HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Hyundai Accent driven by Konner Lynne&nbsp;Hayes, 29, Newton, was northbound on Interstate 135 two miles south of Newton.

The car crossed the median and collided with a southbound 2024 Freightliner semi driven by Salpyyev Suleyman, 44, Jacksonville, Florida.

 Vehicle 1 came to rest facing Southwest in the left-hand lane. Vehicle 1 came to rest jackknifed across both Northbound lanes on I135.

Hayes was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the&nbsp;Kansas Forensics Lab. Suleyman was not injured. Hayes was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719092566071.png" alt="First responders on the scene -Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene -Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Hyundai Accent driven by Konner Lynne&nbsp;Hayes, 29, Newton, was northbound on Interstate 135 two miles south of Newton.The car crossed the median and collided with a southbound 2024 Freightliner semi driven by Salpyyev Suleyman, 44, Jacksonville, Florida. Vehicle 1 came to rest facing Southwest in the left-hand lane. Vehicle 1 came to rest jackknifed across both Northbound lanes on I135.Hayes was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the&nbsp;Kansas Forensics Lab. Suleyman was not injured. Hayes was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after crash with a semi

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just before 10:30p.m. 18, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Dodge Ram pickup near SW 21st Street and SW Topeka Boulevard for a registration violation, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the stop, the deputy located illegal drugs. The deputy arrested Matthew Massek, 29, Topeka, on requested charges of Possession of a stimulant, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, a registration violation and criminal use of weapons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718879708640.png" alt="Massek-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Massek-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just before 10:30p.m. 18, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Dodge Ram pickup near SW 21st Street and SW Topeka Boulevard for a registration violation, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the stop, the deputy located illegal drugs. The deputy arrested Matthew Massek, 29, Topeka, on requested charges of Possession of a stimulant, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, a registration violation and criminal use of weapons.

Kansas man caught transporting illegal drugs, a firearm

OTTAWA COUNTY—Law enforcement were investigating an officer-involved shooting in Minneapolis.

Just before 8:30a.m. Saturday, the manager of the Minneapolis Swimming Pool at Markley Grove Park,&nbsp; 161 South Mill in Minneapolis, heard three gunshots, according to a media release from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Minneapolis Police Department were dispatched to the scene. While officers were investigating, more shots were fired.

The KBI said deputies with the Kansas Highway Patrol arrived to assist when the shooter later identified as 46-year-old Artemis Thor Peck, of Minneapolis, fired in the direction of law enforcement and the surveillance drone, according to the KBI. Officers returned fire, striking Peck multiple times.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported Peck to Salina Regional Health Center and later to a Wichita hospital, according to&nbsp;Ottawa County Attorney Richard Buck..

"All officers involved in todays incident are safe and unharmed. Prayers for all involved are appreciated," the Ottawa County Sheriff's office shared on their social media page.

OTTAWA COUNTY —Law enforcement including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation were on the scene of an officer-involved shooting in Minneapolis on Saturday, according to Ottawa County Attorney Richard Buck.

Just after 9a.m. Saturday, calls came into police of a person shooting a firearm at Markley Park, 161 South Mill in Minneapolis.&nbsp;

Police, Ottawa County Sheriff's Deputies and the Kansas Highway Patrol were among agencies that responded.&nbsp; First responders evacuated the nearby public pool and campers from the park.&nbsp; Officers eventually located and shot the suspect.&nbsp;

EMS transported the suspect to Salina Regional Health Center and later to a Wichita hospital, according to Buck.&nbsp; "All officers involved in todays incident are safe and unharmed. Prayers for all involved are appreciated," the Ottawa County Sheriff's office shared on their social media page.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719092397709.png" alt="Near the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Near the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>OTTAWA COUNTY—Law enforcement were investigating an officer-involved shooting in Minneapolis.Just before 8:30a.m. Saturday, the manager of the Minneapolis Swimming Pool at Markley Grove Park,&nbsp; 161 South Mill in Minneapolis, heard three gunshots, according to a media release from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Minneapolis Police Department were dispatched to the scene. While officers were investigating, more shots were fired.The KBI said deputies with the Kansas Highway Patrol arrived to assist when the shooter later identified as 46-year-old Artemis Thor Peck, of Minneapolis, fired in the direction of law enforcement and the surveillance drone, according to the KBI. Officers returned fire, striking Peck multiple times.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported Peck to Salina Regional Health Center and later to a Wichita hospital, according to&nbsp;Ottawa County Attorney Richard Buck.."All officers involved in todays incident are safe and unharmed. Prayers for all involved are appreciated," the Ottawa County Sheriff's office shared on their social media page.----------OTTAWA COUNTY —Law enforcement including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation were on the scene of an officer-involved shooting in Minneapolis on Saturday, according to Ottawa County Attorney Richard Buck.Just after 9a.m. Saturday, calls came into police of a person shooting a firearm at Markley Park, 161 South Mill in Minneapolis.&nbsp;Police, Ottawa County Sheriff's Deputies and the Kansas Highway Patrol were among agencies that responded.&nbsp; First responders evacuated the nearby public pool and campers from the park.&nbsp; Officers eventually located and shot the suspect.&nbsp;EMS transported the suspect to Salina Regional Health Center and later to a Wichita hospital, according to Buck.&nbsp; "All officers involved in todays incident are safe and unharmed. Prayers for all involved are appreciated," the Ottawa County Sheriff's office shared on their social media page.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Police ID suspect wounded in Kansas officer shooting 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/lia-chien/">LIA CHIEN</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/19/democratic-women-in-u-s-senate-target-project-2025-on-reproductive-rights/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — Senate Democrats held a press conference this week to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdf">Project 2025</a>, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trump’s political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is&nbsp; the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

“Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, they’ve given it out, to rip away a woman’s right to choose in every single state in America,” she said.

Murray addressed concerns about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">the Comstock Act</a>, a key element of Republicans’ legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/the-comstock-act-implications-for-abortion-care-nationwide/">prohibit</a>&nbsp;mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-limit-access-abortion-pill-6">rejected</a>&nbsp;an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/03/medication-abortion-accounted-63-all-us-abortions-2023-increase-53-2020">abortions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.justice.gov/olc/opinion/application-comstock-act-mailing-prescription-drugs-can-be-used-abortions">determined</a>&nbsp;it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesday’s press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

“We don’t need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books,” Mitchell said,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/17/us/politics/trump-allies-abortion-restrictions.html">quoted</a>&nbsp;in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">introduce</a>&nbsp;legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesday’s event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

“Just let me make it very clear,” said Murray. “Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.”

Schumer slammed Republicans for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-republicans-reject-democrats-bill-ivf-protections">blocking</a>&nbsp;Duckworth’s IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00197.htm">received</a>&nbsp;48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

“In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism,” said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.murray.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/HLA24625.pdf">Reproductive Freedom for Women Act</a>, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should “enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law,” Schumer said.

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trump’s appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in November’s elections.

“Every judge we confirm makes a difference,” she said. “We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.”

During Trump’s first term, he appointed three&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/nominations/SupremeCourtNominations1789present.htm">justices</a>&nbsp;to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/09/26/trump-legacy-supreme-court-422058">significant</a>&nbsp;in writing opinions far beyond Trump’s time in office.

Senators at Tuesday’s event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

“Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception,” Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

“This isn’t about protecting life,” said Hirono. “This is about power and control and the Republicans’ obsession with controlling women’s bodies.”

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about women’s rights but don’t vote to protect them.

“When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they won’t lift a finger to protect women in this country,” she said.

Murray vowed to protect women’s rights no matter the outcome of November’s election.

“We are fighting back,” said Murray. “We’re doing everything we can to protect women’s rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718886172392.png" alt="Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/lia-chien/">LIA CHIEN</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/19/democratic-women-in-u-s-senate-target-project-2025-on-reproductive-rights/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — Senate Democrats held a press conference this week to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdf">Project 2025</a>, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trump’s political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is&nbsp; the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.“Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, they’ve given it out, to rip away a woman’s right to choose in every single state in America,” she said.<h2>Comstock Act</h2>Murray addressed concerns about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">the Comstock Act</a>, a key element of Republicans’ legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/the-comstock-act-implications-for-abortion-care-nationwide/">prohibit</a>&nbsp;mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-limit-access-abortion-pill-6">rejected</a>&nbsp;an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.Abortion pills accounted for 63% of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/03/medication-abortion-accounted-63-all-us-abortions-2023-increase-53-2020">abortions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.justice.gov/olc/opinion/application-comstock-act-mailing-prescription-drugs-can-be-used-abortions">determined</a>&nbsp;it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesday’s press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.“We don’t need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books,” Mitchell said,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/17/us/politics/trump-allies-abortion-restrictions.html">quoted</a>&nbsp;in the New York Times.In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/1873-law-banned-mailing-boxing-photos-could-it-block-abortion-pills-too">introduce</a>&nbsp;legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.Murray told reporters at Tuesday’s event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.“Just let me make it very clear,” said Murray. “Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.”<h2>IVF legislation</h2>Schumer slammed Republicans for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-republicans-reject-democrats-bill-ivf-protections">blocking</a>&nbsp;Duckworth’s IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00197.htm">received</a>&nbsp;48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.“In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism,” said Schumer.Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.murray.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/HLA24625.pdf">Reproductive Freedom for Women Act</a>, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should “enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law,” Schumer said.<h2>Trump appointments</h2>The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trump’s appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in November’s elections.“Every judge we confirm makes a difference,” she said. “We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.”During Trump’s first term, he appointed three&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/nominations/SupremeCourtNominations1789present.htm">justices</a>&nbsp;to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/09/26/trump-legacy-supreme-court-422058">significant</a>&nbsp;in writing opinions far beyond Trump’s time in office.<h2>Planned Parenthood</h2>Senators at Tuesday’s event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.“Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception,” Hirono said.Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.“This isn’t about protecting life,” said Hirono. “This is about power and control and the Republicans’ obsession with controlling women’s bodies.”Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about women’s rights but don’t vote to protect them.“When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they won’t lift a finger to protect women in this country,” she said.Murray vowed to protect women’s rights no matter the outcome of November’s election.“We are fighting back,” said Murray. “We’re doing everything we can to protect women’s rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.”

Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Wichita Police Department has arrested a suspect stemming from a shooting investigation of a 27-year-old woman from Wichita.

Just after 7 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting incident reported in the 600 block of N. New York in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

 Upon arrival, officers discovered a woman suffering from a non-fatal gunshot wound to her lower extremities. EMS transported her to a local hospital for medical treatment.

WPD investigators and patrol officers immediately followed up on leads, identified and located the suspect later identified as 24-year-old Demetrius Wade of Wichita, according to Sedgwick County booking records.&nbsp;

Police were involved in brief vehicle pursuit with Wade. During the pursuit, Wade's vehicle collided with two other vehicles near 7300 E. Kellogg, rendering the suspect’s vehicle disabled.

Wade then ran from the crash but was quickly apprehended by officers.

EMS attended to one of the drivers involved in the collision as a precautionary measure, while the other driver declined medical treatment. No serious injuries were reported due to the crash, according to Rebolledo.

Wade was booked into the Sedgwick County jail on requested charges that include one count of aggravated battery from the shooting and two counts of aggravated battery after intentionally driving his vehicle into two other vehicles while trying to evade officers during the pursuit. The circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under investigation.

The facts of this case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718972806676.png" alt="Wade-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Wade-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Wichita Police Department has arrested a suspect stemming from a shooting investigation of a 27-year-old woman from Wichita.Just after 7 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting incident reported in the 600 block of N. New York in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo. Upon arrival, officers discovered a woman suffering from a non-fatal gunshot wound to her lower extremities. EMS transported her to a local hospital for medical treatment.WPD investigators and patrol officers immediately followed up on leads, identified and located the suspect later identified as 24-year-old Demetrius Wade of Wichita, according to Sedgwick County booking records.&nbsp;Police were involved in brief vehicle pursuit with Wade. During the pursuit, Wade's vehicle collided with two other vehicles near 7300 E. Kellogg, rendering the suspect’s vehicle disabled.Wade then ran from the crash but was quickly apprehended by officers.EMS attended to one of the drivers involved in the collision as a precautionary measure, while the other driver declined medical treatment. No serious injuries were reported due to the crash, according to Rebolledo.Wade was booked into the Sedgwick County jail on requested charges that include one count of aggravated battery from the shooting and two counts of aggravated battery after intentionally driving his vehicle into two other vehicles while trying to evade officers during the pursuit. The circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under investigation.The facts of this case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;

Kan. shooting suspect crashed into vehicles during police pursuit

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell in May for the third straight month as rising mortgage rates and record-high prices discouraged many prospective homebuyers during what’s traditionally the housing market’s busiest period of the year.

Existing home sales fell 0.7% last month from April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.11 million, the National Association of Realtors said Friday.

Sales also fell 2.8% compared with May last year. The latest sales still came in slightly higher than the 4.07 million pace economists were expecting, according to FactSet.

“I thought that we would actually see a recovery this spring —- we are not seeing it,” said Lawrence Yun, the NAR’s chief economist.

Despite the pullback in sales, home prices climbed compared with a year earlier for the 11th month in a row. The national median sales price rose 5.8% from a year earlier to $419,300, an all-time high on records going back to 1999. It’s also up 51% from five years ago.

Home prices rose even as sales slowed and the supply of properties on the market hit its highest level in 4 years.

“It’s somewhat of a strange phenomena,” Yun said. “We had low home sales activity, prices are hitting record highs and homes look like they’re still getting multiple offers.”

The U.S. housing market has been mired in a slump going back to 2022, when mortgage rates began to climb from pandemic-era lows. Existing home sales sank to a nearly 30-year low last year as the average rate on a 30-year mortgage surged to a 23-year high of 7.79%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac.

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage has mostly hovered around 7% this year as stronger-than-expected reports on the economy and inflation have forced the Federal Reserve to keep its short-term rate at the highest level in more than 20 years.

Federal Reserve officials said last week that inflation has fallen further toward their target level of 2% in recent months and signaled that they expect to cut their benchmark interest rate once this year. The central bank had previously projected as many as three cuts in 2024, which raised expectations in the housing market for mortgage rates to have eased further by now.

“Maybe the Federal Reserve interest rate cut policy, which was projected to happen, but did not happen — it’s getting delayed and delayed and delayed —- maybe that’s causing the home sales recovery to be delayed,” Yun said.

The elevated mortgage rates are keeping many homeowners who bought or refinanced more than two years ago from selling now because they don’t want to give up their fixed-rate mortgages below 3% or 4% — a trend real estate experts refer to as the “lock-in” effect.

As of the end of last year, more than 50% of homes with a mortgage had a rate that was 4% or lower, and 87% had a rate at 6% or lower, according to Realtor.com.

Another factor that’s constrained the housing market is a tight supply of homes for sale, though that’s been easing this year, partly because homes are taking longer to sell.

All told, there were about 1.3 million unsold homes at the end of last month, an increase of 6.7% from April and up 18.5% from May last year, NAR said.

That translates to a 3.7-month supply at the current sales pace. In a more balanced market between buyers and sellers there is a 4- to 5-month supply.

“Let’s wait to see if this leads to more home sales,” Yun said. “So far, that’s not the case, but at least the inventory is beginning to loosen up.”

Despite the increase in available homes for sale this spring, sellers generally still have the edge on buyers.

Homebuyers snapped up homes last month typically within just 24 days after the properties hit the market. And 30% of those properties sold for more than their original list price, which typically means sellers received offers from multiple home shoppers.

First-time homebuyers who don’t have any home equity to put toward their down payment continue to have a tough time getting into the housing market. They accounted for 31% of all homes sold last month, which is down from 33% in April, but up from 28% in May last year. They’ve accounted for 40% of sales historically.

Homebuyers who can afford to sidestep mortgage rates and pay all cash for a home accounted for 28% of sales last month, up from 25% in May last year. And about 16% of homes sold in May were bought by individual investors or homeowners looking to buy a second home, up from 15% a year earlier, the NAR said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714414768839.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell in May for the third straight month as rising mortgage rates and record-high prices discouraged many prospective homebuyers during what’s traditionally the housing market’s busiest period of the year.Existing home sales fell 0.7% last month from April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.11 million, the National Association of Realtors said Friday.Sales also fell 2.8% compared with May last year. The latest sales still came in slightly higher than the 4.07 million pace economists were expecting, according to FactSet.“I thought that we would actually see a recovery this spring —- we are not seeing it,” said Lawrence Yun, the NAR’s chief economist.Despite the pullback in sales, home prices climbed compared with a year earlier for the 11th month in a row. The national median sales price rose 5.8% from a year earlier to $419,300, an all-time high on records going back to 1999. It’s also up 51% from five years ago.Home prices rose even as sales slowed and the supply of properties on the market hit its highest level in 4 years.“It’s somewhat of a strange phenomena,” Yun said. “We had low home sales activity, prices are hitting record highs and homes look like they’re still getting multiple offers.”The U.S. housing market has been mired in a slump going back to 2022, when mortgage rates began to climb from pandemic-era lows. Existing home sales sank to a nearly 30-year low last year as the average rate on a 30-year mortgage surged to a 23-year high of 7.79%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac.The average rate on a 30-year mortgage has mostly hovered around 7% this year as stronger-than-expected reports on the economy and inflation have forced the Federal Reserve to keep its short-term rate at the highest level in more than 20 years.Federal Reserve officials said last week that inflation has fallen further toward their target level of 2% in recent months and signaled that they expect to cut their benchmark interest rate once this year. The central bank had previously projected as many as three cuts in 2024, which raised expectations in the housing market for mortgage rates to have eased further by now.“Maybe the Federal Reserve interest rate cut policy, which was projected to happen, but did not happen — it’s getting delayed and delayed and delayed —- maybe that’s causing the home sales recovery to be delayed,” Yun said.The elevated mortgage rates are keeping many homeowners who bought or refinanced more than two years ago from selling now because they don’t want to give up their fixed-rate mortgages below 3% or 4% — a trend real estate experts refer to as the “lock-in” effect.As of the end of last year, more than 50% of homes with a mortgage had a rate that was 4% or lower, and 87% had a rate at 6% or lower, according to Realtor.com.Another factor that’s constrained the housing market is a tight supply of homes for sale, though that’s been easing this year, partly because homes are taking longer to sell.All told, there were about 1.3 million unsold homes at the end of last month, an increase of 6.7% from April and up 18.5% from May last year, NAR said.That translates to a 3.7-month supply at the current sales pace. In a more balanced market between buyers and sellers there is a 4- to 5-month supply.“Let’s wait to see if this leads to more home sales,” Yun said. “So far, that’s not the case, but at least the inventory is beginning to loosen up.”Despite the increase in available homes for sale this spring, sellers generally still have the edge on buyers.Homebuyers snapped up homes last month typically within just 24 days after the properties hit the market. And 30% of those properties sold for more than their original list price, which typically means sellers received offers from multiple home shoppers.First-time homebuyers who don’t have any home equity to put toward their down payment continue to have a tough time getting into the housing market. They accounted for 31% of all homes sold last month, which is down from 33% in April, but up from 28% in May last year. They’ve accounted for 40% of sales historically.Homebuyers who can afford to sidestep mortgage rates and pay all cash for a home accounted for 28% of sales last month, up from 25% in May last year. And about 16% of homes sold in May were bought by individual investors or homeowners looking to buy a second home, up from 15% a year earlier, the NAR said.

US home sales continue to fall amid rising mortgage rates, record-high prices

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of robberies in southwest Kansas and asking the public for help to locate 31-year-old&nbsp; Carlos Macias Jr., according to a media release from Garden City Police.

 Macias Jr. is wanted in connection with several robberies that occurred in Garden City on June 18. 

Macias Jr. is known to drive a tan 2001 Dodge Ram pickup with a Kansas temporary tag D619275.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for aggravated battery and endangering a child, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

If located or if you have information on Macias Jr., please call the Garden City Police Department at (620) 276-1300.&nbsp;Never attempt to apprehend a fugitive yourself

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at (620) 275-7807, or text your tip to Garden City PD, text GCTIP and your tip to Tip411 (847411).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719061089837.png" alt="Macias photo Garden City Police" />
 <figcaption>Macias photo Garden City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of robberies in southwest Kansas and asking the public for help to locate 31-year-old&nbsp; Carlos Macias Jr., according to a media release from Garden City Police. Macias Jr. is wanted in connection with several robberies that occurred in Garden City on June 18. Macias Jr. is known to drive a tan 2001 Dodge Ram pickup with a Kansas temporary tag D619275.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for aggravated battery and endangering a child, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.If located or if you have information on Macias Jr., please call the Garden City Police Department at (620) 276-1300.&nbsp;Never attempt to apprehend a fugitive yourselfIf you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at (620) 275-7807, or text your tip to Garden City PD, text GCTIP and your tip to Tip411 (847411).&nbsp;

Police ask for help to locate Kansas felon for alleged robberies 

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest.

Just before 11p.m. June 18, police responded to report of a shooting near the intersection of NE Monroe Street and NE Gordon Street, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Officers identified one individual with an apparent gunshot wound. The individual was transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital to be treated with life-threatening injuries. 

Just before 9:30p.m. Thursday police booked 41-year-old Dustin F. Tibbits of Topeka into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Attempted voluntary manslaughter; unreasonable belief or justified deadly force; Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause get body harm/disfigure/death and Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case.

Police released no additional details on the victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719000584282.png" alt="Tibbits-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Tibbits-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest.Just before 11p.m. June 18, police responded to report of a shooting near the intersection of NE Monroe Street and NE Gordon Street, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Officers identified one individual with an apparent gunshot wound. The individual was transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital to be treated with life-threatening injuries. Just before 9:30p.m. Thursday police booked 41-year-old Dustin F. Tibbits of Topeka into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Attempted voluntary manslaughter; unreasonable belief or justified deadly force; Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause get body harm/disfigure/death and Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case.Police released no additional details on the victim.

Police capture Kansas shooting suspect 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' governor signed legislation Friday enabling the state to lure the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs and Major League Baseball's Royals away from neighboring Missouri by helping the teams pay for new stadiums.

Gov. Laura Kelly's action came three days after the Republican-led Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-new-stadium-royals-0bc5f4e1ea6a9387a0a34df23a1488e5">approved the measure</a>&nbsp;with bipartisan supermajorities — an unusually quick turnaround that signals how urgently Kansas officials consider making the offers.

Missouri officials have argued that discussions about building new stadiums are still in the early stages. They said construction of a new one typically takes about three years, and pointed out that the lease on the existing complex that includes the teams' side-by-side stadiums doesn't end until January 2031.

The measure Kelly signed takes effect July 1 and will allow bonds&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-royals-new-stadium-f24c30ba026477cf8954e1a2d724a05b">to cover 70%</a>&nbsp;of a new stadium's cost. The state would have 30 years to pay them off with revenues from sports betting, state lottery ticket sales, and new sales and alcohol taxes generated in the area around each proposed stadium.

The Kansas-Missouri border splits the 2.3 million-resident Kansas City area, with about 60% of the people living on the Missouri side.

Kansas officials began working on the legislation after voters on the Missouri side of the metropolitan area&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-royals-kansas-city-stadiums-e9605296b85e91699441e4ba10e83212">refused in April</a>&nbsp;to continue a sales tax used to keep up the existing stadium complex. The Royals outlined a plan in February to build a $2 billion-plus ballpark&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-kansas-city-mlb-ballpark-12fd8f2b405885461368ff8902a7a445">in downtown Kansas City, Missouri,</a>&nbsp;while the Chiefs were planning an $800 million renovation of their existing home.

Attorneys for the teams told Kansas legislators they needed to make decisions about the future soon for new stadiums to be ready on time — though the Royals had planned to move into a new downtown ballpark at the start of their 2028 season. Some critics suggested the teams are pitting the two states against each other for the biggest government subsidies possible.

“The Chiefs and the Royals are pretty much using us,” said state Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Democrat from the Kansas City, Kansas, area who voted against the bill.

Supporters of bringing the teams to Kansas warned that if neither state acts quickly enough, one or both teams could leave for another community entirely. Several economists who have studied professional sports were skeptical that a move would make financial sense for either a team or a new host city, and both the National Football League and Major League Baseball require a supermajority of owners to approve franchise moves.

The plan had support from throughout Kansas, including about half of the lawmakers from western Kansas, 200 miles (320 kilometers) away from any new stadium.

Kansas lawmakers approved the stadium financing plan during a single-day special session Tuesday. Kelly, a Democrat, called the session for the Legislature to consider tax cuts after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-budget-tax-cuts-veto-9ebddf96cd35b614d8e96f2d8b8939c2">she vetoed</a>&nbsp;three previous tax plans and legislators adjourned their regular annual session May 1. On Friday, she also signed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-kansas-legislature-5001d9862e3d8a6723579e96c161195a">a bill</a>&nbsp;that will save income and property taxpayers a total of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-kansas-special-legislative-session-b79d213f1a904dfd7604648ea9d2c454">$1.23 billion</a>&nbsp;over the next three years.

Although the financing law doesn't specifically name the Chiefs or Royals, it is limited to stadiums for National Football League and Major League Baseball teams "in any state adjacent to Kansas.”

“It’s fairly clearly about how you poach,” Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas said during a news conference after Kansas lawmakers approved the measure. He added that his city would “lay out a good offer” to keep both teams in town and that the teams ”are in an exceptional leverage position.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677183879921.png" alt="File photo Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>File photo Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' governor signed legislation Friday enabling the state to lure the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs and Major League Baseball's Royals away from neighboring Missouri by helping the teams pay for new stadiums.Gov. Laura Kelly's action came three days after the Republican-led Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-new-stadium-royals-0bc5f4e1ea6a9387a0a34df23a1488e5">approved the measure</a>&nbsp;with bipartisan supermajorities — an unusually quick turnaround that signals how urgently Kansas officials consider making the offers.Missouri officials have argued that discussions about building new stadiums are still in the early stages. They said construction of a new one typically takes about three years, and pointed out that the lease on the existing complex that includes the teams' side-by-side stadiums doesn't end until January 2031.The measure Kelly signed takes effect July 1 and will allow bonds&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-royals-new-stadium-f24c30ba026477cf8954e1a2d724a05b">to cover 70%</a>&nbsp;of a new stadium's cost. The state would have 30 years to pay them off with revenues from sports betting, state lottery ticket sales, and new sales and alcohol taxes generated in the area around each proposed stadium.The Kansas-Missouri border splits the 2.3 million-resident Kansas City area, with about 60% of the people living on the Missouri side.Kansas officials began working on the legislation after voters on the Missouri side of the metropolitan area&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-royals-kansas-city-stadiums-e9605296b85e91699441e4ba10e83212">refused in April</a>&nbsp;to continue a sales tax used to keep up the existing stadium complex. The Royals outlined a plan in February to build a $2 billion-plus ballpark&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-kansas-city-mlb-ballpark-12fd8f2b405885461368ff8902a7a445">in downtown Kansas City, Missouri,</a>&nbsp;while the Chiefs were planning an $800 million renovation of their existing home.Attorneys for the teams told Kansas legislators they needed to make decisions about the future soon for new stadiums to be ready on time — though the Royals had planned to move into a new downtown ballpark at the start of their 2028 season. Some critics suggested the teams are pitting the two states against each other for the biggest government subsidies possible.“The Chiefs and the Royals are pretty much using us,” said state Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Democrat from the Kansas City, Kansas, area who voted against the bill.Supporters of bringing the teams to Kansas warned that if neither state acts quickly enough, one or both teams could leave for another community entirely. Several economists who have studied professional sports were skeptical that a move would make financial sense for either a team or a new host city, and both the National Football League and Major League Baseball require a supermajority of owners to approve franchise moves.The plan had support from throughout Kansas, including about half of the lawmakers from western Kansas, 200 miles (320 kilometers) away from any new stadium.Kansas lawmakers approved the stadium financing plan during a single-day special session Tuesday. Kelly, a Democrat, called the session for the Legislature to consider tax cuts after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-budget-tax-cuts-veto-9ebddf96cd35b614d8e96f2d8b8939c2">she vetoed</a>&nbsp;three previous tax plans and legislators adjourned their regular annual session May 1. On Friday, she also signed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-kansas-legislature-5001d9862e3d8a6723579e96c161195a">a bill</a>&nbsp;that will save income and property taxpayers a total of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-cuts-kansas-special-legislative-session-b79d213f1a904dfd7604648ea9d2c454">$1.23 billion</a>&nbsp;over the next three years.Although the financing law doesn't specifically name the Chiefs or Royals, it is limited to stadiums for National Football League and Major League Baseball teams "in any state adjacent to Kansas.”“It’s fairly clearly about how you poach,” Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas said during a news conference after Kansas lawmakers approved the measure. He added that his city would “lay out a good offer” to keep both teams in town and that the teams ”are in an exceptional leverage position.”

Kan. governor signs bills to entice Chiefs and Royals with new stadiums

SEWARD COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Friday in Seward County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Chevy Silverado driven by Nicholas E.&nbsp;Biddle, 19, Wichita, was southbound on Road T at U.S. 160

The driver failed to yield and struck a westbound 2017 Nissan Rogue driven by Jamee E.&nbsp;Perez, 42, Hugoton. Afte impact both&nbsp;rolled an unknown number of times before coming and came to rest in the ditch.

EMS transported Biddle and Perez to Southwest Medical where Perez was pronounced deceased. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SEWARD COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Friday in Seward County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Chevy Silverado driven by Nicholas E.&nbsp;Biddle, 19, Wichita, was southbound on Road T at U.S. 160The driver failed to yield and struck a westbound 2017 Nissan Rogue driven by Jamee E.&nbsp;Perez, 42, Hugoton. Afte impact both&nbsp;rolled an unknown number of times before coming and came to rest in the ditch.EMS transported Biddle and Perez to Southwest Medical where Perez was pronounced deceased. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after violent pickup, SUV crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating the death of a child in Shawnee County have identified the victim as 9-year-old Zerick I. Ozuna, 9, of Topeka, according to Sheriff's Deputy Abigail Christian.

Shortly after 11:30 a.m. Thursday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding an incident on SW Worwick Town Road.

First responders found the boy located inside the residence, suffering from multiple wounds to the chest and neck. The child was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Detectives were in the process of executing a search warrant at the&nbsp; home. The mother of the deceased child, Shyla M. Goracke, 29, of Topeka, has been placed into custody in connection with the matter. She remains at a local hospital.&nbsp;

Authorities have not released results of an autopsy examination that was scheduled for Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718926370319.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the death investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the death investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating the death of a child in Shawnee County have identified the victim as 9-year-old Zerick I. Ozuna, 9, of Topeka, according to Sheriff's Deputy Abigail Christian.Shortly after 11:30 a.m. Thursday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding an incident on SW Worwick Town Road.First responders found the boy located inside the residence, suffering from multiple wounds to the chest and neck. The child was pronounced deceased at the scene.Detectives were in the process of executing a search warrant at the&nbsp; home. The mother of the deceased child, Shyla M. Goracke, 29, of Topeka, has been placed into custody in connection with the matter. She remains at a local hospital.&nbsp;Authorities have not released results of an autopsy examination that was scheduled for Friday.----------------

Police ID 9-year-old Kan. boy allegedly killed by his mother 

MIAMI COUNTY, Kan. —A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Friday in Miami County.

The Miami County Sheriff reported a 2003 Mazda 3 driven by Natalie Dawn Lober O'Learay, 36, Wichita, was northbound on U.S. 169 between Crescent Hill Road and Bethel Church Road in rural Miami County.

The driver attempted to pass a vehicle and a semi and struck a southbound 2016 Chevy Equinox driven by Patty S. Landess, 78, Rantoul, head-on

Lober O'Leary was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; EMS transported Landess and a passenger in the Chevy Richard C. Landess, 83, Rantoul, to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

MIAMI COUNTY, Kan. —A Kansas woman died in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Friday in Miami County.The Miami County Sheriff reported a 2003 Mazda 3 driven by Natalie Dawn Lober O'Learay, 36, Wichita, was northbound on U.S. 169 between Crescent Hill Road and Bethel Church Road in rural Miami County.The driver attempted to pass a vehicle and a semi and struck a southbound 2016 Chevy Equinox driven by Patty S. Landess, 78, Rantoul, head-onLober O'Leary was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; EMS transported Landess and a passenger in the Chevy Richard C. Landess, 83, Rantoul, to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Kansas woman dies, 2 injured after head-on crash

LANSING, Kansas. –&nbsp;Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Brian Jones, 47, died Friday, June 21, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

He was admitted to a local hospital on Tuesday. He was pronounced deceased by hospital personnel late Friday afternoon.

Jones was serving a 34-month sentence for conviction of Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Johnson County.

The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719014853902.png" alt="Jones-photo Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Jones-photo Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>LANSING, Kansas. –&nbsp;Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Brian Jones, 47, died Friday, June 21, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections.He was admitted to a local hospital on Tuesday. He was pronounced deceased by hospital personnel late Friday afternoon.Jones was serving a 34-month sentence for conviction of Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Johnson County.The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

Inmate serving time for child sex crimes in Kansas has died  

FORDYCE, Ark. (AP) — A shooter opened fire Friday at a grocery store in Arkansas, killing three people and wounding 10 others, including two law enforcement officers, police said.

The shooting occurred just after 11:30 a.m. at the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce, a city of about 3,200 people located 65 miles south of Little Rock.

Responding officers shot the suspected shooter, whose injuries were not life-threatening, Arkansas Department of Public Safety Director Mike Hagar said at a news conference Friday. The two officers that were shot sustained injuries that were not life-threatening.

The remaining injuries ranged from “not life-threatening to extremely critical,” Hagar said.

“It’s tragic, our hearts are broken,” he said.

It’s the latest mass shooting where grocery store is its backdrop. A white supremacist in 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legal-proceedings-new-york-buffalo-crime-terrorism-a13cf95d1fbecfa64571de87d2ccfa8a">killed 10 Black people</a>&nbsp;at a Buffalo supermarket. That shooting came a little more than a year after one at a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-colorado-74ad3bbbe6dea7e9122b946e22b1cef3">Boulder, Colorado, supermarket</a>, where 10 people were killed.

Police did not immediately say whether the shooting occurred inside or outside the store. Hagar said they expected to release more information later Friday evening.

Video posted on social media showed at least one person lying in the parking lot, while another captured multiple gunshots ringing out.

Images from reporters on the scene showed a slew of bullet holes in the grocery store’s window. In video footage, local and state agencies could be seen responding to the scene, with at least one medical helicopter landing nearby.

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders said she had been briefed on the shooting.

“I am thankful to law enforcement and first responders for their quick and heroic action to save lives,” Sanders posted on the social media platform X. “My prayers are with the victims and all those impacted by this.”

David Rodriguez, 58, had stopped at his local gas station in Fordyce to fill up his car when he heard what he thought were fireworks from a nearby vendor’s stand.

“We heard a few little pops,” he said.

He then saw people running from the Mad Butcher grocery store into the parking lot, and one person lying on the ground. He began recording video with his phone before the gunfire escalated.

“The police started to show up, and then there was massive gunfire and ambulances pulling up,” he said. “The bullets were just flying.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719009353742.png" alt="Photo courtesy Arkansas AG's office" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Arkansas AG's office</figcaption>
 </figure>FORDYCE, Ark. (AP) — A shooter opened fire Friday at a grocery store in Arkansas, killing three people and wounding 10 others, including two law enforcement officers, police said.The shooting occurred just after 11:30 a.m. at the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce, a city of about 3,200 people located 65 miles south of Little Rock.Responding officers shot the suspected shooter, whose injuries were not life-threatening, Arkansas Department of Public Safety Director Mike Hagar said at a news conference Friday. The two officers that were shot sustained injuries that were not life-threatening.The remaining injuries ranged from “not life-threatening to extremely critical,” Hagar said.“It’s tragic, our hearts are broken,” he said.It’s the latest mass shooting where grocery store is its backdrop. A white supremacist in 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legal-proceedings-new-york-buffalo-crime-terrorism-a13cf95d1fbecfa64571de87d2ccfa8a">killed 10 Black people</a>&nbsp;at a Buffalo supermarket. That shooting came a little more than a year after one at a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-colorado-74ad3bbbe6dea7e9122b946e22b1cef3">Boulder, Colorado, supermarket</a>, where 10 people were killed.Police did not immediately say whether the shooting occurred inside or outside the store. Hagar said they expected to release more information later Friday evening.Video posted on social media showed at least one person lying in the parking lot, while another captured multiple gunshots ringing out.Images from reporters on the scene showed a slew of bullet holes in the grocery store’s window. In video footage, local and state agencies could be seen responding to the scene, with at least one medical helicopter landing nearby.Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders said she had been briefed on the shooting.“I am thankful to law enforcement and first responders for their quick and heroic action to save lives,” Sanders posted on the social media platform X. “My prayers are with the victims and all those impacted by this.”David Rodriguez, 58, had stopped at his local gas station in Fordyce to fill up his car when he heard what he thought were fireworks from a nearby vendor’s stand.“We heard a few little pops,” he said.He then saw people running from the Mad Butcher grocery store into the parking lot, and one person lying on the ground. He began recording video with his phone before the gunfire escalated.“The police started to show up, and then there was massive gunfire and ambulances pulling up,” he said. “The bullets were just flying.”

Multiple fatalities in mass shooting at Arkansas grocery store

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police are asking the public for help to find a Kansas man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day.

The Wichita Police Department are working to locate 33-year-old Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, who is wanted for violating his pre-trial restrictions.&nbsp;On Friday, he cut his ankle monitor, according to Wichita Police.

On Sunday, Police arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Aron Lara.

Just after 8:30p.m. on Father's Day, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.

While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.

First responders discovered Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.

Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.

The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with the Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.

It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.

If you have any information on Gonzalez-Gutierrez whereabouts, please call 911 or WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407. To provide anonymous tips call 316-267-2111 or scan the code above.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718711572362.png" alt="GONZALES-GUTIERREZ-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>GONZALES-GUTIERREZ-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police are asking the public for help to find a Kansas man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day.The Wichita Police Department are working to locate 33-year-old Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, who is wanted for violating his pre-trial restrictions.&nbsp;On Friday, he cut his ankle monitor, according to Wichita Police.On Sunday, Police arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Aron Lara.Just after 8:30p.m. on Father's Day, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.First responders discovered Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with the Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719004330105.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have any information on Gonzalez-Gutierrez whereabouts, please call 911 or WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407. To provide anonymous tips call 316-267-2111 or scan the code above.

Kan. suspect in deadly BBQ gunfight cut ankle monitor while out on bond

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Topeka.

Just before 2:30a.m. Friday, police&nbsp;responded to a call for service regarding gunshots in the area of 3100 SW Westover Road, according to Police Lt. Jerry Monasmith. First responders found a man&nbsp;

and a woman with life-threatening gunshot injuries. The victims were transported to a local hospital by ambulance, where the man was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

Police have released not released any suspect information or additional details including the name of the man who died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719001082126.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Topeka.Just before 2:30a.m. Friday, police&nbsp;responded to a call for service regarding gunshots in the area of 3100 SW Westover Road, according to Police Lt. Jerry Monasmith. First responders found a man&nbsp;and a woman with life-threatening gunshot injuries. The victims were transported to a local hospital by ambulance, where the man was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;Police have released not released any suspect information or additional details including the name of the man who died.

Homicide: Man dead, woman hospitalized after Kansas shooting

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/aaron-sanderford/">AARON SANDERFORD</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-ag-wins-case-against-ticket-scam-promising-access-to-former-huskers/">Nebraska Examine</a>r

LINCOLN — Third-party presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose bid has spurred the ire of the current president as well as the previous president, turned in enough signatures this week in Nebraska that his name will likely reach the November ballot.

The Kennedy campaign announced that it had turned in more than 5,000 signatures to the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office. The state’s chief election office now must check the voter registration file to verify at least 2,500 valid ones.

Lane Koch, the Kennedy campaign’s regional director in the Midwest, thanked volunteers for “a historic day.” In addition to Nebraska, the Kennedy campaign said it has turned in signatures in 14 other states, including neighboring Iowa.&nbsp;

Kennedy is already on the ballot in at least nine states: California, Delaware, Hawaii, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas and Utah. His campaign says it is still working to get him on the ballot in all 50.

Most political observers give Kennedy little chance to beat either President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee, or former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, in Nebraska or nationally.

However, some consider Kennedy a potential spoiler in swing districts where a percentage point or three could alter a state’s Electoral College votes. Among those is Nebraska’s Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District.

Nebraska and Maine are the only two states that split off electoral votes for president for the winners in each congressional district. Nebraska’s 2nd District backed Biden in 2020 and former President Barack Obama in 2008, sending each a single electoral vote.

Dona-Gene Barton, a political scientist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said third-party candidates in close races can “disrupt the election results.” It’s possible for Kennedy to siphon enough votes away from Biden to make a Trump win “more likely,” she said.&nbsp;

Trump won Nebraska statewide in 2016 and 2020.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711483800371.png" alt="Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.&nbsp; courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.&nbsp; courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/aaron-sanderford/">AARON SANDERFORD</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-ag-wins-case-against-ticket-scam-promising-access-to-former-huskers/">Nebraska Examine</a>rLINCOLN — Third-party presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose bid has spurred the ire of the current president as well as the previous president, turned in enough signatures this week in Nebraska that his name will likely reach the November ballot.The Kennedy campaign announced that it had turned in more than 5,000 signatures to the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office. The state’s chief election office now must check the voter registration file to verify at least 2,500 valid ones.Lane Koch, the Kennedy campaign’s regional director in the Midwest, thanked volunteers for “a historic day.” In addition to Nebraska, the Kennedy campaign said it has turned in signatures in 14 other states, including neighboring Iowa.&nbsp;Kennedy is already on the ballot in at least nine states: California, Delaware, Hawaii, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas and Utah. His campaign says it is still working to get him on the ballot in all 50.Most political observers give Kennedy little chance to beat either President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee, or former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, in Nebraska or nationally.However, some consider Kennedy a potential spoiler in swing districts where a percentage point or three could alter a state’s Electoral College votes. Among those is Nebraska’s Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District.Nebraska and Maine are the only two states that split off electoral votes for president for the winners in each congressional district. Nebraska’s 2nd District backed Biden in 2020 and former President Barack Obama in 2008, sending each a single electoral vote.Dona-Gene Barton, a political scientist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said third-party candidates in close races can “disrupt the election results.” It’s possible for Kennedy to siphon enough votes away from Biden to make a Trump win “more likely,” she said.&nbsp;Trump won Nebraska statewide in 2016 and 2020.&nbsp;

RFK Jr. turns in more signatures to qualify for another state ballot

Bill slashes $1.2 billion over three years from income and property taxes

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly said Friday she signed a bill reducing state taxes by $1.2 billion over three years that was approved with broad bipartisan support of legislators during a one-day special session.

The Democratic governor put pen to paper to make law of Senate Bill 1, a tax-reduction plan negotiated by Kelly and Republican Senate President Ty Masterson and GOP House Speaker Dan Hawkins. It won approval during Tuesday’s special session on votes of 121-2 in the House and 34-4 in the Senate.

“I am proud to be delivering on my commitment to responsible, meaningful tax relief for all Kansans,” Kelly said.

Kelly said in a statement the legislation reduced tax obligations of Kansans without threatening the state’s financial health. Overall, the bill would cost the state treasury an estimated $1.2 billion over three years or about $2 billion over five years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706447481513.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly signed a $1.2 billion, three-year tax reduction bill approved with large bipartisan majorities during a special session of the Legislature.&nbsp;The deal was negotiated by the Democratic governor and Senate President Ty Masterson, left, with House Speaker Dan Hawkins. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly signed a $1.2 billion, three-year tax reduction bill approved with large bipartisan majorities during a special session of the Legislature.&nbsp;The deal was negotiated by the Democratic governor and Senate President Ty Masterson, left, with House Speaker Dan Hawkins. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Bill slashes $1.2 billion over three years from income and property taxes</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly said Friday she signed a bill reducing state taxes by $1.2 billion over three years that was approved with broad bipartisan support of legislators during a one-day special session.The Democratic governor put pen to paper to make law of Senate Bill 1, a tax-reduction plan negotiated by Kelly and Republican Senate President Ty Masterson and GOP House Speaker Dan Hawkins. It won approval during Tuesday’s special session on votes of 121-2 in the House and 34-4 in the Senate.“I am proud to be delivering on my commitment to responsible, meaningful tax relief for all Kansans,” Kelly said.Kelly said in a statement the legislation reduced tax obligations of Kansans without threatening the state’s financial health. Overall, the bill would cost the state treasury an estimated $1.2 billion over three years or about $2 billion over five years.The new law emphasized income tax changes by establishing a two-bracket system starting in tax year 2024. For married individuals filing jointly, taxable income from $0 to $46,000 would be taxed at 5.2%, while taxable income above $46,001 would be taxed at 4.58%. The existing three-bracket system had income tax rates of 3.1%, 5.2% and 5.7% depending on income levels.Under the bill, the personal exemption from state income taxes presently at $2,250 for individuals would be elevated to $9,160, and there would be an additional $2,320 tax break for each dependent listed on the tax return. The standard deduction would grow from $3,500 to $3,605 for single filers and from $8,000 to $8,240 for married filers. In the 2024 tax year, the head of household deduction would expand from $6,000 to $6,180.It eliminated in tax year 2024 a state tax on Social Security benefits that netted the state more than $100 million annually. More than 30 states don’t tax Social Security.In addition, the legislation included a $6 million per year child and dependent care tax credit that was incorporated in the bill at Kelly’s request during closed-door negotiations.The package would increase in the 2024 tax year the amount of residential property exempted from the statewide school finance levy to $75,000 of appraised value. Currently, the exemption from the 20-mill state level for K-12 schools stands at $42,000.The legislation signed by Kelly dropped a plan to repeal on July 1 the state’s 2% state sales tax on groceries. That state’s sales tax on food will come to an end Jan. 1 under existing law.The package deleted property tax reductions contained in previous bills vetoed by the governor, which led to calls by Republicans and Democrats to return to the Capitol in 2025 and move quickly on property tax relief.Hawkins and Masterson, who are heading into a campaign season in which Democrats hope to crack the GOP’s two-thirds majorities in the House and Senate, said in a joint statement tax relief was “now officially on its way to every Kansan.”“While we firmly believe more relief could have and should have been included in this bill, it is an important first step toward putting Kansas in the best position for economic growth,” the GOP lawmakers said. “When we return in January, we plan to&nbsp; build on this momentum with a focus on providing property tax relief for every Kansan.”&nbsp;The bill negotiated by Kelly, Masterson and Hawkins reduced by about $50 million tax relief contained in Senate Bill 37, which was the last major tax bill vetoed by Kelly prior to calling the special session.