The Salina Animal Shelter released a statement via Facebook after the Kansas Department of Agriculture conducted an inspection at the facility, which was deemed "unsatisfactory."

The state report noted the shelter did not meet the satisfactory requirements of safely maintaining proper food storage, improper euthanization procedures and other matters.

Below you will find the full statement by the Salina Animal Shelter:

The City of Salina and the Salina Animal Shelter take animal welfare, humane care, and regulatory compliance seriously. On January 12, 2026, the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) conducted an inspection of the Salina Animal Shelter. The facility received an unsatisfactory result, and we acknowledge the findings in the report. 

The inspection identified a few areas requiring correction, including food storage practices, the condition of certain outdoor water containers, and documentation issues related to euthanasia records. The inspection also raised concerns regarding euthanasia procedures, staff training documentation, and veterinary care documentation for a specific animal. 

The City of Salina acknowledges that these findings are our responsibility. While we are disappointed in the result, we are taking immediate corrective action and making the changes necessary to ensure full compliance moving forward.

Since the inspection, the City and Shelter leadership have already implemented multiple corrections. This includes replacing plastic water pails with metal, ordering additional sealed food-storage containers, strengthening internal record-keeping procedures, and ensuring all veterinary care documentation is properly maintained and documented in the animal’s file. 

Additionally, the employee connected to several of the documentation-related deficiencies identified in the report is no longer employed at the shelter for reasons unrelated.

The inspection also raised concerns regarding euthanasia training expectations. The shelter’s euthanasia protocol has not changed in many years and has not been cited in prior inspections. While we acknowledge that we must meet the state’s expectations, we were surprised to learn that our training documentation and procedures did not align with KDA’s current interpretation and enforcement of those standards. During a recent follow-up discussion, KDA advised that this concern may not be isolated and that the state is reviewing similar euthanasia compliance expectations across other shelters as well.

Out of an abundance of caution, the City of Salina immediately suspended all in-house euthanasia upon receiving the inspection report. This action was taken to ensure we are fully aligned with state expectations while corrective measures are completed.

Our staff work in an extremely challenging environment, often caring for animals with unknown medical histories and urgent needs. Even so, we understand that the public expects — and animals deserve — the highest standards of care and compliance. We are committed to correcting the deficiencies noted in the inspection and strengthening our systems to ensure consistent documentation, oversight, and humane care practices moving forward.

We appreciate the work of KDA inspectors and the opportunity to improve. The City of Salina will continue working closely with KDA and veterinary partners to ensure all corrective actions are completed and sustained.

Salina Post will continue to look into this issue.

Salina Animal Shelter releases statement after receiving "unsatisfactory" results in state inspection

The Salina City Commission will hold its regular meeting on&nbsp;Monday February 9, 2026. The meeting will begin at&nbsp;4:00 pm&nbsp;inside&nbsp;Room 107&nbsp;of the&nbsp;City-County Building,&nbsp;300 West Ash Street.

For those who cannot attend the meeting, you can watch the livestream Monday, February 9 on YouTube at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.

Public hearings and items scheduled for a certain time

1.&nbsp;Conduct a public hearing on and consider approval of Resolution No. 26-8332 relocating the naming of Earl J. Bondy Baseball Complex to ball fields no. 1 and 2 at the Berkley Family Recreational Area.

2.&nbsp;Conduct a public hearing on and consider approval of Resolution No. 26-8333 naming the John Parker, Jr. Park dog park "The Barking Lot."

1.&nbsp;Consider approval of the minutes of the January 26, 2026, regular meeting.

2.&nbsp;Consider approval of a Change Order for Project No. 21030, Project No. 1 Water Main Replacement, in the amount of $185,820.20 and extending the date of completion to June 4, 2026.

1.&nbsp;Consider approval of Ordinance No. 26-11277 unconditionally approving the expenditure of proceeds of Salina Airport Authority Series 2025-1 Notes for the purpose of financing the cost of certain substitute improvements.

2.&nbsp;Consider approval of Resolution No. 26-8327 funding a ReUse It Center in the City of Salina from the Solid Waste Fund.

3.&nbsp;Consider authorizing the City Manager to execute a Phase I Engineering Agreement with Schwab Eaton in an amount not to exceed $302,985.00 for design of the Smoky Hill River bridge replacement on Magnolia Road.

4.&nbsp;Consider Authorizing City Manager to execute an engineering agreement with Alfred Benesch and Company for traffic studies and engineering design of improvements to the Schilling Road and Ohio Street intersection in the amount of $125,600.00

5.&nbsp;Consider approval of Resolution No. 26-8330, a Resolution of Advisability establishing a Special Improvement District in Interstate District SW of I-70 Addition No. 2, and authorize the related Development Agreement.

Residents are invited to share their comments for 3 minutes with the commission.

1.&nbsp;Request for Executive Session - Trade Secrets

(9.1a) Move the City Commission recess into executive session for __ minutes to discuss the subject of a specific economic development prospect based upon the need to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4).

2.&nbsp;Request for Executive Session - Legal

(9.2a) Request for Executive Session - Legal(9.2a) I move the City Commission recess into executive session for __ minutes to discuss the subject of legal advice regarding economic development incentives based upon the need for consultation with an attorney for the public body which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2).

<a href="https://agendasuite.org/iip/salina/meeting/details/1188">For more information about each item click here.</a>

Two executive sessions, revisiting funding of nonprofit recycling center, "The Barking Lot" on agenda for Feb. 9 meeting

<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>

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>.

Three day weather forecast Salina, February 6 - February 8

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 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="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@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;&nbsp;<a href="https://newstips@salinapost.com/">newstips@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

Recent obituaries and service times, how to submit an obituary

Christ Cathedral in Salina unveils its annual Lenten Art Exhibit opening Friday, Feb. 6, announcing the artists featured in four consecutive Sunday-morning Coffee Hour chats, beginning Feb. 8.

First launched in 2023–24, the cathedral’s annual Lenten Art Exhibit encourages art lovers to experience original work centered around a faith-inspired theme. The theme for the 2026 exhibit is “Holiness In Our Midst,” inviting each artist to interpret and depict holiness as they see it in history or in everyday life. 

The 12 artists, alpha by last name, with their primary medium for this show, come from eight KS communities:

Charlotte Martin, pastel/charcoal/acrylic, Wichita

DeAnna Skedel, eco print with collage, Kansas City

Of those twelve, three will lead Coffee Hour chats on successive Sundays:

Sunday Feb. 8: K. City-based watercolorist John Keeling, 11:15 a.m.&nbsp;

Sunday, Feb. 15 – Wichita gallery owner and painter Rodney Wood, 11:15 a.m.&nbsp;

Sunday, Feb. 22 – Salina multi-media artist Cary Brinegar, 11:15 a.m. (lower right)

Sunday, March 1 – Summary chat with Art Show Committee members Steve Hoffman and Debbie Harbin-Wagner, 11:15 a.m.

“Holiness In Our Midst” runs Friday, Feb. 6 to Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with viewing by advance reservation Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Docents will be available with the exhibit catalog. The exhibit also can be seen during 10 a.m. Sunday services at Christ Cathedral, 138 S. Eighth Street in downtown Salina. “Holiness” also will be open for Salina’s Feb. 6 and March 6 First Friday Art Walks.

For more information about “Holiness In Our Midst” or to reserve a tour time for your group, contact Christ Cathedral at christcathedral@christcathedralsalina.org , call 785-827-4440 or visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/christcathedralsalina/">Facebook</a> or <a href="http://christcathedralsalina.org">their website</a>.

Christ Cathedral unveils art exhibit with two Salinans featured and Coffee Hour artist speakers this weekend

MCPHERSON COUNTY - A bar &amp; grill in McPherson County has shared surveillance video on their Facebook, capturing two suspects breaking into the building on the early hours of Thursday morning.

Main Street Bar &amp; Grill shared two videos of two male suspects breaking into the building through the roof and repelling down inside.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16JehWjny6/">Video #1 link</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16qHhUwQnB/">Video #2 link</a>

In one of the videos, a suspect wearing a black hoodie, jeans and face mask tells the other suspect after he had repelled down, "it's not as hard as it looks, it really is not, just come down."

Afterwards, another angle showed the suspects breaking into one of the gaming machines and proceeding to break into another. The suspects then exited the bar through exit doors and fled on foot.

The owner of the bar was contacted by the alarm system and then reached out to the McPherson County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;

Reportedly, two gaming machines were damaged with an undisclosed amount of cash and bottles of alcohol being stolen.

Salina Post has reached out to the McPherson County Sheriff's Office and are awaiting comments and updates on this incident.

🎥 Investigation ongoing: Two masked suspects break into McPherson Co. bar through roof

Here is the lineup for the Saturday Morning Show with Dave Foor &amp; Nicolas Fierro on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA for February 7, 2026:

Jamie Doss - Saline County Clerk Election Office: explaining pitbull ban voting process.

Dan Holiday - Meteorologist: Past winter weather and upcoming weather updates.

Mary Landes&nbsp;- The Temple: Innovation Kitchen Renovation Project.

&nbsp;Daniel Craig - Salina Race Series: Vision for 2026 year.

Patrick Parker - Ashby House: Emergency shelter project update.

All episodes are recorded and uploaded on the&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?CFID=05fb1ecb-7d68-4542-adb3-9b7c11d9b5e5&amp;CFTOKEN=0&amp;stationCallSign=KINA&amp;onDemandAutoStart=true&amp;p92136680=true&amp;relocateURL=true">910 AM and 107.5 FM KINA website</a>, under the 'KINA Saturday Mornings'&nbsp;tab.

Saturday Morning Show lineup with Dave Foor & Nicolas Fierro, February 7, 2026

On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/OdffdVyI2hfpChMBEU1PGFxbWW6lzeCpxIkoz79rphmDYBgs4IbhsyHx-JiKMCHI8Z3RxHNLEJjhJKTJAY4MhKU89Zh7D1-decR0ZRJlI25VGT2sBo-ATy9WG57DEuObtS5NuWsCeqRd73dATKCYj3XP4VVerSVlDmMKRYpX_j8RlrBb79_uQXJd3Zxd5h7SfbNBGdWAQIuwqvy1d6UTbLAo4CumVCIP5kThfm-ZyarUWxK_QWTy1c9puGrKg73n">28th Judicial District Nominating Commission</a>&nbsp;sent the names of three nominees for district judge to Governor Laura Kelly, who has 60 days to decide who will fill the vacancy.

The judicial vacancy will be created when District Judge Paul Hickman retires May 1.

The 28th Judicial District is composed of Ottawa and Saline counties.

After serving one year in office, a new judge must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, the incumbent will serve a four-year term.

The 28th Judicial District Nominating Commission consists of Justice K.J. Wall as the nonvoting chair; David Stanley, Bennington; Lance Cochran, Robert German, Donald Merriman, Christine Ritter, and Russel Prophet, Salina; and Kathy Luthi, Soloman.

Salina attorney one of three final nominees to fill district judge vacancy position

The February&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.k-state.edu/civic-lecture">Civic Lecture Series</a>&nbsp;discussion at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;will explore how collective action, shared purpose and people-powered organizing can make a difference across Kansas communities.

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, K-State Salina's Civic Lecture Series will feature "The Power of People to Impact the Common Good," a community discussion about what is possible and how everyday people can move the common good forward, together.

Leading the discussion is Ben MacConnell, the Great Plains coordinator at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thedartcenter.org/">Direct Action and Research Training, or DART, Center</a>. MacConnell has spent 25 years in the DART network in a variety of roles, most recently serving in Kansas and Nebraska, helping to establish and staff new organizations across both states.

MacConnell believes that change doesn't start with institutions — it starts with people. Across communities, the solutions to housing insecurity, gaps in health and mental health care, substance abuse, and over-incarceration already exist. 

The "Power of People to Impact the Common Good" lecture will take place at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, in the K-State Salina College Center Conference Room at 2310 Centennial Road.

Admission is free, and guests can bring an outside lunch or purchase a meal from K-State Salina's Centennial Dining. For more information, visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.k-state.edu/civic-lecture">Civic Lecture Series website</a>.

The goal of K-State Salina's Civic Lecture Series is to develop a more informed community committed to openly discussing topics of civic importance.

Public K-State Salina lecture to explore how everyday people can advance the common good

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, 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;Coleman,Casey Elizabeth

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Failure to appear; No Proof Of Insurance

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Disorderly conduct; Unknown circumstance; Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

REQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, February 5

Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau

ABILENE - The Kansas Recreation and Parks Association recognized Joe Minick of Abilene with the Distinguished Volunteer Award during its annual awards luncheon held last week in Topeka.

At 90 years young, Minick is widely regarded as one of Kansas’ most impactful volunteers, quietly shaping some of the state’s most beloved recreation and tourism assets through decades of hands-on service, mechanical skill, and community leadership.

A diesel and automotive mechanic by trade, Minick has been instrumental in launching and sustaining the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, now one of Kansas’ top heritage attractions. From engineering and maintenance to the massive restoration of the Santa Fe 3415 steam locomotive, Minick played a central role in transforming a dormant relic into a working engine that continues to delight riders from across the country.

His impact extends well beyond the rails. Minick helped bring the Hoffman Grist Mill in Enterprise to life as a working 1880s-style flour mill, restored the C.W. Parker Carousel steam engine, relocated and preserved the historic Volkman log cabin at the Dickinson County Heritage Center, and assisted with the recovery and restoration of the Steamboat Arabia steam engine, now displayed at the Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City.

When communities across Kansas sought outdoor recreation opportunities during the pandemic, Minick once again stepped forward. As trail development costs soared, he helped create the Iron Horse Trail, a five-mile rail-trail completed for just $200,000. Today, it stands as the only rails-with-trails project in the Midwest and a model for community-driven recreation development.

Minick’s service also includes decades of volunteer leadership. He is a longtime board member of the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, a former Volunteer of the Year with the Abilene Area Chamber of Commerce, a recipient of Kansas Tourism’s Kansas’ Finest recognition, the Community Foundation of Dickinson County’s Quiet Hero award, and a past board member of the Dickinson County Heritage Center. Behind the scenes, he has also worked with youth completing court-mandated community service hours, offering guidance, purpose, and encouragement along the way.

“Joe Minick is proof that one person can make a lasting difference,” said representatives of the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association. “His work has strengthened communities, preserved Kansas history, and created places where people come together to learn, explore, and enjoy the outdoors.”

The Distinguished Volunteer Award honors individuals whose dedication has advanced recreation, parks, and quality of life across Kansas. For Minick, the recognition reflects a lifetime of service grounded in action, humility, and an enduring belief in community.

For more information about the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association, visit <a href="http://krpa.org">krpa.org</a>.

Kansas Recreation and Parks Association honors Abilene resident with distinguished volunteer award

Three day weather forecast Salina, February 4 - February 6

Three day weather forecast Salina, February 1 - February 3

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 30 - February 1

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 28 - January 30

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 26 - January 28

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 23 - January 25

Saline County Emergency Management&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Wichita reports an&nbsp;Arctic outbreak and winter weather&nbsp;will impact Saline County&nbsp;beginning Friday and continuing through Monday morning, bringing&nbsp;dangerous cold, hazardous travel conditions, and&nbsp;accumulating snow.

Arctic air is expected to move into the area early Friday morning and persist through the weekend, with&nbsp;dangerous wind chills between -10°F and -20°F&nbsp;likely from Friday morning through Monday morning. The coldest conditions are expected during the overnight and early morning hours.

Snow&nbsp;is expected to begin late Friday afternoon or Friday evening and continue through Saturday night, with&nbsp;slick roads&nbsp;and&nbsp;hazardous travel&nbsp;possible. While higher snowfall totals are more likely south of Saline County, confidence is high that snow will affect the area.&nbsp;Travel impacts are expected&nbsp;due to&nbsp;reduced visibility, slick roads,&nbsp;and&nbsp;prolonged cold conditions.

A&nbsp;Winter Storm Watch&nbsp;remains in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday night, and an&nbsp;Extreme Cold Watch&nbsp;has been issued for the entire forecast area through Monday morning. Confidence is high in the timing and severity of the cold, with medium confidence in exact snowfall amounts due to potential shifts in the heaviest snow band.&nbsp;

<a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/2b6fb17f-1676-4697-ac6f-7c32ed6b5928.pdf?rdr=true">Click here to view the full packet of the upcoming severe weather</a>

Arctic outbreak & winter weather to impact Saline Co. Friday - Monday

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 21 - January 23

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 19 - January 21

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas bill that would have&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/02/kansas-bill-would-require-kindergarteners-to-be-potty-trained-before-starting-school/">required kindergarteners to be potty trained</a>&nbsp;before starting school stalled in committee.

House Education Committee chairwoman Rep. Susan Estes, a Republican from Wichita, declined to bring the bill up for debate Wednesday. She said she wanted to give school districts more time to find a solution.&nbsp;

“I do think there are some very legitimate concerns,” Estes said. “Parents needing support if they are going through this. But also, how do we make sure that everything is being done in a way that is safe for the educator as well as the student?”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2486/" target="_blank">House Bill 2486</a>&nbsp;garnered double the amount of opponents compared to proponents. Critics worried the bill would leave vulnerable children behind by excluding them from school and urged legislators to leave the decision up to local districts.&nbsp;

Rep. Sherri Brantley, a Republican from Great Bend, introduced the bill to help educators mitigate distractions. It would have required parents to confirm in writing that their child is potty trained before enrolling in school.

Kansas lawmakers hold back school potty training bill to allow time for solutions

PAWNEE COUNTY- Michael EG Reynolds, 69 of Larned, appeared Thursday afternoon before Senior District Judge Nancy Parrish of Topeka, Kansas, to determine whether he is competent to stand trial, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett. The hearing was conducted via video teleconferencing.

After hearing the testimony of the court-assigned forensic evaluator and arguments of counsel, Judge Parrish found Reynolds not competent to stand trial. Based on this finding, the Court then entered an order directing the Defendant to be committed to the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) for up to ninety (90) days for competency restoration treatment.

A five-day Jury Trial was scheduled to commence February 23, 2026. The matter is now stayed until such time as the Court finds the defendant has regained competency.

Under Kansas law, a person is “incompetent to stand trial” when such person is charged with a crime and, because of mental illness or defect is unable: (1) To understand the nature and purpose of the proceedings against such person; or (2) to make or assist in making such person's defense.

Reynolds is charged with one count of Intentional Murder in the Second Degree, one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm. The charges stem from a joint investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Coroner Dr. Lyle Noordhoek into the shooting death of Dr. Tomas Garza, 52 of Larned, on March 30, 2024. Reynolds was taken into custody at the scene without incident at the time of the alleged incident.

Rather than the State Security Hospital, which is on the campus of Larned State Hospital, the State anticipates Reynolds will be transferred to Osawatomie State Hospital to receive the court ordered treatment. At the time of his death, Dr. Garza served as the medical supervisor for Larned State Hospital.

Following the hearing, Judge Parrish denied the defendant’s request to reduce the bond finding Reynolds currently poses a danger to himself or others if released. The defendant will remain in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff pending his transfer to a psychiatric facility.

Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett represented the State at the hearing. Reynolds was represented by David McDonald of Platte City, Missouri.

Judge rules on competency of suspect in murder of Kansas doctor

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to a shooting in the 1800 block of East Front Street, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Upon arrival officers located a victim in the parking lot of Bally's KC Casino identified as 18-year-old&nbsp;Aundre Harris Jr. suffering from gunshot wounds. They began performing lifesaving measures and ordered KCFD EMS to the scene. Medics transported Harris to a local hospital, where he died a short time later.&nbsp;

This is being investigated as a homicide. A subject of interest was taken into custody on scene pending further investigation. The preliminary information revealed there was a disturbance between multiple individuals inside the casino. That disturbance subsequently led to an altercation in the parking lot where shots were fired and Harris was struck. Detectives and crime scene personnel canvassed the scene for physical evidence, witnesses, and surveillance footage.&nbsp;

If anyone was in the area and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

Police: Teen killed after fight inside KC area casino

JOHNSON COUNTY—Police are asking for the public's help to identify jewelry theft suspect.

According to Overland Park Police, two individuals are suspected of committing felony theft from a jewelry kiosk at the Oak Park Mall.

The alleged theft occurred just after 7:30p.m. January 8. Two suspects entered a retail kiosk located at the Oak Park Mall,&nbsp; W.95th and Nieman after regular business hours. 

Once inside the kiosk, the suspects selected a significant number of necklaces before leaving the scene on foot.

 Both suspects are described as Hispanic males in their twenties. Police have no suspect vehicle information.

Anyone with information pertaining to the identity of these two individuals is urged to contact the Overland Park Police Department at 913-344-8729 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.Public Information Officer J. Lacy #653

Police working to ID Kansas jewelry theft suspects

By SEJAL GOVINDARAO, JACQUES BILLEAUD and JOHN SEEWER Associated Press

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — “Today” show host&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/savannah-guthrie">Savannah Guthrie's</a>&nbsp;brother on Thursday renewed the family's plea for their mother's kidnapper to contact them, hours after an Arizona sheriff said investigators don't have proof&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-nancy-042abd04a6d87e14eecb22f0bc2893d1">Nancy Guthrie</a>&nbsp;is alive but believe “she's still out there.”

“Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven’t heard anything directly,” Camron Guthrie said in a video posted on social media.

“We need you to reach out and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward,” but first the family needs to know the kidnapper has their mother, he said, echoing a statement his famous sister read the day before.

Five days into the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-0d6b55fd24f54b2526fd5f8894a52ff2">desperate search</a>&nbsp;for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, authorities have not identified any suspects or persons of interest, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said.

Authorities think she was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-6c7b78d17d7b647c64f71f64ecaecf8b">taken against her will</a>&nbsp;from her home in Tucson over the weekend. DNA tests showed blood found on Guthrie’s front porch was a match to her, the sheriff said.

“Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” Nanos said at a news conference earlier Thursday. He acknowledged, however, that authorities have no evidence she’s OK.

Investigators said they are taking seriously notes seeking ransom that were sent to some media outlets.

It's unclear if all of the notes were identical. Heith Janke, the FBI chief in Phoenix, said details included a demand for money with a Thursday evening deadline and a second deadline for Monday if the first one wasn't met. At least one note mentioned a floodlight at Guthrie's home and an Apple watch, Janke said.

“To anyone who may be involved, do the right thing. This is an 84-year-old grandma,” Janke said.

At least three media organizations reported receiving purported ransom notes, which they handed over to investigators. Authorities made an arrest after one ransom note turned out to be fake, the sheriff said.

A note e-mailed Monday to the KOLD-TV newsroom in Tucson included information that only the abductor would know, anchor Mary Coleman told CNN.

“When we saw some of those details, it was clear after a couple of sentences that this might not be a hoax,” she said.

The sheriff said it’s possible Nancy Guthrie was targeted, but if she was, investigators don’t know if that’s because her daughter is one of television’s most visible anchors.

Authorities say any decision on whether to fulfill ransom demands ultimately is up to the family.

A day earlier, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-nancy-guthrie-mom-missing-88e8731270d05e6e667730d2ed8633d3">message to her mother’s kidnapper</a>, saying they are ready to talk but want proof their mom is still alive. There's been no response to their pleas so far.

Investigators gave a more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mom-missing-nancy-adaa8af43efe04c252a52616d9037a05">detailed timeline</a>&nbsp;from the hours after Nancy Guthrie was last seen Saturday night. She was eating dinner and playing games with family members before one of them dropped her off at her home in a upscale neighborhood that sits on hilly, desert terrain, the sheriff said.

About four hours later, just before 2 a.m. Sunday, the home’s doorbell camera was disconnected, Nanos said. But Guthrie did not have an active subscription, so the doorbell company was unable to recover any footage.

Software data recorded movement at the home minutes later, the sheriff said, acknowledging that the motion could have come from an animal.

Then at 2:28 a.m. the app on Guthrie’s pacemaker was disconnected from her phone.

Guthrie&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-74d845b070fefe2d94cb92d655308e91">was reported missing</a>&nbsp;shortly before noon Sunday after she didn’t show up at a church.

While she is able to drive and her mind is sharp, the sheriff said she has difficulty walking even short distances. She also requires daily medicine that's vital to her health, he has said.

A sheriff’s dispatcher said during the search Sunday that Guthrie has high blood pressure, a pacemaker and heart issues, according to audio from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.broadcastify.com/">broadcastify.com</a>.

Investigators searched in and around Guthrie’s home again for several hours Wednesday.

Authorities are bringing more resources and people into the investigation, and the FBI announced Thursday it was offering up to $50,000 for information. A day earlier, President Donald Trump posted on social media that he was directing federal authorities to help where they can.

Savannah Guthrie has hosted “Today” — NBC’s flagship morning show — for more than a decade and had been set to co-anchor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-olympics-host-nbc-mary-carillo-94c13d18ac30129cc37e6990ac2c31f1">the network’s coverage</a>&nbsp;of Friday’s opening ceremony for the Winter Olympics. For now, she's staying close to her mother's home.

She joined her two siblings in an emotional plea on social media Wednesday to say they're ready to talk to whoever sent the ransom notes.

“We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us,” she said while fighting off tears.

With her voice cracking, she addressed her mother directly, saying the family was praying for her and that people were looking for her. She was flanked by Camron and their sister, Annie.

“Mamma, If you’re listening, we need you to come home. We miss you,” Annie Guthrie said.

This story has been corrected to show that the sheriff said it’s possible Nancy Guthrie was targeted, not that investigators have believed from the beginning that she was targeted.

Billeaud reported from Phoenix and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu contributed.

🎥'Today' show host's family renews plea to mother's kidnapper

KANSAS CITY—A driver injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri has died.

According to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino, a blue Jeep Cherokee was&nbsp; westbound on 43rd and entered the intersection at Paseo from a stop sign. A northbound white Chevrolet Equinox traveling at a high rate of speed struck the Jeep. The Jeep rolled and the driver was ejected from the vehicle. 

The driver of the Jeep was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. The front seat passenger of the Jeep was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Chevrolet was uninjured in the collision.

Police were notified the driver of the Jeep was pronounced deceased by hospital staff on Thursday morning, according to DiMartino.

&nbsp;The investigation, to include suspected impairment of the Chevrolet driver, is ongoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is fatality #6 compared to #5 at this time last year in Kansas City, Missouri. Police did not release the name of the victim.

KCPD: Driver dies days after crash with suspected impaired driver

On Thursday, at the direction of U.S. Southern Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.

Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. 

Two narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.&nbsp; This is the second deadly strike since the&nbsp;raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. On January 23, the U.S. carried out a deadly strike on a vessel accused of trafficking drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

&nbsp;The Department of War released no additional details.

🎥 US carries out another deadly strike on a drug boat 

KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced multiple felony charges against a Kansas City man in connection with a shooting that killed one and injured another at a fast-food restaurant.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2804/Watson-Joseph-PC--Complaint">Joseph H. Watson</a>, 22,&nbsp;faces 2nd Degree Felony Murder, three counts of Armed Criminal Action, one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and one count of 1st Degree Assault.

According to court records, Kansas City police responded to a restaurant on a reported shooting on Jan. 31, and located the first victim in the parking lot, suffering from a gunshot wound to his face. He was transported to a nearby hospital and is in stable condition. Officers located the second victim unresponsive on the floor inside the restaurant and was declared deceased.&nbsp;

Based on surveillance video from inside the restaurant, the first victim left his backpack on a table to speak with an employee at the counter. Watson, dressed in a red hood and black coat, and another unknown individual arrived at the restaurant and sat down at a table next to the first victim’s items. 

The first victim went back to his table and appeared to be looking for something and then asked an employee to call his phone. Shortly after, Watson started arguing with the first victim and appeared to be clutching something in his coat. Watson walked past the first victim, hit him in the face, and pulled out a rifle, pointing it at the first victim.&nbsp;

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