tips by Saline County Emergency Management include:&nbsp;

"Flood Watch" issued throughout Central Kansas: Heavy rainfall expected Wednesday night into Thursday

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 27 - August 29

Fall-like temps, along with isolated and scattered showers are expected to occur this week throughout Central Kansas.

Temperatures are listed to drop this week, along with isolated and scattered showers in Central Kansas. According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), the best chances for rainfall will be on Wednesday, August 27 and into Thursday, August 28, after Monday's showers.

Severe weather is not expected, but there are possibilities some of the weather could produce brief periods of heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

Temperatures drop this week, along with isolated and scattered showers throughout Central Kansas 

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 25 - August 27

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 22 - August 24

Cooler temperatures are looking to transpire with isolated storms for this upcoming weekend in Central Kansas.

According to the&nbsp;US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) after Friday, August 22, temperatures are expected to drop, starting Saturday - Monday. Isolated storms are anticipated to occur in the event of the cooler weather this weekend.

Monday, August 25 is listed as the coolest day with highs only reaching to the mid 70's.

Cooler temps with isolated storms expected for the weekend in Central Kansas

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — President Donald Trump's administration violated federal law by sending&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-immigration-raid-troops-military-2d81f5c35f9d11db9e32234e03480497">National Guard troops</a>&nbsp;to Southern California during immigration enforcement operations and accompanying protests, a federal judge ruled on Tuesday.

U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer in San Francisco did not require the several hundred remaining troops to be withdrawn and set his order to go into effect Sept. 12.

The order comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/california-pursues-lawsuit-against-trump-over-national-guard-deployment-to-protests-790c2b244cea4dff8cff6815862a9fa9">California sued</a>, saying the troops sent to Los Angeles over the summer were violating a law that prohibits military enforcement of domestic laws. Lawyers for Trump's Republican administration have argued the Posse Comitatus Act doesn’t apply because the troops were protecting federal officers, not enforcing laws. They say the troops were mobilized under an authority that allows the president to deploy them.

The judge's decision comes as Trump has discussed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-trump-federal-intervention-chicago-a206278c6948dfd17f9224be81c440f1">National Guard deployments in Democratic-led cities</a>&nbsp;like Chicago, Baltimore and New York. He has already deployed the guard as part of his unprecedented law enforcement takeover in Washington, where he has direct legal control.

Trump federalized members of the California National Guard and sent them to the second-largest U.S. city over the objections of Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom and city leaders. Trump did so under a law that allows the president to call the guard into federal service when the country “is invaded,” when “there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government,” or when the president is otherwise unable “to execute the laws of the United States.”

Trump has pushed the bounds of typical military activity on domestic soil, including through the creation of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-us-border-militarized-zones-arizona-trump-be3ee9f55a62c323ac5e03b5366f5d25">militarized zones</a>&nbsp;along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Newsom posted on X, in an all-caps reflection of the president’s own social media style, “DONALD TRUMP LOSES AGAIN. The courts agree -- his militarization of our streets and use of the military against US citizens is ILLEGAL.”

The White House and the Defense Department did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

Breyer's scathing ruling accused the Trump administration of “willfully” violating the law, saying it used troops for functions that were barred by their own training materials, refused to “meaningfully coordinate with state and local officials” and “'coached’” federal law enforcement agencies on the language to use when requesting assistance.

“These actions demonstrate that Defendants knew that they were ordering troops to execute domestic law beyond their usual authority,” he wrote. “The evidence at trial established that Defendants systematically used armed soldiers (whose identity was often obscured by protective armor) and military vehicles to set up protective perimeters and traffic blockades, engage in crowd control, and otherwise demonstrate a military presence in and around Los Angeles."

Roughly 4,000 National Guard soldiers and 700 Marines were deployed to Los Angeles in early June to deal with protests, over the objections of state and local officials. All were pulled back by the end of July except about 250 National Guard troops. The judge noted that the remaining troops got improper training on what they can and cannot do under the law.

Breyer also noted the Trump administration’s possible plans to call National Guard troops into other U.S. cities.

In Los Angeles, National Guard members joined an operation at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-happened-ice-raid-la-macarthur-park-cc04479ed94ed68d11acf807d97914e6">MacArthur Park</a>&nbsp;in downtown Los Angeles intended as a show of force against people in the U.S. illegally and those protesting the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. They also accompanied federal immigration officers on raids at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-farm-immigration-raid-cannabis-fbcf4620675523aa7630599331777ec5">two state-licensed marijuana nurseries</a>&nbsp;in Ventura County, Army Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman testified.

Sherman, who initially commanded the troops deployed to Los Angeles, testified during the second day of the trial that he raised concerns the deployment could violate the Posse Comitatus Act.

He said soldiers were trained on the law and given materials that included a list of activities prohibited by the act, including doing security patrols and conducting traffic control, crowd control and riot control.

Sherman said that while the Posse Comitatus Act prohibits troops from carrying out those actions, he was told by his superiors that there was a “constitutional exception” that permitted such activities when the troops are protecting federal property or personnel.

Calif. Governor taunts Trump after judge's ruling on use of troops in LA

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating the&nbsp; mass shooting in Kansas City last month have identified the victims as 24-year-old Kane Taddese and 18-year-old John Alaro, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Detecetives have gathered a lot of video, and continue to canvas for any more that could help them get a better idea what led up to the shooting, KCPD Captain Jake Becchina reported on Wednesday.

Just after 4a.m. August 24, emergency crews responded to a report of multiple shootings in the area of 13th and Grand, according to KC Fire Department Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

On arrival crews encountered 5 gunshot victims. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene. First responders located four additional victims all suffering from gunshot wounds. One adult male had critical injuries, a second adult male had serious injuries, a juvenile male had critical injuries, and an adult female had non life threatening injuries, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

KCFD crews transported four to area hospital, according to Battalion Chief Hopkins.

Just after 6:40a.m. Sunday morning, hospital personnel pronounced an additional adult male victim deceased, according to DiMartino.

This is being investigated as a homicide, according to DiMartino.

Preliminary information revealed there was an altercation between multiple individuals that led to shots being fired and the victims being struck.&nbsp; Police have not released the names of the two who died.

Police ID victims in mass shooting near KC Power & Light District

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the alleged theft of an expensive watch in Manhattan.

Just before 6:30p.m. August 29, officers filed a report for theft in the 600 block of Highland Ridge Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;An 18-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole a Cartier watch during an attempted purchase.

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $12,000. Anyone with information, contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000.

Suspect stole Kan. teen's $12,000 watch during attempted purchase

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — A man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-gunshots-florida-f62f8378d3a8ce7b2e99d6a8fb40aba9">trying to assassinate</a>&nbsp;President Donald Trump last year in South Florida is set to represent himself during a pretrial conference on Tuesday, as final preparations are made for trial.

Barring any delays, jury selection is scheduled to begin Sept. 8 in Fort Pierce federal court for the case against Ryan Routh. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon signed off on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-routh-assassination-attempt-ukraine-suspicions-florida-530098c668f283d8a38eb5dd5570f1b2">Routh’s</a>&nbsp;request to represent himself in July but said court-appointed attorneys need to remain as standby counsel.

The trial will begin nearly a year after prosecutors say a U.S. Secret Service agent thwarted Routh’s attempt to shoot Trump as he played golf. Routh, 59, has pleaded not guilty to charges of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fbi-assassination-attempt-indictment-b4c956e1a126e4acfb3c4eae0c06ddb1">attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate</a>, assaulting a federal officer and several firearm violations.

Prosecutors have said Routh methodically plotted to kill Trump for weeks before aiming a rifle through the shrubbery as Trump played golf on Sept. 15, 2024, at his West Palm Beach country club. A Secret Service agent spotted Routh before Trump came into view. Officials said Routh aimed his rifle at the agent, who opened fire, causing Routh to drop his weapon and flee without firing a shot.

Law enforcement obtained help from a witness who prosecutors said informed officers that he saw a person fleeing. The witness was then flown in a police helicopter to a nearby interstate where Routh was arrested, and the witnesses confirmed it was the person he had seen, prosecutors have said.

Routh was a North Carolina construction worker who in recent years had moved to Hawaii. A self-styled mercenary leader, Routh spoke out to anyone who would listen about his dangerous, sometimes violent plans to insert himself into conflicts around the world, witnesses have told The Associated Press.

In the early days of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ukraine">war in Ukraine</a>, Routh tried to recruit soldiers from Afghanistan, Moldova and Taiwan to fight the Russians. In his native Greensboro, North Carolina, he had a 2002 arrest for eluding a traffic stop and barricading himself from officers with a fully automatic machine gun and a “weapon of mass destruction,” which turned out to be an explosive with a 10-inch-long fuse.

In 2010, police searched a warehouse Routh owned and found more than 100 stolen items, from power tools and building supplies to kayaks and spa tubs. In both felony cases, judges gave Routh either probation or a suspended sentence.

In addition to the federal charges, Routh also has pleaded not guilty to state charges of terrorism and attempted murder.

Trial nears for man accused of trying to assassinate Trump in Florida

The United State's Senate will convene at 3p.m. Tuesday after their long holiday. Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall shared thoughts on his 100-stop August tour as he returns to work in Washington&nbsp;

🎥 Senator Marshall: Ready to return to DC after busy August holiday

SEDGWICK COUNTY— An 80-year-old Kansas woman arrested in connection with a weekend crash that killed two Wichita women is no longer in custody.&nbsp;Clowie Ann McLaughlin of Augusta met the requirement for bond just after 7:30p.m. Sunday and is no longer in the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online jail records.

At approximately 9:35 p.m. on Saturday, officers responded to a three-vehicle collision at the intersection of Central and Webb Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. A black Chevrolet truck traveling east on Central collided with a white BMW and a gray Jeep that were both traveling south on Webb.&nbsp;

In the BMW were Lashea Bell, 42, and her passenger Aniah Bell, 25, both from Wichita. Lashea Bell was pronounced dead at the scene, while Aniah Bell was transported to a local hospital, where she later died, according to Gupilan.

The 41-year-old male driver of the Jeep was treated at the scene and released. The driver of the Chevrolet identified from Sedgwick County booking records as Clowie Ann McLaughlin was taken to a local hospital with injuries. An officer stayed with her, and once she was medically cleared, McLaughlin was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges that include two counts of second-degree homicide. She bonded out of jail just before 7:30p.m.Sunday, according to online jail records.

Speed and alcohol are believed to be factors in this crash.

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charges.

Driver accused in deadly Kansas crash is no longer in custody

SHAWNEE COUNTY–A Kansas Amber Alert suspect is now in a Kansas jail after extradition from Illinois.

Christopher K. Barnshaw, 32, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections over the weekend, according to online jail records.

He is being held on a $10,000,000 bond on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, DV, or sexually motivated crime and Endangering A Child and Kidnapping; In Flight Or The Commission Of Any Crime, according to online jail records.

Just after noon on July 22, police in Mattoon, Illinois, were notified that a suspect in a kidnapping incident in Topeka was possibly in their city, according to a media release from police.

Police in Topeka reported that Barshaw was believed to be a suspect in the death of a man and woman the 500 Block of NE Wabash in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Daniel Garrett. Barnshaw was also believed to have taken a child of one of the victims and fled the area. He was reported to be driving a Lexus passenger vehicle bearing Kansas License 4003AHF.

At 12:16p.m. a police officer in Mattoon, who was actively on a traffic stop on Route 16 observed the suspect vehicle pass him.&nbsp; The officer cleared from the traffic stop and began following the suspect in the Lexus eastboun toward Charleston, Illinois. After several other officers arrived in the area, they conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle at the intersection of Route 16 and Beechtree Road.&nbsp; Barnshaw was take into custody without incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the arrest, officers found a firearm concealed on Barnshaw.&nbsp; The 2-year-old boy who the subject of the Amber Alert was in the back seat unharmed.

Barnshaw is being held in the Coles County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Kidnapping and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Mattoon Police are working with Topeka Police.&nbsp; Barshaw could face additional charges.&nbsp; Arrangements are being made to reunite the&nbsp; child with a family member.

Amber Alert suspect now held on a $10 million bond in Kansas jail

Hunter Lee Simoncic, age 26, of Kansas City, Kansas, passed away on August 26, 2025, while proudly serving his community as a police officer with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department.

Born on April 16, 1999, Hunter grew up on a small farm in Galesburg, Kansas, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family and community. He was accomplished in his academic pursuits, graduating from Erie High School in 2018 and Pittsburg State University with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology in 2021. His passion for justice and science led him to further his education at Oklahoma State University, where he earned a Master’s in Forensic Science in 2023.

In November of 2023, Hunter fulfilled his calling to public service by graduating from the KCKPD Academy and beginning his career as a police officer. His dedication, courage, and compassion quickly became evident to both his colleagues and the community he served.

Hunter was energetic, adventurous, and full of life. He embraced new experiences wholeheartedly — recently serving as an extra in the Hallmark movie Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story and exploring opportunities in modeling. In his free time, he enjoyed painting, lifting weights, writing his book, and training as an avid CrossFitter at Mission Barbell Club.

Hunter had a heart for giving back. He served as a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City, forming meaningful connections with the youth he mentored. He also volunteered through the Lead to Read program, spending time each week reading to students at Banneker Elementary School — a role he cherished deeply.

Above all, Hunter will be remembered for his kind spirit, his love of family, and his unwavering devotion to serving others both in and out of uniform.

He is survived by his father, Ron Simoncic of Franklin, KS; his mother, Christine Brungardt of Galesburg, KS; his brother, Fischer Simoncic of Wichita, KS; his grandmother, Rose Brungardt of Parsons, KS; and his aunts and uncles, including Rick and Jacque Simoncic of Frontenac, KS and Rod and Denise Fleming of Parsons, KS.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Shirley Simoncic, and Francis Brungardt; and his aunt and uncle, Terri Brungardt and Kirk Brungardt. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow officers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A public memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday September 3, 2025 at the Children's Mercy Park, 1 Sporting Way, Kansas City, Kansas 66111.

A gathering of family and friends will begin at 1:30 pm, Thursday September 4, 2025 followed by a Rosary service at 2:00 pm with Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 2:30 pm at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1807 Stevens Avenue, Parsons, Kansas 67357. Hunter's final resting place will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Parsons, KS.

KCKPD shares obituary of fallen Kansas officer

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Powerball jackpot rose to an estimated $1.3 billion Monday night after the winning numbers failed to appear.

The numbers drawn were 8, 23, 25, 40, 53 with the Powerball 5.

No one has matched all six numbers since May 31, allowing the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/" target="_blank">jackpot to swell</a>&nbsp;to $1.3 billion, which would be the fifth-largest prize in the game’s history if there is a winner in the drawing Wednesday night.

As ticket sales climbed during the past week, game officials raised the estimated Monday night jackpot to $1.1 billion before taxes.

Although there was no lucky jackpot winner, two ticket holders in Montana and North Carolina each won $2 million.

Payments for a jackpot would be spread over 30 years. A winner also can choose an immediate lump sum in cash before taxes, which now stands at $589 million.

The odds of matching all six numbers are astronomical: 1 in 292.2 million. The odds of getting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-mega-millions-winning-odds-numbers-a3e5a8e8e7ed15d7500c1d6acdab6785">struck by lightning</a>&nbsp;are far greater. But with so many people putting down money for a chance at life-changing wealth, someone eventually wins.

Powerball, which costs $2 per ticket, is played in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are held each week on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday nights.

Powerball jackpot rises to an estimated $1.3 billion

By MARY CLARE JALONICK, KEVIN FREKING and STEPHEN GROVES Associated Press1

Congressional Republicans scored a massive victory this summer when they passed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-republican-trump-tax-bill-f65be44e1050431a601320197322551b">President Donald Trump’s “big beautiful bill” of tax and spending cuts</a>&nbsp;without a single Democratic vote. But as they return to Washington this fall after a monthlong August recess, they will have to find a way to work with Democrats — or around them — as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-spending-trump-government-shutdown-democrats-republicans-a282c46016d64c5f4ffb8c3c99c9077e">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;looms.

The annual spending battle will dominate the September agenda, along with a possible effort by Senate Republicans to change their chamber's rules to thwart Democratic stalling tactics on nominations. The Senate is also debating whether to move forward on legislation that would slap steep tariffs on some of Russia’s trading partners as the U.S. pressures Russian President Vladimir Putin on Ukraine.

In the House, Republicans will continue their investigations of former President Joe Biden while Speaker Mike Johnson navigates a split in his conference over whether the Trump administration should release more files in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>&nbsp;investigation.

A look at what Congress will be doing as lawmakers return from the August break:

The most urgent task for Congress is to avoid a government shutdown on Sept. 30, when federal funding runs out. And it’s so far unclear if Republicans and Democrats will be able to agree on how to do that.

Congress will have to pass a short-term spending measure to keep the government funded for a few weeks or months while they try to finish the full-year package. But Republicans will need Democratic votes to pass an extension, and Democrats will want significant concessions. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer’s vote with Republicans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-gop-chuck-schumer-86385e644239a3dc1558b37d13094234">avoid a shutdown in March</a>&nbsp;prompted furious backlash within his party.

The Trump administration's efforts to claw back previously approved spending could also complicate the negotiations. Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pbs-npr-budget-cuts-trump-republicans-7d29c97c85d0b450549af657e115f0f8">passed legislation this summer that rescinded about $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting funds</a>&nbsp;and Trump notified Congress again on Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-foreign-aid-pocket-rescission-374c63e6b4004e819a657e33b76f502e">that he will block</a>&nbsp;$4.9 billion in congressionally approved&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/foreign-aid">foreign aid</a>.

Democrats have warned that such efforts could tank the broader negotiations. “Trump is rooting for a shutdown,” Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., posted on social media Friday.

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