SEDGWICK COUNTY —Two of four suspects arrested in connection with a fatal shooting May 24 in&nbsp; Wichita made their first appearances in court Thursday.

Orlando Howard, 17 of Wichita, is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder, aggravated robbery, and criminal use of weapons and He has been charged as an adult, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Luis Martinez, 22 of Wichita, &nbsp;is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and attempted robbery.&nbsp;

Just after 11:30p.m. May 24, a police officer in the area of 21st and Hood in Wichita and heard gunshots nearby, according to Police Captain Jason Stephens

The officer drove toward the sound of the gunshots and saw a white Ford Edge SUV traveling at a high rate of speed from the area of West 1600 West 21st North.

Police stopped the vehicle and arrested&nbsp; 22-year-old Luis Martinez, 18-year-old Nicholas Olmos, 20-year-old Jaylon Pete and a 17-year-old boy.

Witnesses in the area told police they saw the SUV in the vicinity near the time of the shooting. Police also recovered a handgun from inside the vehicle.

Investigators learned that the four suspects were at the apartment complex for the purpose of conducting an illegal drug transaction, according to Stephens. During the transaction, there was a physical altercation and one of the suspects fired a gun at the victim identified as Jose Covarrubias, 22, of Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Martinez next court appearance is scheduled for June 3. Howard's next court appearance is scheduled for June 10.&nbsp; Both are being held on bonds of $250,000.&nbsp; The two other suspects Jaylon Pete and Nicholas Olmos are no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622208321450.png" alt="Howard photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Howard photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Two of four suspects arrested in connection with a fatal shooting May 24 in&nbsp; Wichita made their first appearances in court Thursday.Orlando Howard, 17 of Wichita, is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder, aggravated robbery, and criminal use of weapons and He has been charged as an adult, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Luis Martinez, 22 of Wichita, &nbsp;is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder and attempted robbery.&nbsp;Just after 11:30p.m. May 24, a police officer in the area of 21st and Hood in Wichita and heard gunshots nearby, according to Police Captain Jason StephensThe officer drove toward the sound of the gunshots and saw a white Ford Edge SUV traveling at a high rate of speed from the area of West 1600 West 21st North.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621964500907.png" alt="Martinez photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Martinez photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police stopped the vehicle and arrested&nbsp; 22-year-old Luis Martinez, 18-year-old Nicholas Olmos, 20-year-old Jaylon Pete and a 17-year-old boy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621964558526.png" alt="Pete photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Pete photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Witnesses in the area told police they saw the SUV in the vicinity near the time of the shooting. Police also recovered a handgun from inside the vehicle.Investigators learned that the four suspects were at the apartment complex for the purpose of conducting an illegal drug transaction, according to Stephens. During the transaction, there was a physical altercation and one of the suspects fired a gun at the victim identified as Jose Covarrubias, 22, of Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;Martinez next court appearance is scheduled for June 3. Howard's next court appearance is scheduled for June 10.&nbsp; Both are being held on bonds of $250,000.&nbsp; The two other suspects Jaylon Pete and Nicholas Olmos are no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Kan. teen charged as an adult in drug deal killing

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal crash and have made an arrest.

Just before 4:30 p.m. Monday, officers responded to an injury accident with a driver pinned in a vehicle at Maple and Martinson, according to Officer Charley Davidson. 

Upon arrival, officer’s located 80-year-old Frankie Baxter pinned inside of a vehicle. Police with the assistance of the Wichita Fire Department removed her from the vehicle and she pronounced deceased on the scene, according to Davidson.

The investigation revealed that Baxter was driving a blue 2015 Hyundai Tucson northbound on Elizabeth Street. She turned to travel eastbound on Maple. 

A 2008 Maxda Six driven by 33-year-old Scott Cabrales of Wichita was eastbound on Maple at a high rate of speed and believed to be under the influence of alcohol.&nbsp; The Mazda struck the rear driver's side of the Hyundai. The impact caused the Hyundai to strike the curb and a tree.

EMS transported Cabrales to an area hospital for medical treatment of minor injuries and then booked him into jail on requested charges of of aggravated battery, driving under the influence, and no proof of insurance.

Police will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622558836645.png" alt="Cabrales photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Cabrales photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal crash and have made an arrest.Just before 4:30 p.m. Monday, officers responded to an injury accident with a driver pinned in a vehicle at Maple and Martinson, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Upon arrival, officer’s located 80-year-old Frankie Baxter pinned inside of a vehicle. Police with the assistance of the Wichita Fire Department removed her from the vehicle and she pronounced deceased on the scene, according to Davidson.The investigation revealed that Baxter was driving a blue 2015 Hyundai Tucson northbound on Elizabeth Street. She turned to travel eastbound on Maple. A 2008 Maxda Six driven by 33-year-old Scott Cabrales of Wichita was eastbound on Maple at a high rate of speed and believed to be under the influence of alcohol.&nbsp; The Mazda struck the rear driver's side of the Hyundai. The impact caused the Hyundai to strike the curb and a tree.EMS transported Cabrales to an area hospital for medical treatment of minor injuries and then booked him into jail on requested charges of of aggravated battery, driving under the influence, and no proof of insurance.Police will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

Man accused in DUI crash that killed Kansas woman

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft and have made an arrest.

A vehicle stolen at Salina Regional Health Center Monday was found hours later in far north Salina.

Just after 9a.m. Monday, a Salina man told police that he parked his 1996 Chevrolet Lumina on the east side of Salina Regional Health Center, 400 S. Santa Fe Avenue, in the loading zone and left the vehicle running, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

The man intended to be in the hospital only a few minutes and when he returned, the car was missing. The vehicle was valued at $2,500.

At 10 p.m. Monday, an officer located the vehicle parked at the ISIS Shriners building, 200 E. Diamond Drive. A witness reported that Jacob Denton, 34, of Salina, was seen driving the vehicle. Police reviewed video surveillance from a neighboring business and an officer was able to identify Denton exiting the vehicle.

Police located Denton in the area of the Red Carpet Inn, 222 E. Diamond Drive and arrested him on the following requested charges of Felony theft and Driving while a habitual violator, according Forrester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622553714454.png" alt="Jacob Denton has numerous previous convictions that include burglary, theft and forgery -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Denton has numerous previous convictions that include burglary, theft and forgery -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft and have made an arrest.A vehicle stolen at Salina Regional Health Center Monday was found hours later in far north Salina.Just after 9a.m. Monday, a Salina man told police that he parked his 1996 Chevrolet Lumina on the east side of Salina Regional Health Center, 400 S. Santa Fe Avenue, in the loading zone and left the vehicle running, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.The man intended to be in the hospital only a few minutes and when he returned, the car was missing. The vehicle was valued at $2,500.At 10 p.m. Monday, an officer located the vehicle parked at the ISIS Shriners building, 200 E. Diamond Drive. A witness reported that Jacob Denton, 34, of Salina, was seen driving the vehicle. Police reviewed video surveillance from a neighboring business and an officer was able to identify Denton exiting the vehicle.Police located Denton in the area of the Red Carpet Inn, 222 E. Diamond Drive and arrested him on the following requested charges of Felony theft and Driving while a habitual violator, according Forrester.

Video camera helps police catch Kan. felon who stole car

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just before 1 a.m. Saturday, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2007 Chrysler Aspen for a traffic infraction near U.S. 75 Highway and Third Street in Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Deputies arrested the passenger of the vehicle, Justin Wayne Nidiffer, 40, of Bonner Springs, on a Wyandotte County, Kansas warrant for possession of methamphetamine. 

Deputies also found illicit contraband in his possession, and he was booked into jail on requested charges that include possession of heroin, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of prescription drugs and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622489445668.png" alt="Nidiffer photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Nidiffer photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple drug charges after a traffic stop.Just before 1 a.m. Saturday, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2007 Chrysler Aspen for a traffic infraction near U.S. 75 Highway and Third Street in Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Deputies arrested the passenger of the vehicle, Justin Wayne Nidiffer, 40, of Bonner Springs, on a Wyandotte County, Kansas warrant for possession of methamphetamine. Deputies also found illicit contraband in his possession, and he was booked into jail on requested charges that include possession of heroin, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of prescription drugs and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Sheriff: Kan. deputies find heroin, meth during traffic stop

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kansas City, Kansas, police say a man has been charged in the death of a neighbor who was hit by a stray bullet while standing in his house. 

James Edward Merritt Jr., is charged with first-degree murder in the March 31 death of 50-year-old Mark Winner. 

Police say Merritt was involved in a shooting outside Winner's home when a stray bullet went through a window and hit Winner, who died at the scene. 

Merrick fled but was arrested earlier this month in Topeka. The investigation into the shooting is continuing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622199148244.png" alt="Police at the investigation in March photo courtesy KSHB TV" />
 <figcaption>Police at the investigation in March photo courtesy KSHB TV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kansas City, Kansas, police say a man has been charged in the death of a neighbor who was hit by a stray bullet while standing in his house. James Edward Merritt Jr., is charged with first-degree murder in the March 31 death of 50-year-old Mark Winner. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622489072327.png" alt="Merritt is being held in Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Merritt is being held in Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>Police say Merritt was involved in a shooting outside Winner's home when a stray bullet went through a window and hit Winner, who died at the scene. Merrick fled but was arrested earlier this month in Topeka. The investigation into the shooting is continuing.

Kansas man charged after neighbor killed by stray bullet

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Authorities have charged a Higginsville man in the shooting deaths of a man and woman whose bodies were found in a bullet-riddled sport utility vehicle in Independence.

The bodies of Billy Davis and Ashley Walker were found Sunday in the SUV, which was parked behind a house in Independence, police said. On Thursday, Independence police announced in a Facebook post that 44-year-old Steven Turner Jr. had been arrested. Police also said they recovered a gun believed to have been used in the shooting.

Turner is charged in Jackson County with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of armed criminal action. Investigators said Turner was friends with Walker, but did not get along with Davis.

Turner told investigators he emptied his gun, shooting 17 times at Davis’ SUV, police said. He said he did not know Walker was in the vehicle at the time, police said.

Court document say shell casings found at Sunday's shooting scene matched shell casings found in five other shootings in the area, including a homicide in September 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622236602356.png" alt="Turner photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Turner photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Authorities have charged a Higginsville man in the shooting deaths of a man and woman whose bodies were found in a bullet-riddled sport utility vehicle in Independence.The bodies of Billy Davis and Ashley Walker were found Sunday in the SUV, which was parked behind a house in Independence, police said. On Thursday, Independence police announced in a Facebook post that 44-year-old Steven Turner Jr. had been arrested. Police also said they recovered a gun believed to have been used in the shooting.Turner is charged in Jackson County with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of armed criminal action. Investigators said Turner was friends with Walker, but did not get along with Davis.Turner told investigators he emptied his gun, shooting 17 times at Davis’ SUV, police said. He said he did not know Walker was in the vehicle at the time, police said.Court document say shell casings found at Sunday's shooting scene matched shell casings found in five other shootings in the area, including a homicide in September 2020.

Man charged after KC couple found in bullet-riddled SUV

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal crash have arrested 32-year-old Michael Walker of Wichita.

Just before 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, police responded to an injury accident at Pawnee and Glenn in Wichita&nbsp;with individuals trapped in a vehicle, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The investigation revealed that Walker was driving a 2005 Kia Sorrento eastbound on Pawnee with a 29-year-old passenger.&nbsp; 

The vehicle crossed the center line into the westbound lanes of Pawnee and collided with a 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer being driven by a 66-year-old woman.&nbsp;

The crash causing the Sorrento to roll onto its top.&nbsp; Walker and his passenger received minor injuries.&nbsp; The three occupants of the Lancer were trapped inside of the vehicle and were removed with the assistance of the Wichita Fire Department.&nbsp; 

EMS transported a passenger in the Lancer identified as 74-year-old Rita Hawkins of Wichita and a 77-year-old male passenger to a local hospital for treatment of critical injuries, according to Davidson.&nbsp; They were both taken to an area hospital, where Hawkins succumbed to her injuries.&nbsp;

The driver of the Lancer also had serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

Walker <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20021402">is being held on </a>requested charge of of aggravated battery, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving with a suspected license, and driving on the right side of the road required.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622403819164.png" alt="Five people were injured and a Kansas woman died in the crash-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Five people were injured and a Kansas woman died in the crash-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal crash have arrested 32-year-old Michael Walker of Wichita.Just before 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, police responded to an injury accident at Pawnee and Glenn in Wichita&nbsp;with individuals trapped in a vehicle, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622403143966.png" alt="Walker photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Walker photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed that Walker was driving a 2005 Kia Sorrento eastbound on Pawnee with a 29-year-old passenger.&nbsp; The vehicle crossed the center line into the westbound lanes of Pawnee and collided with a 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer being driven by a 66-year-old woman.&nbsp;The crash causing the Sorrento to roll onto its top.&nbsp; Walker and his passenger received minor injuries.&nbsp; The three occupants of the Lancer were trapped inside of the vehicle and were removed with the assistance of the Wichita Fire Department.&nbsp; EMS transported a passenger in the Lancer identified as 74-year-old Rita Hawkins of Wichita and a 77-year-old male passenger to a local hospital for treatment of critical injuries, according to Davidson.&nbsp; They were both taken to an area hospital, where Hawkins succumbed to her injuries.&nbsp;The driver of the Lancer also had serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Walker <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20021402">is being held on </a>requested charge of of aggravated battery, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving with a suspected license, and driving on the right side of the road required.&nbsp;&nbsp;The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Police: Kan. man jailed for DUI crash that killed 74-year-old

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as&nbsp; Shakeita Young, 32, of Topeka.

Just after 5 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 1800 block of NE Burgess Court in Topeka in reference to a shooting, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.

First responders found Young suffering from a gunshot. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police released no additional details Sunday afternoon.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting.

First responders found one victim suffering from a gunshot. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

Police released no additional details early Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607000440621.png" alt="Deputies in Jackson County arrested Young and another woman for alleged drug distribution in December, according to Sheriff Tim Morse" />
 <figcaption>Deputies in Jackson County arrested Young and another woman for alleged drug distribution in December, according to Sheriff Tim Morse</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as&nbsp; Shakeita Young, 32, of Topeka.Just after 5 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 1800 block of NE Burgess Court in Topeka in reference to a shooting, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.First responders found Young suffering from a gunshot. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police released no additional details Sunday afternoon.------SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting.Just after 5 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 1800 block of NE Burgess Court in Topeka in reference to a shooting, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.First responders found one victim suffering from a gunshot. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Police released no additional details early Saturday.

Police ID Kansas woman who died in Saturday shooting

BELLEVUE, Neb. (AP) — A Bellevue man charged in the deaths of his two young children has been returned to Nebraska and appeared in court Friday for a bond hearing.&nbsp;

Adam Price, 36, was returned to Nebraska from California on Thursday night. On Friday, he was ordered held on $2.5 million bail.

Price is charged with two counts of negligent child abuse resulting in the deaths of his children, 5-year-old Emily and 3-year-old Theodore. The children had been with Price for a court-ordered visitation when they were found dead May 16 in Price's home.

Price was nowhere to be found and was arrested hours later in Pacifica, California. Authorities have not yet said how the children died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622292619722.png" alt="Price is being held in the Sarpy County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Price is being held in the Sarpy County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>BELLEVUE, Neb. (AP) — A Bellevue man charged in the deaths of his two young children has been returned to Nebraska and appeared in court Friday for a bond hearing.&nbsp;Adam Price, 36, was returned to Nebraska from California on Thursday night. On Friday, he was ordered held on $2.5 million bail.Price is charged with two counts of negligent child abuse resulting in the deaths of his children, 5-year-old Emily and 3-year-old Theodore. The children had been with Price for a court-ordered visitation when they were found dead May 16 in Price's home.Price was nowhere to be found and was arrested hours later in Pacifica, California. Authorities have not yet said how the children died.

Man accused in deaths of his children held on $2.5M bond

COLUMBUS, Kan. (AP) — A suspect in a double homicide and another inmate who escaped from jail in Kansas earlier this week were recaptured in Oklahoma. 

The Cherokee County Sheriff's office said Friday that Mark Gerald Hopkins II and Michael Wayne Martsolf were arrested in Ottawa County, Oklahoma. They escaped from the county jail on Monday, prompting a massive search.

Authorities did not provide details of how they were captured. Hopkins of Columbus, was charged with capital murder in the shooting deaths of two men in southeast Kansas in June 2020. Martsolf was being held on drug charges.

Authorities previously arrested 26-year-old Tasha Young, of Weir, for her alleged role in the escape.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622299174237.png" alt="Photo Cherokee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Cherokee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBUS, Kan. (AP) — A suspect in a double homicide and another inmate who escaped from jail in Kansas earlier this week were recaptured in Oklahoma. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621960469451.png" alt="Hopkins photo Cherokee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hopkins photo Cherokee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Cherokee County Sheriff's office said Friday that Mark Gerald Hopkins II and Michael Wayne Martsolf were arrested in Ottawa County, Oklahoma. They escaped from the county jail on Monday, prompting a massive search.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621960532851.png" alt="Martsolf photo Cherokee Co." />
 <figcaption>Martsolf photo Cherokee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities did not provide details of how they were captured. Hopkins of Columbus, was charged with capital murder in the shooting deaths of two men in southeast Kansas in June 2020. Martsolf was being held on drug charges.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622212658690.png" alt="Tasha Taylor Young" />
 <figcaption>Tasha Taylor Young</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities previously arrested 26-year-old Tasha Young, of Weir, for her alleged role in the escape.

Murder suspect who escaped Kan. jail recaptured in Oklahoma

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A farm laborer was found guilty Friday in the abduction and killing of an Iowa college student who vanished while out for a run in 2018 and will face life behind bars for a crime that shocked the nation.

A 12-member jury unanimously found Cristhian Bahena Rivera guilty of first-degree murder in the attack on University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts, who was described as so kind and friendly that investigators could find no one who spoke badly about her.

Bahena Rivera, who came to the U.S. illegally from Mexico as a teenager, will be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Judge Joel Yates ordered Bahena Rivera, who has been in custody since his August 2018 arrest, to be held without bond pending a July 15 sentencing hearing.

The verdict came after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-816cc1a4c41d82a2be4353d19d923e1e">two-week trial&nbsp;</a>at the Scott County Courthouse in Davenport, in a case that fueled public anger against illegal immigration and concerns about random violence against women. The jury, which included nine white members and three of Hispanic, Latino or Spanish descent, deliberated for seven hours on Thursday and Friday.

“This was the verdict that the evidence demanded,” said one of the prosecutors, Poweshiek County Attorney Bart Klaver, who said such violent crime almost never happens in his county of 18,000 people.

Klaver said the verdict was an emotional moment for relatives of Tibbetts, calling the outcome a “weight off of everyone’s shoulders.” Several of her relatives, including her mother, had watched the proceedings daily in a conference room across from the courtroom, where the public was banned due to COVID-19 protocols.

Bahena Rivera’s defense attorneys, Chad and Jennifer Frese, said they were disappointed in the verdict and would appeal. They said that their client had never wavered since 2018 from the story that he told on the witness stand about the two masked men that he claims were responsible. They said the decision to call him to testify was an easy one.

“We can tell you that getting to know Cristhian Bahena, we are very surprised that he would be the kind of person that would commit a crime like this,” Chad Frese said. “He is nothing but a soft-spoken, respectful, kind person.”

They said they would renew their arguments that Bahena Rivera’s statements to police were coerced and should be suppressed, along with the discovery of Tibbetts’ body that followed.

Tibbetts, who ran track and cross country in high school, never returned home after going for a routine run in her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa on the evening of July 18, 2018. She was reported missing the next day after she didn’t show up for her summer job at a daycare, where she was working after completing her freshman year. Tibbetts had hoped to one day become a child psychologist.

Her disappearance from the town of 1,700 was immediately deemed suspicious, and local, state and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e4641880a1bb41df97d2acf56f103093">federal agencies</a>&nbsp;joined hundreds of volunteers in a highly publicized search for her.

Investigators say they broke the case open nearly a month later after obtaining surveillance video from a homeowner that shows, for a split second, a shadowy figure that appears to be Tibbetts running in the distance. The video shows a black Chevy Malibu with chrome mirrors and door handles driving past 20 seconds later, and back and forth several times in the next 20 minutes.

A sheriff’s deputy spotted Bahena Rivera, who worked at a local dairy farm, driving the distinctive vehicle the next day. During a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-816cc1a4c41d82a2be4353d19d923e1e">lengthy interrogation</a>&nbsp;that began Aug. 20, 2018, Bahena Rivera said that he drove past Tibbetts while she was running and turned around to get another look because he found her attractive.

He eventually said that he approached Tibbetts and fought with her after she tried to get away and threatened to call police. He claimed that he then “blacked out” but remembered driving with her body in the trunk of his car. He led investigators in the early morning hours of Aug. 21 to a remote cornfield where they found her badly decomposed body hidden under corn stalks.

An&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-iowa-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-06f83961088643b0af3b3683ee5ad94a">autopsy found</a>&nbsp;that Tibbetts died of sharp force injuries from several stab wounds to her head, neck and chest. DNA testing showed that her blood was found in the trunk of the Malibu, but investigators never found the murder weapon.

Prosecutor Scott Brown praised the investigators whose persistence helped solve the case, noting they faced criticism during the trial from the defense.

He said in a closing argument Thursday that Bahena Rivera killed Tibbetts out of anger after she rebuked him. He said Bahena Rivera also had a sexual motive, noting that Tibbetts was found partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found.

During&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-business-273a6b106651b27dc3d0b91966ece58e">dramatic testimony&nbsp;</a>Wednesday that surprised prosecutors, the 26-year-old Bahena Rivera denied that he killed Tibbetts. He claimed publicly for the first time that two masked men took him at gunpoint from his trailer, forced him to drive as one of them killed Tibbetts on a rural road and directed him to a rural area where he left her body. Bahena Rivera said the men threatened to kill his ex-girlfriend and young daughter if he spoke out.

Bahena Rivera’s defense suggested one of the men may have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-trials-2caee5d5db80c4d9b06abcdf82fe7818">Tibbetts’ boyfriend,</a>&nbsp;Dalton Jack, who admitted during hours of difficult testimony that he had an affair with another woman and past anger problems. But police said they cleared Jack, who had bought an engagement ring and planned to soon propose marriage to Tibbetts, after establishing that he was out of town for work when Tibbetts vanished.

Then-President Donald Trump, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and other Republicans had cited the vicious crime ahead of the 2018 midterm elections to call for harsher policies to deter illegal immigration. But their efforts eventually stopped after Tibbetts’ parents said the slaying should not be used to advance a political agenda that Tibbetts would have opposed.

In a sign of how the case remains politicized, GOP U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson of Iowa released a statement on Friday morning praising the guilty verdict as a just outcome, even though jurors were still deliberating at the time. Her staff quickly apologized for the error but re-released the statement after the verdict was announced.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622236036202.png" alt="Rivera-photo&nbsp;Poweshiek County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Rivera-photo&nbsp;Poweshiek County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A farm laborer was found guilty Friday in the abduction and killing of an Iowa college student who vanished while out for a run in 2018 and will face life behind bars for a crime that shocked the nation.A 12-member jury unanimously found Cristhian Bahena Rivera guilty of first-degree murder in the attack on University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts, who was described as so kind and friendly that investigators could find no one who spoke badly about her.Bahena Rivera, who came to the U.S. illegally from Mexico as a teenager, will be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Judge Joel Yates ordered Bahena Rivera, who has been in custody since his August 2018 arrest, to be held without bond pending a July 15 sentencing hearing.The verdict came after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-816cc1a4c41d82a2be4353d19d923e1e">two-week trial&nbsp;</a>at the Scott County Courthouse in Davenport, in a case that fueled public anger against illegal immigration and concerns about random violence against women. The jury, which included nine white members and three of Hispanic, Latino or Spanish descent, deliberated for seven hours on Thursday and Friday.“This was the verdict that the evidence demanded,” said one of the prosecutors, Poweshiek County Attorney Bart Klaver, who said such violent crime almost never happens in his county of 18,000 people.Klaver said the verdict was an emotional moment for relatives of Tibbetts, calling the outcome a “weight off of everyone’s shoulders.” Several of her relatives, including her mother, had watched the proceedings daily in a conference room across from the courtroom, where the public was banned due to COVID-19 protocols.Bahena Rivera’s defense attorneys, Chad and Jennifer Frese, said they were disappointed in the verdict and would appeal. They said that their client had never wavered since 2018 from the story that he told on the witness stand about the two masked men that he claims were responsible. They said the decision to call him to testify was an easy one.“We can tell you that getting to know Cristhian Bahena, we are very surprised that he would be the kind of person that would commit a crime like this,” Chad Frese said. “He is nothing but a soft-spoken, respectful, kind person.”They said they would renew their arguments that Bahena Rivera’s statements to police were coerced and should be suppressed, along with the discovery of Tibbetts’ body that followed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622236279286.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tibbetts, who ran track and cross country in high school, never returned home after going for a routine run in her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa on the evening of July 18, 2018. She was reported missing the next day after she didn’t show up for her summer job at a daycare, where she was working after completing her freshman year. Tibbetts had hoped to one day become a child psychologist.Her disappearance from the town of 1,700 was immediately deemed suspicious, and local, state and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e4641880a1bb41df97d2acf56f103093">federal agencies</a>&nbsp;joined hundreds of volunteers in a highly publicized search for her.Investigators say they broke the case open nearly a month later after obtaining surveillance video from a homeowner that shows, for a split second, a shadowy figure that appears to be Tibbetts running in the distance. The video shows a black Chevy Malibu with chrome mirrors and door handles driving past 20 seconds later, and back and forth several times in the next 20 minutes.A sheriff’s deputy spotted Bahena Rivera, who worked at a local dairy farm, driving the distinctive vehicle the next day. During a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-816cc1a4c41d82a2be4353d19d923e1e">lengthy interrogation</a>&nbsp;that began Aug. 20, 2018, Bahena Rivera said that he drove past Tibbetts while she was running and turned around to get another look because he found her attractive.He eventually said that he approached Tibbetts and fought with her after she tried to get away and threatened to call police. He claimed that he then “blacked out” but remembered driving with her body in the trunk of his car. He led investigators in the early morning hours of Aug. 21 to a remote cornfield where they found her badly decomposed body hidden under corn stalks.An&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-iowa-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-06f83961088643b0af3b3683ee5ad94a">autopsy found</a>&nbsp;that Tibbetts died of sharp force injuries from several stab wounds to her head, neck and chest. DNA testing showed that her blood was found in the trunk of the Malibu, but investigators never found the murder weapon.Prosecutor Scott Brown praised the investigators whose persistence helped solve the case, noting they faced criticism during the trial from the defense.He said in a closing argument Thursday that Bahena Rivera killed Tibbetts out of anger after she rebuked him. He said Bahena Rivera also had a sexual motive, noting that Tibbetts was found partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found.During&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-business-273a6b106651b27dc3d0b91966ece58e">dramatic testimony&nbsp;</a>Wednesday that surprised prosecutors, the 26-year-old Bahena Rivera denied that he killed Tibbetts. He claimed publicly for the first time that two masked men took him at gunpoint from his trailer, forced him to drive as one of them killed Tibbetts on a rural road and directed him to a rural area where he left her body. Bahena Rivera said the men threatened to kill his ex-girlfriend and young daughter if he spoke out.Bahena Rivera’s defense suggested one of the men may have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-trials-2caee5d5db80c4d9b06abcdf82fe7818">Tibbetts’ boyfriend,</a>&nbsp;Dalton Jack, who admitted during hours of difficult testimony that he had an affair with another woman and past anger problems. But police said they cleared Jack, who had bought an engagement ring and planned to soon propose marriage to Tibbetts, after establishing that he was out of town for work when Tibbetts vanished.Then-President Donald Trump, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and other Republicans had cited the vicious crime ahead of the 2018 midterm elections to call for harsher policies to deter illegal immigration. But their efforts eventually stopped after Tibbetts’ parents said the slaying should not be used to advance a political agenda that Tibbetts would have opposed.In a sign of how the case remains politicized, GOP U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson of Iowa released a statement on Friday morning praising the guilty verdict as a just outcome, even though jurors were still deliberating at the time. Her staff quickly apologized for the error but re-released the statement after the verdict was announced.

Farm laborer convicted in 2018 stabbing death of Iowa runner

CHEROKEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the escape of two inmates from a Kansas county jail have made an arrest.

On Thursday following the execution of a search warrant at her home, deputies arrested 26-year-old Tasha (Young) Taylor of Weir&nbsp; on allegations of Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Escape (2 counts), Felony Aiding a Fugitive (2 counts), and Obstructing Justice as part ongoing investigation into the Monday night escape of Mark Hopkins and Michael Martsolf from the Cherokee County Kansas Jail.

The search continues for 30-year-old Hopkins, who was being held on double murder charges, and 34 year-old Michael Martsolf, who was being held on felony drug charges.&nbsp; Both suspects now face additional charges of Aggravated Escape from Custody.

A reward of up to $5,000.00 is being offered for information leading to their capture.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621960469451.png" alt="Mark Hopkins is being held for trial in connection with a double murder, according to online jail records." />
 <figcaption>Mark Hopkins is being held for trial in connection with a double murder, according to online jail records.</figcaption>
 </figure>CHEROKEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the escape of two inmates from a Kansas county jail have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622212658690.png" alt="Taylor-photo Cherokee County" />
 <figcaption>Taylor-photo Cherokee County</figcaption>
 </figure>On Thursday following the execution of a search warrant at her home, deputies arrested 26-year-old Tasha (Young) Taylor of Weir&nbsp; on allegations of Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Escape (2 counts), Felony Aiding a Fugitive (2 counts), and Obstructing Justice as part ongoing investigation into the Monday night escape of Mark Hopkins and Michael Martsolf from the Cherokee County Kansas Jail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621960532851.png" alt="Martsolf-photo Cherokee Co." />
 <figcaption>Martsolf-photo Cherokee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The search continues for 30-year-old Hopkins, who was being held on double murder charges, and 34 year-old Michael Martsolf, who was being held on felony drug charges.&nbsp; Both suspects now face additional charges of Aggravated Escape from Custody.A reward of up to $5,000.00 is being offered for information leading to their capture.

Woman accused of helping Kan. murder suspect escape from jail

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Wednesday afternoon shooting in Wichita that injured a 15-year-old have arrested&nbsp;a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Just after 4 pm Wednesday, police responded to a shooting call in the area of 26th and Park Place in Wichita, according to Macy.

 Upon arrival, they located a 15-year-old boy a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The investigation revealed that the victim was walking down the street when the suspects drove by in a vehicle and began firing at him. 

Police located the suspect vehicle at a home nearby, and the suspects were taken into custody at that location.

The 16-year-old suspect was booked into the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) for aggravated battery and criminal use of a weapon.

Additionally, the 15-year-old suspect was booked to JIAC for Aggravated Battery. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Wednesday afternoon shooting in Wichita that injured a 15-year-old have arrested&nbsp;a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy, according to Officer Trevor Macy.Just after 4 pm Wednesday, police responded to a shooting call in the area of 26th and Park Place in Wichita, according to Macy. Upon arrival, they located a 15-year-old boy a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.The investigation revealed that the victim was walking down the street when the suspects drove by in a vehicle and began firing at him. Police located the suspect vehicle at a home nearby, and the suspects were taken into custody at that location.The 16-year-old suspect was booked into the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) for aggravated battery and criminal use of a weapon.Additionally, the 15-year-old suspect was booked to JIAC for Aggravated Battery. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Police: Kan. teens jailed for drive-by shooting of 15-year-old  boy

SEWARD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges after her son called 911.

Just after 6:30a.m. Wednesday, police responded to the 600 Block of North Pershing Avenue in Liberal after a 911 hang-up call, according to a media release from police.

Investigators determined a 31-year-old woman had driven a 2011 Ford Explorer while under the influence of alcohol while her children were in the vehicle.

The oldest child, a 14-year-old was in the passenger seat and became scared for himself and his siblings.&nbsp; The son reached over, placed the SUV in neutral, steered it to the side of the road and called 911. Police located the vehicle on North Pershing.

Police arrested the driver on requested charges of DUI, aggravated child endangerment and intimidation of a victim, according to police. The driver is also being held for domestic battery and criminal damage from an incident at another location.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

SEWARD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges after her son called 911.Just after 6:30a.m. Wednesday, police responded to the 600 Block of North Pershing Avenue in Liberal after a 911 hang-up call, according to a media release from police.Investigators determined a 31-year-old woman had driven a 2011 Ford Explorer while under the influence of alcohol while her children were in the vehicle.The oldest child, a 14-year-old was in the passenger seat and became scared for himself and his siblings.&nbsp; The son reached over, placed the SUV in neutral, steered it to the side of the road and called 911. Police located the vehicle on North Pershing.Police arrested the driver on requested charges of DUI, aggravated child endangerment and intimidation of a victim, according to police. The driver is also being held for domestic battery and criminal damage from an incident at another location.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Kan. boy calls 911 to protect siblings during mom's DUI drive

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as&nbsp;Aaron D. Shepherd, 49 of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

Just before 5a.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 1200 Block SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. John Sturgeon.

At the scene, officer found Shepherd with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; Emergency crews transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, according to Sturgeon.

At the scene, officer found an adult man with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; Emergency crews transported the victim to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, according to Sturgeon.

Police have not released the victim's identity or reported an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622125588529.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Thoursday -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Thoursday -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as&nbsp;Aaron D. Shepherd, 49 of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.Just before 5a.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 1200 Block SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. John Sturgeon.At the scene, officer found Shepherd with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; Emergency crews transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, according to Sturgeon.----------SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting.Just before 5a.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 1200 Block SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. John Sturgeon.At the scene, officer found an adult man with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; Emergency crews transported the victim to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, according to Sturgeon.Police have not released the victim's identity or reported an arrest.

Police ID man who died after shooting at Kansas home

SALINE COUNTY—The three month search for a Kansas murder suspect ended Wednesday with the arrest of 36-year-old Nelson Hull and a woman believed to be helping him hide from authorities.

Police arrested Hull after a 2 1/2 hour standoff with Salina SWAT Team at a residence in the 500 Block of East Stimmel Road in Salina, according to a social media report from Salina police.

Based on information uncovered during the investigation, police also arrested 41-year Julie Ecton who resides at 511 E. Stimmel Road.

She was booked on requested charges of obstructing apprehension or prosecution, according to online booking records.

On Feb. 27, police identified Hull as a suspect in the murder of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman. She was found dead of a gunshot wound in a car in the 700 block of N. Fourth Street in Salina.

Hull is being held on requested charges of Murder in the first degree, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon and a Probation violation.

In late February, police arrested Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case. Brown was booked on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622129212395.jpeg" alt="Ecton photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Ecton photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—The three month search for a Kansas murder suspect ended Wednesday with the arrest of 36-year-old Nelson Hull and a woman believed to be helping him hide from authorities.Police arrested Hull after a 2 1/2 hour standoff with Salina SWAT Team at a residence in the 500 Block of East Stimmel Road in Salina, according to a social media report from Salina police.Based on information uncovered during the investigation, police also arrested 41-year Julie Ecton who resides at 511 E. Stimmel Road.She was booked on requested charges of obstructing apprehension or prosecution, according to online booking records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622111909347.png" alt="Hull photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Hull photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Feb. 27, police identified Hull as a suspect in the murder of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman. She was found dead of a gunshot wound in a car in the 700 block of N. Fourth Street in Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614348886825.png" alt="Police on the scene of the fatal February shooting investigation in Salina -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the fatal February shooting investigation in Salina -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Hull is being held on requested charges of Murder in the first degree, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon and a Probation violation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614629894498.png" alt="Clarence Brown photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Clarence Brown photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>In late February, police arrested Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case. Brown was booked on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

Kansas woman accused of helping hide murder suspect

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting that injured a 6-year-old have made an arrest.

Just before 1:30 pm Monday, police were dispatched to the 3100 block of South Yale in Wichita for reports of gunshots heard in the area, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

A witness reported a vehicle leaving the area with adults and one child. That vehicle arrived at an area hospital a short time later with a six-year-old boy who had suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Officers stopped an adult suspect identified as 22-year-old Abdulrahman Melhem of Wichita. The shooting was reported to be accidental.&nbsp;

Later, police arrested Melhem on requested charges of reckless aggravated battery, according to Macy.

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s office.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that injured a 6-year-old.&nbsp;

Just before 1:30 pm Monday, police were dispatched to the 3100 block of South Yale in Wichita for reports of gunshots heard in the area, according to Officer Trevor Macey. 

A Witness reported a vehicle leaving the area with adults and one child. That vehicle arrived at an area hospital a short time later with a six-year-old boy who had suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

The adult male suspect was stopped by officers. The shooting was reported to be accidental.&nbsp; Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622141626884.png" alt="Melhem photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Melhem photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting that injured a 6-year-old have made an arrest.Just before 1:30 pm Monday, police were dispatched to the 3100 block of South Yale in Wichita for reports of gunshots heard in the area, according to Officer Trevor Macy.A witness reported a vehicle leaving the area with adults and one child. That vehicle arrived at an area hospital a short time later with a six-year-old boy who had suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.Officers stopped an adult suspect identified as 22-year-old Abdulrahman Melhem of Wichita. The shooting was reported to be accidental.&nbsp;Later, police arrested Melhem on requested charges of reckless aggravated battery, according to Macy.The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s office.-------------SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that injured a 6-year-old.&nbsp;Just before 1:30 pm Monday, police were dispatched to the 3100 block of South Yale in Wichita for reports of gunshots heard in the area, according to Officer Trevor Macey. A Witness reported a vehicle leaving the area with adults and one child. That vehicle arrived at an area hospital a short time later with a six-year-old boy who had suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.The adult male suspect was stopped by officers. The shooting was reported to be accidental.&nbsp; Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Arrest made after 6-year-old Kan. boy injured in shooting

SEWARD, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say sheriff's deputies in a southeast Nebraska county seized 103 pounds of methamphetamine in two stops this week. 

Seward County Sheriff Michael Vance says deputies recovered 3 pounds of the drug on Monday near the Goehner exit off Interstate 80.

A man from Council Bluffs, Iowa, and a woman from California were arrested. On Wednesday, deputies stopped a minivan for a traffic violation near the Milford exit on the interstate. A search found 100 pounds of methamphetamine in the van. A man identified as Dallas T. Faarmausili from Benton, Washington, was arrested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622149005354.png" alt="Faarmausili -photo Seward County" />
 <figcaption>Faarmausili -photo Seward County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEWARD, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say sheriff's deputies in a southeast Nebraska county seized 103 pounds of methamphetamine in two stops this week. Seward County Sheriff Michael Vance says deputies recovered 3 pounds of the drug on Monday near the Goehner exit off Interstate 80.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622149047341.png" alt="Deputies say the meth was purchased for $2 million dollars and was to be delivered to New Jersey" />
 <figcaption>Deputies say the meth was purchased for $2 million dollars and was to be delivered to New Jersey</figcaption>
 </figure>A man from Council Bluffs, Iowa, and a woman from California were arrested. On Wednesday, deputies stopped a minivan for a traffic violation near the Milford exit on the interstate. A search found 100 pounds of methamphetamine in the van. A man identified as Dallas T. Faarmausili from Benton, Washington, was arrested.

Deputies seize 103 pounds of meth bought for $2 Million

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police in Kansas City are investigating two separate homicides that occurred Thursday morning.

The first occurred just before 1 a.m. at an apartment complex just north of Riss Lake, police said. Officers were called to the apartment building for a report of gunshots and found a woman with gunshot wounds in a common area of the building, police said in a news release. The woman was declared dead at the scene.

The second homicide was reported around 7 a.m. just west of U.S. 71 in a residential area near the Swope Park Campus, police said. Officers called to that scene found a man inside a home who appeared to have been shot. Police said he died at the scene.

Police did not immediately release the names of those killed and had not announced any arrests by late morning Thursday.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police in Kansas City are investigating two separate homicides that occurred Thursday morning.The first occurred just before 1 a.m. at an apartment complex just north of Riss Lake, police said. Officers were called to the apartment building for a report of gunshots and found a woman with gunshot wounds in a common area of the building, police said in a news release. The woman was declared dead at the scene.The second homicide was reported around 7 a.m. just west of U.S. 71 in a residential area near the Swope Park Campus, police said. Officers called to that scene found a man inside a home who appeared to have been shot. Police said he died at the scene.Police did not immediately release the names of those killed and had not announced any arrests by late morning Thursday.

Police in Kansas City investigate 2 more shooting deaths

LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas couple for alleged animal cruelty.

Authorities say the couple face possible animal cruelty charges after 17 dogs were removed from their home. Lyon County Sheriff's deputies and animal control officers went to the home Wednesday to serve a court order to remove all but five animals from the home. 

The Hartford Municipal Court order said the animals were a nuisance and part of an unauthorized kennel. Deputies found poor living conditions in the home and removed 17 dogs, 14 of which were a dog-wolf breed. 

The homeowners, Thomas and Rhonda Staggs, are jailed in Lyon County on unrelated warrants and a requested charge of animal cruelty.&nbsp;Formal charges are pending through the Lyon County Attorney’s Office.

Guardian of the Wolves animal rescue is caring for the animals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622130842400.png" alt="Staggs-photo Lyon County" />
 <figcaption>Staggs-photo Lyon County</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas couple for alleged animal cruelty.Authorities say the couple face possible animal cruelty charges after 17 dogs were removed from their home. Lyon County Sheriff's deputies and animal control officers went to the home Wednesday to serve a court order to remove all but five animals from the home. The Hartford Municipal Court order said the animals were a nuisance and part of an unauthorized kennel. Deputies found poor living conditions in the home and removed 17 dogs, 14 of which were a dog-wolf breed. The homeowners, Thomas and Rhonda Staggs, are jailed in Lyon County on unrelated warrants and a requested charge of animal cruelty.&nbsp;Formal charges are pending through the Lyon County Attorney’s Office.Guardian of the Wolves animal rescue is caring for the animals.--------

Kansas couple arrested after 17 dogs removed from home

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities have made an arrest after an domestic incident in Manhattan.

Just after 6:30p.m. police responded to the Links Apartments, 500 Admiral Way in Manhattan, according to a media release from the RCPD.

When they arrived, officers believed the accused man may be of danger to himself. A very brief negotiation led to the arrest of Deirtich Duncan, 28, of Manhattan. Duncan was issued a total bond of $1,000.00 and is no longer confined, according to RCPD booking records.

Riley Co. Police said they made an arrest at a Manhattan apartment complex Wednesday night, but they still will not say what led to the situation.

A Riley Co. Police spokesperson confirmed officers were at The Links apartments, near Marlatt and Casement Roads. He said some residents were asked to leave their apartments and were later allowed to return.

A neighbor told 13 NEWS they saw at least a half dozen police cars and an ambulance arrive in the area around 6 p.m.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW TV) - A large police presence was seen at a Manhattan apartment complex Wednesday night.

A Riley Co. Police spokesperson confirmed officers were at The Links apartments, near Marlatt and Casement Roads. But he declined to give any further information on what brought them there.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities have made an arrest after an domestic incident in Manhattan.Just after 6:30p.m. police responded to the Links Apartments, 500 Admiral Way in Manhattan, according to a media release from the RCPD.When they arrived, officers believed the accused man may be of danger to himself. A very brief negotiation led to the arrest of Deirtich Duncan, 28, of Manhattan. Duncan was issued a total bond of $1,000.00 and is no longer confined, according to RCPD booking records.-------------By WIBW TVUPDATE:Riley Co. Police said they made an arrest at a Manhattan apartment complex Wednesday night, but they still will not say what led to the situation.A Riley Co. Police spokesperson confirmed officers were at The Links apartments, near Marlatt and Casement Roads. He said some residents were asked to leave their apartments and were later allowed to return.A neighbor told 13 NEWS they saw at least a half dozen police cars and an ambulance arrive in the area around 6 p.m.----MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW TV) - A large police presence was seen at a Manhattan apartment complex Wednesday night.A Riley Co. Police spokesperson confirmed officers were at The Links apartments, near Marlatt and Casement Roads. But he declined to give any further information on what brought them there.A neighbor told 13 NEWS they saw at least a half dozen police cars and an ambulance arrive in the area around 6 p.m.

RCPD's IDs Manhattan man jailed after domestic incident 

KANSAS CITY —The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, Wednesday released the cause of the fire that destroyed a part of the Waldo Heights Apartment Complex, according to a media release from the ATF.

The fire, which was reported to the Kansas City Fire Department at approximately 7:00 p.m. on December 28, caused an estimated $2.5 million in damages and displaced dozens of residents. Several residents were injured as they jumped from the third floor of the building to avoid the flames. 

The fire was investigated by Special Agent/Certified Fire Investigators from ATF’s Kansas City Field Division, ATF’s National Response Team, along with the Kansas City Police Department’s Bomb and Arson Unit and the Kansas City Fire Department’s Fire Investigation’s Unit.

The joint investigation revealed that the fire was intentionally set on the third floor of the building moments before the fire was reported to authorities.

ATF agents and detectives from the Kansas City Police Department’s Bomb and Arson Unit are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible for setting the fire. Anyone with information is asked to the call the Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS or contact the ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ATFTips@atf.gov">ATFTips@atf.gov</a>, or contact ATF through its website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips">www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips</a>. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to ATF by texting ATFKC to 63975 and following the prompts.

This fire was investigated by ATF’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atf.gov/explosives/national-response-team">National Response Team (NRT)</a>. ATF developed the NRT to bring its expertise to federal, state and local investigators in meeting the challenges faced at the scenes of significant fire incidents. The NRT consists of four teams organized geographically to cover the United States. The teams are each composed of veteran special agents who have extensive post blast and fire origin and cause expertise; forensic chemists; explosives enforcement officers; fire protection engineers; accelerant detection canines and electrical engineers. The team works alongside state and local officers in reconstructing the scene, identifying the seat of the blast or origin of the fire, conducting interviews, and sifting through debris to obtain evidence related to the bombing/arson. The team was last deployed to Kansas City to investigate a 2015 fire that killed two Kansas City firemen. That fire was also intentionally set and the arsonist was convicted in the 16th Circuit of Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609251195844.png" alt="Crews fighting the apartment fire photo <a href="https://www.kctv5.com/news/local_news/2-taken-to-hospital-following-large-fire-at-waldo-heights-apartments/article_cc28349a-497e-11eb-b9f3-336bf837a01b.html?block_id=991162">courtesy KCTV</a>" />
 <figcaption>Crews fighting the apartment fire photo <a href="https://www.kctv5.com/news/local_news/2-taken-to-hospital-following-large-fire-at-waldo-heights-apartments/article_cc28349a-497e-11eb-b9f3-336bf837a01b.html?block_id=991162">courtesy KCTV</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, Wednesday released the cause of the fire that destroyed a part of the Waldo Heights Apartment Complex, according to a media release from the ATF.The fire, which was reported to the Kansas City Fire Department at approximately 7:00 p.m. on December 28, caused an estimated $2.5 million in damages and displaced dozens of residents. Several residents were injured as they jumped from the third floor of the building to avoid the flames. The fire was investigated by Special Agent/Certified Fire Investigators from ATF’s Kansas City Field Division, ATF’s National Response Team, along with the Kansas City Police Department’s Bomb and Arson Unit and the Kansas City Fire Department’s Fire Investigation’s Unit.The joint investigation revealed that the fire was intentionally set on the third floor of the building moments before the fire was reported to authorities.ATF agents and detectives from the Kansas City Police Department’s Bomb and Arson Unit are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible for setting the fire. Anyone with information is asked to the call the Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS or contact the ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ATFTips@atf.gov">ATFTips@atf.gov</a>, or contact ATF through its website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips">www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips</a>. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to ATF by texting ATFKC to 63975 and following the prompts.This fire was investigated by ATF’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atf.gov/explosives/national-response-team">National Response Team (NRT)</a>. ATF developed the NRT to bring its expertise to federal, state and local investigators in meeting the challenges faced at the scenes of significant fire incidents. The NRT consists of four teams organized geographically to cover the United States. The teams are each composed of veteran special agents who have extensive post blast and fire origin and cause expertise; forensic chemists; explosives enforcement officers; fire protection engineers; accelerant detection canines and electrical engineers. The team works alongside state and local officers in reconstructing the scene, identifying the seat of the blast or origin of the fire, conducting interviews, and sifting through debris to obtain evidence related to the bombing/arson. The team was last deployed to Kansas City to investigate a 2015 fire that killed two Kansas City firemen. That fire was also intentionally set and the arsonist was convicted in the 16th Circuit of Missouri.

ATF: $2.5M fire at KC apartment complex was intentionally set

SALINE COUNTY— The three month search for a man wanted for murder in Salina ended Wednesday.

Just after 5p.m., police arrested 36-year-old Nelson Hull after a 2 1/2 hour standoff with Salina SWAT at a residence in the 500 Block of East Stimmel, according to a social media report from Salina police.

This incident did involve chemical agents being introduced into the home, according to police.&nbsp;

Hull was identified on Feb. 27 as a suspect in the murder of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman. She was found dead in a car in the 700 block of N. Fourth Street on Feb. 23. She had been shot.

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 36-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.

He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.

Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."

On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.

Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622111909347.png" alt="Hull is being held on a requested charge of murder -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Hull is being held on a requested charge of murder -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY— The three month search for a man wanted for murder in Salina ended Wednesday.Just after 5p.m., police arrested 36-year-old Nelson Hull after a 2 1/2 hour standoff with Salina SWAT at a residence in the 500 Block of East Stimmel, according to a social media report from Salina police.This incident did involve chemical agents being introduced into the home, according to police.&nbsp;Hull was identified on Feb. 27 as a suspect in the murder of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman. She was found dead in a car in the 700 block of N. Fourth Street on Feb. 23. She had been shot.-----------SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 36-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614348886825.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614629894498.png" alt="Clarence Brown -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Clarence Brown -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

Search for suspect in Kan. woman's murder ends after standoff

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of&nbsp; vehicles being burglarized in the city on Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622041981942.png" alt="Ward photo Barton County" />
 <figcaption>Ward photo Barton County</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of&nbsp; vehicles being burglarized in the city on Great Bend.In addition, just before 11a.m. Monday, officers took a report of a stolen 2012 Dodge Journey from the 2500 block of 16th Street in Great Bend, according to a media release. Utilizing doorbell surveillance cameras in the area of one of the vehicle burglaries, officers were able to determine a suspect vehicle matched the description of the stolen vehicle.Officers then received information that the stolen vehicle was located at the Great Bend Public Library. Officers contacted 22-year-old Hunter Ward&nbsp; in the area. During the investigation, Officers located some of the property reported stolen from vehicles on the suspect. In addition, Ward&nbsp; had the key to the stolen vehicle in his possession and was also in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Officers arrested him on requested charges of burglary of a motor vehicle, Poss. of stolen property, Poss. of methamphetamine, Poss. of marijuana, Poss. of drug paraphernalia, No drug tax stamp.