GEARY COUNTY —&nbsp; Two people were injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Samuel A&nbsp;Mertens, 40, Kearney, Nebraska, was westbound on Interstate 70 and entered the construction zone between mileposts 295-U.S. 77 exit and 300-Kansas 57 exit.

&nbsp;Traffic began to slow in the construction zone. The Chevy rear-ended a 2016 Nissan Altima driven by Michael W Catt, 27, Wichita.&nbsp; After impact the Chevy&nbsp; drove around the Nissan and continued driving until he stopped near the Ohio Street exit in Saline County.

Mertens was not injured. Catt complained of pain and drove himself to the hospital. EMS transported a passenger in Nissan Wendy R. Catt, 54, Wichita, to&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725199383794.jpeg" alt="Mertens photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Mertens photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —&nbsp; Two people were injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Samuel A&nbsp;Mertens, 40, Kearney, Nebraska, was westbound on Interstate 70 and entered the construction zone between mileposts 295-U.S. 77 exit and 300-Kansas 57 exit.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At approximately 2145 hours, after the K-State game, dispatch alerted Trooper Jacoby Williams to a hit-and-run crash on I-70 westbound at milepost 290. The victim, still following the suspect, provided updates to dispatch as they continued westbound. Trooper Williams caught up… <a href="https://t.co/AcfRsifPdw">pic.twitter.com/AcfRsifPdw</a>&mdash; Trooper Ben (@TrooperBenKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperBenKHP/status/1830247058726387775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;Traffic began to slow in the construction zone. The Chevy rear-ended a 2016 Nissan Altima driven by Michael W Catt, 27, Wichita.&nbsp; After impact the Chevy&nbsp; drove around the Nissan and continued driving until he stopped near the Ohio Street exit in Saline County.Mertens was not injured. Catt complained of pain and drove himself to the hospital. EMS transported a passenger in Nissan Wendy R. Catt, 54, Wichita, to&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized, driver jailed after rear-end crash in Kan. construction zone

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (AP) — Police said Saturday that a man will face misdemeanor charges after he stormed into the press area at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;rally in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, before being surrounded by authorities and eventually subdued with a Taser as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-moms-for-liberty-election-2024-education-7b408b46f58c4ba6177f809c4d0b2fb2">former president spoke</a>&nbsp;at the campaign stop.

The incident Friday came moments after Trump had criticized major media outlets for what he said was unfavorable coverage and had dismissed CNN as fawning for its interview Thursday with his Democratic rival&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and her running mate, Tim Walz.

It was not immediately clear what motivated the man or whether he was a Trump supporter or critic.

The man made it over a barrier ringing the media area and began climbing the back side of a riser where television reporters and cameras were stationed, according to a video of the incident&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/taureansmall/status/1829636618233287111">posted to social media</a>&nbsp;by a reporter for CBS News. People near him tried to pull him off the riser and were quickly joined by police officers and sheriff's deputies.

The crowd cheered as a pack of police led the man away, prompting Trump to say, “Is there anywhere that’s more fun to be than a Trump rally?”

Johnstown's police chief, Richard M. Pritchard, confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday that the man was arrested, released and will be formally charged next week. Pritchard said the man, whose identity will be disclosed when charges are filed, will face misdemeanors in municipal court for alleged disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and disrupting a public assembly.

Pritchard, who was not directly involved in the arrest, declined to speculate on the man’s motives.

Fierce criticism of the media is a standard part of Trump’s rally speeches, and his supporters often react by turning toward the press section and booing; some use their middle finger to demonstrate their distaste for journalists.

Moments before the man ventured into the media's designated section, Trump had reprised his familiar assertion that the media is a collective “enemy of the people.” Video of the incident does not make clear what the man was yelling as he climbed barriers or as he was being subdued and arrested.

Trump's campaign tried to distance the former president from the man and his actions, suggesting he was a Trump opponent.

“Witnesses, including some in the press corps, described a crazed individual shouting expletives at President Trump,” said campaign senior adviser Danielle Alvarez. “His aggression was focused on the president and towards the stage as he entered the press area.”

Alvarez did not identify the witnesses she cited or expound on what the man may have shouted. Alvarez added that the campaign appreciates the response of local law enforcement officials and the U.S. Secret Service for acting quickly.

Shortly after the incident, police handcuffed another man in the crowd and led him out of the arena. It was not immediately clear whether that detention was related to the initial altercation.

The incident happened amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/secret-service-trump-rally-4e3415b1461f5acefbc8e1fadad0375b">heightened scrutiny</a>&nbsp;of security at Trump rallies after a gunman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-vp-vance-rubio-7c7ba6b99b5f38d2d840ed95b2fdc3e5">fired at him,</a>&nbsp;grazing his ear, during an outdoor rally in July in nearby Butler, Pennsylvania. Security at political events has been noticeably&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-security-assassination-secret-service-043e872757a8814a746dd413b28ea26e">tighter</a>&nbsp;since the shooting.

A Secret Service spokesperson referred questions to local authorities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725133509171.png" alt="Donald Trump during the Friday rally in Johnstown-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump during the Friday rally in Johnstown-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (AP) — Police said Saturday that a man will face misdemeanor charges after he stormed into the press area at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;rally in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, before being surrounded by authorities and eventually subdued with a Taser as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-moms-for-liberty-election-2024-education-7b408b46f58c4ba6177f809c4d0b2fb2">former president spoke</a>&nbsp;at the campaign stop.The incident Friday came moments after Trump had criticized major media outlets for what he said was unfavorable coverage and had dismissed CNN as fawning for its interview Thursday with his Democratic rival&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and her running mate, Tim Walz.It was not immediately clear what motivated the man or whether he was a Trump supporter or critic.The man made it over a barrier ringing the media area and began climbing the back side of a riser where television reporters and cameras were stationed, according to a video of the incident&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/taureansmall/status/1829636618233287111">posted to social media</a>&nbsp;by a reporter for CBS News. People near him tried to pull him off the riser and were quickly joined by police officers and sheriff's deputies.The crowd cheered as a pack of police led the man away, prompting Trump to say, “Is there anywhere that’s more fun to be than a Trump rally?”Johnstown's police chief, Richard M. Pritchard, confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday that the man was arrested, released and will be formally charged next week. Pritchard said the man, whose identity will be disclosed when charges are filed, will face misdemeanors in municipal court for alleged disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and disrupting a public assembly.Pritchard, who was not directly involved in the arrest, declined to speculate on the man’s motives.Fierce criticism of the media is a standard part of Trump’s rally speeches, and his supporters often react by turning toward the press section and booing; some use their middle finger to demonstrate their distaste for journalists.Moments before the man ventured into the media's designated section, Trump had reprised his familiar assertion that the media is a collective “enemy of the people.” Video of the incident does not make clear what the man was yelling as he climbed barriers or as he was being subdued and arrested.Trump's campaign tried to distance the former president from the man and his actions, suggesting he was a Trump opponent.“Witnesses, including some in the press corps, described a crazed individual shouting expletives at President Trump,” said campaign senior adviser Danielle Alvarez. “His aggression was focused on the president and towards the stage as he entered the press area.”Alvarez did not identify the witnesses she cited or expound on what the man may have shouted. Alvarez added that the campaign appreciates the response of local law enforcement officials and the U.S. Secret Service for acting quickly.Shortly after the incident, police handcuffed another man in the crowd and led him out of the arena. It was not immediately clear whether that detention was related to the initial altercation.The incident happened amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/secret-service-trump-rally-4e3415b1461f5acefbc8e1fadad0375b">heightened scrutiny</a>&nbsp;of security at Trump rallies after a gunman&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-vp-vance-rubio-7c7ba6b99b5f38d2d840ed95b2fdc3e5">fired at him,</a>&nbsp;grazing his ear, during an outdoor rally in July in nearby Butler, Pennsylvania. Security at political events has been noticeably&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-security-assassination-secret-service-043e872757a8814a746dd413b28ea26e">tighter</a>&nbsp;since the shooting.A Secret Service spokesperson referred questions to local authorities.

Man will face charges after storming into the press area at a Trump rally

CAMDEN COUNTY —A Missouri police officer died in a crash and fire while chasing a suspect on Saturday in Camden&nbsp; County.

Just after 1:30a.m., sheriff's&nbsp;deputies responded near the Richland area to assist Osage Beach Police Department - City of Osage Beach, Missouri with a vehicle pursuit.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Ford Explorer driven by Osage Beach&nbsp;Police Officer 33-year-old Phylicia Carson was southbound on Route A just east of Toronto Springs Park Road.

The SUV crossed the center of the road while in pursuit of a suspect and began to skid.&nbsp; The vehicle traveled off the left side of the road, struck a tree and caught fire.&nbsp; Officer Carson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Hedges Scott Funeral Home in Camdenton.

The vehicle involved in the chase also crashed and the suspect was taken into custody, according police.

&nbsp;Carson is survived by her husband and six children. She had been with the city since June 2023, according to Osage Beach Police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725156364558.png" alt="Officer&nbsp; Phylicia Carson courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Officer&nbsp; Phylicia Carson courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>CAMDEN COUNTY —A Missouri police officer died in a crash and fire while chasing a suspect on Saturday in Camden&nbsp; County.Just after 1:30a.m., sheriff's&nbsp;deputies responded near the Richland area to assist Osage Beach Police Department - City of Osage Beach, Missouri with a vehicle pursuit.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Ford Explorer driven by Osage Beach&nbsp;Police Officer 33-year-old Phylicia Carson was southbound on Route A just east of Toronto Springs Park Road.The SUV crossed the center of the road while in pursuit of a suspect and began to skid.&nbsp; The vehicle traveled off the left side of the road, struck a tree and caught fire.&nbsp; Officer Carson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Hedges Scott Funeral Home in Camdenton.The vehicle involved in the chase also crashed and the suspect was taken into custody, according police.&nbsp;Carson is survived by her husband and six children. She had been with the city since June 2023, according to Osage Beach Police.

Missouri police officer dies in crash, fire during high-speed chase

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an overnight shooting that sent a boy to the hospital.

Just after 12:30 a.m. Saturday, police were in the area of the 1400 block of N. Lorraine in Wichita when they heard gunfire, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

 A church building, which four individuals occupied at the time, was struck by the gunfire; thankfully, no injuries were reported at the church.&nbsp; 

A second scene was identified in the 1400 block of N. Lorraine, where a residence had also been struck. An 11-year-old boy inside the residence sustained a non-life-threatening injury to the head. The child was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.

This is an active investigation, and officers are actively following up on leads to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call WPD investigators at 316-268-4407. If you want to remain anonymous, you can submit your information to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an overnight shooting that sent a boy to the hospital.Just after 12:30 a.m. Saturday, police were in the area of the 1400 block of N. Lorraine in Wichita when they heard gunfire, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. A church building, which four individuals occupied at the time, was struck by the gunfire; thankfully, no injuries were reported at the church.&nbsp; A second scene was identified in the 1400 block of N. Lorraine, where a residence had also been struck. An 11-year-old boy inside the residence sustained a non-life-threatening injury to the head. The child was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.This is an active investigation, and officers are actively following up on leads to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call WPD investigators at 316-268-4407. If you want to remain anonymous, you can submit your information to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

11-year-old inside Kansas home struck in the head by gunfire

PETTIS COUNTY, Missouri—Law enforcement are investigating a deadly shooting at a home during a burglary.

Just after 1a.m. Friday, sheriff&nbsp;deputies were dispatched to the area of Anderson School Road and Shire Lane for a single-vehicle accident called in by a passerby, according to Pettis County Sheriff Brad Anders.

Just moments later, while en-route to the accident scene, deputies were notified of a burglary in progress at a residence near the accident scene. 

The homeowner reported someone had forced his way into the residence. Upon arrival, deputies found a rear door of the residence forcibly entered and that the unknown intruder was down after having been shot by the homeowner. 

Medics from Pettis County Ambulance District arrived on the scene and pronounced the male subject deceased. 

 Pettis County Coroner Robert Smith arrived on the scene and took possession of the body.      The names of the parties involved are being withheld at this time, pending the notification of the next of kin.&nbsp; Pettis County is located approximately 90 miles east of Kansas City.

PETTIS COUNTY, Missouri—Law enforcement are investigating a deadly shooting at a home during a burglary.Just after 1a.m. Friday, sheriff&nbsp;deputies were dispatched to the area of Anderson School Road and Shire Lane for a single-vehicle accident called in by a passerby, according to Pettis County Sheriff Brad Anders.Just moments later, while en-route to the accident scene, deputies were notified of a burglary in progress at a residence near the accident scene. The homeowner reported someone had forced his way into the residence. Upon arrival, deputies found a rear door of the residence forcibly entered and that the unknown intruder was down after having been shot by the homeowner. Medics from Pettis County Ambulance District arrived on the scene and pronounced the male subject deceased. Pettis County Coroner Robert Smith arrived on the scene and took possession of the body. The names of the parties involved are being withheld at this time, pending the notification of the next of kin.&nbsp; Pettis County is located approximately 90 miles east of Kansas City.

Homeowner kills suspected intruder during burglary 

DOUGLAS COUNTY—A Kansas man avoided injury after a small plane mishap just before 11:30a.m. Saturday in Douglas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Cessna 177 piloted by Kenneth V.&nbsp;Rieck, 75, Lawrence, was traveling down runway #15 at&nbsp;Lawrence Regional Airport, 1930 Airport Road.&nbsp; 

The airplane had a mechanical failure causing it to yaw to the left before it could take off. 

The plane left the runway to the left. The front nose of the airplane collapsed and the airplane sustained a prop strike and damage to the front of the aircraft. The airplane came to rest facing east on runway #19.

Rieck was not injured. The FAA and NTSB will investigate the incident.

DOUGLAS COUNTY—A Kansas man avoided injury after a small plane mishap just before 11:30a.m. Saturday in Douglas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Cessna 177 piloted by Kenneth V.&nbsp;Rieck, 75, Lawrence, was traveling down runway #15 at&nbsp;Lawrence Regional Airport, 1930 Airport Road.&nbsp; The airplane had a mechanical failure causing it to yaw to the left before it could take off. The plane left the runway to the left. The front nose of the airplane collapsed and the airplane sustained a prop strike and damage to the front of the aircraft. The airplane came to rest facing east on runway #19.Rieck was not injured. The FAA and NTSB will investigate the incident.

Kan. pilot avoids injury after mechanical failure during takeoff

TOPEKA – Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has officially been approved to securing his place on the November ballot in Kansas, according to a statement on Friday from&nbsp;Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab 

According to Schwab, "Mr. Kennedy met the candidate filing deadline of Monday, August 5, by noon, submitting the necessary petition. To qualify as an independent candidate for President and appear on the state’s ballot, a minimum of 5,000 signatures from registered Kansas voters was required. “He has met these requirements.”

On August 23, Kennedy&nbsp; suspended his independent campaign for president and endorsed&nbsp;Donald Trump. He said his internal polls had shown that his presence in the race would hurt Trump and help Democratic nominee Kamala Harris.

However, Kennedy also made it clear that he wasn’t formally ending his bid for the White House and said his supporters could continue to back him in the majority of states where they are unlikely to sway the outcome. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719668235039.png" alt="Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. -courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. -courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has officially been approved to securing his place on the November ballot in Kansas, according to a statement on Friday from&nbsp;Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab According to Schwab, "Mr. Kennedy met the candidate filing deadline of Monday, August 5, by noon, submitting the necessary petition. To qualify as an independent candidate for President and appear on the state’s ballot, a minimum of 5,000 signatures from registered Kansas voters was required. “He has met these requirements.”On August 23, Kennedy&nbsp; suspended his independent campaign for president and endorsed&nbsp;Donald Trump. He said his internal polls had shown that his presence in the race would hurt Trump and help Democratic nominee Kamala Harris.However, Kennedy also made it clear that he wasn’t formally ending his bid for the White House and said his supporters could continue to back him in the majority of states where they are unlikely to sway the outcome.

RFK Jr. will officially be on the November ballot in Kansas

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are asking the public for information on a suspect involved in recent card skimming incidents over the last two weeks at an ATM at Walgreens near Quivira Road and West 75th Street in the city of Shawnee, Kansas, according to a social media report from police.



A red Hyundai Sonata, possibly linked to the two incidents, was spotted near 75th and Quivira around the same time.&nbsp;

If you have any information or believe your card was compromised, please contact the Shawnee Police Department at 913-631-2150.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725035789870.png" alt="Please note that these still images are from video surveillance, which affects their quality. We are sharing them in case someone might recognize the suspect who walked out of the camera's view." />
 <figcaption>Please note that these still images are from video surveillance, which affects their quality. We are sharing them in case someone might recognize the suspect who walked out of the camera's view.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are asking the public for information on a suspect involved in recent card skimming incidents over the last two weeks at an ATM at Walgreens near Quivira Road and West 75th Street in the city of Shawnee, Kansas, according to a social media report from police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725035833295.png" alt="Shawnee Police" />
 <figcaption>Shawnee Police</figcaption>
 </figure>

A red Hyundai Sonata, possibly linked to the two incidents, was spotted near 75th and Quivira around the same time.&nbsp;If you have any information or believe your card was compromised, please contact the Shawnee Police Department at 913-631-2150.

Police ask for help to ID suspect Kan. card skimming cases

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a>

TOPEKA — As the Kansas and Missouri medical communities prepare for respiratory illness season, health officials grapple with an early COVID-19 infection spike and higher-than-normal tuberculosis infections in Wyandotte County.

COVID positivity rates have been steadily increasing in Kansas, Missouri and across the country since July. The increase is higher than last summer’s rates and similar to the surge in infections seen this January, doctors said during a Friday morning&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PO_hZmaribA" target="_blank">medical update</a>&nbsp;from the University of Kansas Health System.

But those rates only scratch the surface, and medical professionals are uncertain what the upcoming respiratory illness season could look like, especially when continued COVID vaccinations have begun to dwindle, even with a new FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine, which recently became available at commercial pharmacies.

“I think there’s a lot more illness at home. There’s a lot more tests at home. There’s a lot of people who aren’t testing,” said Dana Hawkinson, an infectious disease specialist with KU Health.

Respiratory illness activity in Kansas has been minimal, according to measures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel.

However, the level of COVID-19 activity detected in wastewater systems throughout Kansas is on the rise, as is the case regionally and nationally, according to the channel. Monitoring wastewater can offer early warning signs that infections are increasing or decreasing in a given community without relying on whether people present with symptoms, according to the CDC’s website.

In November, hospitals will be mandated to report their COVID numbers for the first time since May, which will give medical professionals an opportunity to better understand infection rates through data.

While hospitals have yet to see many flu cases, doctors recommended people receive a flu vaccine along with the new COVID vaccine and a respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, vaccine, if appropriate.

A vaccine is the best way to prevent serious COVID infections, said Chakshu Gupta, the chief medical officer at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Missouri.

“It is very disappointing to be in such a great nation with such (an) educated, informed population and our vaccination rates against such a severe illness is in the low 15 to 20%,” he said during the update Friday morning.

Tuberculosis outbreak in Wyandotte County

Kansas has recorded 82 confirmed cases of active tuberculosis this year, which is almost double last year’s total of 46 cases. All of the active cases are being treated to limit the spread, Jill Bronaugh, a spokeswoman for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said in an email. More than half of this year’s cases, 57, originated in Wyandotte County, and six were reported from Johnson County.

“TB is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs and is caused by a type of bacteria,” Bronaugh said. “It spreads through the air when infected people cough, speak, or sing.”

Two people have died from tuberculosis in Kansas this year. A cause for the increase this year has not been identified. Bronaugh said the state and county health departments are working with the CDC to monitor and prevent the spread of tuberculosis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725110774197.png" alt="Kansas and Missouri doctors discuss the late summer COVID-19 spike during a University of Kansas Health System medical briefing Aug. 30, 2024. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from KU Health video)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas and Missouri doctors discuss the late summer COVID-19 spike during a University of Kansas Health System medical briefing Aug. 30, 2024. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from KU Health video)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a>TOPEKA — As the Kansas and Missouri medical communities prepare for respiratory illness season, health officials grapple with an early COVID-19 infection spike and higher-than-normal tuberculosis infections in Wyandotte County.COVID positivity rates have been steadily increasing in Kansas, Missouri and across the country since July. The increase is higher than last summer’s rates and similar to the surge in infections seen this January, doctors said during a Friday morning&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PO_hZmaribA" target="_blank">medical update</a>&nbsp;from the University of Kansas Health System.But those rates only scratch the surface, and medical professionals are uncertain what the upcoming respiratory illness season could look like, especially when continued COVID vaccinations have begun to dwindle, even with a new FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine, which recently became available at commercial pharmacies.“I think there’s a lot more illness at home. There’s a lot more tests at home. There’s a lot of people who aren’t testing,” said Dana Hawkinson, an infectious disease specialist with KU Health.Respiratory illness activity in Kansas has been minimal, according to measures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel.However, the level of COVID-19 activity detected in wastewater systems throughout Kansas is on the rise, as is the case regionally and nationally, according to the channel. Monitoring wastewater can offer early warning signs that infections are increasing or decreasing in a given community without relying on whether people present with symptoms, according to the CDC’s website.In November, hospitals will be mandated to report their COVID numbers for the first time since May, which will give medical professionals an opportunity to better understand infection rates through data.While hospitals have yet to see many flu cases, doctors recommended people receive a flu vaccine along with the new COVID vaccine and a respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, vaccine, if appropriate.A vaccine is the best way to prevent serious COVID infections, said Chakshu Gupta, the chief medical officer at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Missouri.“It is very disappointing to be in such a great nation with such (an) educated, informed population and our vaccination rates against such a severe illness is in the low 15 to 20%,” he said during the update Friday morning.<h2>Tuberculosis outbreak in Wyandotte County</h2>Kansas has recorded 82 confirmed cases of active tuberculosis this year, which is almost double last year’s total of 46 cases. All of the active cases are being treated to limit the spread, Jill Bronaugh, a spokeswoman for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said in an email. More than half of this year’s cases, 57, originated in Wyandotte County, and six were reported from Johnson County.“TB is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs and is caused by a type of bacteria,” Bronaugh said. “It spreads through the air when infected people cough, speak, or sing.”Two people have died from tuberculosis in Kansas this year. A cause for the increase this year has not been identified. Bronaugh said the state and county health departments are working with the CDC to monitor and prevent the spread of tuberculosis.

Kansas COVID-19 spike coincides with unexplained tuberculosis infections

WASHINGTON —The Defense Department has approved a request by the Department of Homeland Security to provide assistance to the Secret Service for the presidential and vice-presidential candidates during the 2024 campaigns through Inauguration Day 2025, the deputy pentagon press secretary said Thursday.

"The secretary of defense approved the request and directed the commander of U.S. Northern Command to plan and provide and execute increased support to the United States Secret Service at various locations across the United States during the 2024 election campaigns," Sabrina Singh said during a briefing&nbsp; at the Pentagon.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720953321409.png" alt="File photo&nbsp; courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo&nbsp; courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —The Defense Department has approved a request by the Department of Homeland Security to provide assistance to the Secret Service for the presidential and vice-presidential candidates during the 2024 campaigns through Inauguration Day 2025, the deputy pentagon press secretary said Thursday."The secretary of defense approved the request and directed the commander of U.S. Northern Command to plan and provide and execute increased support to the United States Secret Service at various locations across the United States during the 2024 election campaigns," Sabrina Singh said during a briefing&nbsp; at the Pentagon.&nbsp;

Pentagon approves additional support to Secret Service

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

Just before 8p.m. Friday, police reported&nbsp;to report of a shooting a wooded near 22nd and 71 Highway, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders located a man suffering from gunshot wounds. EMS pronounced him dead at the scene, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Police are investigating this incident as a homicide. Detectives canvassed the area for witnesses, evidence and surveillance footage to determine what led up to this shooting.

If anyone has any information, KCPD is asking that they contact homicide detectives at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS. The reward is up to $25,000 for any information submitted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724776831597.png" alt="File photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>File photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just before 8p.m. Friday, police reported&nbsp;to report of a shooting a wooded near 22nd and 71 Highway, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders located a man suffering from gunshot wounds. EMS pronounced him dead at the scene, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.Police are investigating this incident as a homicide. Detectives canvassed the area for witnesses, evidence and surveillance footage to determine what led up to this shooting.If anyone has any information, KCPD is asking that they contact homicide detectives at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS. The reward is up to $25,000 for any information submitted.

KCPD: Man dies after shooting in wooded area 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United States military and Iraq launched a joint raid targeting suspected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/islamic-state-group">Islamic State group</a>&nbsp;militants in the country's western desert that killed at least 15 people and saw seven American troops hurt, officials said Saturday.

For years after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/b35c5ac2cdee48dda3eefaaece769d06">dislodging the militants from their self-declared caliphate</a>&nbsp;across Iraq and Syria, U.S. forces have fought the Islamic State group, though the casualties from this raid were higher than in previous ones.

The U.S. military's Central Command alleged the militants were armed with “numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive ‘suicide’ belts” during the attack Thursday, which Iraqi forces said happened in the country's Anbar Desert.

“This operation targeted ISIS leaders to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against Iraqi civilians, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond,” Central Command said, using an acronym for the militant group. “Iraqi Security Forces continue to further exploit the locations raided.”

It added: “There is no indication of civilian casualties.”

An Iraqi military statement said “airstrikes targeted the hideouts, followed by an airborne operation.”

“Among the dead were key ISIS leaders,” Iraq's military said, without identifying them. "All hideouts, weapons and logistical support were destroyed, explosive belts were safely detonated and important documents, identification papers and communication devices were seized.”

A U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss details of the operation yet to be made public, told The Associated Press that five American troops were wounded in the raid, while two others suffered injuries from falls during the operation. One who suffered a fall was transported out of the region, while one of the wounded was evacuated for further treatment, the official said.

“All personnel are in stable condition,” the official said.

It wasn’t immediately clear why it took two days for the U.S. to acknowledge it took part in the raid. Iraq did not say the U.S. took part in the operation when initially announcing it, as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-us-troops-iran-drawdown-6bc6fa21bc69b1b0de220907b4e9f382">politicians debate the future of having American troops in the country</a>. There are approximately 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq.

Since the U.S. toppled dictator Saddam Hussein with its 2003 invasion of Iraq, the country has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-kataib-hezbollah-us-strikes-militias-e2d31a579001f62a12b55b4cbf16ab48">struggled to balance relations</a>&nbsp;between America and neighboring Iran. Since the Israel-Hamas war broke out, Iraqi militias allied to Iran have targeted U.S. forces there, leading to American airstrikes targeting them.

At its peak, the Islamic State group ruled an area half the size of the U.K. It attempted to enforce its extreme interpretation of Islam, which included attacks on religious minority groups and harsh punishment of Muslims deemed to be apostates.

A coalition of more than 80 countries led by the United States was formed to fight the group, which lost its hold on the territory it controlled in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019.

However, the militants have continued to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-syria-islamic-state-us-centcom-attacks-53bdb45048b8f1389d9181b359e8260d">operate in the Anbar Desert in Iraq and Syria</a>, while claiming attacks carried out by others elsewhere in the world inspired by the group. That includes the two suspects in a foiled plot to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/austria-extremism-arrests-security-taylor-swift-7ece0b264f6e4152b8214c9fba8c425b">attack Taylor Swift shows</a>&nbsp;in Vienna. Meanwhile, the IS branch in Afghanistan is known to carry out intensely bloody assaults.

Last month, the U.S. military said the number of attacks claimed by IS in Syria and Iraq was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-syria-islamic-state-us-centcom-attacks-53bdb45048b8f1389d9181b359e8260d">on track to double</a>&nbsp;this year, compared with the year before. IS claimed 153 attacks in the two countries in the first six months of 2024, compared with 121 attacks in all of 2023.

Iraqi officials say that they can keep the IS threat under control with their own forces and have entered into talks with the U.S. aimed at winding down the mission of the U.S.-led military coalition in Iraq.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza last October, U.S. military presence in the region has become particularly contentious.

An umbrella group of Iran-backed militias calling itself the Islamic Resistance in Iraq has periodically launched drone attacks on bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, which they said was in retaliation for Washington’s support of Israel in the ongoing war in Gaza and were aimed at forcing U.S. forces to withdraw from Iraq.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United States military and Iraq launched a joint raid targeting suspected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/islamic-state-group">Islamic State group</a>&nbsp;militants in the country's western desert that killed at least 15 people and saw seven American troops hurt, officials said Saturday.For years after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/b35c5ac2cdee48dda3eefaaece769d06">dislodging the militants from their self-declared caliphate</a>&nbsp;across Iraq and Syria, U.S. forces have fought the Islamic State group, though the casualties from this raid were higher than in previous ones.The U.S. military's Central Command alleged the militants were armed with “numerous weapons, grenades, and explosive ‘suicide’ belts” during the attack Thursday, which Iraqi forces said happened in the country's Anbar Desert.“This operation targeted ISIS leaders to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against Iraqi civilians, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond,” Central Command said, using an acronym for the militant group. “Iraqi Security Forces continue to further exploit the locations raided.”It added: “There is no indication of civilian casualties.”An Iraqi military statement said “airstrikes targeted the hideouts, followed by an airborne operation.”“Among the dead were key ISIS leaders,” Iraq's military said, without identifying them. "All hideouts, weapons and logistical support were destroyed, explosive belts were safely detonated and important documents, identification papers and communication devices were seized.”A U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss details of the operation yet to be made public, told The Associated Press that five American troops were wounded in the raid, while two others suffered injuries from falls during the operation. One who suffered a fall was transported out of the region, while one of the wounded was evacuated for further treatment, the official said.“All personnel are in stable condition,” the official said.It wasn’t immediately clear why it took two days for the U.S. to acknowledge it took part in the raid. Iraq did not say the U.S. took part in the operation when initially announcing it, as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-us-troops-iran-drawdown-6bc6fa21bc69b1b0de220907b4e9f382">politicians debate the future of having American troops in the country</a>. There are approximately 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq.Since the U.S. toppled dictator Saddam Hussein with its 2003 invasion of Iraq, the country has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-kataib-hezbollah-us-strikes-militias-e2d31a579001f62a12b55b4cbf16ab48">struggled to balance relations</a>&nbsp;between America and neighboring Iran. Since the Israel-Hamas war broke out, Iraqi militias allied to Iran have targeted U.S. forces there, leading to American airstrikes targeting them.At its peak, the Islamic State group ruled an area half the size of the U.K. It attempted to enforce its extreme interpretation of Islam, which included attacks on religious minority groups and harsh punishment of Muslims deemed to be apostates.A coalition of more than 80 countries led by the United States was formed to fight the group, which lost its hold on the territory it controlled in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019.However, the militants have continued to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-syria-islamic-state-us-centcom-attacks-53bdb45048b8f1389d9181b359e8260d">operate in the Anbar Desert in Iraq and Syria</a>, while claiming attacks carried out by others elsewhere in the world inspired by the group. That includes the two suspects in a foiled plot to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/austria-extremism-arrests-security-taylor-swift-7ece0b264f6e4152b8214c9fba8c425b">attack Taylor Swift shows</a>&nbsp;in Vienna. Meanwhile, the IS branch in Afghanistan is known to carry out intensely bloody assaults.Last month, the U.S. military said the number of attacks claimed by IS in Syria and Iraq was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-syria-islamic-state-us-centcom-attacks-53bdb45048b8f1389d9181b359e8260d">on track to double</a>&nbsp;this year, compared with the year before. IS claimed 153 attacks in the two countries in the first six months of 2024, compared with 121 attacks in all of 2023.Iraqi officials say that they can keep the IS threat under control with their own forces and have entered into talks with the U.S. aimed at winding down the mission of the U.S.-led military coalition in Iraq.Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza last October, U.S. military presence in the region has become particularly contentious.An umbrella group of Iran-backed militias calling itself the Islamic Resistance in Iraq has periodically launched drone attacks on bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, which they said was in retaliation for Washington’s support of Israel in the ongoing war in Gaza and were aimed at forcing U.S. forces to withdraw from Iraq.——

7 US troops hurt in raid targeting Islamic State group militants that killed 15

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a former police officer for alleged sex crimes.

On Thursday,&nbsp;&nbsp;the Emporia Police Department arrested 33-year-old Russell Patterson Jr., on requested charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking and Rape, according to Emporia Police Captain Ray Mattis.

Patterson had been an Emporia Police Officer from March 13, 2017, to December 6, 2017. He&nbsp;was released from employment from the Emporia Police Department before he completed his training with the Emporia Police Department.

The charges are from a current investigation and are not related to his time with the Emporia Police.

If anyone has any information on this crime please contact the Emporia Police Department at 620-343-4225. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 620-342-2273 or on your mobile device at P3Tips.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725051629004.png" alt="Patterson photo Lyon County" />
 <figcaption>Patterson photo Lyon County</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a former police officer for alleged sex crimes.On Thursday,&nbsp;&nbsp;the Emporia Police Department arrested 33-year-old Russell Patterson Jr., on requested charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking and Rape, according to Emporia Police Captain Ray Mattis.Patterson had been an Emporia Police Officer from March 13, 2017, to December 6, 2017. He&nbsp;was released from employment from the Emporia Police Department before he completed his training with the Emporia Police Department.The charges are from a current investigation and are not related to his time with the Emporia Police.If anyone has any information on this crime please contact the Emporia Police Department at 620-343-4225. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 620-342-2273 or on your mobile device at P3Tips.

Former Kan. police officer accused of rape, human trafficking

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an encounter at a restaurant.

Just after 6p.m. August 28, a police officer observed an individual at a local establishment in Great Bend and knew the person had a valid Barton County District Court warrant, according to a media release.

When contacted by the officer, 35-year-old Nathan Moore ran down the alley and into a backyard of a residence in the 2300 block of Kansas Avenue. 

Moore resisted arrest, and the officer deployed his electronic control device on Moore, who was then taken into custody without further incident.&nbsp;

After Moore was in custody, a search of his person revealed both marijuana and methamphetamine. Moore was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, interference with law enforcement as well as the outstanding warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724939660003.jpeg" alt="Moore photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Moore photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an encounter at a restaurant.Just after 6p.m. August 28, a police officer observed an individual at a local establishment in Great Bend and knew the person had a valid Barton County District Court warrant, according to a media release.When contacted by the officer, 35-year-old Nathan Moore ran down the alley and into a backyard of a residence in the 2300 block of Kansas Avenue. Moore resisted arrest, and the officer deployed his electronic control device on Moore, who was then taken into custody without further incident.&nbsp;After Moore was in custody, a search of his person revealed both marijuana and methamphetamine. Moore was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, interference with law enforcement as well as the outstanding warrant.

Wanted Kan. man ran from restaurant after officer approached

RICE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 1p.m. Thursday in rural Rice County.

The single-vehicle rollover accident occurred east of Raymond at the intersection of 8th Road and Avenue R, according to a media release. The driver was the only occupant and he was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; The sheriff's office did not release the man's name.

&nbsp;Rice County EMS, Rice County Fire Station that include Raymond, Alden, and Lyons assisted the sheriff's office. The accident is still under investigation.

RICE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 1p.m. Thursday in rural Rice County.The single-vehicle rollover accident occurred east of Raymond at the intersection of 8th Road and Avenue R, according to a media release. The driver was the only occupant and he was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; The sheriff's office did not release the man's name.&nbsp;Rice County EMS, Rice County Fire Station that include Raymond, Alden, and Lyons assisted the sheriff's office. The accident is still under investigation.

Driver dies in rural Kansas rollover crash

YOUNTVILLE, Calif. (AP) — “Dancing With the Stars” pro Artem Chigvintsev was arrested Thursday and booked on a domestic violence charge in northern California, according to the local sheriff’s office.

When Napa County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a domestic violence call in Yountville, it was apparent that there was potential abuse and Chigvintsev was arrested, according to sheriff’s office spokesperson Henry Wofford.

Chigvintsev cooperated with deputies and was charged with felony domestic violence, an offense that they don’t charge people with unless there is a very credible witness or apparent markings that suggest abuse, he said. The investigation is ongoing. Wofford could not release any information about the alleged victim or their relationship to Chigvintsev, he said.

Chigvintsev was released on $25,000 bail on Thursday afternoon, Wofford said. Representatives for Chigvintsev did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment on his behalf and it was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725037123886.png" alt="Chigvintsev photo Napa Co. Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Chigvintsev photo Napa Co. Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>YOUNTVILLE, Calif. (AP) — “Dancing With the Stars” pro Artem Chigvintsev was arrested Thursday and booked on a domestic violence charge in northern California, according to the local sheriff’s office.When Napa County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a domestic violence call in Yountville, it was apparent that there was potential abuse and Chigvintsev was arrested, according to sheriff’s office spokesperson Henry Wofford.Chigvintsev cooperated with deputies and was charged with felony domestic violence, an offense that they don’t charge people with unless there is a very credible witness or apparent markings that suggest abuse, he said. The investigation is ongoing. Wofford could not release any information about the alleged victim or their relationship to Chigvintsev, he said.Chigvintsev was released on $25,000 bail on Thursday afternoon, Wofford said. Representatives for Chigvintsev did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment on his behalf and it was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney.

'Dancing With the Stars'  Artem Chigvintsev accused of domestic violence

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/janellestecklein/">JANELLE STECKLEIN</a>&nbsp;

OKLAHOMA CITY — State agricultural officials were investigating Friday whether a feed shipment is responsible for the death of dozens of horses at one of the nation’s top rodeo stock providers.

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry said in a statement that it is investigating whether the feed, which originated in Kansas, is responsible for the “tragic loss of horses” at Beutler and Son Rodeo Co.

<a href="https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2024/08/29/beutler-ranch-oklahoma-loses-over-40-horses-contaminated-feed-beutler-and-sons-rodeo-company/74994001007/" target="_blank">The Oklahoman</a>&nbsp;reported that between 40 and 70 horses died at the Elk City business last week.

The agency said it was notified Aug. 23 by a veterinarian of “a potential issue” related to a single bulk feed order. It sent an inspector to the business. The inspector collected a feed sample, which has been sent to two state-certified labs for analysis.

Oklahoma agriculture officials said they’re coordinating with the Kansas Department of Agriculture during the investigation.

Officials did not identify the feed provider.

However, they’re urging livestock owners to review the labels on feed and contact their veterinarian if they have any questions about the safety of the ingredients.

Oklahoma Voice, a States Newsroom affiliate,&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/briefs/oklahoma-agricultural-officials-investigating-whether-feed-shipment-killed-dozens-of-rodeo-horses/" target="_blank">produced this story</a>.

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/janellestecklein/">JANELLE STECKLEIN</a>&nbsp;OKLAHOMA CITY — State agricultural officials were investigating Friday whether a feed shipment is responsible for the death of dozens of horses at one of the nation’s top rodeo stock providers.The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry said in a statement that it is investigating whether the feed, which originated in Kansas, is responsible for the “tragic loss of horses” at Beutler and Son Rodeo Co.<a href="https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2024/08/29/beutler-ranch-oklahoma-loses-over-40-horses-contaminated-feed-beutler-and-sons-rodeo-company/74994001007/" target="_blank">The Oklahoman</a>&nbsp;reported that between 40 and 70 horses died at the Elk City business last week.The agency said it was notified Aug. 23 by a veterinarian of “a potential issue” related to a single bulk feed order. It sent an inspector to the business. The inspector collected a feed sample, which has been sent to two state-certified labs for analysis.Oklahoma agriculture officials said they’re coordinating with the Kansas Department of Agriculture during the investigation.Officials did not identify the feed provider.However, they’re urging livestock owners to review the labels on feed and contact their veterinarian if they have any questions about the safety of the ingredients.Oklahoma Voice, a States Newsroom affiliate,&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/briefs/oklahoma-agricultural-officials-investigating-whether-feed-shipment-killed-dozens-of-rodeo-horses/" target="_blank">produced this story</a>.

Ag officials investigating whether feed shipment killed dozens of rodeo horses

DOUGLAS COUNTY —The FBI is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual responsible for a bank robbery, which occurred at the Bank of America located at 900 Ohio St., Lawrence, KS, on July 2, 2024, at approximately 9:21 a.m.

The suspect is described as African American, athletic build and approximately 6-foot to 6-foot-5 and 190pounds. He is described as wearing a black zip-up hooded jacket with a dark colored undershirt, black pant with a white emblem on the left upper leg, multicolored shoes, light blue “HyFlex” gloves, large black squared sunglasses, and multicolored (black, red, yellow) face mask.

The suspect entered the bank carrying a black bag and approached a teller making a&nbsp;verbal demand for cash. The suspect fled the bank on foot in a southward direction with an undisclosed amount of currency

Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to call the FBI Kansas City at 816-512-8200, Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at 785-843-TIPS or tips.fbi.gov. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724954681155.png" alt="Photos Lawrence police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Lawrence police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —The FBI is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual responsible for a bank robbery, which occurred at the Bank of America located at 900 Ohio St., Lawrence, KS, on July 2, 2024, at approximately 9:21 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724954659018.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect is described as African American, athletic build and approximately 6-foot to 6-foot-5 and 190pounds. He is described as wearing a black zip-up hooded jacket with a dark colored undershirt, black pant with a white emblem on the left upper leg, multicolored shoes, light blue “HyFlex” gloves, large black squared sunglasses, and multicolored (black, red, yellow) face mask.The suspect entered the bank carrying a black bag and approached a teller making a&nbsp;verbal demand for cash. The suspect fled the bank on foot in a southward direction with an undisclosed amount of currencyAnyone with information about this robbery is asked to call the FBI Kansas City at 816-512-8200, Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at 785-843-TIPS or tips.fbi.gov.

FBI offers reward for information on Kansas bank robbery

By RUDI KELLER&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A proposal to allow a new casino to be&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/backers-of-a-new-missouri-casino-near-the-lake-of-the-ozarks-submit-signatures-seeking-ballot-slot/">licensed on the Osage River</a>&nbsp;near the Lake of the Ozarks will be on the November ballot, a Cole County judge ruled Friday.

The initiative, which was initially found to be&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/13/sports-wagering-minimum-wage-hike-headed-for-november-vote-in-missouri/">2,031 signatures short</a>&nbsp;in the 2nd Congressional District, actually did have enough valid signatures, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s office conceded when a planned trial over the petition opened before Judge Daniel Green.

The proposed constitutional amendment initially failed to qualify for the ballot because of signatures disallowed by local election officials. An additional 2,230 valid signatures were found by the proponents, Osage River Gaming and Convention, by reviewing the rejections.

Signature verification is “a massive, messy process that does not always produce perfect results,” Chuck Hatfield, the attorney representing the campaign, told Green.

The proposal will be Amendment 5 on the Nov. 5 ballot and joins three other initiative proposals —&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/13/missouri-voters-will-decide-whether-to-legalize-abortion-in-november/">protecting reproductive rights</a>, listed as Amendment 3;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/01/group-turns-in-signatures-to-put-minimum-wage-hike-paid-sick-leave-on-missouri-ballot/">increasing the minimum wage</a>, listed as Proposition A; and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/pro-sports-teams-submit-petition-signatures-to-legalize-sports-gambling-in-missouri/">legalizing sports betting</a>, listed as Amendment 2.

There are pending court challenges to the reproductive rights and sports wagering proposals that could strike them from the ballot.

The Osage River casino is being pushed by a committee that wants to build a casino to compete with a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/10/29/osage-nation-plans-casino-hotel-for-missouris-lake-of-the-ozarks/">planned Osage Nation casino</a>&nbsp;in the same area.

“Today is a victory for the initiative petition process and for voters who will benefit from our proposed development at the Lake of the Ozarks,” the committee said in a statement issued after Green ruled.&nbsp;

The proposal would amend the Missouri Constitution to allow a casino along the Osage River between Bagnell Dam and the confluence with the Missouri River. The constitution currently authorizes casinos only along&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++39(e)&amp;bid=31794&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">the Missouri and Mississippi rivers</a>.

The proposal would also override a state law limiting the state&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=313.780&amp;bid=16856&amp;hl=" target="_blank">to 13 licensed casinos</a>, passed in 2008 as a result of an initiative sponsored by casino operators.

The Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri’s busiest tourism destinations. The casino proposal is being bankrolled by Bally’s, which currently operates a casino in Kansas City, and RIS Inc., a major regional developer.&nbsp;

Each has contributed about half of the $4.3 million raised for the petition drive.

The casino will support more than 700 new jobs in the lake area. The project, if approved, would generate admission and other fee revenue of $2.1 million annually, according to the language appearing on the ballot, and annual gaming tax revenue of $14.3 million.

There are also two constitutional amendments proposed by the General Assembly on the ballot.&nbsp; Amendment 6 would give the courts power to enforce payment of fees that support retirement benefits for sheriffs and prosecutors. Amendment 7 would ban the use of ranked-choice voting in Missouri elections and restate the current ban on voting by people who are not U.S. citizens.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646149812641.jpg" alt="The Osage River casino is being pushed by a committee that wants to build a casino to compete with a planned Osage Nation casino in the same area&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Osage River casino is being pushed by a committee that wants to build a casino to compete with a planned Osage Nation casino in the same area&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUDI KELLER&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A proposal to allow a new casino to be&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/backers-of-a-new-missouri-casino-near-the-lake-of-the-ozarks-submit-signatures-seeking-ballot-slot/">licensed on the Osage River</a>&nbsp;near the Lake of the Ozarks will be on the November ballot, a Cole County judge ruled Friday.The initiative, which was initially found to be&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/13/sports-wagering-minimum-wage-hike-headed-for-november-vote-in-missouri/">2,031 signatures short</a>&nbsp;in the 2nd Congressional District, actually did have enough valid signatures, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s office conceded when a planned trial over the petition opened before Judge Daniel Green.The proposed constitutional amendment initially failed to qualify for the ballot because of signatures disallowed by local election officials. An additional 2,230 valid signatures were found by the proponents, Osage River Gaming and Convention, by reviewing the rejections.Signature verification is “a massive, messy process that does not always produce perfect results,” Chuck Hatfield, the attorney representing the campaign, told Green.The proposal will be Amendment 5 on the Nov. 5 ballot and joins three other initiative proposals —&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/13/missouri-voters-will-decide-whether-to-legalize-abortion-in-november/">protecting reproductive rights</a>, listed as Amendment 3;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/01/group-turns-in-signatures-to-put-minimum-wage-hike-paid-sick-leave-on-missouri-ballot/">increasing the minimum wage</a>, listed as Proposition A; and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/pro-sports-teams-submit-petition-signatures-to-legalize-sports-gambling-in-missouri/">legalizing sports betting</a>, listed as Amendment 2.There are pending court challenges to the reproductive rights and sports wagering proposals that could strike them from the ballot.The Osage River casino is being pushed by a committee that wants to build a casino to compete with a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/10/29/osage-nation-plans-casino-hotel-for-missouris-lake-of-the-ozarks/">planned Osage Nation casino</a>&nbsp;in the same area.“Today is a victory for the initiative petition process and for voters who will benefit from our proposed development at the Lake of the Ozarks,” the committee said in a statement issued after Green ruled.&nbsp;The proposal would amend the Missouri Constitution to allow a casino along the Osage River between Bagnell Dam and the confluence with the Missouri River. The constitution currently authorizes casinos only along&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++39(e)&amp;bid=31794&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">the Missouri and Mississippi rivers</a>.The proposal would also override a state law limiting the state&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=313.780&amp;bid=16856&amp;hl=" target="_blank">to 13 licensed casinos</a>, passed in 2008 as a result of an initiative sponsored by casino operators.The Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri’s busiest tourism destinations. The casino proposal is being bankrolled by Bally’s, which currently operates a casino in Kansas City, and RIS Inc., a major regional developer.&nbsp;Each has contributed about half of the $4.3 million raised for the petition drive.The casino will support more than 700 new jobs in the lake area. The project, if approved, would generate admission and other fee revenue of $2.1 million annually, according to the language appearing on the ballot, and annual gaming tax revenue of $14.3 million.There are also two constitutional amendments proposed by the General Assembly on the ballot.&nbsp; Amendment 6 would give the courts power to enforce payment of fees that support retirement benefits for sheriffs and prosecutors. Amendment 7 would ban the use of ranked-choice voting in Missouri elections and restate the current ban on voting by people who are not U.S. citizens.

Missouri judge puts Lake of the Ozarks casino proposal on Nov. ballot

WYANDOTTE COUNTY— Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that left one man dead and another with critical injuries.

Just before 1:30 a.m. August 25, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of Washington Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.

First responders found a man outside and alert. EMS transported him to hospital for treatment of critical injuries.

A short time later,&nbsp; police discovered a second victim&nbsp; near the 800 block of Washington Boulevard. He was taken to a hospital, but he later died from his injuries.

Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department have identified the victim in an early morning shooting, Saturday, August 24, in the 800 block of Washington Blvd.That victim, David Dawkins, 6/20/1977, a resident of Kansas City, Kansas died at an area hospital from his injuries. This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.There is nothing further to report at this time.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY— Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that left one man dead and another with critical injuries.Just before 1:30 a.m. August 25, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of Washington Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.First responders found a man outside and alert. EMS transported him to hospital for treatment of critical injuries.A short time later,&nbsp; police discovered a second victim&nbsp; near the 800 block of Washington Boulevard. He was taken to a hospital, but he later died from his injuries.Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department have identified the victim in an early morning shooting, Saturday, August 24, in the 800 block of Washington Blvd.That victim, David Dawkins, 6/20/1977, a resident of Kansas City, Kansas died at an area hospital from his injuries. This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.There is nothing further to report at this time.

Police ID victim in deadly Kansas shooting

NEW YORK (AP) — Next month's debate between Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;won't have an audience, live microphones when candidates aren't speaking, or written notes, according to rules that ABC News, the host network, shared this week with both campaigns.

A copy of the rules was provided to the Associated Press on Thursday by a senior Trump campaign official on condition of anonymity ahead of the network's announcement. The Harris campaign on Thursday insisted it was still discussing the muting of mics with ABC.

The parameters now in place for the Sept. 10 debate are essentially the same as they were for the June debate between Trump and President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, a disastrous performance for the incumbent Democrat that fueled his exit from the campaign. It is the only debate that's been firmly scheduled and could be the only time voters see Harris and Trump go head to head before the November general election.

The back-and-forth over the debate rules&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-debates-muted-microphones-election-83db9853877c5d00e46415ed98f46f25">reached a fever pitch</a>&nbsp;this week, particularly on the issue of whether the microphones would be muted between turns speaking.

Harris' campaign had advocated for live microphones for the whole debate, saying in a statement that the practice would “fully allow for substantive exchanges between the candidates.”

Biden’s campaign had made microphone muting condition of his decision to accept any debates this year, a decision some aides now regret, saying voters were shielded from hearing Trump’s outbursts during the debate.

“It’s interesting that Trump’s handlers keep insisting on muting him, despite the candidate himself saying the opposite,” Harris spokesman Ian Sams said. “Why won’t they just do what the candidate wants?”

Representatives for Trump — who initially scoffed at the substitution of Harris into a debate arrangement he initially made with Biden in the race — had claimed that Harris sought “a seated debate, with notes, and opening statements,” specifications her campaign denied.

According to ABC News, the candidates will stand behind lecterns, will not make opening statements and will not be allowed to bring notes during the 90-minute debate. David Muir and Linsey Davis will moderate the event at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.

AP White House Correspondent Zeke Miller in Savannah, Georgia, contributed to this report. Kinnard reported from Chapin, South Carolina

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724867447394.png" alt="File photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>File photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Next month's debate between Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;won't have an audience, live microphones when candidates aren't speaking, or written notes, according to rules that ABC News, the host network, shared this week with both campaigns.A copy of the rules was provided to the Associated Press on Thursday by a senior Trump campaign official on condition of anonymity ahead of the network's announcement. The Harris campaign on Thursday insisted it was still discussing the muting of mics with ABC.The parameters now in place for the Sept. 10 debate are essentially the same as they were for the June debate between Trump and President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, a disastrous performance for the incumbent Democrat that fueled his exit from the campaign. It is the only debate that's been firmly scheduled and could be the only time voters see Harris and Trump go head to head before the November general election.The back-and-forth over the debate rules&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-debates-muted-microphones-election-83db9853877c5d00e46415ed98f46f25">reached a fever pitch</a>&nbsp;this week, particularly on the issue of whether the microphones would be muted between turns speaking.Harris' campaign had advocated for live microphones for the whole debate, saying in a statement that the practice would “fully allow for substantive exchanges between the candidates.”Biden’s campaign had made microphone muting condition of his decision to accept any debates this year, a decision some aides now regret, saying voters were shielded from hearing Trump’s outbursts during the debate.“It’s interesting that Trump’s handlers keep insisting on muting him, despite the candidate himself saying the opposite,” Harris spokesman Ian Sams said. “Why won’t they just do what the candidate wants?”Representatives for Trump — who initially scoffed at the substitution of Harris into a debate arrangement he initially made with Biden in the race — had claimed that Harris sought “a seated debate, with notes, and opening statements,” specifications her campaign denied.According to ABC News, the candidates will stand behind lecterns, will not make opening statements and will not be allowed to bring notes during the 90-minute debate. David Muir and Linsey Davis will moderate the event at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.___AP White House Correspondent Zeke Miller in Savannah, Georgia, contributed to this report. Kinnard reported from Chapin, South Carolina

 ABC approves rules for the Trump, Harris presidential debate 

DOUGLAS COUNTY—&nbsp; A goat has been “on the lam” in Lawrence the last few days, according to Lawrence Police Department spokesperson&nbsp;Laura McCabe.

The goat has been making drivers and passersby nervous by darting across streets and through town.

"It turns out when it comes to lasso skills, the Lawrence Police Department has "a GOAT of our own&nbsp; -- and not the kind that eats hay."

DOUGLAS COUNTY—&nbsp; A goat has been “on the lam” in Lawrence the last few days, according to Lawrence Police Department spokesperson&nbsp;Laura McCabe.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XCKuqiAJVqM?si=8A9zBS9fOiaA8nz1&amp;start=1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The goat has been making drivers and passersby nervous by darting across streets and through town."It turns out when it comes to lasso skills, the Lawrence Police Department has "a GOAT of our own&nbsp; -- and not the kind that eats hay."

🎥Kan. officer captures goat that's been making drivers nervous

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —The pedestrian struck Tuesday night at the intersection of Village West Parkway and France Family Drive, near Children’s Mercy Park,. died from her injuries on Wednesday, according to Kansas City, Kansas Police.

Summer Lynn, 17, Kansas City, Missouri, was crossing Village Parkway West at the intersection with France Family Drive, when she was struck by a northbound vehicle.

EMS transported her to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with police. A preliminary investigation did not indicate weather, speed or driver impairment were contributing factors.

The accident occurred during the weather-delayed start of a U.S. Open Cup Match at Children’s Mercy Park.

This incident remains under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). There is nothing further to report at this time.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —The pedestrian struck Tuesday night at the intersection of Village West Parkway and France Family Drive, near Children’s Mercy Park,. died from her injuries on Wednesday, according to Kansas City, Kansas Police.Summer Lynn, 17, Kansas City, Missouri, was crossing Village Parkway West at the intersection with France Family Drive, when she was struck by a northbound vehicle.EMS transported her to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with police. A preliminary investigation did not indicate weather, speed or driver impairment were contributing factors.The accident occurred during the weather-delayed start of a U.S. Open Cup Match at Children’s Mercy Park.This incident remains under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). There is nothing further to report at this time.