SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday in Sedgwick County.

According to Sedgwick County Lt. Nathan Gibbs, a 2005 Subaru driven by 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Alsidez of Derby was northbound in the&nbsp;4100 S Rock.

The vehicle left the roadway and truck a tree row. 

The family located him using his phone location. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The cause of the crash is under investigation, according to Gibbs.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday in Sedgwick County.According to Sedgwick County Lt. Nathan Gibbs, a 2005 Subaru driven by 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Alsidez of Derby was northbound in the&nbsp;4100 S Rock.The vehicle left the roadway and truck a tree row. The family located him using his phone location. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The cause of the crash is under investigation, according to Gibbs.

Fatal crash: Kan. family used phone location to find teen

RENO COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas home invasion robbery and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 10:35 a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to report of an armed robbery the 1000 block of North Main Street in Hutchinson, according to Hutchinson Police.

&nbsp;An 82-year-old woman reported hearing someone rattling the back door of her residence.&nbsp; Moments later she walked out of her house and confronted an unknown white male suspect in her yard.&nbsp;

The suspect displayed what she believed was a large knife, verbally threatened her,&nbsp;and demanded she give him money.&nbsp; The victim was able to make her way to&nbsp;a nearby business to contact police and seek shelter.&nbsp;

The suspect, later identified as 35-year-old Preston L. Lewis, briefly entered the business as well, where he caused a verbal disturbance with employees.

Officers made contact with Lewis at the business. He was uncooperative and battered one of the officers while being taken into custody.&nbsp;

Lewis is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated Robbery, Battery LEO, Aggravated Criminal Threat, Interference with Law Enforcement, two counts of Disorderly Conduct, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for criminal threat and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections

No injuries were reported by any of the victims.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684967281448.png" alt="Lewis has previous convictions for criminal threat and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Lewis has previous convictions for criminal threat and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas home invasion robbery and have a suspect in custody.Just after 10:35 a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to report of an armed robbery the 1000 block of North Main Street in Hutchinson, according to Hutchinson Police.&nbsp;An 82-year-old woman reported hearing someone rattling the back door of her residence.&nbsp; Moments later she walked out of her house and confronted an unknown white male suspect in her yard.&nbsp;The suspect displayed what she believed was a large knife, verbally threatened her,&nbsp;and demanded she give him money.&nbsp; The victim was able to make her way to&nbsp;a nearby business to contact police and seek shelter.&nbsp;The suspect, later identified as 35-year-old Preston L. Lewis, briefly entered the business as well, where he caused a verbal disturbance with employees.Officers made contact with Lewis at the business. He was uncooperative and battered one of the officers while being taken into custody.&nbsp;Lewis is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated Robbery, Battery LEO, Aggravated Criminal Threat, Interference with Law Enforcement, two counts of Disorderly Conduct, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for criminal threat and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of CorrectionsNo injuries were reported by any of the victims.

Home invasion: Kan. felon threatened 82-year-old with knife

MIAMI COUNTY, Kansas —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged sex crimes and have a suspect in custody.

On May 15, police in Paola received information that an alleged rape occurred in 2022 along with other alleged sex assault allegations prior to that incident, according to Captain Eric Jenkins with the Paola Police Department.

Police identified the suspect as 47-year-old Chad Kelsey of Paola, a track coach with Paola USD 368.&nbsp; The victim was a juvenile during a portion of the incidents. Police have also identified a second victim.

Just before 9a.m. Wednesday, police took Kelsey into custody and executed a search warrant at his residence in the 500 Block of East Peoria Street in Paola. He is being held on requested charges of rape; aggravated indecent liberties with a child; unlawful sexual relations and furnishing alcohol to a minor.

In a message to parents, USD 368 said, "The school district has&nbsp;been notified that a Paola High School rule 10 track coach, Chad Kelsey, was taken into custody earlier today by the Paola Police Department for serious allegations."&nbsp;

 “At this time, we are unaware of any allegations of misconduct as part of any school-related activities or on district property. Mr. Kelsey’s position has been terminated. We take these allegations seriously and are cooperating with law enforcement and ask if you or your child have any information or questions to contact the Paola Police Department at 913-259-3631.”

The Miami County Attorney is to review charges in the case, according to Jenkins. There is no information on additional victims but grooming type behavior was involved in this case. Police encourage other victims to come forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684960227843.png" alt="Kelsey-photo Miami Co." />
 <figcaption>Kelsey-photo Miami Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY, Kansas —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged sex crimes and have a suspect in custody.On May 15, police in Paola received information that an alleged rape occurred in 2022 along with other alleged sex assault allegations prior to that incident, according to Captain Eric Jenkins with the Paola Police Department.Police identified the suspect as 47-year-old Chad Kelsey of Paola, a track coach with Paola USD 368.&nbsp; The victim was a juvenile during a portion of the incidents. Police have also identified a second victim.Just before 9a.m. Wednesday, police took Kelsey into custody and executed a search warrant at his residence in the 500 Block of East Peoria Street in Paola. He is being held on requested charges of rape; aggravated indecent liberties with a child; unlawful sexual relations and furnishing alcohol to a minor.In a message to parents, USD 368 said, "The school district has&nbsp;been notified that a Paola High School rule 10 track coach, Chad Kelsey, was taken into custody earlier today by the Paola Police Department for serious allegations."&nbsp; “At this time, we are unaware of any allegations of misconduct as part of any school-related activities or on district property. Mr. Kelsey’s position has been terminated. We take these allegations seriously and are cooperating with law enforcement and ask if you or your child have any information or questions to contact the Paola Police Department at 913-259-3631.”The Miami County Attorney is to review charges in the case, according to Jenkins. There is no information on additional victims but grooming type behavior was involved in this case. Police encourage other victims to come forward.

Kansas high school track coach accused of sex crimes

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Yellowstone National Park officials killed a newborn bison because its herd wouldn’t take the animal back after a man picked it up.

The calf became separated from its mother when the herd crossed the Lamar River in northeastern Yellowstone on Saturday. The unidentified man pushed the struggling calf up from the river and onto a roadway, park officials said in a statement Tuesday.

Park rangers tried repeatedly to reunite the calf with the herd but were unsuccessful. Visitors saw the calf walking up to and following cars and people, creating a hazard, so park staff killed the animal, according to the statement.

It's the latest example of Yellowstone visitors getting in trouble or hurt after approaching bison. Park officials euthanized a newborn bison after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/69afa4054d7d49e3aea394481d910de6">similar incident</a>&nbsp;in 2016, when a Canadian man and his son put the calf in their SUV, thinking they could rescue it.

The man pleaded guilty. He was fined $235 and ordered to pay $500 to the Yellowstone Park Foundation Wildlife Protection Fund.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-pennsylvania-wyoming-parks-national-2698e8b6d2bb539b51a960f9dad937e3">Bison have gored</a>&nbsp;several people in Yellowstone in recent years, often after they got too close to the animals.

Many of Yellowstone’s larger animals — including bison, which can run up to 35 mph (55 kilometers per hour) and weigh up to 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms) — are deceptively dangerous, even when they’re just grazing or resting.

Park rules require visitors to keep at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from wildlife including bison, elk and deer, and at least 100 yards (91 meters) away from bears and wolves.

Park officials are investigating the bison calf incident. The suspect was a white male in his 40s or 50s who was wearing a blue shirt and black pants, the statement said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684950698713.png" alt="It's the latest example of Yellowstone visitors getting in trouble or hurt after approaching bison. photo by Helen Jack courtesy National Park Service" />
 <figcaption>It's the latest example of Yellowstone visitors getting in trouble or hurt after approaching bison. photo by Helen Jack courtesy National Park Service</figcaption>
 </figure>YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Yellowstone National Park officials killed a newborn bison because its herd wouldn’t take the animal back after a man picked it up.The calf became separated from its mother when the herd crossed the Lamar River in northeastern Yellowstone on Saturday. The unidentified man pushed the struggling calf up from the river and onto a roadway, park officials said in a statement Tuesday.Park rangers tried repeatedly to reunite the calf with the herd but were unsuccessful. Visitors saw the calf walking up to and following cars and people, creating a hazard, so park staff killed the animal, according to the statement.It's the latest example of Yellowstone visitors getting in trouble or hurt after approaching bison. Park officials euthanized a newborn bison after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/69afa4054d7d49e3aea394481d910de6">similar incident</a>&nbsp;in 2016, when a Canadian man and his son put the calf in their SUV, thinking they could rescue it.The man pleaded guilty. He was fined $235 and ordered to pay $500 to the Yellowstone Park Foundation Wildlife Protection Fund.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-pennsylvania-wyoming-parks-national-2698e8b6d2bb539b51a960f9dad937e3">Bison have gored</a>&nbsp;several people in Yellowstone in recent years, often after they got too close to the animals.Many of Yellowstone’s larger animals — including bison, which can run up to 35 mph (55 kilometers per hour) and weigh up to 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms) — are deceptively dangerous, even when they’re just grazing or resting.Park rules require visitors to keep at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from wildlife including bison, elk and deer, and at least 100 yards (91 meters) away from bears and wolves.Park officials are investigating the bison calf incident. The suspect was a white male in his 40s or 50s who was wearing a blue shirt and black pants, the statement said.

Baby bison put to death after visitor picks it up, leading herd to reject it

MCPHERSON COUNTY— A Kansas man died in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.

A motorcycle driven by 37-year-old Michael L. Heitkotter of McPherson was southbound on 14th Street just east of Inman, according to McPherson County Sheriff Jerry Montagne.

The motorcycle struck a westbound semi that failed to yield at a stop sign.&nbsp; Heitkotter was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; The sheriff's department released no additional details.

MCPHERSON COUNTY— A Kansas man died in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.A motorcycle driven by 37-year-old Michael L. Heitkotter of McPherson was southbound on 14th Street just east of Inman, according to McPherson County Sheriff Jerry Montagne.The motorcycle struck a westbound semi that failed to yield at a stop sign.&nbsp; Heitkotter was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; The sheriff's department released no additional details.

Kansas man dies in motorcycle, semi crash

MIAMI (AP) — Florida Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-ron-desantis-eda0e666c92e071645c6f43add3fbf59">Ron DeSantis</a>&nbsp;launched his 2024 presidential campaign on Wednesday with a Twitter announcement plagued by technical glitches, stepping into a crowded Republican primary contest that will test his strength against former President Donald Trump and criticism that he's not ready for the national stage.

The 44-year-old Republican, an outspoken cultural conservative, initially announced his decision in a video posted on social media, but planned to discuss it further in a first-of-its-kind conversation with Twitter CEO Elon Musk on Twitter Spaces. But the audio stream crashed repeatedly, making it virtually impossible for most users to hear the high-profile announcement in real time.

“We need the courage to lead and the strength to win,” DeSantis said in a minute-long video posted on social media before the conversation with Musk. “I’m Ron DeSantis, and I’m running for president to lead our great American comeback.”

Despite the rocky start, DeSantis' announcement marks a new chapter in his extraordinary rise from little-known congressman to two-term governor to a leading figure in the nation’s bitter fights over race, gender, abortion and other divisive issues.

DeSantis is considered to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-ron-desantis-donald-trump-c8a3a7e58d35061f8662ead819861005">Trump’s strongest Republican rival</a>&nbsp;even as the governor faces questions about his far-right policies, his campaign-trail personality and his lack of relationships across the Republican ecosystem. Still, he has generated significant interest among GOP primary voters by casting himself as a younger and more electable version of the 76-year-old former president.

The ultimate Republican nominee is expected to face Democratic President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on the general election ballot in November 2024.

DeSantis joins a field that also includes former U.N. Ambassador&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nikki-haley-running-for-president-f28052019e8ac3846cd125b3d9614d4f">Nikki Haley</a>, Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tim-scott-2024-presidential-race-4a73e00db2295afbc4b07d1c6bb64811">Tim Scott</a>&nbsp;of South Carolina, former Arkansas Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/asa-hutchinson-president-2024-election-3a55855b1914d6e61338d1c8576a817f">Asa Hutchinson</a>&nbsp;and biotech entrepreneur&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-and-politics-united-states-government-2022-midterm-elections-ohio-e1c1cbe47763bd979b6b47557aee043d">Vivek Ramaswamy</a>. Former Vice President Mike Pence is also considered a likely presidential candidate but has not yet announced a bid.

DeSantis tried to discus his presidential candidacy for the first time in a conversation on Twitter Space with Musk, one of the world's richest men who is increasingly considered a conservative cult hero. The meeting was moderated by Republican donor David Sacks, a tech entrepreneur who is close to Musk.

The event started off with technical glitches the Twitter owner said were due to “straining” servers because so many people were trying to listen to the audio-only event.

Musk a day earlier dubbed the event a historic first for Twitter, saying it will be “the first time something like this is happening on social media.” The event was scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. EDT, but 20 minutes passed with users getting kicked off, hearing microphone feedback and other technical problems.

"This is a disaster. Not surprising,” tweeted senior Trump adviser Chris LaCivita.

Meanwhile, DeSantis and Trump have much in common.

DeSantis, who likely would not have become the Florida governor without Trump’s endorsement, has adopted the former president’s fiery personality, his populist policies and even some of his rhetoric and mannerisms.

Yet DeSantis has one thing his rival does not: a credible claim that he may be more electable than Trump, who faces multiple legal threats, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-criminal-case-manhattan-cc2dbf565678eeaf8246a96b0fd1f461">criminal charges</a>&nbsp;in New York, and who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-donald-trump-00c770068d8b82f165a9f4871eee983b">presided over Republican losses</a>&nbsp;in three consecutive national elections.

DeSantis, just six months ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-governor-race-2022-midterm-elections-4b2fe3a05668ed67119511838339110e">won his reelection</a>&nbsp;in Florida by a stunning 19 percentage points — even as Republicans in many other states struggled. He also scored several major policy victories during the Republican-controlled Legislature’s spring session.

Aware of DeSantis’ draw, Trump has been almost singularly focused on undermining his political appeal for months. Trump and his team believe that DeSantis may be Trump’s only legitimate threat for the nomination.

Hours before the announcement, Trump argued in a social media post that “Ron DeSanctus” cannot win the general election or the GOP primary because of his previous votes in Congress on Social Security and Medicare.

“He desperately needs a personality transplant and, to the best of my knowledge, they are not medically available yet," Trump added. "A disloyal person!”

Trump allies dispatched a truck outside DeSantis' planned donor meeting running an attack ad describing him as “a swamp creature." The Democratic National Committee sent another truck warning of DeSantis’ “extreme MAGA agenda.”

The kitchen-sink attacks and nicknames won’t be DeSantis’ only hurdle.

He is a political heavyweight in Florida and a regular on Fox News, but allies acknowledge that most primary voters in other states don’t know him well.

A Florida native with family roots in the Midwest, DeSantis studied at Yale University, where he played baseball. He would go on to Harvard Law School and become a Navy judge advocate general officer, a position that took him to Iraq and the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.

He ran for Congress in 2012 and won an Orlando-area district, becoming a founding member of the far-right Freedom Caucus on Capitol Hill.

Despite his lengthy resume, friends and foes alike note that DeSantis struggles to display the campaign-trail charisma and quick-on-your-feet thinking that often defines successful candidates at the national level. He has gone to great lengths to avoid unscripted public appearances and media scrutiny while governor, which is difficult, if not impossible, as a presidential contender.

In an example of his level of media avoidance, his official Twitter account for governor posted a photo shortly after the FEC filing — a bill signing surrounded by dozens of bikers for legislation to help reduce motorcycle accidents in Florida. The media was not notified of the event ahead of time.

Late Wednesday, DeSantis’ office announced that he signed a broad election law bill that contains a provision&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-president-resign-run-florida-elections-be012bb10da7b89b433bfbce4e5cfa1a">allowing him to run for president without resigning</a>&nbsp;his post as governor, exempting himself from a state rule known as “resign to run.”

Would-be supporters also worry that DeSantis has refused to invest in relationships with party leaders or fellow elected officials, raising questions about his ability to build the coalition he would ultimately need to beat Trump. By contrast, Trump has scooped up an army of endorsements in key states, including Florida.

Beyond the primary, DeSantis’ greatest longer-term challenge may rest with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-laws-2024-president-election-abortion-florida-668ae3101e3d7d7f61dd9925b419ee6e">far-right policies he enacted</a>&nbsp;as governor as an unapologetic leader in what he calls his "war on woke.”

The Florida governor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-immigration-ron-desantis-charlie-baker-4fe96d293de4b189299a372b85c95add">sent dozens of immigrants</a>&nbsp;from Texas to Martha’s Vineyard off the Massachusetts coast to draw attention to the influx of Latin American immigrants trying to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. He signed and then expanded the Parental Rights in Education bill — known by critics as the “Don’t Say Gay” law, which bans instruction or classroom discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in Florida public schools for all grades.

More recently, he signed a law banning abortions at six weeks, which is before most women realize they’re pregnant. And he removed an elected prosecutor who vowed not to charge people under Florida’s new abortion restrictions or doctors who provide gender-affirming care.

DeSantis also signed a law this year allowing Florida residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit. He pushed new measures that critics warn would weaken press freedoms. He also took control of a liberal arts college that he believed was indoctrinating students with leftist ideology.

The governor’s highest-profile political fight has come against the Florida entertainment giant Disney, which publicly opposed his “Don’t Say Gay” law. In retaliation, DeSantis seized control of Disney World’s governing body and installed loyalists who are threatening to take over park planning, among other extraordinary measures.

DeSantis has threatened to build a state prison adjacent to park property.

The dispute has drawn condemnation from business leaders and his Republican rivals, who said the moves are at odds with small-government conservatism.

DeSantis delayed his campaign announcement until Florida’s legislative session was over. But for much of the year, he has been courting primary voters in key states and using an allied super political action committee to build a large political organization that is essentially a campaign in waiting and already claims at least $30 million in the bank.

Super PAC adviser David Polyansky said Trump has made “significant strategic mistakes” on policy — especially abortion — that DeSantis' team is prepared to exploit.

And More than any of his opponents, perhaps even Trump, DeSantis is positioned to hit the ground running thanks to the super PAC’s monthslong efforts to install campaign infrastructure across Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, which will host the first four contests on the GOP’s primary calendar early next year.

In fact, the super PAC is already building out DeSantis' political operation in states that host primaries in March, signaling a very long road ahead to the Republican presidential nomination.

MIAMI (AP) — Florida Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-ron-desantis-eda0e666c92e071645c6f43add3fbf59">Ron DeSantis</a>&nbsp;entered the 2024 presidential race on Wednesday, stepping into a crowded Republican primary contest that will test both his national appeal as an outspoken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-laws-2024-president-election-abortion-florida-668ae3101e3d7d7f61dd9925b419ee6e">cultural conservative</a>&nbsp;and the GOP’s willingness to move on from former President Donald Trump.

The 44-year-old Republican revealed his decision in a Federal Election Commission filing before an online conversation with Twitter CEO Elon Musk.

It marks a new chapter in his extraordinary rise from little-known congressman to two-term governor to a leading figure in the nation’s bitter fights over race, gender, abortion and other divisive issues.

DeSantis’ audio-only announcement was to be streamed on Twitter Spaces beginning at 6 p.m. EDT, followed by appearances on conservative programs, including Fox News and Mark Levin's radio show. He also was holding a donor event at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Miami on Wednesday.

The Republican nominee is expected to face Democratic President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on the general election ballot in November 2024.

The governor’s highest-profile political fight has come against the Florida-based entertainment giant Disney, which publicly opposed his “Don’t Say Gay” law. In retaliation, DeSantis seized control of Disney World’s governing body and installed loyalists who are threatening to take over park planning, among other extraordinary measures.

DeSantis has threatened to build a state prison on park property.

More than any of his opponents, except perhaps Trump, DeSantis is positioned to hit the ground running thanks to the super PAC’s monthslong efforts to install campaign infrastructure across Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, which will host the first four contests on the GOP’s primary calendar early next year.

DeSantis gave no hint as to his plans during a meeting of the state clemency board Wednesday morning in Tallahassee, where he granted several pardons to former prisoners charged mostly with drug-related crimes decades ago.

“You are what the country needs,” one man said after getting his pardon.

A smiling DeSantis chuckled and thanked him.

🎥 DeSantis launches presidential campaign despite glitches on Twitter 

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating an alleged brief of privacy and and after asking for assistance from the public reported they have identified the suspect, according to Overland Park Police.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The suspect, whose name has not been released, was shown from security cameras and was wanted for questioning in connection with a fitting room, breach of privacy investigation at a retail store in the 12200 block of Blue Valley Parkway on April 21st 2023 at approximately 5:30pm.&nbsp; 

He used a selfie stick or similar device to take photos of a young woman in the dressing room. Investigators said someone spotted the suspect, and he left the store immediately.

The suspect was last seen driving a red 2016 or newer Honda Civic.

If you are able to identify the suspect please contact the Lead Detective at 913-344-8742 or the TIPS HOTLINE at 816-474-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684871844631.png" alt="Photos Overland Park Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Overland Park Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating an alleged brief of privacy and and after asking for assistance from the public reported they have identified the suspect, according to Overland Park Police.&nbsp; &nbsp;The suspect, whose name has not been released, was shown from security cameras and was wanted for questioning in connection with a fitting room, breach of privacy investigation at a retail store in the 12200 block of Blue Valley Parkway on April 21st 2023 at approximately 5:30pm.&nbsp; He used a selfie stick or similar device to take photos of a young woman in the dressing room. Investigators said someone spotted the suspect, and he left the store immediately.The suspect was last seen driving a red 2016 or newer Honda Civic. If you are able to identify the suspect please contact the Lead Detective at 913-344-8742 or the TIPS HOTLINE at 816-474-TIPS.

Police ID man accused of taking fitting room pics at Kan. store

(Video by Jordan Schaeffer/Eagle Communications)

ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a standoff in Hays.

Just after 8:30 a.m. Wednesday the Hays Police Department received a report of a domestic disturbance in the 2700 block of Canal Blvd, according to a media release. The suspect was identified as 25yo Austin Boettcher.

 The police department received information that Boettcher was not allowing a female and her infant child to leave the apartment. 

Officers attempted to make contact, but the occupants did not open the door.

 Officers blocked off the area and cleared adjacent apartments and proceeded to work to gain compliance from the occupants of the apartment.

 The victim, another female roommate and the infant did come to the door and were evacuated to a safe location.

 Officers learned that Boettcher had crawled up into the attic and was not coming out.&nbsp; Announcements over a loudspeaker were used to try and de-escalate the situation and gain compliance from Boettcher. 

Eventually officers had to enter the apartment and the attic to gain compliance from Boettcher. 

Boettcher was arrested on requested charges of domestic battery, interference and an outstanding Ellis County Bench Warrant for aggravated battery, domestic battery, and intimidation of a witness or victim.

 Boettcher was transported to the Ellis County Jail.&nbsp;

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/873oGoLa-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Hays standoff 052423" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>(Video by Jordan Schaeffer/Eagle Communications)ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a standoff in Hays.Just after 8:30 a.m. Wednesday the Hays Police Department received a report of a domestic disturbance in the 2700 block of Canal Blvd, according to a media release. The suspect was identified as 25yo Austin Boettcher. The police department received information that Boettcher was not allowing a female and her infant child to leave the apartment. Officers attempted to make contact, but the occupants did not open the door. Officers blocked off the area and cleared adjacent apartments and proceeded to work to gain compliance from the occupants of the apartment. The victim, another female roommate and the infant did come to the door and were evacuated to a safe location. Officers learned that Boettcher had crawled up into the attic and was not coming out.&nbsp; Announcements over a loudspeaker were used to try and de-escalate the situation and gain compliance from Boettcher. Eventually officers had to enter the apartment and the attic to gain compliance from Boettcher. Boettcher was arrested on requested charges of domestic battery, interference and an outstanding Ellis County Bench Warrant for aggravated battery, domestic battery, and intimidation of a witness or victim. Boettcher was transported to the Ellis County Jail.&nbsp;

🎥 Suspect arrested after standoff at NW Kansas home

NEW YORK (AP) — Tina Turner, the unstoppable singer and stage performer who teamed with husband Ike Turner for a dynamic run of hit records and live shows in the 1960s and ‘70s and survived her horrifying marriage to triumph in middle age with the chart-topping "What's Love Got to Do With It," has died at 83.

Turner died Tuesday, after a long illness in her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, according to her manager. She became a Swiss citizen a decade ago.

Few stars traveled so far — she was born Anna Mae Bullock in a segregated Tennessee hospital and spent her latter years on a 260,000 square foot estate on Lake Zurich — and overcame so much. Physically battered, emotionally devastated and financially ruined by her 20-year relationship with Ike Turner, she became a superstar on her own in her 40s, at a time when most of her peers were on their way down, and remained a top concert draw for years after.

With admirers ranging from Beyoncé to Mick Jagger, Turner was one of the world's most successful entertainers, known for a core of pop, rock and rhythm and blues favorites: "Proud Mary," "Nutbush City Limits," "River Deep, Mountain High," and the hits she had in the '80s, among them "What's Love Got to Do with It," "We Don't Need Another Hero" and a cover of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together."

Her trademarks were her growling contralto, her bold smile and strong cheekbones, her palette of wigs and the muscular, quick-stepping legs she did not shy from showing off. She sold more than 150 million records worldwide, won 12 Grammys, was voted along with Ike into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 (and on her own in 2021) and was honored at the Kennedy Center in 2005, with Beyoncé and Oprah Winfrey among those praising her. Her life became the basis for a film, a Broadway musical and an HBO documentary in 2021 that she called her public farewell.

Until she left her husband and revealed their back story, she was known as the voracious on-stage foil of the steady-going Ike, the leading lady of the “Ike and Tina Turner Revue.” Ike was billed first and ran the show, choosing the material, the arrangements, the backing singers. They toured constantly for years, in part because Ike was often short on money and unwilling to miss a concert. Tina Turner was forced to go on with bronchitis, with pneumonia, with a collapsed right lung.

Other times, the cause of her misfortunes was Ike himself.

As she recounted in her memoir, “I, Tina,” Ike began hitting her not long after they met, in the mid-1950s, and only grew more vicious. Provoked by anything and anyone, he would throw hot coffee in her face, choke her, or beat her until her eyes were swollen shut, then rape her. Before one show, he broke her jaw and she went on stage with her mouth full of blood.

Terrified both of being with Ike and of being without him, she credited her emerging Buddhist faith in the mid-1970s with giving her a sense of strength and self-worth and she finally left in early July, 1976. The Ike and Tina Turner Revue was scheduled to open a tour marking the country’s bicentennial when Tina snuck out of their Dallas hotel room, with just a Mobil credit card and 36 cents, while Ike slept. She hurried across a nearby highway, narrowly avoiding a speeding truck, and found another hotel to stay.

“I looked at him (Ike) and thought, ‘You just beat me for the last time, you sucker,’” she recalled in her memoir.

Turner was among the first celebrities to speak candidly about domestic abuse, becoming a heroine to battered women and a symbol of resilience to all. Ike Turner did not deny mistreating her, although he tried to blame Tina for their troubles. When he died, in 2007, a representative for his ex-wife said simply: “Tina is aware that Ike passed away.”

Little of this was apparent to the many Ike and Tina fans. The Turners were a hot act for much of the 1960s and into the ’70s, evolving from bluesy ballads such as “A Fool in Love” and “It’s Going to Work Out Fine” to flashy covers of “Proud Mary” and “Come Together” and other rock songs that brought them crossover success.

They opened for the Rolling Stones in 1966 and 1969, and were seen performing a lustful version of Otis Redding’s “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” in the 1970 Stones documentary “Gimme Shelter.” Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett gave Oscar-nominated performances as Ike and Tina in the 1993 movie “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” based on “I, Tina,” but she would say that reliving her years with Ike was so painful she couldn’t bring herself to watch the movie).

Ike and Tina’s reworking of “Proud Mary,” originally a tight, mid-tempo hit for Creedence Clearwater Revival, helped define their assertive, sexual image. Against a background of funky guitar and Ike’s crooning baritone, Tina began with a few spoken words about how some people wanted to hear songs that were “nice and easy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684954528952.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Tina Turner, the unstoppable singer and stage performer who teamed with husband Ike Turner for a dynamic run of hit records and live shows in the 1960s and ‘70s and survived her horrifying marriage to triumph in middle age with the chart-topping "What's Love Got to Do With It," has died at 83.Turner died Tuesday, after a long illness in her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, according to her manager. She became a Swiss citizen a decade ago.Few stars traveled so far — she was born Anna Mae Bullock in a segregated Tennessee hospital and spent her latter years on a 260,000 square foot estate on Lake Zurich — and overcame so much. Physically battered, emotionally devastated and financially ruined by her 20-year relationship with Ike Turner, she became a superstar on her own in her 40s, at a time when most of her peers were on their way down, and remained a top concert draw for years after.With admirers ranging from Beyoncé to Mick Jagger, Turner was one of the world's most successful entertainers, known for a core of pop, rock and rhythm and blues favorites: "Proud Mary," "Nutbush City Limits," "River Deep, Mountain High," and the hits she had in the '80s, among them "What's Love Got to Do with It," "We Don't Need Another Hero" and a cover of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together."Her trademarks were her growling contralto, her bold smile and strong cheekbones, her palette of wigs and the muscular, quick-stepping legs she did not shy from showing off. She sold more than 150 million records worldwide, won 12 Grammys, was voted along with Ike into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 (and on her own in 2021) and was honored at the Kennedy Center in 2005, with Beyoncé and Oprah Winfrey among those praising her. Her life became the basis for a film, a Broadway musical and an HBO documentary in 2021 that she called her public farewell.Until she left her husband and revealed their back story, she was known as the voracious on-stage foil of the steady-going Ike, the leading lady of the “Ike and Tina Turner Revue.” Ike was billed first and ran the show, choosing the material, the arrangements, the backing singers. They toured constantly for years, in part because Ike was often short on money and unwilling to miss a concert. Tina Turner was forced to go on with bronchitis, with pneumonia, with a collapsed right lung.Other times, the cause of her misfortunes was Ike himself.As she recounted in her memoir, “I, Tina,” Ike began hitting her not long after they met, in the mid-1950s, and only grew more vicious. Provoked by anything and anyone, he would throw hot coffee in her face, choke her, or beat her until her eyes were swollen shut, then rape her. Before one show, he broke her jaw and she went on stage with her mouth full of blood.Terrified both of being with Ike and of being without him, she credited her emerging Buddhist faith in the mid-1970s with giving her a sense of strength and self-worth and she finally left in early July, 1976. The Ike and Tina Turner Revue was scheduled to open a tour marking the country’s bicentennial when Tina snuck out of their Dallas hotel room, with just a Mobil credit card and 36 cents, while Ike slept. She hurried across a nearby highway, narrowly avoiding a speeding truck, and found another hotel to stay.“I looked at him (Ike) and thought, ‘You just beat me for the last time, you sucker,’” she recalled in her memoir.Turner was among the first celebrities to speak candidly about domestic abuse, becoming a heroine to battered women and a symbol of resilience to all. Ike Turner did not deny mistreating her, although he tried to blame Tina for their troubles. When he died, in 2007, a representative for his ex-wife said simply: “Tina is aware that Ike passed away.”Little of this was apparent to the many Ike and Tina fans. The Turners were a hot act for much of the 1960s and into the ’70s, evolving from bluesy ballads such as “A Fool in Love” and “It’s Going to Work Out Fine” to flashy covers of “Proud Mary” and “Come Together” and other rock songs that brought them crossover success.They opened for the Rolling Stones in 1966 and 1969, and were seen performing a lustful version of Otis Redding’s “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” in the 1970 Stones documentary “Gimme Shelter.” Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett gave Oscar-nominated performances as Ike and Tina in the 1993 movie “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” based on “I, Tina,” but she would say that reliving her years with Ike was so painful she couldn’t bring herself to watch the movie).Ike and Tina’s reworking of “Proud Mary,” originally a tight, mid-tempo hit for Creedence Clearwater Revival, helped define their assertive, sexual image. Against a background of funky guitar and Ike’s crooning baritone, Tina began with a few spoken words about how some people wanted to hear songs that were “nice and easy.”___

Tina Turner, rock superstar, dead at 83

The KBI canceled the Silver Alert for missing George A Teagarden. Hwas located safe in Overland Park, Kansas.

LINN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Linn County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing man from La Cygne, Kansas, according to a media release.

The whereabouts of 80-year-old George A. Teagarden are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.

George left his residence in La Cygne around 5 p.m. It is believed he headed East on Kansas Highway 152. He was driving a red 2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup with Kansas tag 626HWP. The front license plate reads, “EAT BEEF.”

George sometimes experiences confusion. He was last seen wearing a peach colored short-sleeve shirt, a vest, jeans, brown and black cowboy boots, a grey or straw cowboy hat, and glasses.

George is a white male, approximately 5-foot-9 in. tall, weighing around 185 pounds. He has blue eyes and grey hair.

If you see George Teagarden, or his vehicle, please immediately contact 911. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the&nbsp;Linn County Sheriff’s Office at 913-795-2665.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684976503319.png" alt="Teagarden-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Teagarden-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>The KBI canceled the Silver Alert for missing George A Teagarden. Hwas located safe in Overland Park, Kansas.----------LINN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Linn County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing man from La Cygne, Kansas, according to a media release.The whereabouts of 80-year-old George A. Teagarden are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.George left his residence in La Cygne around 5 p.m. It is believed he headed East on Kansas Highway 152. He was driving a red 2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup with Kansas tag 626HWP. The front license plate reads, “EAT BEEF.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684976541585.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>George sometimes experiences confusion. He was last seen wearing a peach colored short-sleeve shirt, a vest, jeans, brown and black cowboy boots, a grey or straw cowboy hat, and glasses.George is a white male, approximately 5-foot-9 in. tall, weighing around 185 pounds. He has blue eyes and grey hair.If you see George Teagarden, or his vehicle, please immediately contact 911. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the&nbsp;Linn County Sheriff’s Office at 913-795-2665.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled; missing Kansas man found safe

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;Health reported 212&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">&nbsp;new</a> <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">coronavirus cases</a> in Kansas from May 17, to May 24, for a total of 946,413 cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 278 cases the previous week.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">the state reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;4 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on May 17, for a total of 10,225 since the state started reporting COVID illness and deaths.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">Click here</a>&nbsp;for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

Kansas provides fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”

The health department updates data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;Health reported 212&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">&nbsp;new</a> <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">coronavirus cases</a> in Kansas from May 17, to May 24, for a total of 946,413 cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 278 cases the previous week.On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">the state reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;4 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on May 17, for a total of 10,225 since the state started reporting COVID illness and deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684946520433.png" alt="May 24, 2023 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>May 24, 2023 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">Click here</a>&nbsp;for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.Kansas provides fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”The health department updates data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

KDHE: COVID cases continue to decline; 4 more deaths

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal prosecutor tapped by President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;to become a U.S. district judge in Kansas has withdrawn from consideration, citing the nearly two-year wait for action on his nomination.

Jabari Wamble is Biden's second judicial nominee to withdraw this month. Attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-judicial-nomination-withdraw-delaney-democrats-ceeca0f9ac4c0aa376c5fa7c8caf8290">Michael Delaney backed out of consideration</a>&nbsp;for the Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last week in a rare judicial defeat for the Democratic president. Delaney did not have enough support in the Senate Judiciary Committee to send his candidacy on to the full Senate for confirmation.

Wamble wrote to Biden that he had been "humbled and honored by the faith you placed in me with this nomination” but said he was withdrawing from consideration for appointment to the U.S. District Court for Kansas.

“My path to this nomination began more than 18 months ago and after careful thought and consideration I feel that it is best for me to continue my work at the United States Attorney's Office in the District of Kansas,” he wrote in a letter dated Tuesday.

The White House on Wednesday did not offer an explanation for Wamble's withdrawal. But one official familiar with Wamble’s confirmation process said he was expected to receive a “not qualified” designation from the American Bar Association, which rates candidates for federal judgeships.

The ABA has not issued a formal rating for Wamble. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a process that is not public.

Biden is proud to have nominated Wamble, said White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates, who called him “a deeply qualified attorney who has served with distinction as a prosecutor at the state and federal level in Kansas, who received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Kansas, and who has dedicated his life to serving the people of Kansas.”

Wamble initially was nominated for a circuit court vacancy earlier in the Biden administration, but the nomination expired before he could be confirmed by the Senate. He later was nominated for the district court seat in Kansas.

Politico was first to report Wamble's withdrawal.

Carl Tobias, a University of Richmond law professor who specializes in the federal judiciary, said he was “puzzled” by the withdrawal. Tobias said Wamble seems well qualified after more than a decade of experience as an assistant U.S. attorney, often a route to becoming a federal judge.

“Lots of people go on the federal bench in Democratic and Republican administrations with similar qualifications to Wamble, so it's mystifying to me,” Tobias said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684941211964.png" alt="Jabari Wamble is a 2002 graduate of KU-photo University of Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Jabari Wamble is a 2002 graduate of KU-photo University of Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal prosecutor tapped by President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;to become a U.S. district judge in Kansas has withdrawn from consideration, citing the nearly two-year wait for action on his nomination.Jabari Wamble is Biden's second judicial nominee to withdraw this month. Attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-judicial-nomination-withdraw-delaney-democrats-ceeca0f9ac4c0aa376c5fa7c8caf8290">Michael Delaney backed out of consideration</a>&nbsp;for the Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last week in a rare judicial defeat for the Democratic president. Delaney did not have enough support in the Senate Judiciary Committee to send his candidacy on to the full Senate for confirmation.Wamble wrote to Biden that he had been "humbled and honored by the faith you placed in me with this nomination” but said he was withdrawing from consideration for appointment to the U.S. District Court for Kansas.“My path to this nomination began more than 18 months ago and after careful thought and consideration I feel that it is best for me to continue my work at the United States Attorney's Office in the District of Kansas,” he wrote in a letter dated Tuesday.The White House on Wednesday did not offer an explanation for Wamble's withdrawal. But one official familiar with Wamble’s confirmation process said he was expected to receive a “not qualified” designation from the American Bar Association, which rates candidates for federal judgeships.The ABA has not issued a formal rating for Wamble. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a process that is not public.Biden is proud to have nominated Wamble, said White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates, who called him “a deeply qualified attorney who has served with distinction as a prosecutor at the state and federal level in Kansas, who received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Kansas, and who has dedicated his life to serving the people of Kansas.”Wamble initially was nominated for a circuit court vacancy earlier in the Biden administration, but the nomination expired before he could be confirmed by the Senate. He later was nominated for the district court seat in Kansas.Politico was first to report Wamble's withdrawal.Carl Tobias, a University of Richmond law professor who specializes in the federal judiciary, said he was “puzzled” by the withdrawal. Tobias said Wamble seems well qualified after more than a decade of experience as an assistant U.S. attorney, often a route to becoming a federal judge.“Lots of people go on the federal bench in Democratic and Republican administrations with similar qualifications to Wamble, so it's mystifying to me,” Tobias said.

Biden judicial nominee, KU grad withdraws from consideration

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a man who died in a county jail.

On Wednesday, Sheriff Tim Morse released the name of the man who died in the Jackson County Jail early Tuesday morning as 70-year-old Mark William Hull, of Topeka.&nbsp; Hull was arrested May 2, on a Jackson County District Court warrant for failure to appear on drug charges, according to Morse.

Whether a person who is incarcerated in a correctional facility dies of foul play or natural causes in Kansas, the K.B.I. is in charge of investigating the cause of death.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684936009312.png" alt="Hull photo from an April arrest in Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Hull photo from an April arrest in Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a man who died in a county jail.On Wednesday, Sheriff Tim Morse released the name of the man who died in the Jackson County Jail early Tuesday morning as 70-year-old Mark William Hull, of Topeka.&nbsp; Hull was arrested May 2, on a Jackson County District Court warrant for failure to appear on drug charges, according to Morse.Whether a person who is incarcerated in a correctional facility dies of foul play or natural causes in Kansas, the K.B.I. is in charge of investigating the cause of death.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sheriff IDs 70-year-old Kan. man who died in county jail

U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates wheat production will fall 20% compared with last year

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Month after month without enough rain has made Kansas the epicenter of a stubborn drought covering parts of the Great Plains.&nbsp;

While the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/10/17/severe-drought-triggers-assistance-in-nearly-all-of-kansas-half-of-missouri/">drought that plagued almost the entire western half of the U.S. last year</a>&nbsp;has relented, it has only gotten worse in Kansas. The state is experiencing the most severe drought in the country and its worst in a decade.&nbsp;

If rains don’t come soon, more than one-quarter of the state’s wheat fields could be in such dismal conditions farmers don’t even harvest them, according to Kansas Wheat.

“I never like to say too little too late,” said Steve McCloud, who lives in Harvey County and serves on the Kansas Farm Bureau board, “but we’re about there.”

Almost 60% of Kansas is experiencing “extreme” or “exceptional” drought conditions, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx">U.S. Drought Monitor</a>. Only 13% of the state, concentrated in the northeast, is completely without drought.&nbsp;

There’s reason to be hopeful. Matthew Sittel, an assistant climatologist for Kansas, noted parts of the state are expected to get a couple of inches of rain in the next few days. But it will take awhile to recover from months on end of startlingly dry conditions.&nbsp;

“We can safely say it’s the worst drought situation in a decade,” Sittel said.

Drought started creeping into Kansas in the fall of 2021. First, a few isolated counties had mild drought. It started to build in the southwest, and by spring, 10% of the state was in extreme or exceptional drought.

The drought hit its peak earlier this month, with more than two-thirds of the state in the most severe levels of drought. It has since relented slightly.

Marsha Boswell, a spokeswoman for Kansas Wheat, was well aware of the damage from this drought before&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kswheat.com/news/abandoned-fields-and-low-yields-underscore-wheat-tour-2023">touring wheat fields across the state last week</a>. She was in southwest Kansas a few weeks ago and said some wheat never emerged from the ground.&nbsp;

But as she drove around the state with the Wheat Quality Council to look at how winter wheat was faring, she was struck by how far into eastern Kansas, which typically gets more rain, the drought reached and the number of fields being abandoned.&nbsp;

Tour participants took measurements to estimate this year’s wheat production. They projected Kansas farmers would wind up with 178 million bushels of wheat.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://release.nass.usda.gov/reports/crop0523.pdf">U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated</a>&nbsp;Kansas would produce closer to 191 million bushels, still a far cry from last year’s harvest of 244 million bushels.&nbsp;

While the number of winter wheat bushels harvested nationally this year is expected to grow 2% compared with last year, Kansas’ production could drop by close to 20%, according to the USDA.

Kansas wheat tour participants anticipated close to one-quarter of wheat crops could be abandoned, Boswell said.&nbsp;

“You also have to remember there’s still three to six weeks before harvest gets going … so this is pretty much the best-case scenario,” Boswell said.&nbsp;

In addition to wheat, the drought has taken its toll on grazing lands, food supplies and drinking water for livestock.&nbsp;

McCloud said he’ll consider himself fortunate if harvests one-third of the brome grass he normally feeds his cattle.&nbsp;

McCloud said he thinks he’ll be able to get enough feed to get by without selling off cattle.&nbsp;

“But if we are continuing in these severe drought conditions by early to mid fall, I’m gonna have to scratch my head a little bit,” he said.&nbsp;

Shawn Tiffany, president of the Kansas Livestock Association, farms and raises cattle in Morris, McPherson and Lyon counties.&nbsp;

He said unless rains come soon, some of his stock ponds may run out of water. His wheat crop is poor enough that it will be more valuable as roughage for his cattle than waiting for the grain harvest.&nbsp;

The drought means cattle ranchers are more reliant on hay because they don’t have enough grazing crops for their cows. But at the same time, he said, the hay supply is constrained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I’ve paid the highest prices for hay in my career for the last nine months,” he said.&nbsp;

Tiffany operates a finishing feedyard, meaning other ranchers bring their cattle to him for the final few months before the animals are killed and taken to meatpackers.&nbsp;

He said he hasn’t been forced to reduce his supply, but some ranchers he works with have, so there is less business coming his way.&nbsp;

Tiffany said it will take ranchers awhile to build back their herds, even after the drought breaks. But agriculture is always a risky business.

“There’s an old joke in Kansas — you’re never more than 30 days away from a flood or a drought,” Tiffany said. “It’s just that that flood continues to be 30 days out on the horizon.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684861752582.png" alt="A severe drought plaguing Kansas spells trouble for the winter wheat harvest. (Kansas Wheat/submitted)" />
 <figcaption>A severe drought plaguing Kansas spells trouble for the winter wheat harvest. (Kansas Wheat/submitted)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates wheat production will fall 20% compared with last year</h2>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>Month after month without enough rain has made Kansas the epicenter of a stubborn drought covering parts of the Great Plains.&nbsp;While the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/10/17/severe-drought-triggers-assistance-in-nearly-all-of-kansas-half-of-missouri/">drought that plagued almost the entire western half of the U.S. last year</a>&nbsp;has relented, it has only gotten worse in Kansas. The state is experiencing the most severe drought in the country and its worst in a decade.&nbsp;If rains don’t come soon, more than one-quarter of the state’s wheat fields could be in such dismal conditions farmers don’t even harvest them, according to Kansas Wheat.“I never like to say too little too late,” said Steve McCloud, who lives in Harvey County and serves on the Kansas Farm Bureau board, “but we’re about there.”Almost 60% of Kansas is experiencing “extreme” or “exceptional” drought conditions, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx">U.S. Drought Monitor</a>. Only 13% of the state, concentrated in the northeast, is completely without drought.&nbsp;There’s reason to be hopeful. Matthew Sittel, an assistant climatologist for Kansas, noted parts of the state are expected to get a couple of inches of rain in the next few days. But it will take awhile to recover from months on end of startlingly dry conditions.&nbsp;“We can safely say it’s the worst drought situation in a decade,” Sittel said.Drought started creeping into Kansas in the fall of 2021. First, a few isolated counties had mild drought. It started to build in the southwest, and by spring, 10% of the state was in extreme or exceptional drought.The drought hit its peak earlier this month, with more than two-thirds of the state in the most severe levels of drought. It has since relented slightly.<h2>Crop failures&nbsp;</h2>Marsha Boswell, a spokeswoman for Kansas Wheat, was well aware of the damage from this drought before&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kswheat.com/news/abandoned-fields-and-low-yields-underscore-wheat-tour-2023">touring wheat fields across the state last week</a>. She was in southwest Kansas a few weeks ago and said some wheat never emerged from the ground.&nbsp;But as she drove around the state with the Wheat Quality Council to look at how winter wheat was faring, she was struck by how far into eastern Kansas, which typically gets more rain, the drought reached and the number of fields being abandoned.&nbsp;Tour participants took measurements to estimate this year’s wheat production. They projected Kansas farmers would wind up with 178 million bushels of wheat.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://release.nass.usda.gov/reports/crop0523.pdf">U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated</a>&nbsp;Kansas would produce closer to 191 million bushels, still a far cry from last year’s harvest of 244 million bushels.&nbsp;While the number of winter wheat bushels harvested nationally this year is expected to grow 2% compared with last year, Kansas’ production could drop by close to 20%, according to the USDA.Kansas wheat tour participants anticipated close to one-quarter of wheat crops could be abandoned, Boswell said.&nbsp;“You also have to remember there’s still three to six weeks before harvest gets going … so this is pretty much the best-case scenario,” Boswell said.&nbsp;<h2>Raising cattle in a drought&nbsp;</h2>In addition to wheat, the drought has taken its toll on grazing lands, food supplies and drinking water for livestock.&nbsp;McCloud said he’ll consider himself fortunate if harvests one-third of the brome grass he normally feeds his cattle.&nbsp;McCloud said he thinks he’ll be able to get enough feed to get by without selling off cattle.&nbsp;“But if we are continuing in these severe drought conditions by early to mid fall, I’m gonna have to scratch my head a little bit,” he said.&nbsp;Shawn Tiffany, president of the Kansas Livestock Association, farms and raises cattle in Morris, McPherson and Lyon counties.&nbsp;He said unless rains come soon, some of his stock ponds may run out of water. His wheat crop is poor enough that it will be more valuable as roughage for his cattle than waiting for the grain harvest.&nbsp;The drought means cattle ranchers are more reliant on hay because they don’t have enough grazing crops for their cows. But at the same time, he said, the hay supply is constrained.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’ve paid the highest prices for hay in my career for the last nine months,” he said.&nbsp;Tiffany operates a finishing feedyard, meaning other ranchers bring their cattle to him for the final few months before the animals are killed and taken to meatpackers.&nbsp;He said he hasn’t been forced to reduce his supply, but some ranchers he works with have, so there is less business coming his way.&nbsp;Tiffany said it will take ranchers awhile to build back their herds, even after the drought breaks. But agriculture is always a risky business.“There’s an old joke in Kansas — you’re never more than 30 days away from a flood or a drought,” Tiffany said. “It’s just that that flood continues to be 30 days out on the horizon.”

With only weeks until wheat harvest, drought still plagues Kansas

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that left a teen dead.

Just after 12:30p.m., police responded to report of gunshots near&nbsp;E. 82nd Place and Forest Avenue, according to a media release.

First responders found a teen in the parking lot of an apartment complex who had been shot.&nbsp; &nbsp;EMS transported the boy to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Anyone with information that could assist the police in their investigation is asked to call the KCPD’s Homicide Unit directly at 816-234-5043. You can also anonymously call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information that is submitted to the TIPS Hotline and leads to an arrest in this case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684873499072.png" alt="Police at the scene of the investigation Tuesday afternoon-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the investigation Tuesday afternoon-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that left a teen dead.Just after 12:30p.m., police responded to report of gunshots near&nbsp;E. 82nd Place and Forest Avenue, according to a media release.First responders found a teen in the parking lot of an apartment complex who had been shot.&nbsp; &nbsp;EMS transported the boy to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased.Anyone with information that could assist the police in their investigation is asked to call the KCPD’s Homicide Unit directly at 816-234-5043. You can also anonymously call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information that is submitted to the TIPS Hotline and leads to an arrest in this case.