KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement arrested an additional man in connection with&nbsp;&nbsp;trying to meet a 14-year-old girl for sex after deputies arrested him in a sting operation this wek.&nbsp;

Josue Rivera, 27, Kansas City, Kansas has been charged with one count of felony attempted child enticement, according to the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.

Rivera was messaging with under-cover detectives during the original operation and continued communication until January 30, when he made arrangements to meet whom he believed to be the 14-year-old. Instead, deputies took him into custody at the meet-up location. He is being held on a $25,000 bond.

The Clay County&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, led a counter-human trafficking operation Jan. 23 and 24 that resulted in the arrest of two men who sought to have sex with a child, as well as services provided to more than a dozen potential trafficking victims.

Two other men, 33-year-old Jose Trinidad-Diaz of Kansas City, Mo. / Mexico and 34-year-old Dominic Shelby of Kansas City, Kan. were charged with felony attempted child enticement after they tried to meet whom they believed to be a 14-year-old girl for sex. It was actually under-cover detectives who had been chatting with them online and by text message. 

The operation was a joint effort by the Clay County&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations – Kansas City, and the Ray County Counter Human Trafficking Task Force. The Ray County Task Force is a team of subject matter experts in the counter-trafficking space who contribute their time and knowledge at no cost to host law enforcement agencies. They are credentialed law enforcement officers and analysts from several&nbsp;sheriff’s offices and have deep connections to a network of aftercare and survivor support service organizations. 

During this operation, Task Force volunteers from the Butler, Bourbon and Greenwood County&nbsp;sheriff’s offices in Kansas, the Washoe County, Nev.,&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office and the Goodyear, Ariz., Police Department participated. They work discreetly with in-jurisdiction agencies with the support of the Ray County, Mo.,&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office and many other credentialing agencies. Financially, they are supported by private donations from generous donors who believe in the mission of supporting law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738423670166.png" alt="Rivera-photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Rivera-photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement arrested an additional man in connection with&nbsp;&nbsp;trying to meet a 14-year-old girl for sex after deputies arrested him in a sting operation this wek.&nbsp;Josue Rivera, 27, Kansas City, Kansas has been charged with one count of felony attempted child enticement, according to the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.Rivera was messaging with under-cover detectives during the original operation and continued communication until January 30, when he made arrangements to meet whom he believed to be the 14-year-old. Instead, deputies took him into custody at the meet-up location. He is being held on a $25,000 bond.The Clay County&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, led a counter-human trafficking operation Jan. 23 and 24 that resulted in the arrest of two men who sought to have sex with a child, as well as services provided to more than a dozen potential trafficking victims.Two other men, 33-year-old Jose Trinidad-Diaz of Kansas City, Mo. / Mexico and 34-year-old Dominic Shelby of Kansas City, Kan. were charged with felony attempted child enticement after they tried to meet whom they believed to be a 14-year-old girl for sex. It was actually under-cover detectives who had been chatting with them online and by text message. The operation was a joint effort by the Clay County&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations – Kansas City, and the Ray County Counter Human Trafficking Task Force. The Ray County Task Force is a team of subject matter experts in the counter-trafficking space who contribute their time and knowledge at no cost to host law enforcement agencies. They are credentialed law enforcement officers and analysts from several&nbsp;sheriff’s offices and have deep connections to a network of aftercare and survivor support service organizations. During this operation, Task Force volunteers from the Butler, Bourbon and Greenwood County&nbsp;sheriff’s offices in Kansas, the Washoe County, Nev.,&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office and the Goodyear, Ariz., Police Department participated. They work discreetly with in-jurisdiction agencies with the support of the Ray County, Mo.,&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office and many other credentialing agencies. Financially, they are supported by private donations from generous donors who believe in the mission of supporting law enforcement.

Another Kan. man arrested after child sex abuse sting

BUTLER COUNTY —Police on Monday arrested the adoptive parents of a child whose remains were found in the back yard of a home in Rose Hill.

Crystina Elizabeth Schroer, 50,&nbsp; Rose Hill is in custody on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree, Kidnapping, aggravated , Child abuse, torture (x4), Theft, felony (value under $25,000), Forgery (x4), Medicaid fraud and&nbsp;Desecration of a corpse.

Joseph Shane Schroer, 53,&nbsp; Rose Hill is being held on requested charges that include, Child abuse, torture (x4), Liability for crimes of another , Interference with Law Enforcement, Theft, felony (value under $25,000) and Medicaid fraud

Just before 7:30p.m. September 10, a call was made to Butler County Emergency Communications which began an investigation lasting several months.  During this initial contact Officers discovered the possibility of human remains having been buried in the backyard of 1406 North Meeker Court, Rose Hill, Kansas, according to Police Chief Taylor Parlier.

In the early morning hours of September 11, police secured a search warrant for the property of this residence, and with the assistance of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office began a search.  The ground was overgrown in the search area, so cadaver dogs acquired through Sedgwick County Emergency Management were deployed, with no positive indications, officers brought in a brush hog and knocked down the vegetation. 

 Another deployment of the canines was completed with interest being shown to different areas in the backyard, still with no positive indication. 

 A forensic dig began at one of the locations of interest and hours later, approximately 23 inches deep, the decomposed remains of a human child were found in a trash bag.

  A postmortem was completed at the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center on September 12.  On September 27, DNA testing was completed and confirmed the identity of the decedent as Kennedy Schroer (adopted name)/Natalie Garcia (birth name). 

 As the investigation began, six detectives with the Butler County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the dig, neighborhood canvasing, initial interviews, and organizing information as it came in. 

 Andover Police Department detectives assisted as well with initial interviews of people with knowledge of this house but not living in the immediate area. 

 As the investigation progressed, other agencies were brought in to assist, such as the Butler County Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI, Wichita Satellite Office), FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU, Quantico), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Kansas Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Division, Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigation division, Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit (EMCU), and Civilian experts in the fields of trauma and abuse.

On November 20, 2024, personnel with the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center completed their postmortem report.  Their report found Kennedy/Natalie’s cause of death was probable suffocation, and her manner of death was homicide. 

"Sometimes investigations are complex and require patience, particularly in light of the severity of the suspected crimes.  We shared in that sense of urgency.  We know that there has been a strong desire in our community for answers, but the specific needs of our investigation would not permit us to provide them in detail before now."

"Please know that we conducted this investigation with the time, attention and seriousness that it required.  We assessed that there was not an ongoing risk to public safety during the investigation and that making arrests only after the investigation concluded was the necessary course of action to ensure the best possible outcome."

"During the last five months, Detective Missy Tharp and members of the Rose Hill PD put in over 2,000 hours into this investigation.  With assisting agencies putting in several hundred additional hours.  This case was built through the development of timelines spanning more than four years, which is the primary reason for the length of the investigation."

"Natalie has always been the focus of this investigation, and we believe we can now tell her story accurately."

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Authorities have positively identified the human remains found on September 11 in the yard of a home in the city of Rose Hill.

Kennedy Jean Schroer, born on July 14, 2014, was adopted by Crystina and Joe Schroer in November 2018 and is believed to have died in late 2020, according to a statement from Rose Hill, Kansas Police Chief Taylor Parlier.

Her remains were brought to the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center for the postmortem. Due to the advanced level of decomposition, the medical examiner was unable to identify a cause of death. Their preliminary report gave findings that no visible injuries were observed, nor were any healing or healed injuries observable, according to the police chief.

"Through our investigation we believe the time of death occurred within the month of November 2020. The medical examiner has not released the full report of the postmortem but has confirmed Kennedy’s identity through DNA analysis."

"We understand that many in the public might be confused how an arrest in this case has not been made, that is completely understandable. What we would like to convey is that we have one chance to gather as much information as possible, to find out what happened to this child and to tell her story. While we understand the desire to hold persons accountable, we need to get this correct and not fast. Releasing too much information might appear to implicate a person or persons who were not involved, so in our search for the truth we need to equally work to protect peoples’ rights."

"This investigation is ongoing. Officers, Detectives, surrounding law enforcement agencies, social workers, mental health professionals, and many others are hard at work to find answers. What we can assure anyone interested in this case, Kennedy is the center of our universe and will remain so until we have answers."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727450427639.png" alt="Kennedy Jean Schroer" />
 <figcaption>Kennedy Jean Schroer</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —Police on Monday arrested the adoptive parents of a child whose remains were found in the back yard of a home in Rose Hill.Crystina Elizabeth Schroer, 50,&nbsp; Rose Hill is in custody on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree, Kidnapping, aggravated , Child abuse, torture (x4), Theft, felony (value under $25,000), Forgery (x4), Medicaid fraud and&nbsp;Desecration of a corpse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738621674017.png" alt="Joseph Schroer photo Rose Hill Police" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Schroer photo Rose Hill Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Joseph Shane Schroer, 53,&nbsp; Rose Hill is being held on requested charges that include, Child abuse, torture (x4), Liability for crimes of another , Interference with Law Enforcement, Theft, felony (value under $25,000) and Medicaid fraud<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738621650185.png" alt="Crystina Schroer" />
 <figcaption>Crystina Schroer</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 7:30p.m. September 10, a call was made to Butler County Emergency Communications which began an investigation lasting several months. During this initial contact Officers discovered the possibility of human remains having been buried in the backyard of 1406 North Meeker Court, Rose Hill, Kansas, according to Police Chief Taylor Parlier.In the early morning hours of September 11, police secured a search warrant for the property of this residence, and with the assistance of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office began a search. The ground was overgrown in the search area, so cadaver dogs acquired through Sedgwick County Emergency Management were deployed, with no positive indications, officers brought in a brush hog and knocked down the vegetation. Another deployment of the canines was completed with interest being shown to different areas in the backyard, still with no positive indication. A forensic dig began at one of the locations of interest and hours later, approximately 23 inches deep, the decomposed remains of a human child were found in a trash bag. A postmortem was completed at the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center on September 12. On September 27, DNA testing was completed and confirmed the identity of the decedent as Kennedy Schroer (adopted name)/Natalie Garcia (birth name). As the investigation began, six detectives with the Butler County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the dig, neighborhood canvasing, initial interviews, and organizing information as it came in. Andover Police Department detectives assisted as well with initial interviews of people with knowledge of this house but not living in the immediate area. As the investigation progressed, other agencies were brought in to assist, such as the Butler County Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI, Wichita Satellite Office), FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU, Quantico), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Kansas Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Division, Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigation division, Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit (EMCU), and Civilian experts in the fields of trauma and abuse.On November 20, 2024, personnel with the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center completed their postmortem report. Their report found Kennedy/Natalie’s cause of death was probable suffocation, and her manner of death was homicide. "Sometimes investigations are complex and require patience, particularly in light of the severity of the suspected crimes. We shared in that sense of urgency. We know that there has been a strong desire in our community for answers, but the specific needs of our investigation would not permit us to provide them in detail before now.""Please know that we conducted this investigation with the time, attention and seriousness that it required. We assessed that there was not an ongoing risk to public safety during the investigation and that making arrests only after the investigation concluded was the necessary course of action to ensure the best possible outcome.""During the last five months, Detective Missy Tharp and members of the Rose Hill PD put in over 2,000 hours into this investigation. With assisting agencies putting in several hundred additional hours. This case was built through the development of timelines spanning more than four years, which is the primary reason for the length of the investigation.""Natalie has always been the focus of this investigation, and we believe we can now tell her story accurately."-----SEDGWICK COUNTY —Authorities have positively identified the human remains found on September 11 in the yard of a home in the city of Rose Hill.Kennedy Jean Schroer, born on July 14, 2014, was adopted by Crystina and Joe Schroer in November 2018 and is believed to have died in late 2020, according to a statement from Rose Hill, Kansas Police Chief Taylor Parlier.Her remains were brought to the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center for the postmortem. Due to the advanced level of decomposition, the medical examiner was unable to identify a cause of death. Their preliminary report gave findings that no visible injuries were observed, nor were any healing or healed injuries observable, according to the police chief."Through our investigation we believe the time of death occurred within the month of November 2020. The medical examiner has not released the full report of the postmortem but has confirmed Kennedy’s identity through DNA analysis.""We understand that many in the public might be confused how an arrest in this case has not been made, that is completely understandable. What we would like to convey is that we have one chance to gather as much information as possible, to find out what happened to this child and to tell her story. While we understand the desire to hold persons accountable, we need to get this correct and not fast. Releasing too much information might appear to implicate a person or persons who were not involved, so in our search for the truth we need to equally work to protect peoples’ rights.""This investigation is ongoing. Officers, Detectives, surrounding law enforcement agencies, social workers, mental health professionals, and many others are hard at work to find answers. What we can assure anyone interested in this case, Kennedy is the center of our universe and will remain so until we have answers."

Kan. couple arrested after child's remains found in back yard of home

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Monday confirmed fossil fuel executive Chris Wright to serve as energy secretary, a key post to promote President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump’s</a>&nbsp;efforts to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-chris-wright-energy-cabinet-4161f363d59013339d5b444ddf123d45">Wright, CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy,</a>&nbsp;has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He says more fossil fuel production can lift people out of poverty around the globe and has promised to help Trump “unleash energy security and prosperity.”

The Senate approved his nomination, 59-38. Eight Democrats — including both senators from Wright's home state of Colorado — voted in favor.

The centerpiece of Trump’s energy policy is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-policies-agenda-election-2024-second-term-d656d8f08629a8da14a65c4075545e0f">“drill, baby, drill</a>,” and he has pledged to dismantle what he calls Democrats’ “green new scam” in favor of boosting production of fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas and coal that emit planet-warming greenhouse gases.

“President Trump shares my passion for energy,” Wright said at his confirmation hearing last month, promising that if confirmed, he would “work tirelessly to implement (Trump's) bold agenda as an unabashed steward for all sources of affordable, reliable and secure American energy.”

That includes oil and natural gas, coal, nuclear power and hydropower, along with wind and solar power and geothermal energy, Wright said.

Trump’s energy wishes are likely to run into real-world limits, including the fact that U.S. oil production is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=61545">already at record levels</a>. The federal government cannot force companies to drill for more oil, and production increases could lower prices and reduce profits.

Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the second-ranking Republican, called Wright an innovator who “tells the truth about energy production."

While Wright “acknowledges that climate change is real, he knows more American energy is the solution — not the problem,'' Barrasso said, calling Wright's “energy realism” welcome news.

Sen. Mike Lee, a Utah Republican who chairs the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said Wright “understands that energy policies should focus on making energy abundant and affordable for families” and businesses.

“Our nation deserves a champion for American energy and innovation, and we’ve got the Wright guy for the job,'' Lee posted on X.

Colorado's two Democratic senators both supported their home-state nominee.

“Chris Wright is a scientist who has dedicated his life to the study and use of energy. He believes in science and supports the research that will deliver the affordable, reliable and clean energy" that will lower costs and make the country more secure, Sen. John Hickenlooper said.

“While we don’t always agree, we will work together because none of us have four years to wait to act,” Hickenlooper said.

Sen. Michael Bennet called Wright a successful Colorado entrepreneur with deep expertise in energy innovation and technology. He pledged to work with Wright to “ensure Colorado continues to lead the country in energy production and innovation.”

While acknowledging that climate change is real, Wright said at his hearing that he believes “there isn’t dirty energy or clean energy.” Rather, he said, there are different sources of energy with different tradeoffs.

Wright, 60, has been chairman and CEO of Liberty Energy since 2011 and has no prior experience in government. He grew up in Colorado, earned an undergraduate degree at MIT and did graduate work in electrical engineering at the University of California, Berkeley and MIT. In 1992, he founded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pinnacle-financial-partners-inc">Pinnacle Technologies</a>, which helped launch commercial shale gas production through hydraulic fracturing, or fracking.

He later served as chairman of Stroud Energy, an early shale gas producer, before founding Liberty Resources in 2010.

As energy secretary, Wright will join Interior Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/doug-burgum">Doug Burgum</a>&nbsp;as a key player on energy policy. Both will serve on a new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-transition-white-house-cheung-gor-f3e02df04ffece1b07a44062ee723d71">National Energy Council</a>&nbsp;that Burgum will chair. The panel will include all executive branch agencies involved in energy permitting, production, generation, distribution, regulation and transportation, with a focus on “cutting red tape” and boosting domestic energy production, Trump said. The council’s mission represents a near-complete reversal from actions pursued by Democratic President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, who made fighting climate change a top priority.

Wright said he would sever all ties across the energy industry if confirmed.

Lena Moffitt, executive director of Evergreen Action, an environmental group, said Democrats should have unanimously opposed Wright.

“Senate Republicans just handed Trump’s Big Oil allies the keys to the Department of Energy,'' she said in a statement. “Chris Wright built his career expanding fossil fuels and denying climate science. Now, he’ll be in a position to help Trump" stall clean energy investments, hike energy prices “and keep Americans addicted to expensive, volatile fossil fuels."

Now is the time, she added, "for Democrats to stand united and fight back against Trump’s relentless push to rig the system for Big Oil.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Monday confirmed fossil fuel executive Chris Wright to serve as energy secretary, a key post to promote President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump’s</a>&nbsp;efforts to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Congratulations to our new Secretary of Energy Chris Wright! <a href="https://t.co/gK5W9Dj9WC">pic.twitter.com/gK5W9Dj9WC</a>&mdash; House Republicans (@HouseGOP) <a href="https://twitter.com/HouseGOP/status/1886556704529166504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-chris-wright-energy-cabinet-4161f363d59013339d5b444ddf123d45">Wright, CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy,</a>&nbsp;has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He says more fossil fuel production can lift people out of poverty around the globe and has promised to help Trump “unleash energy security and prosperity.”The Senate approved his nomination, 59-38. Eight Democrats — including both senators from Wright's home state of Colorado — voted in favor.The centerpiece of Trump’s energy policy is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-policies-agenda-election-2024-second-term-d656d8f08629a8da14a65c4075545e0f">“drill, baby, drill</a>,” and he has pledged to dismantle what he calls Democrats’ “green new scam” in favor of boosting production of fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas and coal that emit planet-warming greenhouse gases.“President Trump shares my passion for energy,” Wright said at his confirmation hearing last month, promising that if confirmed, he would “work tirelessly to implement (Trump's) bold agenda as an unabashed steward for all sources of affordable, reliable and secure American energy.”That includes oil and natural gas, coal, nuclear power and hydropower, along with wind and solar power and geothermal energy, Wright said.Trump’s energy wishes are likely to run into real-world limits, including the fact that U.S. oil production is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=61545">already at record levels</a>. The federal government cannot force companies to drill for more oil, and production increases could lower prices and reduce profits.Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the second-ranking Republican, called Wright an innovator who “tells the truth about energy production."While Wright “acknowledges that climate change is real, he knows more American energy is the solution — not the problem,'' Barrasso said, calling Wright's “energy realism” welcome news.Sen. Mike Lee, a Utah Republican who chairs the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said Wright “understands that energy policies should focus on making energy abundant and affordable for families” and businesses.“Our nation deserves a champion for American energy and innovation, and we’ve got the Wright guy for the job,'' Lee posted on X.Colorado's two Democratic senators both supported their home-state nominee.“Chris Wright is a scientist who has dedicated his life to the study and use of energy. He believes in science and supports the research that will deliver the affordable, reliable and clean energy" that will lower costs and make the country more secure, Sen. John Hickenlooper said.“While we don’t always agree, we will work together because none of us have four years to wait to act,” Hickenlooper said.Sen. Michael Bennet called Wright a successful Colorado entrepreneur with deep expertise in energy innovation and technology. He pledged to work with Wright to “ensure Colorado continues to lead the country in energy production and innovation.”While acknowledging that climate change is real, Wright said at his hearing that he believes “there isn’t dirty energy or clean energy.” Rather, he said, there are different sources of energy with different tradeoffs.Wright, 60, has been chairman and CEO of Liberty Energy since 2011 and has no prior experience in government. He grew up in Colorado, earned an undergraduate degree at MIT and did graduate work in electrical engineering at the University of California, Berkeley and MIT. In 1992, he founded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pinnacle-financial-partners-inc">Pinnacle Technologies</a>, which helped launch commercial shale gas production through hydraulic fracturing, or fracking.He later served as chairman of Stroud Energy, an early shale gas producer, before founding Liberty Resources in 2010.As energy secretary, Wright will join Interior Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/doug-burgum">Doug Burgum</a>&nbsp;as a key player on energy policy. Both will serve on a new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-transition-white-house-cheung-gor-f3e02df04ffece1b07a44062ee723d71">National Energy Council</a>&nbsp;that Burgum will chair. The panel will include all executive branch agencies involved in energy permitting, production, generation, distribution, regulation and transportation, with a focus on “cutting red tape” and boosting domestic energy production, Trump said. The council’s mission represents a near-complete reversal from actions pursued by Democratic President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, who made fighting climate change a top priority.Wright said he would sever all ties across the energy industry if confirmed.Lena Moffitt, executive director of Evergreen Action, an environmental group, said Democrats should have unanimously opposed Wright.“Senate Republicans just handed Trump’s Big Oil allies the keys to the Department of Energy,'' she said in a statement. “Chris Wright built his career expanding fossil fuels and denying climate science. Now, he’ll be in a position to help Trump" stall clean energy investments, hike energy prices “and keep Americans addicted to expensive, volatile fossil fuels."Now is the time, she added, "for Democrats to stand united and fight back against Trump’s relentless push to rig the system for Big Oil.”

More good news for oil producers: Senate confirms Wright as energy secretary

WICHITA – American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, and U.S. Representative Ron Estes (KS-4) today released the following statement following a visit with American Airlines team members and first responders at Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT):&nbsp;

“As the close-knit community of Wichita continues to mourn this tragic accident, American Airlines and representatives from all levels of government came together today to unequivocally stand with the families and friends of the passengers of Flight 5342."

"Caring for and supporting those impacted is our top priority. This morning, we visited with and expressed our gratitude to American team members based at Eisenhower National Airport and thanked those who came from other parts of the country to support this Wichita-based team and the passengers’ loved ones immediately following the accident. Together, we will be unrelenting in our work at the local, state and federal levels to ensure U.S. aviation safety remains the best in the world.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738624981503.png" alt="Photos city of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Photos city of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, and U.S. Representative Ron Estes (KS-4) today released the following statement following a visit with American Airlines team members and first responders at Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT):&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738624941136.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“As the close-knit community of Wichita continues to mourn this tragic accident, American Airlines and representatives from all levels of government came together today to unequivocally stand with the families and friends of the passengers of Flight 5342.""Caring for and supporting those impacted is our top priority. This morning, we visited with and expressed our gratitude to American team members based at Eisenhower National Airport and thanked those who came from other parts of the country to support this Wichita-based team and the passengers’ loved ones immediately following the accident. Together, we will be unrelenting in our work at the local, state and federal levels to ensure U.S. aviation safety remains the best in the world.”

American Airlines CEO, Kan. elected officials show support for crash survivors

WASHINGTON (AP)—President Donald Trump on Monday held off on his tariff threats against Mexico and Canada for 30 days after the two U.S. neighbors agreed to boost border security efforts.

Trump on Saturday had directed that 25% tariffs on most imports from the two American partners — and 10% on Canadian energy products — go into effect at midnight Tuesday. The two nations threatened retaliation of their own, raising the prospects of a broader regional trade war.

In a statement on X, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that on a call with Trump he pledged additional cooperation on border security. It follows similar moves by Mexico earlier Monday.

“Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while we work together,” Trudeau said.

WASHINGTON (AP)—President Donald Trump on Monday held off on his tariff threats against Mexico and Canada for 30 days after the two U.S. neighbors agreed to boost border security efforts.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I just had a good call with President Trump. Canada is implementing our $1.3 billion border plan — reinforcing the border with new choppers, technology and personnel, enhanced coordination with our American partners, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl. Nearly…&mdash; Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1886529228193022429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/7lBE3mP51J">pic.twitter.com/7lBE3mP51J</a>&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1886536040548028868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump on Saturday had directed that 25% tariffs on most imports from the two American partners — and 10% on Canadian energy products — go into effect at midnight Tuesday. The two nations threatened retaliation of their own, raising the prospects of a broader regional trade war.In a statement on X, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that on a call with Trump he pledged additional cooperation on border security. It follows similar moves by Mexico earlier Monday.“Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while we work together,” Trudeau said.

Trump wins concession from Canada, agrees to pause tariffs 

KANSAS CITY—One person was injured in a house fire Sunday in Kansas City.

Just after 3p.m., crews responded to a reported house fire in the 1600 block of Cambridge in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

Crews reported heavy smoke and fire on arrival and initiated an interior operations using multiple handlines. 

Searches of the home came back all clear. One occupant escaped the fire. was evaluated and transported for further evaluation for minor burns and smoke inhalation. 

No firefighter injuries were reported.&nbsp; The cause of the fire is under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738548483218.png" alt="Photo KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—One person was injured in a house fire Sunday in Kansas City.Just after 3p.m., crews responded to a reported house fire in the 1600 block of Cambridge in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.Crews reported heavy smoke and fire on arrival and initiated an interior operations using multiple handlines. Searches of the home came back all clear. One occupant escaped the fire. was evaluated and transported for further evaluation for minor burns and smoke inhalation. No firefighter injuries were reported.&nbsp; The cause of the fire is under investigation.

One hospitalized after Kansas City house fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-government-trump-executive-order-1a2fb7235b9d6f178c764cf6c78d3317">Department of Government Efficiency,</a>&nbsp;run by President Donald Trump's billionaire adviser and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, has gained access to sensitive Treasury data including Social Security and Medicare customer payment systems, according to two people familiar with the situation.

The move by DOGE, a Trump administration task force assigned to find ways to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-2024-government-regulations-democrats-6badc3b424b9eff3ba51e0ec35a8d824">fire federal workers</a>, cut programs and slash federal regulations, means it could have wide leeway to access important taxpayer data, among other things.

The New York Times first reported the news of the group's access of the massive federal payment system. The two people who spoke to The Associated Press spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.

The highest-ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden of Oregon, on Friday sent a letter to Trump's Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressing concern that “officials associated with Musk may have intended to access these payment systems to illegally withhold payments to any number of programs.”

“To put it bluntly, these payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy," Wyden said.

The news also comes after Treasury's acting Deputy Secretary David Lebryk resigned from his position at Treasury after more than 30 years of service. The Washington Post on Friday reported that Lebryk resigned his position after Musk and his DOGE organization requested access to sensitive Treasury data.

“The Fiscal Service performs some of the most vital functions in government," Lebryk said in a letter to Treasury employees sent out Friday. “Our work may be unknown to most of the public, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t exceptionally important. I am grateful for having been able to work alongside some of the nation’s best and most talented operations staff.”

The letter did not mention a DOGE request to access Treasury payments.

Musk on Saturday responded to a post on his social media platform X about the departure of Lebryk: “The @DOGE team discovered, among other things, that payment approval officers at Treasury were instructed always to approve payments, even to known fraudulent or terrorist groups. They literally never denied a payment in their entire career. Not even once."

DOGE was originally headed by Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who jointly vowed to cut billions from the federal budget and usher in “mass headcount reductions across the federal bureaucracy.”

Ramaswamy has since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vivek-ramaswamy-doge-ohio-governor-musk-trump-328400a5cc47adde8dd97eb628d18164">left DOGE as he mulls a run for governor of Ohio</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733440753442.png" alt="Elon Musk with his son, lil X on on Capitol Hill with Rep. James Comer in December" />
 <figcaption>Elon Musk with his son, lil X on on Capitol Hill with Rep. James Comer in December</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-government-trump-executive-order-1a2fb7235b9d6f178c764cf6c78d3317">Department of Government Efficiency,</a>&nbsp;run by President Donald Trump's billionaire adviser and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, has gained access to sensitive Treasury data including Social Security and Medicare customer payment systems, according to two people familiar with the situation.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump on Elon Musk: &quot;He&#39;s got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good if we agree with him and it&#39;s only if we agree with him. He&#39;s a very talented guy from the standpoint of management and costs.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/dKbuwjisw7">pic.twitter.com/dKbuwjisw7</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1886486333150855345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a> on Elon Musk: &quot;I can confirm he&#39;s a special government employee. I can also confirm that he has abided by all applicable federal laws. As for his security clearance, I&#39;m not sure, but I can check...I don&#39;t know about the security clearance, but I can check.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/86LzC55ocD">pic.twitter.com/86LzC55ocD</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1886525484277620998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The move by DOGE, a Trump administration task force assigned to find ways to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-2024-government-regulations-democrats-6badc3b424b9eff3ba51e0ec35a8d824">fire federal workers</a>, cut programs and slash federal regulations, means it could have wide leeway to access important taxpayer data, among other things.The New York Times first reported the news of the group's access of the massive federal payment system. The two people who spoke to The Associated Press spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.The highest-ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden of Oregon, on Friday sent a letter to Trump's Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressing concern that “officials associated with Musk may have intended to access these payment systems to illegally withhold payments to any number of programs.”“To put it bluntly, these payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy," Wyden said.The news also comes after Treasury's acting Deputy Secretary David Lebryk resigned from his position at Treasury after more than 30 years of service. The Washington Post on Friday reported that Lebryk resigned his position after Musk and his DOGE organization requested access to sensitive Treasury data.“The Fiscal Service performs some of the most vital functions in government," Lebryk said in a letter to Treasury employees sent out Friday. “Our work may be unknown to most of the public, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t exceptionally important. I am grateful for having been able to work alongside some of the nation’s best and most talented operations staff.”The letter did not mention a DOGE request to access Treasury payments.Musk on Saturday responded to a post on his social media platform X about the departure of Lebryk: “The @DOGE team discovered, among other things, that payment approval officers at Treasury were instructed always to approve payments, even to known fraudulent or terrorist groups. They literally never denied a payment in their entire career. Not even once."He did not provide proof of this claim.DOGE was originally headed by Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who jointly vowed to cut billions from the federal budget and usher in “mass headcount reductions across the federal bureaucracy.”Ramaswamy has since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vivek-ramaswamy-doge-ohio-governor-musk-trump-328400a5cc47adde8dd97eb628d18164">left DOGE as he mulls a run for governor of Ohio</a>.

Elon Musk's DOGE team access to Treasury payment systems raises concerns

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Salvage crews have removed a large portion of a commercial jet from the Potomac River near Washington’s Reagan National Airport on Monday, five days after a midair collision last week that killed 67 people.

Authorities have said the operation to remove the plane will take several days and they will then work to remove the military helicopter involved in the crash.

The crash between the American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter over Washington D.C. on Wednesday was the deadliest U.S. air disaster since 2001.

Authorities&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-df8b3c93c3374ebc593f126bdcb24692">have recovered and identified</a>&nbsp;55 of the 67 people killed in the crash and Washington, D.C., Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly has said they are confident all will be found. Crews early Monday could be seen aboard a vessel with a crane.

More than 300 responders were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-980dcaf1acb6f80260146edbaaa9e4c1">taking part in the recovery effort</a>&nbsp;at any given time, officials said. Two Navy barges were also deployed to lift heavy wreckage.

Divers and salvage workers are adhering to strict protocols and will stop moving debris if a body is found, Col. Francis B. Pera of the Army Corps of Engineers said Sunday. The “dignified recovery” of remains takes precedence over all else, he said.

Portions of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-collision-black-hawk-bombardier-potomac-2b151f42ba09602bade7b82abe8b995f">the two aircraft</a>&nbsp;that collided over the river Wednesday night near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport — an American Airlines jet with 64 people aboard and an Army Black Hawk helicopter with 3 aboard — are being loaded onto flatbed trucks and will be taken to a hangar for investigation.

The crash occurred when the jet, en route from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-wichita-kansas-a14e1e2acde7a058afa0b4fd3422313f">Wichita, Kansas</a>, was about to land. The Black Hawk was on a training mission. There were no survivors.

On Sunday, family members were taken in buses with a police escort to the Potomac River bank near where the two aircraft came to rest after colliding.

The plane’s passengers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dc-helicopter-jet-crash-figure-skaters-079cca60567e6929f4b84a8e9d6c330d">included figure skaters returning</a>&nbsp;from the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita and a group of hunters returning from a guided trip. Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland; and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dc-crash-helicopter-airliner-army-pilot-50b3e82d8ec3713cc4ae1ac3a327104c">Capt. Rebecca M. Lobach</a>, of Durham, North Carolina, were in the helicopter.

Federal investigators were working to piece together the events that led to the collision. Full investigations typically take a year or more. Investigators hope to have a preliminary report within 30 days.

Wednesday’s crash was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-crashes-history-washington-ee55776ea0c5f9e322fc77ea1ea452d1">deadliest in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet slammed into a New York City neighborhood just after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board and five on the ground.

Experts stress that plane travel is overwhelmingly safe, but the crowded airspace around Reagan Airport&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-airlines-5342-blackhawk-reagan-national-airport-81a43f2ba5cc59cbe9273fa593f1e9cf">can challenge even experienced pilots</a>.

The NTSB said Saturday that preliminary data showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-980dcaf1acb6f80260146edbaaa9e4c1">conflicting readings</a>&nbsp;about the altitudes of the airliner and the helicopter.

Investigators also said that about a second before impact, the jet’s flight recorder showed a change in its pitch. But they did not say whether that change in angle meant that pilots were trying to perform an evasive maneuver to avoid the crash.

Data from the jet’s flight recorder showed its altitude as 325 feet (99 meters), plus or minus 25 feet (7.6 meters), when the crash happened, NTSB officials told reporters. Data in the control tower, though, showed the Black Hawk at 200 feet (61 meters), the maximum allowed altitude for helicopters in the area.

Investigators said they hoped to reconcile the difference with data from the helicopter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-black-box-washington-potomac-helicopter-8e8fad6a6bd7781830144d738042eee5">black box</a>&nbsp;and planned to refine the tower data, which can be less reliable.

Christopher Weber in Los Angeles contributed reporting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738585415208.png" alt="NTSB investigators along with. members of the salvage crew recovering wreckage of the Bombardier CRJ700 and Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk mid-air collision from the Potomac river- photo NTSB" />
 <figcaption>NTSB investigators along with. members of the salvage crew recovering wreckage of the Bombardier CRJ700 and Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk mid-air collision from the Potomac river- photo NTSB</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Salvage crews have removed a large portion of a commercial jet from the Potomac River near Washington’s Reagan National Airport on Monday, five days after a midair collision last week that killed 67 people.Authorities have said the operation to remove the plane will take several days and they will then work to remove the military helicopter involved in the crash.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738585371394.jpeg" alt="NTSB investigators preparing combination flight data and cockpit voice recorder from the&nbsp;Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk involved in midair collision with a Bombardier CRJ700 for transport to NTSB laboratory in Washington, DC." />
 <figcaption>NTSB investigators preparing combination flight data and cockpit voice recorder from the&nbsp;Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk involved in midair collision with a Bombardier CRJ700 for transport to NTSB laboratory in Washington, DC.</figcaption>
 </figure>The crash between the American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter over Washington D.C. on Wednesday was the deadliest U.S. air disaster since 2001.Authorities&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-df8b3c93c3374ebc593f126bdcb24692">have recovered and identified</a>&nbsp;55 of the 67 people killed in the crash and Washington, D.C., Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly has said they are confident all will be found. Crews early Monday could be seen aboard a vessel with a crane.More than 300 responders were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-980dcaf1acb6f80260146edbaaa9e4c1">taking part in the recovery effort</a>&nbsp;at any given time, officials said. Two Navy barges were also deployed to lift heavy wreckage.Divers and salvage workers are adhering to strict protocols and will stop moving debris if a body is found, Col. Francis B. Pera of the Army Corps of Engineers said Sunday. The “dignified recovery” of remains takes precedence over all else, he said.Portions of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-collision-black-hawk-bombardier-potomac-2b151f42ba09602bade7b82abe8b995f">the two aircraft</a>&nbsp;that collided over the river Wednesday night near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport — an American Airlines jet with 64 people aboard and an Army Black Hawk helicopter with 3 aboard — are being loaded onto flatbed trucks and will be taken to a hangar for investigation.The crash occurred when the jet, en route from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-wichita-kansas-a14e1e2acde7a058afa0b4fd3422313f">Wichita, Kansas</a>, was about to land. The Black Hawk was on a training mission. There were no survivors.On Sunday, family members were taken in buses with a police escort to the Potomac River bank near where the two aircraft came to rest after colliding.The plane’s passengers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dc-helicopter-jet-crash-figure-skaters-079cca60567e6929f4b84a8e9d6c330d">included figure skaters returning</a>&nbsp;from the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita and a group of hunters returning from a guided trip. Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland; and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dc-crash-helicopter-airliner-army-pilot-50b3e82d8ec3713cc4ae1ac3a327104c">Capt. Rebecca M. Lobach</a>, of Durham, North Carolina, were in the helicopter.Federal investigators were working to piece together the events that led to the collision. Full investigations typically take a year or more. Investigators hope to have a preliminary report within 30 days.Wednesday’s crash was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-crashes-history-washington-ee55776ea0c5f9e322fc77ea1ea452d1">deadliest in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet slammed into a New York City neighborhood just after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board and five on the ground.Experts stress that plane travel is overwhelmingly safe, but the crowded airspace around Reagan Airport&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-airlines-5342-blackhawk-reagan-national-airport-81a43f2ba5cc59cbe9273fa593f1e9cf">can challenge even experienced pilots</a>.The NTSB said Saturday that preliminary data showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-980dcaf1acb6f80260146edbaaa9e4c1">conflicting readings</a>&nbsp;about the altitudes of the airliner and the helicopter.Investigators also said that about a second before impact, the jet’s flight recorder showed a change in its pitch. But they did not say whether that change in angle meant that pilots were trying to perform an evasive maneuver to avoid the crash.Data from the jet’s flight recorder showed its altitude as 325 feet (99 meters), plus or minus 25 feet (7.6 meters), when the crash happened, NTSB officials told reporters. Data in the control tower, though, showed the Black Hawk at 200 feet (61 meters), the maximum allowed altitude for helicopters in the area.The discrepancy has yet to be explained.Investigators said they hoped to reconcile the difference with data from the helicopter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-black-box-washington-potomac-helicopter-8e8fad6a6bd7781830144d738042eee5">black box</a>&nbsp;and planned to refine the tower data, which can be less reliable.___Christopher Weber in Los Angeles contributed reporting.

NTSB releases new photos of mid-air crash recovery efforts

WASHINGTON (AP) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that after a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump that the planned tariffs are on hold for a month, a statement confirmed by the White House.

“Mexico will reinforce the northern border with 10,000 members of the National Guard immediately, to stop drug trafficking from Mexico to the United States, in particular fentanyl,” Sheinbaum posted on X. “The United States commits to work to stop the trafficking of high powered weapons to Mexico.”

The Mexican president added that the two countries would continue talks on security and trade and that “the tariffs are put on pause for a month from now.”

The pause added to the drama as Trump’s tariffs against Canada and China are still slated to go into effect on Tuesday. Uncertainty remains about the durability of any deals and whether the tariffs are a harbinger of a broader trade war as Trump has promised more import taxes to come.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump</a>&nbsp;posted on social media that he spoke Monday morning with Canadian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/justin-trudeau">Justin Trudeau</a>&nbsp;and would “be speaking to him again at 3:00 P.M.” Both Canada and Mexico had plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-retaliation-trudeau-sheinbaum-70e067b092a3af72c2eb7ca37d532c91">levy their own tariffs</a>&nbsp;in response to U.S. actions, but Mexico is holding off for the moment.

Trump used his Monday social media post to repeat his complaints that Canada has been uncooperative, despite decades of friendship and partnerships that range from World War II to the response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States.

“Canada doesn’t even allow U.S. Banks to open or do business there,” Trump posted. “What’s that all about? Many such things, but it’s also a DRUG WAR, and hundreds of thousands of people have died in the U.S. from drugs pouring through the Borders of Mexico and Canada.”

Financial markets, businesses and consumers are trying to prepare for the possibility of the new tariffs. Stock market indices opened with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-market-trump-tariffs-5f365936ea9bdf45a0460556f3a5f4e8">a modest selloff</a>, suggesting some hope that the import taxes that could push up inflation and disrupt global trade and growth would be short-lived.

But the outlook reflected a deep uncertainty about a Republican president who has talked with adoration about tariffs, even saying the U.S. government made a mistake in 1913 by switching to income taxes as its primary revenue source. Trump said Sunday the tariffs would lift if Canada and Mexico did more to crack down on illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling, though there are no clear benchmarks. Trump also said the U.S. can no longer run a trade imbalance with its two largest trade partners.

Mexico is facing a 25% tariff, while Canada would be charged 25% on its imports to the United States and 10% on its energy products. China is facing a 10% additional tariff due to its role in the making and selling of fentanyl, the Trump White House said.

Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, said Monday that it was misleading to characterize the showdown as a trade war despite the planned retaliations and risk of escalation.

“Read the executive order where President Trump was absolutely, 100% clear that this is not a trade war,” Hassett said. “This is a drug war.”

But even if the orders are focused on illegal drugs, Trump’s own remarks have often been more about his perceived sense that foreign countries are ripping off the United States by running trade surpluses. On Sunday, Trump said that tariffs would be coming soon on countries in the European Union. He has discussed tariffs as both a diplomatic tool on national security issues, a way to raise revenues and a vehicle for renegotiating existing trade pacts.

Multiple economists outside the administration have warned that the tariffs would push up prices and hamper growth, with Trump himself saying there would be some short term pain after having campaigned last year on the promise that he could tame inflation.

Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at the consultancy RSM, said the United States was unlikely to fall into a recession this year, but the tariffs would hurt growth and push up the cost of government borrowing, which would potentially keep the interest rates charged on mortgages and auto loans elevated.

“If there is no resolution, the impact on the U.S. economy will be significant,” he said. “Growth will slow notably from the 2.9% average over the past three years as inflation and interest rates rise. The yield on the 10-year Treasury, currently around 4.5%, could climb to a range between 4.75% and 5%.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738598650321.png" alt="Mexican Claudia Sheinbaum during a Monday news conference- courtesy image from the online video" />
 <figcaption>Mexican Claudia Sheinbaum during a Monday news conference- courtesy image from the online video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that after a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump that the planned tariffs are on hold for a month, a statement confirmed by the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> on his call with the President of Mexico “President Sheinbaum…I like her very much, but we have to stop fentanyl from coming in, whether I like somebody or not.” A President for the American People! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/oZR7dd7x5z">pic.twitter.com/oZR7dd7x5z</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1886484168453816435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/10LlQayKyD">pic.twitter.com/10LlQayKyD</a>&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1886441086203158844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Mexico will reinforce the northern border with 10,000 members of the National Guard immediately, to stop drug trafficking from Mexico to the United States, in particular fentanyl,” Sheinbaum posted on X. “The United States commits to work to stop the trafficking of high powered weapons to Mexico.”The Mexican president added that the two countries would continue talks on security and trade and that “the tariffs are put on pause for a month from now.”The pause added to the drama as Trump’s tariffs against Canada and China are still slated to go into effect on Tuesday. Uncertainty remains about the durability of any deals and whether the tariffs are a harbinger of a broader trade war as Trump has promised more import taxes to come.<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump</a>&nbsp;posted on social media that he spoke Monday morning with Canadian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/justin-trudeau">Justin Trudeau</a>&nbsp;and would “be speaking to him again at 3:00 P.M.” Both Canada and Mexico had plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-retaliation-trudeau-sheinbaum-70e067b092a3af72c2eb7ca37d532c91">levy their own tariffs</a>&nbsp;in response to U.S. actions, but Mexico is holding off for the moment.Trump used his Monday social media post to repeat his complaints that Canada has been uncooperative, despite decades of friendship and partnerships that range from World War II to the response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States.“Canada doesn’t even allow U.S. Banks to open or do business there,” Trump posted. “What’s that all about? Many such things, but it’s also a DRUG WAR, and hundreds of thousands of people have died in the U.S. from drugs pouring through the Borders of Mexico and Canada.”Financial markets, businesses and consumers are trying to prepare for the possibility of the new tariffs. Stock market indices opened with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-market-trump-tariffs-5f365936ea9bdf45a0460556f3a5f4e8">a modest selloff</a>, suggesting some hope that the import taxes that could push up inflation and disrupt global trade and growth would be short-lived.But the outlook reflected a deep uncertainty about a Republican president who has talked with adoration about tariffs, even saying the U.S. government made a mistake in 1913 by switching to income taxes as its primary revenue source. Trump said Sunday the tariffs would lift if Canada and Mexico did more to crack down on illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling, though there are no clear benchmarks. Trump also said the U.S. can no longer run a trade imbalance with its two largest trade partners.Mexico is facing a 25% tariff, while Canada would be charged 25% on its imports to the United States and 10% on its energy products. China is facing a 10% additional tariff due to its role in the making and selling of fentanyl, the Trump White House said.Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, said Monday that it was misleading to characterize the showdown as a trade war despite the planned retaliations and risk of escalation.“Read the executive order where President Trump was absolutely, 100% clear that this is not a trade war,” Hassett said. “This is a drug war.”But even if the orders are focused on illegal drugs, Trump’s own remarks have often been more about his perceived sense that foreign countries are ripping off the United States by running trade surpluses. On Sunday, Trump said that tariffs would be coming soon on countries in the European Union. He has discussed tariffs as both a diplomatic tool on national security issues, a way to raise revenues and a vehicle for renegotiating existing trade pacts.Multiple economists outside the administration have warned that the tariffs would push up prices and hamper growth, with Trump himself saying there would be some short term pain after having campaigned last year on the promise that he could tame inflation.Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at the consultancy RSM, said the United States was unlikely to fall into a recession this year, but the tariffs would hurt growth and push up the cost of government borrowing, which would potentially keep the interest rates charged on mortgages and auto loans elevated.“If there is no resolution, the impact on the U.S. economy will be significant,” he said. “Growth will slow notably from the 2.9% average over the past three years as inflation and interest rates rise. The yield on the 10-year Treasury, currently around 4.5%, could climb to a range between 4.75% and 5%.”

Trump wins concession, agrees to pause tariffs on Mexico

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — A baby food maker is recalling edible sticks meant to ease teething pain over a possible choking hazard.

Gerber announced Friday that it was recalling and discontinuing its brand of “Sooth N Chew” teething sticks after receiving customer complaints about choking. The company said one emergency room visit had been reported.

The teething sticks are edible teethers marketed to parents and guardians of children six months and older. They come in strawberry-apple and banana flavors.

Gerber said it was working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on the recall.

Customers who bought the teething sticks should return them to stores where they were purchased for a refund, the company said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738595746534.png" alt="Image FDA" />
 <figcaption>Image FDA</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — A baby food maker is recalling edible sticks meant to ease teething pain over a possible choking hazard.Gerber announced Friday that it was recalling and discontinuing its brand of “Sooth N Chew” teething sticks after receiving customer complaints about choking. The company said one emergency room visit had been reported.The teething sticks are edible teethers marketed to parents and guardians of children six months and older. They come in strawberry-apple and banana flavors.Gerber said it was working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on the recall.Customers who bought the teething sticks should return them to stores where they were purchased for a refund, the company said.

Gerber recalls baby teething sticks over possible choking hazard

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A a trial is scheduled to begin Monday for a Kansas man accused in the death of a toddler at a Wichita apartment complex last year..

K’Veion Richard, 25, Wichita, is scheduled to face a jury in Judge Jeff Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's offie.

Richard, 21-year-old Jonathan Tillery-Matthias and a 17-year-old, all of Wichita were charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and criminal discharge of a firearm, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 7p.m. February 19, police responded to a shooting in the 2500 block of South Oliver, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses. Through the investigation, officers learned that two woman were struck by gunfire and 1-year-old Taidyn Anderson was also struck by gunfire and died of his injuries.

Investigators with the WPD homicide section have been diligently working this case since the shooting occurred. That work has included follow-up on leads, utilizing technology and executing search warrants. Through the investigation, three suspects were identified.

Three days later, the Wichita arrested&nbsp;Richard,&nbsp;Tillery-Matthias&nbsp;and the teen.

At the time of the crime,<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=232072">&nbsp;Richard&nbsp;</a>was on Parole for Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault x2, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

Police believe that this was a targeted event which led to the death of the child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708650349815.png" alt="Richard photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Richard photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A a trial is scheduled to begin Monday for a Kansas man accused in the death of a toddler at a Wichita apartment complex last year..K’Veion Richard, 25, Wichita, is scheduled to face a jury in Judge Jeff Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's offie.Richard, 21-year-old Jonathan Tillery-Matthias and a 17-year-old, all of Wichita were charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and criminal discharge of a firearm, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 7p.m. February 19, police responded to a shooting in the 2500 block of South Oliver, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses. Through the investigation, officers learned that two woman were struck by gunfire and 1-year-old Taidyn Anderson was also struck by gunfire and died of his injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708454643255.png" alt="Police on the scene of the February 2024 shooting investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the February 2024 shooting investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators with the WPD homicide section have been diligently working this case since the shooting occurred. That work has included follow-up on leads, utilizing technology and executing search warrants. Through the investigation, three suspects were identified.Three days later, the Wichita arrested&nbsp;Richard,&nbsp;Tillery-Matthias&nbsp;and the teen.At the time of the crime,<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=232072">&nbsp;Richard&nbsp;</a>was on Parole for Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault x2, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.Police believe that this was a targeted event which led to the death of the child.

Trial  to begin for Kansas man in death of toddler

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a triple-homicide at a Kansas City home have identified the victims and made an arrest.

According to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina the victims are 73-year-old Sherri Duncan; 49-year-old Jodie Hopcus and 24-year-old Hailey Hopcus.

Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4100 block of NW 65th Street, according to Becchina.

First responders were directed to a residence there. Inside that home officers located the three shooting victims unresponsive.

Officers summoned EMS who declared all three deceased at the scene.

Detectives and crime scene personnel processed the scene for evidence, canvassed for witnesses and identified a person of interest. Late Sunday police reported the person of interest in custody.&nbsp;Detectives will be working with prosecutors to present investigative findings for determination of applicable charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738545218577.png" alt="Police on the scene of the homicide investigation-Photo KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the homicide investigation-Photo KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a triple-homicide at a Kansas City home have identified the victims and made an arrest.According to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina the victims are 73-year-old Sherri Duncan; 49-year-old Jodie Hopcus and 24-year-old Hailey Hopcus.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4100 block of NW 65th Street, according to Becchina.First responders were directed to a residence there. Inside that home officers located the three shooting victims unresponsive.Officers summoned EMS who declared all three deceased at the scene.Detectives and crime scene personnel processed the scene for evidence, canvassed for witnesses and identified a person of interest. Late Sunday police reported the person of interest in custody.&nbsp;Detectives will be working with prosecutors to present investigative findings for determination of applicable charges.

Homicide: Police ID 3 women found dead in Kansas City home

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement and school district officials investigating an alleged school threat have made an arrest.

On Saturday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office has become aware of a threat made on social media against the USD 421 Lyndon School District, which was posted on social media, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

During the course of the investigation, a suspect was identified and taken into custody&nbsp;

The sheriff's office assured the public that law enforcement and the school district take all threats very seriously. The sheriff's office is&nbsp; working closely with the school district to ensure a thorough investigation.

According to a statement from the school district, "We were made aware of the threat through some vigilant parents who reported the threat to us and reported the threat to the Osage County Sheriff."&nbsp; 

"The sheriff’s department immediately began to investigate the threat and by Saturday evening they had tracked down a suspect and made an arrest." The district is in school on a regular schedule on Monday. They will have some additional law enforcement at the schools and will be extra vigilant in safety measures. The district will also have additional counselors at the school Monday in case any students or staff may need their help. We will continue to communicate as needed. Please call your child’s school if you have questions.

"We do not believe there is any immediate danger at this time, but we ask the public to remain vigilant and report any relevant information to the Osage County Sheriff’s Office."

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement and school district officials investigating an alleged school threat have made an arrest.On Saturday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office has become aware of a threat made on social media against the USD 421 Lyndon School District, which was posted on social media, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.During the course of the investigation, a suspect was identified and taken into custody&nbsp;The sheriff's office assured the public that law enforcement and the school district take all threats very seriously. The sheriff's office is&nbsp; working closely with the school district to ensure a thorough investigation.According to a statement from the school district, "We were made aware of the threat through some vigilant parents who reported the threat to us and reported the threat to the Osage County Sheriff."&nbsp; "The sheriff’s department immediately began to investigate the threat and by Saturday evening they had tracked down a suspect and made an arrest." The district is in school on a regular schedule on Monday. They will have some additional law enforcement at the schools and will be extra vigilant in safety measures. The district will also have additional counselors at the school Monday in case any students or staff may need their help. We will continue to communicate as needed. Please call your child’s school if you have questions."We do not believe there is any immediate danger at this time, but we ask the public to remain vigilant and report any relevant information to the Osage County Sheriff’s Office."

Sheriff: Suspect in custody for threat against Kan. school district

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Families of victims of the deadliest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/dc-air-crash-army-helicopters-black-box-recovered-00000194c595d16ba9fec7bfa3b30000">U.S. air disaster</a>&nbsp;since 2001 visited the crash site on Sunday and divers scoured the submerged wreckage for more remains after authorities said they've recovered and identified 55 of the 67 people killed.

Washington, D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said officials are confident all will be found. Divers are working diligently to locate remains as crews prepare to lift wreckage from the chilly Potomac River as early as Monday morning, Donnelly said at a news conference.

Col. Francis B. Pera of the Army Corps of Engineers said divers and salvage workers are adhering to strict protocols and will stop moving debris if a body is found. The “dignified recovery” of remains takes precedence over all else, he said.

“Reuniting those lost in this tragic incident is really what keeps us all going,” Pera said. “We’ve got teams that have been working this effort since the beginning, and we’re committed to making this happen.”

Divers have high-definition cameras with feeds monitored on support boats, Pera said, putting “four or five sets of eyes” inside of the wreckage. Owing to the frigid conditions, one diver was treated at a hospital for hypothermia, Donnelly said.

Portions of the two aircraft that collided over the river Wednesday night near Reagan Washington National Airport — an American Airlines jet with 64 people aboard and an Army Black Hawk helicopter with 3 aboard — will be loaded onto flatbed trucks and taken to a hangar for investigation.

Family members were taken in buses with a police escort to the Potomac River bank near where the two aircraft came to rest after colliding. The jet, en route from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-wichita-kansas-a14e1e2acde7a058afa0b4fd3422313f">Wichita, Kansas</a>, was about to land. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-collision-black-hawk-bombardier-potomac-2b151f42ba09602bade7b82abe8b995f">Black Hawk</a>&nbsp;was on a training mission. There were no survivors.

Federal investigators were working to piece together the events that led to the collision.

The National Transportation Safety Board didn't hold a press briefing on Sunday, but did release a photograph showing investigators on a small boat looking at wreckage and another of them examining a flight data recorder.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he wanted to give investigators space to conduct their inquiry. But he posed a range of questions on Sunday morning TV news programs.

“What was happening inside the towers? Were they understaffed? … The position of the Black Hawk, the elevation of the Black Hawk, were the pilots of the Black Hawk wearing night vision goggles?” Duffy asked on CNN.

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland; and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dc-crash-helicopter-airliner-army-pilot-50b3e82d8ec3713cc4ae1ac3a327104c">Capt. Rebecca M. Lobach</a>, of Durham, North Carolina, were in the helicopter.

The plane’s passengers included figure skaters returning from the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita and a group of hunters returning from a guided trip.

“This is a complex investigation,” investigator in charge Brice Banning said. “There are a lot of pieces here."

Banning said the jet’s cockpit voice recorder captured sound moments before the crash.

“The crew had a verbal reaction,” Banning said, and the flight data recorder showed “the airplane beginning to increase its pitch. Sounds of impact were audible about one second later, followed by the end of the recording.”

Full investigations typically take a year or more. Investigators hope to have a preliminary report within 30 days.

NTSB member Todd Inman said he has spent hours meeting with victims’ families.

“Some wanted to give us hugs. Some are just mad and angry,” Inman said. “They are just all hurt. And they still want answers, and we want to give them answers.”

More than 300 responders were taking part in the recovery effort at a given time, officials said. Two Navy barges were also deployed to lift heavy wreckage.

On Fox News Sunday, Duffy said the Federal Aviation Administration was looking into staffing in the Reagan Airport control tower.

Investigators said there were five controllers on duty at the time of the crash: a local controller, ground controller, assistant controller, a supervisor and supervisor in training.

According to an FAA report obtained by The Associated Press, one controller was responsible for helicopter and plane traffic. Those duties are often divided between two people but the airport typically combines them at 9:30 p.m., as traffic slows. On Wednesday, the supervisor combined them earlier, which the report called “not normal.”

“Staffing shortages for air traffic control has been a major problem for years and years,” Duffy said, promising that President Donald Trump’s administration would address shortages with “bright, smart, brilliant people in towers controlling airspace.”

With the nation already grieving, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/philadelphia-plane-crash-medical-transport-8617dab53471190832dd73db149489fa">air ambulance crashed</a>&nbsp;in Philadelphia on Friday, killing all six people on board, including a child returning home to Mexico from treatment, and at least one on the ground.

Also Friday, the FAA heavily restricted helicopter traffic around Reagan Airport, hours after Trump wrote on social media that the helicopter had been flying higher than allowed.

Experts stress that plane travel is overwhelmingly safe, but the crowded airspace around Reagan Airport&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-airlines-5342-blackhawk-reagan-national-airport-81a43f2ba5cc59cbe9273fa593f1e9cf">can challenge even experienced pilots</a>. __

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738545014463.png" alt="Photo U.S. Coast Guard" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Coast Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Families of victims of the deadliest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/dc-air-crash-army-helicopters-black-box-recovered-00000194c595d16ba9fec7bfa3b30000">U.S. air disaster</a>&nbsp;since 2001 visited the crash site on Sunday and divers scoured the submerged wreckage for more remains after authorities said they've recovered and identified 55 of the 67 people killed.Washington, D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said officials are confident all will be found. Divers are working diligently to locate remains as crews prepare to lift wreckage from the chilly Potomac River as early as Monday morning, Donnelly said at a news conference.Col. Francis B. Pera of the Army Corps of Engineers said divers and salvage workers are adhering to strict protocols and will stop moving debris if a body is found. The “dignified recovery” of remains takes precedence over all else, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738545032561.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Reuniting those lost in this tragic incident is really what keeps us all going,” Pera said. “We’ve got teams that have been working this effort since the beginning, and we’re committed to making this happen.”Divers have high-definition cameras with feeds monitored on support boats, Pera said, putting “four or five sets of eyes” inside of the wreckage. Owing to the frigid conditions, one diver was treated at a hospital for hypothermia, Donnelly said.Portions of the two aircraft that collided over the river Wednesday night near Reagan Washington National Airport — an American Airlines jet with 64 people aboard and an Army Black Hawk helicopter with 3 aboard — will be loaded onto flatbed trucks and taken to a hangar for investigation.Family members were taken in buses with a police escort to the Potomac River bank near where the two aircraft came to rest after colliding. The jet, en route from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-wichita-kansas-a14e1e2acde7a058afa0b4fd3422313f">Wichita, Kansas</a>, was about to land. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-collision-black-hawk-bombardier-potomac-2b151f42ba09602bade7b82abe8b995f">Black Hawk</a>&nbsp;was on a training mission. There were no survivors.Federal investigators were working to piece together the events that led to the collision.The National Transportation Safety Board didn't hold a press briefing on Sunday, but did release a photograph showing investigators on a small boat looking at wreckage and another of them examining a flight data recorder.Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he wanted to give investigators space to conduct their inquiry. But he posed a range of questions on Sunday morning TV news programs.“What was happening inside the towers? Were they understaffed? … The position of the Black Hawk, the elevation of the Black Hawk, were the pilots of the Black Hawk wearing night vision goggles?” Duffy asked on CNN.Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland; and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dc-crash-helicopter-airliner-army-pilot-50b3e82d8ec3713cc4ae1ac3a327104c">Capt. Rebecca M. Lobach</a>, of Durham, North Carolina, were in the helicopter.The plane’s passengers included figure skaters returning from the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita and a group of hunters returning from a guided trip.The NTSB said Saturday that preliminary data showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-plane-crash-helicopter-recovery-980dcaf1acb6f80260146edbaaa9e4c1">conflicting readings</a>&nbsp;about the altitudes of the airliner and the helicopter.Investigators also said that about a second before impact, the jet’s flight recorder showed a change in its pitch. But they did not say whether that change in angle meant that pilots were trying to perform an evasive maneuver to avoid the crash.Data from the jet’s flight recorder showed its altitude as 325 feet (99 meters), plus or minus 25 feet (7.6 meters), when the crash happened, NTSB officials told reporters. Data in the control tower, though, showed the Black Hawk at 200 feet (61 meters), the maximum allowed altitude for helicopters in the area.The discrepancy has yet to be explained.Investigators said they hoped to reconcile the difference with data from the helicopter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-black-box-washington-potomac-helicopter-8e8fad6a6bd7781830144d738042eee5">black box</a>&nbsp;and planned to refine the tower data, which can be less reliable.“This is a complex investigation,” investigator in charge Brice Banning said. “There are a lot of pieces here."Banning said the jet’s cockpit voice recorder captured sound moments before the crash.“The crew had a verbal reaction,” Banning said, and the flight data recorder showed “the airplane beginning to increase its pitch. Sounds of impact were audible about one second later, followed by the end of the recording.”Full investigations typically take a year or more. Investigators hope to have a preliminary report within 30 days.NTSB member Todd Inman said he has spent hours meeting with victims’ families.“Some wanted to give us hugs. Some are just mad and angry,” Inman said. “They are just all hurt. And they still want answers, and we want to give them answers.”More than 300 responders were taking part in the recovery effort at a given time, officials said. Two Navy barges were also deployed to lift heavy wreckage.On Fox News Sunday, Duffy said the Federal Aviation Administration was looking into staffing in the Reagan Airport control tower.Investigators said there were five controllers on duty at the time of the crash: a local controller, ground controller, assistant controller, a supervisor and supervisor in training.According to an FAA report obtained by The Associated Press, one controller was responsible for helicopter and plane traffic. Those duties are often divided between two people but the airport typically combines them at 9:30 p.m., as traffic slows. On Wednesday, the supervisor combined them earlier, which the report called “not normal.”“Staffing shortages for air traffic control has been a major problem for years and years,” Duffy said, promising that President Donald Trump’s administration would address shortages with “bright, smart, brilliant people in towers controlling airspace.”With the nation already grieving, an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/philadelphia-plane-crash-medical-transport-8617dab53471190832dd73db149489fa">air ambulance crashed</a>&nbsp;in Philadelphia on Friday, killing all six people on board, including a child returning home to Mexico from treatment, and at least one on the ground.Also Friday, the FAA heavily restricted helicopter traffic around Reagan Airport, hours after Trump wrote on social media that the helicopter had been flying higher than allowed.Wednesday’s crash was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-crashes-history-washington-ee55776ea0c5f9e322fc77ea1ea452d1">deadliest in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet slammed into a New York City neighborhood just after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board and five on the ground.Experts stress that plane travel is overwhelmingly safe, but the crowded airspace around Reagan Airport&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-airlines-5342-blackhawk-reagan-national-airport-81a43f2ba5cc59cbe9273fa593f1e9cf">can challenge even experienced pilots</a>. __Christopher Weber in Los Angeles contributed reporting.

Officials: Remains of 55 victims of midair collision recovered and identified

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire at a church in Kansas City.

Just before 2:30a.m. Saturday, crews responded to a reported building fire in the 2400 block of Chestnut in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. 

On arrival crews reported smoke and fire showing from what was believed to be a vacant church and initiated interior operations using two handlines.&nbsp; The fire was brought under control quickly. During the search of the structure a fatality victim was discovered. KCPD Bomb and Arson along with their Detective and Crime scene investigative unit was called to the scene. 

Kansas City Police are investigating the cause of the fire and the cause of death.

Bomb and Arson were initially called due to the type of structure, a church as standard protocol. Police have not released any addition details.

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire at a church in Kansas City.Just before 2:30a.m. Saturday, crews responded to a reported building fire in the 2400 block of Chestnut in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. On arrival crews reported smoke and fire showing from what was believed to be a vacant church and initiated interior operations using two handlines.&nbsp; The fire was brought under control quickly. During the search of the structure a fatality victim was discovered. KCPD Bomb and Arson along with their Detective and Crime scene investigative unit was called to the scene. Kansas City Police are investigating the cause of the fire and the cause of death.Bomb and Arson were initially called due to the type of structure, a church as standard protocol. Police have not released any addition details.

Body found in Kansas City church after fire

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

On&nbsp;January 27, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1000 Block of SW Boswell Avenue in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, firearms and drug paraphernalia. As a result, Steven Harrison, 54, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include Distribution of fentanyl within 1000 ft of a school, kDistribution of methamphetamine within 1000 ft of a school, Distribution or possession with intent of drug paraphernalia within 1000 ft of a school, Possession of marijuana, Drug Tax Stamp and Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738166674219.png" alt="Harrison photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Harrison photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on drug allegations.On&nbsp;January 27, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1000 Block of SW Boswell Avenue in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, firearms and drug paraphernalia. As a result, Steven Harrison, 54, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include Distribution of fentanyl within 1000 ft of a school, kDistribution of methamphetamine within 1000 ft of a school, Distribution or possession with intent of drug paraphernalia within 1000 ft of a school, Possession of marijuana, Drug Tax Stamp and Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.