KANSAS CITY—The cause of a fire at a hotel in Kansas City is under investigation.

Just afater 11:30p.m. Sunday, crews responded to a reported fire at 401 Ward PKWY at the Intercontinental Hotel, 401 Ward Parkway in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported smoke showing from the multi-story hotel on arrival. They were alerted to a fire in the loading dock area where a faulty air handler had ignited a pile of trash and debris. Companies were able to quickly get the fire under control that was being held in check by the sprinkler system. 

The majority of the occupants were able to shelter in place, while a few on the lower floors were evacuated until the smoke could be eliminated. No injuries were reported.

KANSAS CITY—The cause of a fire at a hotel in Kansas City is under investigation.Just afater 11:30p.m. Sunday, crews responded to a reported fire at 401 Ward PKWY at the Intercontinental Hotel, 401 Ward Parkway in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Crews reported smoke showing from the multi-story hotel on arrival. They were alerted to a fire in the loading dock area where a faulty air handler had ignited a pile of trash and debris. Companies were able to quickly get the fire under control that was being held in check by the sprinkler system. The majority of the occupants were able to shelter in place, while a few on the lower floors were evacuated until the smoke could be eliminated. No injuries were reported.

Lower floors evacuated after fire in multi-story Kansas City hotel

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces charges for a fatal shooting that occurred in June.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2746/Sipple-REDACT-COMP">William E. Sipple</a>, 40,&nbsp; is charged with one count of 2nd Degree Murder, one count of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and one count of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, according to Jckson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2745/Sipple-REDACT-PC">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to Truman Road and Prospect Avenue on June 15 regarding a shooting and located the victim suffering from apparent trauma. After additional investigation, it was determined the actual shooting occurred in a parking lot near 19th and Vine Street. On June 30, the victim was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

Based on surveillance footage and witness reports, a disturbance broke out in a parking lot near 19th and Vine. A black Chevrolet truck drove up to the parking lot and stopped near the disturbance. Shots were fired and the victim was struck. The shooter was later identified as the Sipple.

He is being held on a $300,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761337850847.png" alt="Sipple photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Sipple photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces charges for a fatal shooting that occurred in June.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2746/Sipple-REDACT-COMP">William E. Sipple</a>, 40,&nbsp; is charged with one count of 2nd Degree Murder, one count of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and one count of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, according to Jckson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2745/Sipple-REDACT-PC">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to Truman Road and Prospect Avenue on June 15 regarding a shooting and located the victim suffering from apparent trauma. After additional investigation, it was determined the actual shooting occurred in a parking lot near 19th and Vine Street. On June 30, the victim was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;Based on surveillance footage and witness reports, a disturbance broke out in a parking lot near 19th and Vine. A black Chevrolet truck drove up to the parking lot and stopped near the disturbance. Shots were fired and the victim was struck. The shooter was later identified as the Sipple.He is being held on a $300,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

Man accused in deadly Kansas City parking lot killing 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The president of the Kansas Senate said Monday a sufficient number of Senate Republicans signed a petition to call a special session of the Legislature to consider new congressional district boundaries to improve odds of defeating Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids.

Senate President Ty Masterson, who is seeking the GOP nomination for governor, said the minimum 27 signatures, or a two-thirds majority of the Senate, had been achieved. Republicans hold a 31-9 advantage over Democrats in the chamber.

“The Kansas Senate Republican caucus has secured the signatures needed to exceed the constitutional threshold, demonstrating strong support for this call for a special session,” Masterson said. “This threshold having been met marks a critical step toward convening the session, pending the necessary two-thirds approval from the House of Representatives.”

To complete requirements in the Kansas Constitution for calling a special session, GOP leaders in the House need to obtain 84 signatures on its petition. In the House, the GOP possesses an 88-37 edge over Democrats.

Despite sending a letter to House Republicans lobbying for support of a special session, House Speaker Dan Hawkins has not announced he landed commitments from enough GOP peers. A spokesperson for Hawkins didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment about Masterson’s statement.

President Donald Trump, seeking to maintain GOP control of the U.S. House, urged Republican-led states to engage in mid-decade gerrymandering of U.S. House seats to prevent Democrats from winning a majority in November 2026.

Typically, redistricting in Kansas has been done every decade based on population shifts documented in the Census. In Kansas, that timeline meant mapping wouldn’t ordinarily be done again until 2032.

The objective of redistricting in Kansas in 2025 would be to distribute moderate voters of Johnson County into two or three congressional districts that would more likely be represented by Republicans.

Currently, Davids serves all of Johnson County, the southern half of Wyandotte County and all of Anderson, Franklin and Miami counties.

Davids won reelection to her 3rd District seat in 2022 and 2024 despite previous modification to her district to favor Republican nominees.

In response to debate about a special session, Davids raised the possibility of running for U.S. Senate next year against U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican.

One redistricting prize available to Republicans would be a Trump endorsement in the governor’s race. Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Masterson and others competing for the nomination and would covet an alliance with the president.

“We’re sending a clear message: We’re ready to get it done. We look forward to working our agenda to make Kansas and America great again,” Masterson said in his statement about the GOP Senate petition.

In addition to redistricting, Republican legislative leaders said a November special session could include consideration of bills on transgender rights and property taxes.

On Oct. 13, the GOP-controlled Legislative Coordinating Council approved spending up to $460,000 on a special session.

“It is clear that Republicans are not focused on the kitchen table issues that Kansans care about,” said Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes.

Gov. Laura Kelly said she was opposed to mid-decade redistricting because that work would rely on outdated population counts from 2020. She urged the Legislature to conduct public hearings before voting on a new congressional map. In addition, she said the Kansas Supreme Court could find new maps unconstitutional.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643147273216.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The president of the Kansas Senate said Monday a sufficient number of Senate Republicans signed a petition to call a special session of the Legislature to consider new congressional district boundaries to improve odds of defeating Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids.Senate President Ty Masterson, who is seeking the GOP nomination for governor, said the minimum 27 signatures, or a two-thirds majority of the Senate, had been achieved. Republicans hold a 31-9 advantage over Democrats in the chamber.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761597779503.png" alt=" Senate President Ty Masterson said Oct. 27, 2025, there are enough Senate Republicans signers of a petition to call a special session of the Legislature to consider new congressional district maps. The Kansas House is still working to secure a two-thirds majority on its petition. In this image from March 26, 2025, Masterson presides in the Kansas Senate. (Photo by Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Senate President Ty Masterson said Oct. 27, 2025, there are enough Senate Republicans signers of a petition to call a special session of the Legislature to consider new congressional district maps. The Kansas House is still working to secure a two-thirds majority on its petition. In this image from March 26, 2025, Masterson presides in the Kansas Senate. (Photo by Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“The Kansas Senate Republican caucus has secured the signatures needed to exceed the constitutional threshold, demonstrating strong support for this call for a special session,” Masterson said. “This threshold having been met marks a critical step toward convening the session, pending the necessary two-thirds approval from the House of Representatives.”To complete requirements in the Kansas Constitution for calling a special session, GOP leaders in the House need to obtain 84 signatures on its petition. In the House, the GOP possesses an 88-37 edge over Democrats.Despite sending a letter to House Republicans lobbying for support of a special session, House Speaker Dan Hawkins has not announced he landed commitments from enough GOP peers. A spokesperson for Hawkins didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment about Masterson’s statement.President Donald Trump, seeking to maintain GOP control of the U.S. House, urged Republican-led states to engage in mid-decade gerrymandering of U.S. House seats to prevent Democrats from winning a majority in November 2026.Typically, redistricting in Kansas has been done every decade based on population shifts documented in the Census. In Kansas, that timeline meant mapping wouldn’t ordinarily be done again until 2032.The objective of redistricting in Kansas in 2025 would be to distribute moderate voters of Johnson County into two or three congressional districts that would more likely be represented by Republicans.Currently, Davids serves all of Johnson County, the southern half of Wyandotte County and all of Anderson, Franklin and Miami counties.Davids won reelection to her 3rd District seat in 2022 and 2024 despite previous modification to her district to favor Republican nominees.In response to debate about a special session, Davids raised the possibility of running for U.S. Senate next year against U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican.One redistricting prize available to Republicans would be a Trump endorsement in the governor’s race. Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Masterson and others competing for the nomination and would covet an alliance with the president.“We’re sending a clear message: We’re ready to get it done. We look forward to working our agenda to make Kansas and America great again,” Masterson said in his statement about the GOP Senate petition.In addition to redistricting, Republican legislative leaders said a November special session could include consideration of bills on transgender rights and property taxes.On Oct. 13, the GOP-controlled Legislative Coordinating Council approved spending up to $460,000 on a special session.“It is clear that Republicans are not focused on the kitchen table issues that Kansans care about,” said Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes.Gov. Laura Kelly said she was opposed to mid-decade redistricting because that work would rely on outdated population counts from 2020. She urged the Legislature to conduct public hearings before voting on a new congressional map. In addition, she said the Kansas Supreme Court could find new maps unconstitutional.

Kansas Senate secures GOP petition signatures to call special legislative session

The Mega Millions® jackpot surges past $700 million for only the ninth time in the game’s history for the next drawing on Tuesday, October 28, according to the game's web site.

 The estimated prize is now an impressive $714 million ($334.1 million cash) after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn Friday night – the white balls 11, 18, 31, 51 and 56, plus the gold Mega Ball 24. 

The jackpot has been growing since it was last won at $348 million in Virginia on June 27.If won next Tuesday, it would be the second-largest Mega Millions jackpot ever won in the month of October. 

Almost exactly seven years ago, the game’s first-ever billion-dollar jackpot was won in South Carolina, on October 23, 2018; that prize of $1.537 billion remains the second-largest Mega Millions prize ever awarded. 

In the October 24 drawing, there were 482,430 winning tickets across all prize tiers, for total nationide winnings of more than $11.7 million. One ticket, sold in Connecticut, matched the five white balls to win the second-tier prize; with the 2X multiplier, it is worth $2 million. 

Twelve tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball to win the game’s third-tier prize: seven at 2X for $20,000 (two in Arizona and one each in California, Indiana, Michigan, Tennessee and Texas), two at 3X for $30,000 (Michigan and Virginia), one at 4X for $40,000 (Missouri) and two at 5X for $50,000 (Massachusetts and Michigan).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx">&nbsp;Click here for complete drawing result</a>s.

<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx"></a>&nbsp;In the 34 drawings in this jackpot run to date, there have been more than 10 million winning tickets at all levels, with prizes worth more than $240.9 million. They include 17 second-tier prizes: Eight with the 2X multiplier (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Texas and Virginia), seven with the 3X multiplier (two in California and one each in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey and New York), and one each at 4X and 5X (both in California).&nbsp;

There have also been 230 third-tier winning tickets so far in this run, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. These third-tier prizes were won in 38 different jurisdictions across the country: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

&nbsp;Before the June 27 Virginia jackpot win at $348 million, other jackpots awarded this year were in Ohio ($112 million on April 18), Illinois ($349 million on March 25), and Arizona ($112 million on January 17).About Mega MillionsMega Millions is the only lottery game that has produced seven jackpot wins exceeding $1 billion each – all in different states. South Carolina was the first in 2018, followed by Michigan in 2021, Illinois in 2022, Maine and Florida in 2023, and New Jersey and California in 2024. The Florida prize on August 8, 2023, is the game’s current record jackpot at $1.602 billion.<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/About/Jackpot-History.aspx">See the complete Mega Millions jackpot history.</a>Tickets are sold in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Tickets are $5 each and include a randomly assigned multiplier, multiplying the base prize levels by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X. Half of the proceeds from the sale of each Mega Millions ticket remains in the state where the ticket was sold, where the money supports designated good causes and retailer commissions.Drawings are conducted at 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesdays and Fridays in Atlanta, Georgia. The overall odds of winning any Mega Millions prize are 1 in 23; the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 290,472,336.The Top Mega Millions Jackpots:AmountDateWinning Tickets$1.602 billion8/8/20231-FL$1.537 billion10/23/20181-SC$1.348 billion1/13/20231-ME$1.337 billion7/29/20221-IL$1.269 billion12/27/20241-CA$1.128 billion3/26/20241-NJ$1.050 billion1/22/20211-MI$810 million9/10/20241-TX$714 million (est)10/28/2025?$656 million&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3/30/2012&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3-IL, KS, MD

The Mega Millions® jackpot surges past $700 million for only the ninth time in the game’s history for the next drawing on Tuesday, October 28, according to the game's web site. The estimated prize is now an impressive $714 million ($334.1 million cash) after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn Friday night – the white balls 11, 18, 31, 51 and 56, plus the gold Mega Ball 24. The jackpot has been growing since it was last won at $348 million in Virginia on June 27.If won next Tuesday, it would be the second-largest Mega Millions jackpot ever won in the month of October. Almost exactly seven years ago, the game’s first-ever billion-dollar jackpot was won in South Carolina, on October 23, 2018; that prize of $1.537 billion remains the second-largest Mega Millions prize ever awarded. In the October 24 drawing, there were 482,430 winning tickets across all prize tiers, for total nationide winnings of more than $11.7 million. One ticket, sold in Connecticut, matched the five white balls to win the second-tier prize; with the 2X multiplier, it is worth $2 million. Twelve tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball to win the game’s third-tier prize: seven at 2X for $20,000 (two in Arizona and one each in California, Indiana, Michigan, Tennessee and Texas), two at 3X for $30,000 (Michigan and Virginia), one at 4X for $40,000 (Missouri) and two at 5X for $50,000 (Massachusetts and Michigan).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx">&nbsp;Click here for complete drawing result</a>s.<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx"></a>&nbsp;In the 34 drawings in this jackpot run to date, there have been more than 10 million winning tickets at all levels, with prizes worth more than $240.9 million. They include 17 second-tier prizes: Eight with the 2X multiplier (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Texas and Virginia), seven with the 3X multiplier (two in California and one each in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey and New York), and one each at 4X and 5X (both in California).&nbsp;There have also been 230 third-tier winning tickets so far in this run, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. These third-tier prizes were won in 38 different jurisdictions across the country: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.&nbsp;Before the June 27 Virginia jackpot win at $348 million, other jackpots awarded this year were in Ohio ($112 million on April 18), Illinois ($349 million on March 25), and Arizona ($112 million on January 17).About Mega MillionsMega Millions is the only lottery game that has produced seven jackpot wins exceeding $1 billion each – all in different states. South Carolina was the first in 2018, followed by Michigan in 2021, Illinois in 2022, Maine and Florida in 2023, and New Jersey and California in 2024. The Florida prize on August 8, 2023, is the game’s current record jackpot at $1.602 billion.<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/About/Jackpot-History.aspx">See the complete Mega Millions jackpot history.</a>Tickets are sold in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tickets are $5 each and include a randomly assigned multiplier, multiplying the base prize levels by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X. Half of the proceeds from the sale of each Mega Millions ticket remains in the state where the ticket was sold, where the money supports designated good causes and retailer commissions.Drawings are conducted at 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesdays and Fridays in Atlanta, Georgia. The overall odds of winning any Mega Millions prize are 1 in 23; the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 290,472,336.The Top Mega Millions Jackpots:AmountDateWinning Tickets$1.602 billion8/8/20231-FL$1.537 billion10/23/20181-SC$1.348 billion1/13/20231-ME$1.337 billion7/29/20221-IL$1.269 billion12/27/20241-CA$1.128 billion3/26/20241-NJ$1.050 billion1/22/20211-MI$810 million9/10/20241-TX$714 million (est)10/28/2025?$656 million&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3/30/2012&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3-IL, KS, MD

Mega Millions jackpot surges past $700 million for only 9th time

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — While Kansas remains one of the last states in the nation without legalized medical or recreational marijuana, THC-infused drinks have evaded scrutiny from officials.

The question of the legality of the drinks came up Thursday at a meeting of a joint legislative committee on security.

Robert Stuart, executive officer for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, explained to lawmakers that while marijuana is illegal in Kansas, THC-infused beverages are considered hemp products and allowed under the 2018 federal Farm Bill, which legalized cannabis plants containing no more than 0.3% of a plant’s weight in tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Products created using hemp are commonly advertised as Delta 9 items, and they can have a weaker effect than marijuana because of their lower THC content.

Rep. Pat Proctor, a Republican from Leavenworth, asked Stuart: “Should we be outlawing it?”

Yes, Stuart said, and he wagered the KBI’s position would be the same.

“If it’s intoxicating, it’s damaging,” he said.

THC drinks are restricted to adults over the age of 21, same as alcoholic beverages.

“You hear all sorts of social arguments and all sorts of different ways of thinking about it,” Stuart said, “but it would be much clearer for any of those distributors, any of those dealers, for any member of the public, to say, OK, this is what’s clearly illegal and clearly what’s not.”

Blurred lines make it difficult for retailers to comply with state laws, for consumers to know the products they purchase are safe and for law enforcement to conduct criminal investigations, Stuart said.

Kansas City, Missouri-based brewer Boulevard Brewing Company announced this month a THC-infused version of its signature Quirk seltzer, which will be called “Berry Jane.” It will be available in two dosages. One containing 5 mg THC and another containing 10 mg, differentiated by a darker can. They are expected to be sold in Kansas and Missouri next month.

The KBI&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/10/01/kansas-officials-crack-down-on-brazen-sales-of-marijuana-and-thc-products-with-statewide-raids/">celebrated a major crackdown</a>&nbsp;on THC products earlier this month, raiding 10 storefronts in six cities across the state. KBI director Tony Mattivi said the products were harming Kansas children.

The Kansas House passed a bill legalizing marijuana in 2021, and a special committee crafted recommendations for the Legislature last year, but Republicans have blocked the legislation from progressing. It could come up during the next session, ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761319700813.png" alt=" Drinks advertised as THC- and cannabis-infused on the shelves of a Rapid City, South Dakota store in July 2024. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)" />
 <figcaption> Drinks advertised as THC- and cannabis-infused on the shelves of a Rapid City, South Dakota store in July 2024. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — While Kansas remains one of the last states in the nation without legalized medical or recreational marijuana, THC-infused drinks have evaded scrutiny from officials.The question of the legality of the drinks came up Thursday at a meeting of a joint legislative committee on security.Robert Stuart, executive officer for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, explained to lawmakers that while marijuana is illegal in Kansas, THC-infused beverages are considered hemp products and allowed under the 2018 federal Farm Bill, which legalized cannabis plants containing no more than 0.3% of a plant’s weight in tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Products created using hemp are commonly advertised as Delta 9 items, and they can have a weaker effect than marijuana because of their lower THC content.Rep. Pat Proctor, a Republican from Leavenworth, asked Stuart: “Should we be outlawing it?”Yes, Stuart said, and he wagered the KBI’s position would be the same.“If it’s intoxicating, it’s damaging,” he said.THC drinks are restricted to adults over the age of 21, same as alcoholic beverages.“You hear all sorts of social arguments and all sorts of different ways of thinking about it,” Stuart said, “but it would be much clearer for any of those distributors, any of those dealers, for any member of the public, to say, OK, this is what’s clearly illegal and clearly what’s not.”Blurred lines make it difficult for retailers to comply with state laws, for consumers to know the products they purchase are safe and for law enforcement to conduct criminal investigations, Stuart said.Kansas City, Missouri-based brewer Boulevard Brewing Company announced this month a THC-infused version of its signature Quirk seltzer, which will be called “Berry Jane.” It will be available in two dosages. One containing 5 mg THC and another containing 10 mg, differentiated by a darker can. They are expected to be sold in Kansas and Missouri next month.The KBI&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/10/01/kansas-officials-crack-down-on-brazen-sales-of-marijuana-and-thc-products-with-statewide-raids/">celebrated a major crackdown</a>&nbsp;on THC products earlier this month, raiding 10 storefronts in six cities across the state. KBI director Tony Mattivi said the products were harming Kansas children.The Kansas House passed a bill legalizing marijuana in 2021, and a special committee crafted recommendations for the Legislature last year, but Republicans have blocked the legislation from progressing. It could come up during the next session, ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.

THC-infused drinks have flown under Kansas lawmakers’ radar — until now

By: Everett Kelley,&nbsp;AFGE National President

This week, Congress pushed our nation into the fourth week of a full government shutdown – an avoidable crisis that is harming families, communities, and the very institutions that hold our country together. Both political parties have made their point, and still there is no clear end in sight.&nbsp;

Today I’m making mine: it’s time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today. No half measures, and no gamesmanship. Put every single federal worker back on the job with full back pay — today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As president of the American Federation of Government Employees, I represent over 800,000 federal and D.C. government workers who serve with pride and professionalism.&nbsp;

They ensure our skies are safe, our veterans receive care, our borders are protected, and our food is inspected. They come from every political background and every corner of this nation. What unites them is a simple belief: that service to country is honorable work.&nbsp;

Today, that belief is being tested. The Army nurse in San Antonio, the TSA officer in Atlanta, the USDA food safety inspector in Iowa, and hundreds of thousands more like them are being asked to keep our country running without the paychecks that keep their own households afloat.&nbsp;

These are patriotic Americans – parents, caregivers, and veterans – forced to work without pay while struggling to cover rent, groceries, gas and medicine because of political disagreements in Washington. That is unacceptable.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, shutdowns have become a recurring tactic in Washington. But there is no “winning” a government shutdown. They cost taxpayers billions, hurt small businesses, and erode confidence in government itself. And the American people know this. That’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/most-see-the-federal-shutdown-as-a-problem-and-think-there-is-plenty-of-blame-to-go-around/" target="_blank">why 9 out of 10 Americans think this government shutdown is a problem</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time for our leaders to start focusing on how to solve problems for the American people, rather than on who is going to get the blame for a shutdown that Americans dislike.&nbsp;

Because when the folks who serve this country are standing in line for food banks after missing a second paycheck because of this shutdown, they aren’t looking for partisan spin. They’re looking for the wages they earned. The fact that they’re being cheated out of it is a national disgrace.&nbsp;

It’s long past time for our leaders to put aside partisan politics and embrace responsible government. A strong America requires a functioning government — one that pays its bills, honors its commitments, and treats its workforce with respect by paying them on time.&nbsp;

The path forward for Congress is clear:&nbsp;

Reopen the government immediately under a clean continuing resolution that allows continued debate on larger issues.&nbsp;

Ensure back pay for every single employee who has served or been forced to stay home through no fault of their own.&nbsp;

Work together on a bipartisan basis to address important policy matters like addressing rising costs and fixing the broken appropriations process.&nbsp;

None of these steps favor one political side over another. They favor the American people – who expect stability from their government and responsibility from their leaders.&nbsp;

The national interest requires Congress to act immediately to bring every federal employee back to work, pay them for the work they’ve already done (or been locked out from doing), and continue having the debates and disagreements that are the hallmark of a strong democracy – without punishing the people who keep our nation running.&nbsp;

The government belongs to all of us. Let’s open it back up and keep America moving forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759315687610.png" alt="Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Everett Kelley,&nbsp;AFGE National PresidentThis week, Congress pushed our nation into the fourth week of a full government shutdown – an avoidable crisis that is harming families, communities, and the very institutions that hold our country together. Both political parties have made their point, and still there is no clear end in sight.&nbsp;Today I’m making mine: it’s time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today. No half measures, and no gamesmanship. Put every single federal worker back on the job with full back pay — today.&nbsp;&nbsp;As president of the American Federation of Government Employees, I represent over 800,000 federal and D.C. government workers who serve with pride and professionalism.&nbsp;They ensure our skies are safe, our veterans receive care, our borders are protected, and our food is inspected. They come from every political background and every corner of this nation. What unites them is a simple belief: that service to country is honorable work.&nbsp;Today, that belief is being tested. The Army nurse in San Antonio, the TSA officer in Atlanta, the USDA food safety inspector in Iowa, and hundreds of thousands more like them are being asked to keep our country running without the paychecks that keep their own households afloat.&nbsp;These are patriotic Americans – parents, caregivers, and veterans – forced to work without pay while struggling to cover rent, groceries, gas and medicine because of political disagreements in Washington. That is unacceptable.&nbsp;Unfortunately, shutdowns have become a recurring tactic in Washington. But there is no “winning” a government shutdown. They cost taxpayers billions, hurt small businesses, and erode confidence in government itself. And the American people know this. That’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/most-see-the-federal-shutdown-as-a-problem-and-think-there-is-plenty-of-blame-to-go-around/" target="_blank">why 9 out of 10 Americans think this government shutdown is a problem</a>.&nbsp;It’s time for our leaders to start focusing on how to solve problems for the American people, rather than on who is going to get the blame for a shutdown that Americans dislike.&nbsp;Because when the folks who serve this country are standing in line for food banks after missing a second paycheck because of this shutdown, they aren’t looking for partisan spin. They’re looking for the wages they earned. The fact that they’re being cheated out of it is a national disgrace.&nbsp;It’s long past time for our leaders to put aside partisan politics and embrace responsible government. A strong America requires a functioning government — one that pays its bills, honors its commitments, and treats its workforce with respect by paying them on time.&nbsp;The path forward for Congress is clear:&nbsp;Reopen the government immediately under a clean continuing resolution that allows continued debate on larger issues.&nbsp;Ensure back pay for every single employee who has served or been forced to stay home through no fault of their own.&nbsp;Work together on a bipartisan basis to address important policy matters like addressing rising costs and fixing the broken appropriations process.&nbsp;None of these steps favor one political side over another. They favor the American people – who expect stability from their government and responsibility from their leaders.&nbsp;The national interest requires Congress to act immediately to bring every federal employee back to work, pay them for the work they’ve already done (or been locked out from doing), and continue having the debates and disagreements that are the hallmark of a strong democracy – without punishing the people who keep our nation running.&nbsp;The government belongs to all of us. Let’s open it back up and keep America moving forward.

Largest federal worker union calls on Congress to end shutdown

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a series of bank robberies have a suspect on custody. On October 24,&nbsp; police arrested 24-year-old Weston R. Womack, of Kansas City, according to a statement from the FBI.&nbsp;

He has been charged&nbsp; with multiple counts of bank robbery in the Western District of Missouri. The charges are for alleged bank robberies that occurred on October 22nd and October 23rd in Kansas City and Gladstone, Missouri.

 This investigation was conducted by the KCPD Career Criminal Task Force and the FBI’s Metro Kansas City Violent Crime Task Force. Significant assistance was provided by Gladstone Police.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761179822531.png" alt="Photo FBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo FBI</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a series of bank robberies have a suspect on custody. On October 24,&nbsp; police arrested 24-year-old Weston R. Womack, of Kansas City, according to a statement from the FBI.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761528334285.png" alt="Photo Dept. of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Photo Dept. of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>He has been charged&nbsp; with multiple counts of bank robbery in the Western District of Missouri. The charges are for alleged bank robberies that occurred on October 22nd and October 23rd in Kansas City and Gladstone, Missouri. This investigation was conducted by the KCPD Career Criminal Task Force and the FBI’s Metro Kansas City Violent Crime Task Force. Significant assistance was provided by Gladstone Police.&nbsp;

Suspect jailed for series of Kansas City bank robberies 

JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. —Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting involving a member of the Buckner, Missouri police department, according to a statement from the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control.

Just before 1:30a.m. Sunday, an officer with the Buckner police department reported they were in pursuit of a vehicle westbound on U.S. 24 near Hoover Road. As the suspect vehicle approached Blue Mills Road, it crossed over to the eastbound lanes and briefly&nbsp; traveled in the wrong direction.&nbsp; The suspect vehicle traveled in reverse and then accelerated forward striking the officer's patrol vehicle. The officer fired his duty weapon at the suspect vehicle. The driver, whose has not been released, was taken into custody and was found to have a gunshot wound. EMS transported the driver to a local hospital for treatment of a non-life-threatening injury. The officer was not injured.

JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. —Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting involving a member of the Buckner, Missouri police department, according to a statement from the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control.Just before 1:30a.m. Sunday, an officer with the Buckner police department reported they were in pursuit of a vehicle westbound on U.S. 24 near Hoover Road. As the suspect vehicle approached Blue Mills Road, it crossed over to the eastbound lanes and briefly&nbsp; traveled in the wrong direction.&nbsp; The suspect vehicle traveled in reverse and then accelerated forward striking the officer's patrol vehicle. The officer fired his duty weapon at the suspect vehicle. The driver, whose has not been released, was taken into custody and was found to have a gunshot wound. EMS transported the driver to a local hospital for treatment of a non-life-threatening injury. The officer was not injured.

Suspect wounded in Missouri officer-involved shooting

KANSAS CITY —Matthew Johnson, a former Kansas City area credit union employee, received a two-year prison sentence for aggravated identity theft for orchestrating a financial scheme involving Kansas City Chiefs tickets., according to the FBI office in Kansas City.

&nbsp;In his plea deal, Johnson admitted to using his position to misappropriate game tickets and submit fraudulent expense reports. 

After the credit union bought tickets, Johnson transferred them into his own ticketing accounts for resell or personal use without his employer’s knowledge or consent, defrauding the credit union of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

KANSAS CITY —Matthew Johnson, a former Kansas City area credit union employee, received a two-year prison sentence for aggravated identity theft for orchestrating a financial scheme involving Kansas City Chiefs tickets., according to the FBI office in Kansas City.&nbsp;In his plea deal, Johnson admitted to using his position to misappropriate game tickets and submit fraudulent expense reports. After the credit union bought tickets, Johnson transferred them into his own ticketing accounts for resell or personal use without his employer’s knowledge or consent, defrauding the credit union of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Prison for man in financial scheme involving Chiefs tickets

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A California judge said states suing the federal government over demands for food program data are likely to win their claims and ruled program funding must continue while the case progresses.&nbsp;

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly and Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/09/19/sad-political-stunt-lawsuit-between-kobach-kansas-governor-heats-up/">have been criticized and sued</a>&nbsp;by state Republican leaders for refusing to turn over Supplemental and Nutrition Assistance Program data, potentially causing the USDA to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/09/22/kansas-governors-office-disputes-accuracy-of-kobachs-claims-about-snap-funding/">withhold $10 million</a>&nbsp;in administrative costs. The state has appealed that decision.

Although Kansas didn’t join the national lawsuit, state leaders are watching the outcome, as it may support their reasons for refusing to yield to USDA demands.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;spokeswoman for the governor’s office said it wouldn’t comment about ongoing litigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a 25-page order filed last week, U.S. District Judge Maxine Chesney considered the arguments of 21 states and the District of Columbia that have signed onto the lawsuit.&nbsp;

The national case was filed in the Northern District of California in July, outlining why states believe the federal request for personal data of SNAP recipients and applicants violates privacy rules.&nbsp;

Plaintiff states are likely to establish that they are not required by SNAP Act provisions to provide data and “consequently, have shown a likelihood of success on their claim that USDA, in demanding such data, acted in a manner contrary to law,” Chesney wrote.

To determine her ruling on the injunction, Chesney considered multiple factors, including whether the plaintiffs are likely to succeed based on case merits and whether they are likely to suffer irreparable harm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/26/kansas-official-defends-refusal-to-turn-over-private-food-program-data-in-face-of-political-attacks/">Howard told Kansas Reflector</a>&nbsp;the state is concerned that turning over private data before the California lawsuit is settled could put the state at risk.&nbsp;

“I honestly believe that if I were to release that data, then the courts find in favor of the states, then I’m putting the state at liability for releasing the personal information of more than 700,000 Kansans,” she said.&nbsp;

At least 27 Republican-led states have turned over the data requested,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/10/16/nx-s1-5533045/snap-privacy-usda-lawsuit" target="_blank">according to NPR</a>, while most the states resisting the USDA demands are led by Democrats.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761348061715.png" alt=" Department for Children and Families secretary Laura Howard is closely watching a California lawsuit that's looking at whether the federal government has the right to access personal data of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program applicants and recipients. Kansas officials have refused to turn over the data because of concerns it would be a privacy violation. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Department for Children and Families secretary Laura Howard is closely watching a California lawsuit that's looking at whether the federal government has the right to access personal data of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program applicants and recipients. Kansas officials have refused to turn over the data because of concerns it would be a privacy violation. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A California judge said states suing the federal government over demands for food program data are likely to win their claims and ruled program funding must continue while the case progresses.&nbsp;Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly and Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/09/19/sad-political-stunt-lawsuit-between-kobach-kansas-governor-heats-up/">have been criticized and sued</a>&nbsp;by state Republican leaders for refusing to turn over Supplemental and Nutrition Assistance Program data, potentially causing the USDA to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/09/22/kansas-governors-office-disputes-accuracy-of-kobachs-claims-about-snap-funding/">withhold $10 million</a>&nbsp;in administrative costs. The state has appealed that decision.Although Kansas didn’t join the national lawsuit, state leaders are watching the outcome, as it may support their reasons for refusing to yield to USDA demands.&nbsp;A&nbsp;spokeswoman for the governor’s office said it wouldn’t comment about ongoing litigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a 25-page order filed last week, U.S. District Judge Maxine Chesney considered the arguments of 21 states and the District of Columbia that have signed onto the lawsuit.&nbsp;The national case was filed in the Northern District of California in July, outlining why states believe the federal request for personal data of SNAP recipients and applicants violates privacy rules.&nbsp;Plaintiff states are likely to establish that they are not required by SNAP Act provisions to provide data and “consequently, have shown a likelihood of success on their claim that USDA, in demanding such data, acted in a manner contrary to law,” Chesney wrote.To determine her ruling on the injunction, Chesney considered multiple factors, including whether the plaintiffs are likely to succeed based on case merits and whether they are likely to suffer irreparable harm.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/26/kansas-official-defends-refusal-to-turn-over-private-food-program-data-in-face-of-political-attacks/">Howard told Kansas Reflector</a>&nbsp;the state is concerned that turning over private data before the California lawsuit is settled could put the state at risk.&nbsp;“I honestly believe that if I were to release that data, then the courts find in favor of the states, then I’m putting the state at liability for releasing the personal information of more than 700,000 Kansans,” she said.&nbsp;At least 27 Republican-led states have turned over the data requested,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/10/16/nx-s1-5533045/snap-privacy-usda-lawsuit" target="_blank">according to NPR</a>, while most the states resisting the USDA demands are led by Democrats.&nbsp;

National injunction strengthens Kansas’ stance on withholding food program data

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high speed chase.

Just after 1 p.m. October 22, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Apprehension Unit attempted to stop a black passenger car with a stolen license plate south of Harrisonville, according to a media release.

The driver, later identified as  David S. Wilson, 39, Warrensburg, failed to stop for deputies and fled at a high rate of speed north on Interstate 49. Wilsonexited the highway at Harrisonville and continued through the city before traveling north on Rock Haven Road at 291 Highway.

Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle with a Grappler Device, but Wilson drove through the grass median and continued north on Interstate 49.

Just south of J Highway in Peculiar the driver attempted to pass a vehicle and trveled into the highway median, struck an embankment causing the vehicle to become disabled.  Deputies assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol took Wilson and a passenger into custody without further incident.  The vehicle was confirmed stolen from Lee’s Summit.

Wilson was charged in Cass County with Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention, Possession of Controlled Substance, and Tampering with a Motor Vehicle First Degree.  All three charges are Class D Felony.

Wilson is currently being held at the Cass County Jail with no bond allowed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761301398952.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high speed chase.Just after 1 p.m. October 22, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Apprehension Unit attempted to stop a black passenger car with a stolen license plate south of Harrisonville, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761301355436.png" alt="Wilson photo Cass County" />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Cass County</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, later identified as David S. Wilson, 39, Warrensburg, failed to stop for deputies and fled at a high rate of speed north on Interstate 49. Wilsonexited the highway at Harrisonville and continued through the city before traveling north on Rock Haven Road at 291 Highway.Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle with a Grappler Device, but Wilson drove through the grass median and continued north on Interstate 49.Just south of J Highway in Peculiar the driver attempted to pass a vehicle and trveled into the highway median, struck an embankment causing the vehicle to become disabled. Deputies assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol took Wilson and a passenger into custody without further incident. The vehicle was confirmed stolen from Lee’s Summit.Wilson was charged in Cass County with Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention, Possession of Controlled Substance, and Tampering with a Motor Vehicle First Degree. All three charges are Class D Felony.Wilson is currently being held at the Cass County Jail with no bond allowed.

Kansas City car theft suspect captured after high-speed chase

TOPEKA —Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt announced a Cherokee county man was sentenced to 12 months of probation for insurance fraud.

<a></a>William Owens, age 71, pleaded guilty in Cherokee County District Court to one felony count of insurance fraud. Owens attempted to fraudulently collect benefits from his insurance company by seeking coverage for stolen and damaged items that were not actually stolen or damaged.

He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on 12 months probation and ordered to pay $500 fine plus court cost and fees with 18 months underlying prison time if his probation is violated.

“Insurance fraud costs all Kansans in the form of increased premiums every year,” Schmidt said. “The Department will continue pursuing penalties against anyone committing insurance fraud in Kansas.”&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Insurance investigated this case which was prosecuted by the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.&nbsp;

TOPEKA —Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt announced a Cherokee county man was sentenced to 12 months of probation for insurance fraud.<a></a>William Owens, age 71, pleaded guilty in Cherokee County District Court to one felony count of insurance fraud. Owens attempted to fraudulently collect benefits from his insurance company by seeking coverage for stolen and damaged items that were not actually stolen or damaged. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on 12 months probation and ordered to pay $500 fine plus court cost and fees with 18 months underlying prison time if his probation is violated.“Insurance fraud costs all Kansans in the form of increased premiums every year,” Schmidt said. “The Department will continue pursuing penalties against anyone committing insurance fraud in Kansas.”&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Insurance investigated this case which was prosecuted by the Kansas Attorney General’s Office.&nbsp;

Kan. man tried to collect insurance benefits for items not stolen, damaged

JOHNSON COUNTY —Earlier this week around 3 a.m., officers responded to a report of a prowler at a construction site near K-10 and K-7 highways, according to a soial media report from Lenexa Police. Officers quickly surrounded the area and deployed a drone to search from above.

The drone operator soon spotted someone hiding under heavy construction equipment. With a coordinated plan in place, a team of officers, along with a K9, moved in and took the suspect safely into custody.

Further investigation revealed stolen tools from a Lenexa business, along with meth and drug paraphernalia. This same individual had been arrested by Lenexa officers earlier this year in connection with another business burglary. The Johnson County District Attorney's Office has charged this suspect with crimes related to both cases.

Police did not release the name of the suspect.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Earlier this week around 3 a.m., officers responded to a report of a prowler at a construction site near K-10 and K-7 highways, according to a soial media report from Lenexa Police. Officers quickly surrounded the area and deployed a drone to search from above.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Earlier this week around 3 a.m., officers responded to a report of a prowler at a construction site near K-10 and K-7 highways. Our officers quickly surrounded the area and deployed a drone to search from above. The drone operator soon spotted someone hiding under heavy… <a href="https://t.co/1GwDXurQnV">pic.twitter.com/1GwDXurQnV</a>&mdash; Lenexa Police (@LenexaPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/LenexaPolice/status/1981451284919308713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The drone operator soon spotted someone hiding under heavy construction equipment. With a coordinated plan in place, a team of officers, along with a K9, moved in and took the suspect safely into custody.Further investigation revealed stolen tools from a Lenexa business, along with meth and drug paraphernalia. This same individual had been arrested by Lenexa officers earlier this year in connection with another business burglary. The Johnson County District Attorney's Office has charged this suspect with crimes related to both cases.Police did not release the name of the suspect.

🎥Kansas burglary suspect was hiding under construction equipment

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a 2-alarm apartment building fire in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just before 9:30a.m. Friday crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 3500 block of Euclid in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

Crews reported heavy fire from a three-story vacant apartment building. Due to the amount of fire defensive operations were set up using multiple aerial ladder master streams. The size of the fire and the amount of heat being generated created an exposure risk to both the house to the north and to the south.

 A search of both houses came back all clear. The radiant heat ignited the home to the north and interior operations were initiated in that structure, but crews had to evacuate due to the potential collapse risk of the original apartment structure and its proximity to the exposer fire. 

Both fires were brought under control just before 11:00 am. The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD.&nbsp; &nbsp;Red Cross was ordered for 1 adult and 4 children.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761336657778.png" alt="Photos Kansas City Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Kansas City Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a 2-alarm apartment building fire in Kansas City, Missouri.Just before 9:30a.m. Friday crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 3500 block of Euclid in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.Crews reported heavy fire from a three-story vacant apartment building. Due to the amount of fire defensive operations were set up using multiple aerial ladder master streams. The size of the fire and the amount of heat being generated created an exposure risk to both the house to the north and to the south.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761336678659.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> A search of both houses came back all clear. The radiant heat ignited the home to the north and interior operations were initiated in that structure, but crews had to evacuate due to the potential collapse risk of the original apartment structure and its proximity to the exposer fire. Both fires were brought under control just before 11:00 am. The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD.&nbsp; &nbsp;Red Cross was ordered for 1 adult and 4 children.&nbsp;

2-alarm apartment building fire in Kansas City

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196837-usda-memo-102425/" target="_blank">a memo</a>&nbsp;Friday the agency’s contingency fund cannot legally be used to provide food assistance benefits for more than 42 million people in November, as the government shutdown drags on.

The position is a reversal from the department’s earlier stance, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196921-fy2026-usda-lapse-plan-sept30/" target="_blank">a since-deleted copy</a>&nbsp;of the USDA’s Sept. 30 shutdown plan that said the department would use its multi-year contingency fund to continue paying&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,&nbsp;or SNAP, benefits during the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;

SNAP&nbsp;has about $6 billion in the contingency fund — short of the roughly $9 billion needed to cover a full month of the program, putting November benefits in jeopardy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pay-trump-and-congress-continues-shutdown-unless-they-ask-it-be-held" target="_blank">Because of a stalemate</a>&nbsp;in Congress over a stopgap spending bill, the government shut down on Oct. 1 without new SNAP funding enacted.

The memo, which was first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/24/gov-shutdown-snap-payments-emergency-funds" target="_blank">reported by Axios</a>&nbsp;on Friday, said states would not be reimbursed if they use their own funds to cover the cost of the benefits.

“There is no provision or allowance under current law for States to cover the cost of benefits and be reimbursed,” the memo says, while also noting that “the best way for SNAP to continue is for the shutdown to end.”

The memo also says the contingency fund is meant for natural disasters and similar emergencies, not for a lack of appropriations.

But USDA’s Sept. 30 contingency plan contradicts that and appears to greenlight the use of SNAP’s contingency fund during a lapse in funding.

“Congressional intent is evident that SNAP’s operations should continue since the program has been provided with multi-year contingency funds that can be used for State Administrative Expenses to ensure that the State can also continue operations during a Federal Government shutdown,” according to the plan. “These multi-year contingency funds are also available to fund participant benefits in the event that a lapse occurs in the middle of the fiscal year.”

USDA’s contingency plan is no longer online, but is accessible through an internet archive.

After providing States Newsroom with the memo Friday afternoon, USDA did not immediately respond to a follow-up inquiry about the discrepancy between Friday’s memo and its contingency plan.

In the memo, USDA said transferring money toward SNAP from other sources “would pull away funding for school meals and infant formula.”&nbsp;

The agency said it has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/nutrition-program-women-infants-and-children-stay-afloat-through-end-month" target="_blank">shuffled funds to cover</a>&nbsp;several nutrition programs during the shutdown, including the&nbsp;Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, as well as the&nbsp;National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.&nbsp;

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said last week the government would run out of funds to deliver November&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecRollins/status/1978984208975478809" target="_blank">SNAP benefits</a>&nbsp;as a result of the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday morning, U.S. House Democrats, like nearly all of their Senate counterparts and the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Rollins to not only use the contingency fund, but to reprogram other money to cover a $3 billion shortfall.&nbsp;

“A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country,” according to the letter from more than&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/251024_-_letter_-_house_dems_to_usda_on_snap_shutdown.pdf?utm_campaign=2270-520" target="_blank">200 House Democrats.</a>

In a separate letter, 46 Senate Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booker.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/letter_to_release_funding_to_continue_snap_into_novemberp.pdf" target="_blank">sent</a>&nbsp;to Rollins on Wednesday, voicing concerns that USDA told states to hold off on sending in SNAP benefits to be processed for November.&nbsp;

“We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks,’” according to the letter. “In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”&nbsp;

The chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Republican Susan Collins of Maine, also urged Rollins in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collins.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/102325mainesnaplettercollins.pdf" target="_blank">Thursday letter</a>&nbsp;to “consider all available options in accordance with federal law to ensure that this vital nutrition assistance continues, including the use of contingency funds and looking at the viability of partial payments or any transfer authority you may have.”&nbsp;

Benefits could be slow even if a deal reached

States have been told by the agency to hold off on submitting SNAP benefit requests to processing centers. Food banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rhode-island-food-pantries-slammed-snap-beneficiaries-brace-funding-run-dry" target="_blank">pantries</a>&nbsp;are already bracing for the increased need, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/food-banks-prepare-lapse-snap-funding-unprecedented-need-due-government-shutdown" target="_blank">in Iowa</a>, where more than 270,000 Iowans rely on SNAP each month.

However, even if Congress immediately reached a deal to end the shutdown, the time needed to process the payments and make them available for recipients means SNAP benefits would likely be delayed. State officials have warned SNAP recipients of the possibility of delays.

In West Virginia,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/im-very-scared-snap-benefits-delay-worries-wv-elderly-who-use-it-feed-themselves-grandkids" target="_blank">officials said delays are expected</a>&nbsp;and told residents to seek assistance at local food pantries. Roughly 1 in 6 West Virginia residents rely on SNAP each month.&nbsp;

Sharon Parrott,&nbsp;a White House Office of Management and Budget official during the Obama administration who now leads a left-leaning think tank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/press/statements/trump-administration-is-legally-required-to-provide-snap-in-shutdown-contrary-to" target="_blank">said in a Thursday statement</a>&nbsp;that USDA is legally required to use its SNAP contingency funds.

Parrott, the president of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said the multi-year contingency fund is “billions of dollars that Congress provided for use when SNAP funding is inadequate that remain available during the shutdown — to fund November benefits for the 1 in 8 Americans who need SNAP to afford their grocery bill.”

Parrott said the Trump administration could use its legal transfer authority, just as it did with WIC funding, to “supplement the contingency reserves, which by themselves are not enough to fund families’ full benefits.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689674819900.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196837-usda-memo-102425/" target="_blank">a memo</a>&nbsp;Friday the agency’s contingency fund cannot legally be used to provide food assistance benefits for more than 42 million people in November, as the government shutdown drags on.The position is a reversal from the department’s earlier stance, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196921-fy2026-usda-lapse-plan-sept30/" target="_blank">a since-deleted copy</a>&nbsp;of the USDA’s Sept. 30 shutdown plan that said the department would use its multi-year contingency fund to continue paying&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,&nbsp;or SNAP, benefits during the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;SNAP&nbsp;has about $6 billion in the contingency fund — short of the roughly $9 billion needed to cover a full month of the program, putting November benefits in jeopardy.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pay-trump-and-congress-continues-shutdown-unless-they-ask-it-be-held" target="_blank">Because of a stalemate</a>&nbsp;in Congress over a stopgap spending bill, the government shut down on Oct. 1 without new SNAP funding enacted.The memo, which was first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/24/gov-shutdown-snap-payments-emergency-funds" target="_blank">reported by Axios</a>&nbsp;on Friday, said states would not be reimbursed if they use their own funds to cover the cost of the benefits.“There is no provision or allowance under current law for States to cover the cost of benefits and be reimbursed,” the memo says, while also noting that “the best way for SNAP to continue is for the shutdown to end.”<h2>Discrepancy with shutdown plan</h2>The memo also says the contingency fund is meant for natural disasters and similar emergencies, not for a lack of appropriations.But USDA’s Sept. 30 contingency plan contradicts that and appears to greenlight the use of SNAP’s contingency fund during a lapse in funding.“Congressional intent is evident that SNAP’s operations should continue since the program has been provided with multi-year contingency funds that can be used for State Administrative Expenses to ensure that the State can also continue operations during a Federal Government shutdown,” according to the plan. “These multi-year contingency funds are also available to fund participant benefits in the event that a lapse occurs in the middle of the fiscal year.”USDA’s contingency plan is no longer online, but is accessible through an internet archive.After providing States Newsroom with the memo Friday afternoon, USDA did not immediately respond to a follow-up inquiry about the discrepancy between Friday’s memo and its contingency plan.In the memo, USDA said transferring money toward SNAP from other sources “would pull away funding for school meals and infant formula.”&nbsp;The agency said it has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/nutrition-program-women-infants-and-children-stay-afloat-through-end-month" target="_blank">shuffled funds to cover</a>&nbsp;several nutrition programs during the shutdown, including the&nbsp;Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, as well as the&nbsp;National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.&nbsp;<h2>Dems call on Rollins to tap into fund</h2>U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said last week the government would run out of funds to deliver November&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecRollins/status/1978984208975478809" target="_blank">SNAP benefits</a>&nbsp;as a result of the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday morning, U.S. House Democrats, like nearly all of their Senate counterparts and the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Rollins to not only use the contingency fund, but to reprogram other money to cover a $3 billion shortfall.&nbsp;“A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country,” according to the letter from more than&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/251024_-_letter_-_house_dems_to_usda_on_snap_shutdown.pdf?utm_campaign=2270-520" target="_blank">200 House Democrats.</a>In a separate letter, 46 Senate Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booker.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/letter_to_release_funding_to_continue_snap_into_novemberp.pdf" target="_blank">sent</a>&nbsp;to Rollins on Wednesday, voicing concerns that USDA told states to hold off on sending in SNAP benefits to be processed for November.&nbsp;“We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks,’” according to the letter. “In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”&nbsp;The chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Republican Susan Collins of Maine, also urged Rollins in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collins.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/102325mainesnaplettercollins.pdf" target="_blank">Thursday letter</a>&nbsp;to “consider all available options in accordance with federal law to ensure that this vital nutrition assistance continues, including the use of contingency funds and looking at the viability of partial payments or any transfer authority you may have.”&nbsp;<h2>Benefits could be slow even if a deal reached</h2>States have been told by the agency to hold off on submitting SNAP benefit requests to processing centers. Food banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rhode-island-food-pantries-slammed-snap-beneficiaries-brace-funding-run-dry" target="_blank">pantries</a>&nbsp;are already bracing for the increased need, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/food-banks-prepare-lapse-snap-funding-unprecedented-need-due-government-shutdown" target="_blank">in Iowa</a>, where more than 270,000 Iowans rely on SNAP each month.However, even if Congress immediately reached a deal to end the shutdown, the time needed to process the payments and make them available for recipients means SNAP benefits would likely be delayed. State officials have warned SNAP recipients of the possibility of delays.In West Virginia,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/im-very-scared-snap-benefits-delay-worries-wv-elderly-who-use-it-feed-themselves-grandkids" target="_blank">officials said delays are expected</a>&nbsp;and told residents to seek assistance at local food pantries. Roughly 1 in 6 West Virginia residents rely on SNAP each month.&nbsp;<h2>Legal requirement cited</h2>Sharon Parrott,&nbsp;a White House Office of Management and Budget official during the Obama administration who now leads a left-leaning think tank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/press/statements/trump-administration-is-legally-required-to-provide-snap-in-shutdown-contrary-to" target="_blank">said in a Thursday statement</a>&nbsp;that USDA is legally required to use its SNAP contingency funds.Parrott, the president of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said the multi-year contingency fund is “billions of dollars that Congress provided for use when SNAP funding is inadequate that remain available during the shutdown — to fund November benefits for the 1 in 8 Americans who need SNAP to afford their grocery bill.”Parrott said the Trump administration could use its legal transfer authority, just as it did with WIC funding, to “supplement the contingency reserves, which by themselves are not enough to fund families’ full benefits.”

USDA won’t shuffle funds to extend SNAP during shutdown, in about-face from earlier plan

DOUGLAS COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Friday in Douglas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chevy Tahoe drive by a Eliseo J.&nbsp;Munoz, 23, Lawrence&nbsp;was westbound on U.S. 40 approximately two miles west of U.S. 59. The car traveled left of center and struck a 2019 Kia Forte driven by Michael T.&nbsp;Dieker, 41, Kansas City, Missouri, head-on.

Dieker was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Forensic Medical of Kansas. EMS transported Munoz&nbsp;Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Munoz was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

The South Lawrence Trafficway was closed between West 27th Street and Iowa Street until early Saturday morning to allow first responders to work the scene of the crash, according to the Douglas County Sheriff.

DOUGLAS COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Friday in Douglas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chevy Tahoe drive by a Eliseo J.&nbsp;Munoz, 23, Lawrence&nbsp;was westbound on U.S. 40 approximately two miles west of U.S. 59. The car traveled left of center and struck a 2019 Kia Forte driven by Michael T.&nbsp;Dieker, 41, Kansas City, Missouri, head-on.Dieker was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Forensic Medical of Kansas. EMS transported Munoz&nbsp;Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Munoz was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.The South Lawrence Trafficway was closed between West 27th Street and Iowa Street until early Saturday morning to allow first responders to work the scene of the crash, according to the Douglas County Sheriff.

Missouri man dead after Kansas head-on crash

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating suspects in connection with a drug distribution ring and have seized a large amount of fentanyl.

On October 16, the Kansas City Kansas Police Department’s Narcotics and Special Operations Units served a warrant at a home in downtown Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.. Officers seized 9.2 lbs. of fentanyl, as well as guns and other drugs. 

“This was our biggest, if not the metro’s, biggest fentanyl seizure since we began tracking the drug in late 2020,” Captain Shawn Magee, KCKPD Narcotics Unit, said. 

“One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill thousands of people. In this instance, police seized a little over four kilograms. You don’t need to be good at math to know, this one operation saved a lot of lives."

”One hundred times more potent than morphine, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used for severe pain. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, or pressed into counterfeit pills, that resemble prescription opioids."

"However, because of a lack of quality control, illicit fentanyl is often deadly. In 2025, the KCKPD Narcotics Unit has handled 79 overdose cases. Six of those cases involved juveniles, resulting in 21 fatalities. One juvenile died.

As a result of KCKPD’s operation, three individuals were arrested and booked on requested charges of conspiracy to distribute.

Police also seized 11 firearms, 2 with fully automatic switches; 4,186 grams of fentanyl; 64.6 grams of methamphetamine (2 ½ ounces); 232.8 grams of marijuana (half pound: and 786 miscellaneous pills, most will contain fentanyl.

There were no injuries. Police are not identifying the individuals arrested because this remains an ongoing investigation. The owner of the short-term rental cooperated with police in advance of the operation, and is not facing charges. 

“The owners are victims too,” Magee said. “This isn’t a crime-ridden neighborhood; they had no clue they were renting to drug dealers. Unfortunately, switching locations by booking different rentals is appealing to these dealers, because it creates a covert setting, making them more difficult to track. They are clever, but so are we.” 

Any resident of Kansas City, Kansas who suspects illegal drug activity in their neighborhood may report it anonymously by calling the KCKPD 24-Hour Narcotics Hotline at 913-573-6272 or by emailing narcotics@kckpd.org. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761300430123.png" alt="Photo Kansas City, Kansas police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City, Kansas police</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating suspects in connection with a drug distribution ring and have seized a large amount of fentanyl.On October 16, the Kansas City Kansas Police Department’s Narcotics and Special Operations Units served a warrant at a home in downtown Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.. Officers seized 9.2 lbs. of fentanyl, as well as guns and other drugs. “This was our biggest, if not the metro’s, biggest fentanyl seizure since we began tracking the drug in late 2020,” Captain Shawn Magee, KCKPD Narcotics Unit, said. “One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill thousands of people. In this instance, police seized a little over four kilograms. You don’t need to be good at math to know, this one operation saved a lot of lives."”One hundred times more potent than morphine, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used for severe pain. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, or pressed into counterfeit pills, that resemble prescription opioids.""However, because of a lack of quality control, illicit fentanyl is often deadly. In 2025, the KCKPD Narcotics Unit has handled 79 overdose cases. Six of those cases involved juveniles, resulting in 21 fatalities. One juvenile died.As a result of KCKPD’s operation, three individuals were arrested and booked on requested charges of conspiracy to distribute.Police also seized 11 firearms, 2 with fully automatic switches; 4,186 grams of fentanyl; 64.6 grams of methamphetamine (2 ½ ounces); 232.8 grams of marijuana (half pound: and 786 miscellaneous pills, most will contain fentanyl.There were no injuries. Police are not identifying the individuals arrested because this remains an ongoing investigation. The owner of the short-term rental cooperated with police in advance of the operation, and is not facing charges. “The owners are victims too,” Magee said. “This isn’t a crime-ridden neighborhood; they had no clue they were renting to drug dealers. Unfortunately, switching locations by booking different rentals is appealing to these dealers, because it creates a covert setting, making them more difficult to track. They are clever, but so are we.” Any resident of Kansas City, Kansas who suspects illegal drug activity in their neighborhood may report it anonymously by calling the KCKPD 24-Hour Narcotics Hotline at 913-573-6272 or by emailing narcotics@kckpd.org.

Police seize over 9 pounds of fentanyl from Kan. rental home

WASHINGTON —In support of the President’s directive to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism in defense of the Homeland, the Secretary of War has directed the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and embarked carrier air wing to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility (AOR), according to a statement from the Department of War.

'The enhanced U.S. force presence in the USSOUTHCOM AOR will bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States homeland and our security in the Western Hemisphere. These forces will enhance and augment existing capabilities to disrupt narcotics trafficking and degrade and dismantle TCOs."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696803172229.png" alt="File photo The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in mid October 2024-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in mid October 2024-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —In support of the President’s directive to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism in defense of the Homeland, the Secretary of War has directed the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and embarked carrier air wing to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility (AOR), according to a statement from the Department of War.'The enhanced U.S. force presence in the USSOUTHCOM AOR will bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States homeland and our security in the Western Hemisphere. These forces will enhance and augment existing capabilities to disrupt narcotics trafficking and degrade and dismantle TCOs."

Drug war: US sending aircraft carrier to Latin America 

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas boy injured when a vehicle struck the electric scooter he was riding on October 13 has died.

<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/prayers-and-support-for-duke-ommert">Click here to see the online fundraiser</a>

At approximately 6 p.m. on Monday, emergency crews responded to an injury crash on Lee Boulevard just north of W 103rd Street, according to a media release from Leawood Police.

Duke Ommert, a 4th grader at Brockwood Elementary in Leawood, was on an e-scooter crossing Lee Boulevard in Leawood after an afternoon of playing with friends when he was struck by a vehicle, according to the online fundraiser.

He had a severe head injury and a fractured leg from the crash. He was taken to an area hospital before being transferred to Children's Mercy. He died earlier this week, according to the online fundraiser.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761301582903.png" alt="Duke Ommert-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Duke Ommert-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas boy injured when a vehicle struck the electric scooter he was riding on October 13 has died.<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/prayers-and-support-for-duke-ommert">Click here to see the online fundraiser</a>At approximately 6 p.m. on Monday, emergency crews responded to an injury crash on Lee Boulevard just north of W 103rd Street, according to a media release from Leawood Police.Duke Ommert, a 4th grader at Brockwood Elementary in Leawood, was on an e-scooter crossing Lee Boulevard in Leawood after an afternoon of playing with friends when he was struck by a vehicle, according to the online fundraiser.He had a severe head injury and a fractured leg from the crash. He was taken to an area hospital before being transferred to Children's Mercy. He died earlier this week, according to the online fundraiser.

Kan. boy dies days after struck by a car while riding a scooter

Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, according to a social media report from the Seretary of War.

The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. Six male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters—and was the first strike at night. All six terrorists were killed and no U.S. forces were harmed in this strike.

If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda. Day or NIGHT, we will map your networks, track your people, hunt you down, and kill you.

(Click below to watch President Trump's answer on a possible declaration of war for the drug boat attacks)

Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, according to a social media report from the Seretary of War.The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. Six male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters—and was the first strike at night. All six terrorists were killed and no U.S. forces were harmed in this strike.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea. The vessel was known by our… <a href="https://t.co/lVlw0FLBv4">pic.twitter.com/lVlw0FLBv4</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1981706596972372446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda. Day or NIGHT, we will map your networks, track your people, hunt you down, and kill you.(Click below to watch President Trump's answer on a possible declaration of war for the drug boat attacks)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Drugs = Dead <a href="https://t.co/rbM8IgsOFU">pic.twitter.com/rbM8IgsOFU</a>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/1981553144099147809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>