Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at JC Post, 107.9 and 1420 KJCK Radio and all of our Eagle Media Team!&nbsp;

If you are looking for a Thanksgiving Meal, there are two local free options in Junction City. 

1. The First Presbyterian Church in Junction City is hosting a Thanksgiving Day Meal today from 12:00-1:30 p.m. at their church - 113 W. 5th Street, in Junction City. (The Thanksgiving Meal Flyer is posted below.)

2. The Marker Family is hosting a Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Rosebud's Bar in Junction City. The address is 215 East 8th Street, in Junction City. Doors open at Noon, and dinner will be served from 2:00-6:00 P.M. (The Thanksgiving Meal flyer is posted below.)

We hope you all have a great Day celebrating this Thanksgiving Holiday!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! Free Community Meals are being offered Today

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Kansas-based chapters of nonprofit organizations focused on wildlife conservation or promoting hunting and fishing have a special fundraising opportunity thanks to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission. Through the Commission’s Big Game Permit program, administered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), eligible organizations can enter a random drawing for one of seven special big game hunting permits, which may then be sold to raise funds for conservation projects. Applications are due by December 26, 2025.

Each year, the program offers up to seven Commission Big Game permits (no more than one elk and one antelope, and up to seven deer permits), depending on the applicants’ preferences. Deer permits are either-species/either-sex and are valid statewide during any season with the legal equipment for that season; and they do not count against other big game permits the license holder may obtain.

“Organizations that win a Commission Big Game Permit typically raffle or auction it, which does two important things,” said&nbsp;Sarah Navarro, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ chief of licensing. “It helps them raise funds for its mission, and it generates dedicated dollars for a mutually agreed-upon conservation project that KDWP and the organization approve together.”

Winning organizations keep 15 percent of their sale price of the Commission Big Game Permit to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks until a mutually agreed-upon conservation project is approved. (If Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry is drawn, they may keep 85 percent of their sale price in order to offset donated deer processing fees.) Organizations may not win a Commission Big Game Permit more than once in a three-year period.

Application Period for Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission Big Game Hunting Permits Now Open

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug allegations.

Just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 54-year-old&nbsp;Dean Garvin of Ogden in the 3200 block of Kimball Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; 

He is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges that include&nbsp;. two counts of distribution of opiate/opium/narcotic/certain stimulant 3.5 grams but less than 100 grams; two counts of distribution/possession with intent to distribute heroin/certain stimulants/fentanyl 3.5-100 grams; two counts of use/possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; distribution of a controlled substance with a dosage 10 to 100 units, two counts of possession of marijuana; one count of distribution or possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use; ; one count of driving while suspended/cancelled/revoked; ; one count of possession of opiate/opium/narcotic/certain stimulant; and one count of use of communication facility in the commission of a felony drug violation.&nbsp; County Jail at the time of this report.

Garvin has a previous drug conviction in Dickinson County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. felon accused of selling fentanyl, other drugs in Riley County

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State fans coming to Manhattan on Saturday for the Wildcats’ Senior Day contest against Colorado are alerted to a partial closure of Anderson Avenue through the weekend.

The closure zone on Anderson is from Connecticut Avenue to Canfield Drive. Only local access will be available to Timberlane Drive and Bellehaven Road residents, emergency vehicles and those with driveways in the work zone.

 K-State Fans Alerted to Anderson Avenue Closure

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Paul Goodman, Domestic battery, arrested 11/25

Geary County Booking Photos Nov. 26

Jerry Petty, soldier, real estate agent with Coldwell Banker/Patriot Realty and member of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club. “I am not in real estate sales for the money, but to give back to the community – especially the kids”, he said.

From October until December 20, Jerry is donating a portion of his commission after selling a house to the JC Breakfast Optimist Club. By November 25, Jerry had completed the sale of two houses and donated $600.00 to the Club. The money will be used in the Club’s support of 15 different Geary County youth organizations and 3 scholarships.

Jerry stated that “My wife and I have fallen in love with the community and want to give back.” Jerry’s wife works at the Central Kitchen in USD 475.

Optimists Receive Donation

&nbsp;Donna Porter, Library Director

The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closed on Thursday, November 27th and Friday, November 28th for the Thanksgiving holiday. The outside book drop will remain open during the closure. Also, the digital library is always open! Libby and Hoopla will be available for you to checkout material anytime the library is closed.

Questions? Contact the Director at 785-238-4311.

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library closed this Thursday and Friday

WICHITA — Thanksgiving and the day before are the top two days in this country for the chance of a cooking fire to happen in someone’s home.

Cooking causes an average of 158,400 home fires per year, which is 44% of all home fires in the United States.&nbsp;The American Red Cross of Greater Kansas offers safety steps everyone can follow if they will be preparing their family’s Thanksgiving feast.

“Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, home fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “Most happen because people leave cooking food unattended. We want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable holiday, so don’t leave the kitchen while you’re cooking.”

COOKING SAFETY TIPS&nbsp;Follow these safety tips and visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy0uO6yAQheHVwAyLR1HAgEEm2UaEqSJB15Zzweqoe_WtRD39zvkpa89QquRsArqUEKKXj4wtrIlWMMU2j9QogQvJVowmrT6S7BmTheAcok5gbwbXSBFBA7MAPTvxv_5f7aVvPKYK1VNF3wjU_uMRlvcgt_w4z6dwF2Gvwl5fr9cymOo45lyOcRf22vpguTP1ogZvXCarTvkDtz8Q7mKiCcnIkR_lez6PeQrQXO4bf45LPXY5z8G8v2PfmkFnQa26JAXBokquNRUTe6uJI4KRX9n-BgAA__96VFX5">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including a fire escape plan to practice with your family.

Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy01uwyAQxfHTwA6LjwHDgkU2uUaEmSFGxXUKbq309FWibn_v_TFKS5Ayp6hmZ0Jw4C1fY1gWGSBLKAGtQV_8okCinlUykMHzGl3QMBvjnAygb8otHr0DCUQM5KhIH_VLbKk26kPM2WJ2tiCI7dc6mF4Db3E9jsdg5sL0lenreZ5TJ8x9H2Pa-53pa6mfKJ77dxdtz6mJvKbHQX1aj63xjbAm0alRGiQqxjfc_oGZi_JqDor3uKbneOzjYCAp3Ru9j1PeNz6OTrS9YluKckaDWGQKAmbtRDClCB_IaonkHSj-E_VfAAAA___Z1l9J">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Red Cross offers steps to help avoid a Thanksgiving cooking fire

 Confidence is increasing for a regional winter storm to impact the Central Plains and Midwest Friday-Saturday. Initial rain over northeast Kansas will transition to light snow through the day Saturday.  Little to no snow accumulations are anticipated at this time for northeast Kansas, but that could change in the coming days. 

Accumulating snow resulting in hazardous travel is most likely towards portions of Iowa, eastern Missouri, and into Illinois.  If you plan to travel across these areas this weekend, it's important to stay up to date on the latest weather forecast and prepare for alternate travel plans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monitor the weather for the holiday peiod

The Wichita City Council held an executive session with the search firm, CPS HR Consulting,&nbsp;after the City Council Workshop on Tuesday to discuss the City Manager candidates. After the executive session, the City Council voted 5 to 2 (No-Johnson, Hoheisel) to direct staff to enter into negotiations with the intent to make an offer of employment to Dennis Marstall.&nbsp;

Dennis has been the County Administrator for Lancaster County, South Carolina since 2021. Prior to that he was the Assistant City Manager in Manhattan, Kansas. He also was a Vice-President with United Way and held several positions with the City of Charlotte, North Carolina. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree from Kansas State University and a master’s in public administration degree from the University of Louisville.&nbsp;

Following negotiations, if an employment agreement with the candidate is reached, the City Council is anticipated to hold a vote to finalize the selected candidate’s employment at the City Council meeting on December 2.&nbsp;

Former Manhattan asst. city mgr. selected for city mgr. in Wichita

There will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Thursday, November 27th due to the Thanksgiving Holiday.

According to a release from the Public Works Department trash/garbage pick-up will be picked up the next workday as follows:

Thursday’s pickup day will be Friday, November 28th

Friday’s pickup day will be Saturday, November 29th

To ensure pick-up, your trash should be set out by 7 AM, Friday morning. Carts should be removed from the curb-alley by the following day of their scheduled pick up

Public Works sanitation schedule

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

TOPEKA — A new page on a federal government website that provides inaccurate information about vaccines and autism is concerning to Kansans who work in autism research.

A majority of studies and researchers say there is no connection between autism and vaccinations, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/about/autism.html" target="_blank">updated a page</a>&nbsp;to share contradictory information.

“The claim ‘vaccines do not cause autism’ is not an evidence-based claim because studies have not ruled out the possibility that infant vaccines cause autism,” the site says.

The page was updated last week, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/21/us/politics/rfk-jr-cdc-vaccines-autism-website.html" target="_blank">in an interview with the New York Times</a>, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., secretary of U.S. Health and Human Services, said he instructed the CDC to change the information.

“The information posted on the CDC website unfortunately contains multiple inaccurate or misleading statements,” said Matt Mosconi, director of the Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training. “The CDC message ignores many studies that have been conducted on this topic. And, my expectation is that this statement is confusing for individuals and families, and it has strong potential to be harmful.”

The Coalition of Autism Scientists, which Mosconi and other researchers at K-CART belong to, published a statement saying the harm caused by questioning the safety of childhood vaccines cannot be overstated.

“By altering and distorting the evidence on vaccine safety, the CDC can no longer be relied on to provide the public with accurate information,” the statement said.

Mosconi said if there had been evidence that vaccines caused autism, scientists would have followed that evidence.

“Rigorous study after rigorous study failed to find that link, so we, as scientists, follow the data to identify those factors that are associated with autism and do have potential to be informative for supporting the autism community,” he said.

Kathryn Unruh, an assistant researcher at K-CART, said the new information presented on the CDC site is concerning for several reasons, including whether people will hesitate to vaccinate their children.

Kansas has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/04/02/vaccination-rates-down-in-most-kansas-counties-where-measles-cases-occurring/">vaccination rates</a>&nbsp;for kindergarteners drop in many areas across the state. The state also had a measles outbreak, which has since ended.

“As an autism researcher, we are also quite concerned with how this may misdirect attention as well as the critical funding we may need for studies that will support autistic individuals and their families,” Unruh said.

Two “very large” and rigorous studies have shown no association between autism and vaccinations, she said. The studies were well-controlled and had large samples. The initial and since discredited study that started the misinformation about vaccines and autism included just 12 children, Unruh said.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1124634/" target="_blank">2002 Danish study</a>&nbsp;included more than 500,000 children and looked at the risks of developing autism in children who were vaccinated and unvaccinated. The study controlled for multiple variables, including the age at which children received vaccines, their gestational age, birth weight and their economic status, Unruh said.

No connection was found between autism and vaccinations in that study.

<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2215632120" target="_blank">Another large study</a>&nbsp;in the United States also looked at familial factors because of the high likelihood of developing autism if the individual has a sibling with autism, Unruh said.

“Even if kids already had one likelihood factor for developing autism, they also found no increased association with developing autism and vaccines in those children,” she said.

The information being put out by the CDC on its official website worries Unruh.

“As a scientist, I’m quite concerned that they have ignored decades of rigorous research, including multiple studies that use CDC data,” she said. “On their own website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.restoredcdc.org/www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/about/autism.html" target="_blank">an archived page now</a>, they do have a long list of studies that they have documented that show no association between vaccines and risk for developing autism.”

Scientific studies have shown a genetic component to autism and other studies have looked at environmental interactions that might increase the risk for autism, Unruh said.

<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25898051/" target="_blank">A 2015 study</a>&nbsp;published in JAMA, the journal of the American Medical Association, researched possible connections between children who have a genetic likelihood of developing autism — identified because siblings had autism — and vaccinations causing them to develop autism, she said.

That study found no connections between the two, Unruh said.

Kansas autism researchers concerned about misinformation on federal website

WASHINGTON (AP) — An Afghan national who worked for the CIA in his native country and arrived in the U.S. in 2021 drove across the country from Washington state to shoot two West Virginia&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-judge-ruling-dc-washington-national-guard-1be5c3744e35f8dd68a6a12fa4583186">National Guard members</a>&nbsp;just blocks from the White House, U.S. officials said Thursday.

Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, declined to provide a motive for Wednesday afternoon's brazen act of violence, which comes as the presence of troops in the nation’s capital and other cities around the country has become a political flashpoint.

Pirro identified the guard members at a news conference as Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24. Both remained hospitalized in critical condition.

Pirro said that the suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, launched an “ambush-style” attack with a .357 Smith &amp; Wesson revolver. The suspect currently faces charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Pirro said that “it's too soon to say” what the suspect's motives were.

The charges could be upgraded, Pirro said, adding, “We are praying that they survive and that the highest charge will not have to be murder in the first degree. But make no mistake, if they do not, that will certainly be the charge.”

The rare shooting of National Guard members on American soil, on the day before Thanksgiving, comes amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-dc-deployment-c1c2b13a7102632632267bf1262506ff">court fights</a>&nbsp;and a broader public policy debate about the Trump administration’s use of the military to combat what officials cast as an out-of-control crime problem.

The Trump administration quickly ordered 500 more National Guard members to Washington.

The suspect who was in custody also was shot and had wounds that were not believed to be life-threatening, according to a law enforcement official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Attack being investigated as terrorist act

FBI Director Kash Patel said the shooting is being investigated as an act of terrorism. Agents have served a series of search warrants, with Patel calling it a “coast-to-coast investigation.”

Pirro said: “We have been in constant contact with their families and have provided them with every resource needed during this difficult time.”

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser interpreted the shooting as a direct assault on America itself, rather than specifically on Trump's policies.

“Somebody drove across the country and came to Washington, D.C., to attack America,” Bower said. “That person will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

Suspect worked with CIA during Afghanistan War

The 29-year-old suspect, an Afghan national, entered the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration program that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the U.S. withdrawal from the country, officials said.

The initiative brought roughly 76,000 people to the U.S., many of whom had worked alongside U.S. troops and diplomats as interpreters and translators. It has since faced intense scrutiny from Trump and his allies, congressional Republicans and some government watchdogs over allegations of gaps in the vetting process and the speed of admissions, even as advocates say it offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

Lakamal has been living in Bellingham, Washington, about 79 miles (127 kilometers) north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlord, Kristina Widman.

Prior to his 2021 arrival in the United States, the suspect worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, “as a member of a partner force in Kandahar,” John Ratcliffe, the spy agency’s director, said in a statement. He did not specify what work Lakamal did, but said the relationship “ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation” of U.S. servicemembers from Afghanistan.

Kandahar in southern Afghanistan is in the Taliban heartland of the country. It saw fierce fighting between the Taliban and NATO forces after the U.S.-led invasion in 2001 following the al-Qaida attacks on Sept. 11. The CIA relied on Afghan staff for translation, administrative and front-line fighting with their own paramilitary officers in the war.

Wednesday night, in a video message released on social media, President Donald Trump called for the reinvestigation of all Afghan refugees who entered under the Biden administration.

“If they can’t love our country, we don’t want them,” he said, adding that the shooting was “a crime against our entire nation.”

Jeffery Carroll, an executive assistant D.C. police chief, said on Wednesday that investigators had no information on a motive. He said the assailant “came around the corner” and immediately started firing at the troops, citing video reviewed by investigators.

The shooting happened roughly two blocks northwest of the White House near a metro station. Hearing gunfire, other troops in the area ran over and held down the gunman after he was shot, Carroll said.

“It appears to be a lone gunman that raised a firearm and ambushed these members of the National Guard,” Carroll said, adding that it was not clear whether one of the guard members or a law enforcement officer shot the suspect.

“At this point, we have no other suspects,” Carroll said at a news conference.

At least one of the guard members exchanged gunfire with the shooter, said another law enforcement official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Social media video shared in the immediate aftermath showed first responders performing CPR on one of the troops and treating the other on a sidewalk covered in broken glass.

Associated Press journalists Konstantin Toropin, Seung Min Kim, Safiyah Riddle, Matt Brown, Mike Balsamo, Eric Tucker, Jesse Bedayn, Josh Boak, Evan Vucci, Nathan Ellgren, John Raby, Hallie Golden, Michael R. Sisak and John Seewer contributed.

🎥DOJ releases names of National Guard soldiers shot near White House

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Police are investigating a shooting that left two dead in Topeka.&nbsp;

Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, police responded to report of a shooting at McDonalds restaurant in the 1200 block of SW Gage Boulevard in Topeka, according to Topeka Police&nbsp; LT Jayme Green.

At the scene, first responders located two victims who were&nbsp;deceased. EMS transported a third victim to a hospital with life-threatening injuries

On Wednesday, Topeka Police reported they are now investigating this incident as a murder-suicide. At the scene, officers located a deceased 76-year-old man who suffered an apparent gunshot wound. A 22-year-old man with life-threatening gunshot injuries was also found at the scene and was transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment.

 Officers additionally discovered a man who died from what appears to have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police released no additional details Wednesday afternoon.

Police update details on deadly shooting near Kan. fast-food restaurant

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Tuesday released a new statement regarding the negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to end the unjust war in Ukraine:

He spoke last month on the Senate Floor, reaffirming support for Ukraine.

“As negotiations move forward, the administration must make certain Ukraine is equipped with the tools needed to defend its people and territory against ongoing aggression and demand meaningful, enduring security guarantees for Kyiv. Lasting peace will be achieved when the costs of continuing the war in Ukraine are unsustainable for Russia, not by acceding to Vladimir Putin’s demands. Any other result makes the world a more dangerous place.”

Sen. Moran has consistently emphasized the importance of U.S. support for Ukraine in their fight against Russian aggression.&nbsp;

Kan. U.S. Senator on Ukraine, Russia peace negotiations

WASHINGTON (AP) — An Afghan national has been accused of shooting two West Virginia&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-judge-ruling-dc-washington-national-guard-1be5c3744e35f8dd68a6a12fa4583186">National Guard members</a>&nbsp;just blocks from the White House in a brazen act of violence at a time when the presence of troops in the nation’s capital and other cities around the country has become a political flashpoint.

FBI Director Kash Patel and Washington&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/muriel-bowser-washington-dc-trump-0e9f3cfc668fd70faa9820c8bfb4e7a3">Mayor Muriel Bowser</a>&nbsp;said the guard members were hospitalized in critical condition after Wednesday afternoon's shooting. West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey had walked back his statement Wednesday announcing the troops had died, saying he received “conflicting reports” about their condition.

The initiative brought roughly 76,000 people to the U.S., many of whom had worked alongside U.S. troops and diplomats as interpreters and translators. It has since faced intense scrutiny from Trump and his allies, congressional Republicans and some government watchdogs over gaps in the vetting process and the speed of admissions, even as advocates say it offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

The suspect, who has been living in Washington state, has been identified by law enforcement officials as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, but authorities were still working to fully confirm his background, two law enforcement officials and a person familiar with the matter said. The people could not discuss details of an ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Lakamal arrived in Bellingham, Washington, about 79 miles (127 kilometers) north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlord Kristina Widman.

Jeffery Carroll, an executive assistant D.C. police chief, said investigators had no information on a motive. He said the assailant “came around the corner” and immediately started firing at the troops, citing video reviewed by investigators.

“This was a targeted shooting,” Bowser said.

“At this point we have no other suspects,” Carroll said at a news conference.

Michael Ryan was just across the street when he heard loud bangs and started running with others. When he later came back, he told AP he saw a person pinned to the ground as people shouted “stay down,” and, nearby, National Guard troops hugged each other.

“It’s just a terrible situation to see,” Ryan said.

Emma McDonald, who exited a metro station just after the shots were fired, said she and a friend sought safety with others in a cafe. McDonald told AP that minutes later she saw first responders rolling a stretcher carrying a National Guard member whose head was covered in blood.

Police tape cordoned off the scene, and fire and police vehicle lights flashed and helicopter blades thudded overhead. Agents from the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were there, and National Guard troops stood sentry nearby. At least one helicopter landed on the National Mall.

“I think it’s a somber reminder that soldiers, whether they’re active duty, reserve or National Guard, our soldiers are the sword and the shield of the United States of America,” Vice President JD Vance said in Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where he delivered a Thanksgiving message to troops.

Gen. Steven Nordhaus, chief of the National Guard Bureau, scrapped plans to spend the holiday with troops at Guantanamo Bay in order to travel to D.C. and be with guard members there instead.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll said on social media that he visited the wounded National Guard members in the hospital and that his “heart breaks for them.”

Troops deployed to DC under emergency order

Trump issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-homelessness-655bc22834223c7dc93115bbcb2b215c">emergency order</a>&nbsp;in August that federalized the local police force and sent in National Guard troops from eight states and the District of Columbia. The order expired a month later, but the troops remained.

Nearly 2,200 troops currently are assigned to the joint task force operating in the city, according to the government’s latest update.

Last week a federal judge ordered an end to the deployment, but she also put her order on hold for 21 days to allow the administration time to either remove the troops or appeal.

The guard members have patrolled neighborhoods, train stations and other locations, participated in highway checkpoints and been assigned to pick up trash and guard sports events.

More than 300 West Virginia National Guard members were deployed in August. About 160 of them volunteered last week to extend their deployment until the end of the year, while the others returned home just over a week ago.

Associated Press journalists Konstantin Toropin, Seung Min Kim, Safiyah Riddle, Matt Brown, Mike Balsamo, Eric Tucker, Jesse Bedayn, Evan Vucci, Nathan Ellgren, John Raby, Hallie Golden, Michael R. Sisak and John Seewer contributed.

Afghan national in custody after shooting  National Guard soldiers near White House

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A basketball player at a junior college in Oklahoma who was injured during a game has died, school officials said.

Connors State College sophomore Ethan Dietz died Tuesday after he was injured during the second half of a game Saturday in Texas, the school said in a statement posted to its Facebook page. A spokesperson for the college, Shannon Rigsby, said initial reports indicate Dietz suffered some kind of head injury, but that she didn’t have any more information.

“Ethan exemplified what it means to be a Cowboy, to value hard work and being part of a team,” according to the statement from the school. “While the team and the Cowboy community are processing our own grief, our hearts go out to his family and friends.”

Messages seeking comment were left Wednesday with the college’s athletic director and men’s basketball coach.

Several of the college’s men’s and women’s basketball games were canceled following Dietz’s death.

Dietz was a 6-foot-8 forward from Vilonia, Arkansas, who was averaging 11 points per game through eight games so far this season. He had eight points and four rebounds in 20 minutes of playing time Saturday before he was injured.

A vigil in his honor was scheduled for Dec. 1 at the college’s campus in Warner, Oklahoma.

College basketball player in Oklahoma dies after injured during game

🎥President Trump's remarks on the attack on National Guard soldiers

WASHINGTON (AP) — Two West Virginia National Guard members who deployed to the nation’s capital were shot Wednesday just blocks from the White House in a brazen act of violence.

FBI Director Kash Patel and Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said the Guard members were hospitalized in critical condition. Bowser said they were victims of a ”targeted shooting.”

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey initially said the troops had died, but later walked back the statement to say his office was “receiving conflicting reports" about their condition. The governor’s office did not immediately respond to questions about the attack and the condition of the troops.

A suspect who was in custody also was shot and had wounds that were not believed to be life-threatening, according to a law enforcement official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

The Trump administration quickly ordered 500 more National Guard members to Washington following the shooting. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said President Donald Trump asked him to send the extra soldiers.

There are currently 2,188 troops assigned to the joint task force operating in the city, according to the government’s latest update.

Law enforcement was reviewing surveillance video from the scene and believed the suspect approached the soldiers and pulled out a gun, said another law enforcement official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

At least one of the soldiers exchanged gunfire with the shooter, the official said. Investigators were trying to determine the gunman's motive, including whether the suspect was targeting the troops for any specific reason, the official said.

The shooting happened roughly two blocks northwest of the White House.

Social media video shared in the immediate aftermath showed first responders attempting CPR on one of the soldiers and treating the other on a glass-covered sidewalk. Other officers could be seen steps away restraining an individual on the ground.

Stacy Walters said she was in a car near the scene when she heard two gunshots and saw people running. Almost instantly, law enforcement swarmed the area. “It’s such a beautiful day. Who would do this? And we’re getting ready for the holidays?”

The presence of the National Guard in the nation’s capital has been a flashpoint issue for months, fueling a court fight and a broader public policy debate about the Trump administration’s use of the military to combat what officials cast as an out-of-control crime problem.

More than 300 West Virginia National Guard members were deployed to Washington in August. Last week, about 160 of them volunteered to extend their deployment until the end of the year while the others returned to West Virginia just over a week ago.

Police tape cordoned off the scene where fire and police vehicle lights flashed and helicopter blades thudded overhead. Agents from the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on scene, as National Guard troops stood sentry nearby. At least one helicopter landed on the National Mall.

Trump, who was in Florida for Thanksgiving, warned in a statement on social media that the “animal” who shot the guardsmen “will pay a very steep price.”

“God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!”

In Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Vice President JD Vance urged “everybody who’s a person of faith” to pray for the two Guardsmen. He cautioned that much remained unknown, including the motive of the shooter.

“I think it’s a somber reminder that soldiers, whether they’re active duty, reserve or National Guard, our soldiers are the sword and the shield of the United States of America,” Vance said as he delivered a Thanksgiving message to troops.

Last week, a federal judge ordered an end to the deployment but also put her order on hold for 21 days to allow the Trump administration time to either remove the troops or appeal the decision.

The soldiers have patrolled neighborhoods, train stations and other locations, participated in highway checkpoints and also have been assigned to trash pickup and to guard sports events.

Trump orders more National Guard troops to DC after shooting of soldiers

The West Virginia governor initially said the troops had died, but later walked back the statement to say his office was “receiving conflicting reports" about their condition. The governor’s office did not immediately respond to questions about the attack and the condition of the troops.

"We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues," Gov. Patrick Morrisey said.

Stacy Walters said she was in a car near the scene car when she heard two gunshots and saw people running. Almost instantly, law enforcement swarmed the area. “It’s such a beautiful day. Who would do this, and we’re getting ready for the holidays?”

Emergency medical responders transported all three people to a hospital, according to Vito Maggiolo, the public information officer for the DC Fire and Emergency Services.

President Donald Trump, who was in Florida for Thanksgiving, warned in a statement on social media that the “animal” who shot the guardsmen “will pay a very steep price.”

A spokesperson for Mayor Muriel Bowser said local leaders were actively monitoring the situation. Bowser had spent the morning at a Thanksgiving event at the Convention Center and then held a news conference to explain why she was not seeking reelection.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Two West Virginia National Guard members shot Wednesday near the White House have died, the state’s governor said.

Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed their deaths in&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/wvgovernor/status/1993782336056357214?s=20">a social media post</a>.

"We are in ongoing contact with federal officials as the investigation continues," he said.

A suspect who was in custody also was shot and has injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, according to a law enforcement official not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity. One National Guard member was shot in the head, according to a person familiar with the details of the incident who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

The shooting happened at the corner of 17th and H Streets in the northwest quadrant of the city, roughly two blocks northwest of the White House.

Emergency medical responders transported all three victims to a hospital, according to Vito Maggiolo, the public information officer for the DC Fire and Emergency Services. The Joint DC Task Force confirmed they responded to the incident after reports of the shooting. The Metropolitan Police Department also said they were on-scene.

Police tape cordoned off the scene where emergency fire and police vehicles’ lights flashed and helicopter blades thudded overhead. Agents from the U.S. Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on scene, as National Guard troops stood sentry nearby. At least one helicopter landed on the National Mall.

President Donald Trump, who is in Florida celebrating Thanksgiving, warned in a statement on social media that the “animal” who shot the guardsmen “will pay a very steep price.”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on social media that he was “closely monitoring” the shooting and that his “heart breaks for the victims of this horrific shooting.”

A spokesperson for Mayor Muriel Bowser said that local leaders were actively monitoring the situation. Bowser had spent the morning at a Thanksgiving event at the Convention Center and then held a press conference to explain why she was not seeking reelection.

Trump issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-homelessness-655bc22834223c7dc93115bbcb2b215c">emergency order</a>&nbsp;in August that federalized the local police force and sent in National Guard troops from eight states and the District of Columbia. The order expired a month later but the troops remained.

Associated Press reporters Konstantin Toropin, Seung Min Kim, Safiyah Riddle, Matt Brown, Mike Balsamo, Eric Tucker and Jesse Bedayn contributed.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-shooting-dc-c5785dd8920d2d1ac7d71fab769faf5f" target="_blank">WASHINGTON (AP) —Two National Guard members were shot</a>&nbsp;Wednesday near the White House and are in critical condition, according to a law enforcement official not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

A suspect, now in custody, was also shot and has injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, the source said.

Emergency medical responders transported all three victims to a hospital, according to Vito Maggiolo, the public information officer for the DC Fire and Emergency Services.

President Donald Trump was at his West Palm Beach golf course when the shooting took place.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A suspect is in custody in the shooting of National Guard members in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, police said.

Two guard soldiers were shot near the White House and their conditions aren’t immediately known, according to two law enforcement officials not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Emergency vehicles were seen responding to the area and at least one helicopter landed on the National Mall.

The Joint DC Task Force confirmed they were responding to an incident in the vicinity of the White House in the movements after reports of the shooting. However, the spokesperson wouldn’t immediately confirm or deny if any National Guard members had been shot.

The Metropolitan Police Department said they were responding to a shooting but didn’t immediately provide more information.

A spokesperson for Mayor Muriel Bowser said that local leaders were actively monitoring the situation. The mayor was in the city when the incident occurred.

“The White House is aware and actively monitoring this tragic situation. The President has been briefed,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Hundreds of National Guard members&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-trump-deployment-washington-cbae3a840cec29b0d361413fbe162e14">from the district</a>&nbsp;and several states have been patrolling the nation’s capital after President Donald Trump in August issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-homelessness-655bc22834223c7dc93115bbcb2b215c">emergency order</a>&nbsp;in the capital, federalizing the local police force and sending in the guard from eight states and the District of Columbia.

Two National Guard soldiers shot near the White House

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A child was critically injured in an accident that may have involved street racing&nbsp; on Tuesday in Wichita.

Just before noon, police were dispatched to a vehicle crash at the intersection of 21st and Maize Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

A Toyota Camry was eastbound on 21st Street and collided with a&nbsp;minivan pulling out of a private drive. EMS transported the adult van driver and two 7-year-old children to a local hospital. One of the children was reported in critical condition, according to Gupilan.&nbsp; The driver of the Camry was not injured but spoke with police investigators about the crash.

Local

Region

Sports