The St. Joseph Police department is taking advantage of advancing technology and combatting crime in a more focused way.  

Police Chief Paul Luster says the department is focused on what is called precision policing, using data to help drive how officers focus on crime 

"What I call we go fishing with a spear not a net, so we have a scenario violent crime pop up in a neighborhood, well let’s really look at our data, let’s do our research, and lets what I call laser focus, pinpoint on the people or the person, let’s pinpoint the location, and then let’s be precise on how we’re going to handle that issue,” Luster says on the KFEQmunnity show. 

Luster says the process helps officers go into an issues laser focused on how to combat the crime with a precise approach 

“We know we’re having a problem, this is our problem house, these are the people associated with the house, let’s get our partners on board, let’s get out there in the community and not only deal with that house but let’s attempt to bolster relationships with the neighborhood, let them know we’re here and we’re working on it, maybe get some information if we can, encourage them to call in with information,” Luster explains. 

Luster says that extends to bi-weekly meetings with law enforcement partners, including the prosecutor's office, to go over the cases that are shown in the data. 

Luster says the data help determine hotspots of where certain crimes are happening  

“Map of the city and we may put in the criteria, of let’s just say we put in aggravated assaults, and we plug that in and that grabs data from our reporting system and then it will put heat spots on that map,” Luster says.  “And it may go from a light color to glowing hot on that map, so that shows us ok we’re having problems in this neighborhood and maybe this neighborhood.” 

Luster points to a recent community engagement in the College Hill Park neighborhood where there were some hotspots.  The engagement ended up resolving some cases and getting community engagement while working in that area. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Police take more focused approach with precision policiing

KFEQ Morning Sports

KFEQ Morning News 

A move is underway
in Congress to address an apparent oversight:&nbsp;
that members of the Air National Guard don’t benefit from the college
tuition assistance offered members of the Army National Guard.

Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, sponsors bi-partisan legislation to address the
discrepancy.

“If you join the
Army National Guard, you get tuition assistance to go to college and a lot of
members, or a lot of young people, join the Army Guard as a result of that,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But Air National Guard, they don’t have that same
opportunity. So, what this does is just make it the very same rules as the Army
National Guard.”

Graves says he has
no idea how the discrepancy developed.

He does know it
has hurt recruitment efforts of the Air National Guard. That, he hopes, is soon
to change.

“It’s going to be
a big difference and that means the Air National Guard is going to be able to
compete with Army National Guard on a level playing field,” according to
Graves.

Graves has
co-sponsored the legislation along with Congressmen Brad Finstad of Minnesota
and Eric Sorenson of Illinois.

Under the
legislation, federal college tuition assistance would be provided for drill
status guard members of the Air National Guard, such as those stationed with
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport in St. Joseph.

Move underway to give Air Guard members college tuition help

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Wednesday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by a 46-year-old Schulter, Oklahoma man was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Mound City.&nbsp; The vehicle's towed unit had equipment failure, struck an emergency cross over, became detached and overturned in the median. A northbound 2022 Volvo semi driven by a 64-year-old Omaha, Nebraska, man attempted to avoid the Freightliner. The Volvo skidded off the east side of the road, struck the Freightliner and overturned.

Holt-Atchison EMS transported the Volvo semi driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The Freighliner driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized in St. Joe after semi accident

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by a 45-year-old Hale woman was eastbound on Route H two miles east of Avalon. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in a private driveway.

Chillicothe EMS transported the driver to Hedrick Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri woman injured after pickup accident

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Chevy S10 driven by a 42-year-old Bethany woman was southbound on U.S. 69 four miles north of Bethany. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle began to skid across the road, traveled off the east side of the road, and struck multiple metal objects.

Life Flight Eagle transported the driver to Truman Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman air lifted to hospital after violent pickup crash

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging the public to prioritize safety and responsible decision-making during this year’s New Year’s celebrations. 

With the goal of preventing traffic crashes and DWI arrests, officials remind Missourians that the choices made behind the wheel directly impact the safety of everyone on the road.

Statistics from the 2024 - 2025 holiday period underscore the importance of these warnings: during that timeframe, Missouri saw 264 traffic crashes resulting in 118 injuries and one fatality.

The 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m., Dec. 31, and will conclude at 11:59 p.m., Jan. 1, 2026. 

For those whose holiday plans involve alcohol, Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph, says, "Plan ahead and have a designated, sober driver."

To further ensure a safe arrival, travelers are reminded to wear seatbelts and ensure all passengers are buckled up.

Additionally, drivers should remain mindful that Missouri is now a hands-free state. Motorists are urged to stay focused, obey all traffic laws, and yield the right-of-way when necessary.

Due to ongoing road construction across the state, the Patrol suggests using the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan routes in advance.

Missouri State Highway Patrol urges safe driving for New Year’s holiday

The InspireU Children’s Discovery Center in Downtown St. Joseph is kicking off 2026 early with a morning of activities throughout the children’s museum dedicated to fostering physical health, mental wellness, and educational enrichment. 

Roy Moye will emcee a morning of play and music at InspireU during Noon Years Eve starting at 9am and running until 1am on Wednesday. Roy blends his professional background in aerospace engineering with his passion for music to educate the next generation of innovators through the fusion of science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM. Roy's mission is to use the power of music to inspire young multicultural minds to explore hidden career paths.  

Other celebratory activities around the museum will include festive crafts, face painting, confetti eruptions, yummy treats, games, and more, ending with a countdown and balloon drop at noon.  All ages are welcome. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Children under one are free. 

All activities are included with ticket purchase. InspireU will be closed to general admission on Wednesday,. Admission to the special InspireU family event must be purchased separately from general admission 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

InspireU kicking off New Year's celebrations early with Noon Years Eve

The United, a historic ballroom at 602 Felix St., will officially reopen to the public Wednesday with a New Year’s Eve celebration aimed at revitalizing the downtown entertainment scene.

The "Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash" marks a new chapter for the venue, which has undergone extensive cleaning and renovations following years of sporadic use. Organizers intend for the space to become a premier destination for weddings, celebrations and community gatherings.

Managing partner of the United, Stacy Fisher, says, "This is our way of reintroducing ourselves into historic downtown, and we can't wait for people to see our space."

The celebration is a joint effort between the ballroom and several local businesses, including The Den, Parkway Distillery, River Bluff Brewing, Felix Street Gourmet and 1st Barrel Brewery.&nbsp;

"We wanted to create an event that brings people downtown and gives them a chance to experience The United in a fun, welcoming way," organizers said in a statement. "This building has so much history, and now it’s ready for its next chapter."

Regional band Under the Influence will provide live music for the evening.

Fisher adds, "The band will go on at 9:00 and we will definitely have food for people, with some heavy appetizers." Fisher notes the food is included as part of the cover charge, which also features a champagne toast at midnight.

The doors open at 8 p.m. for guests 21 and older. The ticket also provides access to participating downtown bars.

Early bird tickets are $20, while tickets at the door are $25. Tickets can be purchased via the event’s Facebook page or by scanning QR codes found on promotional posters throughout the downtown area.

Tickets are also available for a VIP Experience for $50, but is limited to 35 guests.

Organizers said they view the event as a catalyst for future collaborations and a busier schedule of events at the historic site.

The "Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash" is a 21+ event.

Historic United Ballroom to reopen with Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash

City of St. Joseph offices will be closed in observance of New Year's Day.

For Jan. 1, city offices will be closed for the holiday. The Remington Nature Center, The REC Center, landfill, and recycling center will all be closed as well.

City offices will be open Dec. 31, however the Remington Nature Center will be closed.

The City of St. Joseph is wishing everyone a happy and safe New Year's.

City of St. Joseph offices to close for New Year's Day

During the Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Viability in Idaho, American Farmland Trust announced a new initiative called “Thriving Farms and Ranches” during the event. 

The Governor’s Summit explored the challenges of balancing the growth of cities and towns with Idaho’s valuable agricultural economy, as working lands are being lost at an alarming rate. “We know that one of the best ways to protect farm and ranch lands is to keep them in production,” said Addie Candib, AFT’s Western Managing Director. “At a time when farmers and ranchers face increasing headwinds, it’s imperative that we invest in the programs and policies that support our working lands.” 

Through the initiative, AFT will work to ensure farmers and ranchers can be more financially secure, invest in the long-term future of their operations, and attract the next generation of the nation’s farmers. AFT will combine existing programs to strengthen, diversify, and grow markets, make conservation investments, and advance policies to support U.S. agriculture.

AFT Announces New Initiative to Empower Farmers and Ranchers

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service announced the establishment of a “batching deadline” of January 15, 2026, for the first funding round of key conservation programs. 

This national batching deadline ensures producers have a clear, consistent timeline for participating in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/environmental-quality-incentives-program">EQIP</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/conservation-stewardship-program">CSP</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/agricultural-conservation-easement-program">Agricultural Conservation Easement Program</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/agricultural-management-assistance">Agricultural Management Assistance</a>. This includes the new NRCS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/regenerative-pilot-program">Regenerative Pilot Program</a>, which provides targeted farmer-first assistance through EQIP and CSP. “The NRCS team continues its commitment to America’s producers by advancing conservation, strengthening service delivery, and keeping our promise to the men and women who feed and fuel our nation,” said NRCS Chief Aubrey Bettencourt.

NRCS programs are continuous sign-up programs, but due to the government shutdown, the agency is implementing an initial national batching period to ensure producers have access to funding and support. National and State Conservation Innovation Grants will follow later in 2026.

USDA “Batching” Deadline in January

Beef prices are projected to continue increasing in 2026 as U.S. beef production continues to decline, with no obvious signs of a rebuilding cattle herd. 

That comes from John Lovett of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. At the beginning of 2025, U.S. cattle inventories were at their lowest point since the 1950s, and the industry has been in liquidation mode since it peaked at 94.7 million head in 2019. “Since then,” Lovett said, “the nation’s beef herd has decreased by eight million head of cattle.” Liquidating cattle inventories is one phase of a typical cattle cycle, which is a ten-to-12-year pattern of expanding and contracting cattle numbers, driven largely by changes in producer profitability and worsened by drought. 

Bloomberg said cheap beef could be driven further out of reach for many consumers as Brazil, another large cattle supplier, is heading into a period of shrinking cattle numbers that could push global prices higher.

Beef Prices Predicted to Keep Climbing in 2026

March corn closed down 1 3/4 cents per bushel at $4.40 1/2 and May closed down 2 1/4 cents per bushel at $4.48 1/2. January soybeans closed down 3 1/4 cents at $10.46 1/4 and March soybeans were down 1 1/4 cents at $10.62 1/4. March KC wheat closed down 5 1/4 cents at $5.22, March Chicago wheat was down 2 1/4 cents at $5.10 3/4 and March Minneapolis wheat was down 0.01 cents at $5.785.

Corn and wheat continued to build on Monday's surprising weakness while soybeans traded both sides before fading and were unaffected by a new flash sale to China and rumors of more in the works. Soybean product markets were mixed in quiet trade.

Following Monday's weaker close, the live cattle complex was higher as traders remain optimistic about the year to come. As we know now more than ever, managing risk remains a critical part of the cattle business and volatility is always looming; but there's still much to be excited about in the cattle sector as the calendar looks ahead to 2026. Still no developments have surfaced in the fed cash cattle market.

Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice down $0.82 ($348.51) and select up $0.06 ($345.68) with a movement of 93 loads (63.14 loads of choice, 11.25 loads of select, 9.65 loads of trim and 8.83 loads of ground beef).

Upon seeing the live cattle complex trading higher, the feeder cattle contracts have elected to up their game as most of the contracts were trading $2.00 to $3.00 higher into Tuesday's close. The market has plenty of upward potential as the contracts have already broken through the resistance at the 100-day moving average.

The lean hog complex was also higher as traders are no longer up against immediate resistance pressure and the contracts were feeling some spillover support from the cattle sectors' ambitious trade activity.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2025/12/30140107/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Since 2020, AgriBusiness Global has developed a yearly forecast of key events likely to impact global agriculture and agribusiness in the year ahead. Among the top forecasts for 2026 are input prices staying flat or increasing as suppliers compete for farm purchases. They also said China’s economy will continue to be challenged as the country’s enormous pesticide manufacturing capacity continues to drive margin erosion globally. While this is a positive for end-users of crop inputs, profitability for the supply channel remains challenging. Agro-industry “stagflation” is expected to continue into next year. 

Flat global demand in the Americas, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific nations is being driven by aging, shrinking populations, and in the U.S., especially, food consumption may drop because of the increasing use of obesity drugs and the Make America Healthy Again program. The energy outlook will remain positive, except where political taxes play a role. 

Ag forecasts for 2026

The Federal Communications Commission recently blacklisted all new foreign-made drones and components due to concerns that the foreign equipment is an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security. Reports said the technology is on the Commission’s “Covered List,” barring foreign drone manufacturers from receiving the FCC’s approval to sell new drone models for import or sale into the U.S. Reports say, the ban’s timing hurts as many farmers are financially struggling because of high production costs, which makes the precise application of crop protection products and fertilizers especially important. 

Most precision agriculture is increasingly accomplished through using drones. “Foreign-manufactured drones represent a significant majority of the agricultural drone market, and sudden restrictions on their use without sufficient domestic alternatives would add new financial burdens on already over-stressed farmers,” the American Soybean Association said in a statement. The FCC said the ban won’t ground the thousands of already deployed unmanned aircraft in the U.S.

Drone ban could impact farmers 

The USDA is forecasting that the agricultural trade deficit will shrink in 2026 more than previously anticipated. Agri-Pulse said USDA expects the trade deficit to drop from $43.7 billion in fiscal year 2025 to $37 billion in fiscal year 2026. 

That’s according to the Quarterly Trade Forecast published on Tuesday. During a previous report released in August, the USDA originally predicted a trade deficit of $41.5 billion in this fiscal year. Driving the adjusted outlook are factors like larger-than-expected exports. 

USDA’s export prediction during FY2026 is now $173 billion, up from the projected $169 billion in August. However, even with the revision, exports are still set to contract year-over-year after the U.S. recorded $175.6 billion in exports during fiscal year 2025. “A significant portion of the better outlook can be attributed to improvements in the Chinese market,” Agri-Pulse reported. “Exports are also projected to improve in South Korea, Japan, Mexico, and Southeast Asia.”

USDA Projects $37 Billion Ag Trade Deficit Next Year

The Bureau of Land Management released its updated greater sage grouse management plans, amending 77 separate land use plans across the West. 

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council submitted comments on these plans after each phase of the revisions in 2015, 2019, and 2024, advising BLM leadership to leverage livestock grazing as a tool for strengthening sagebrush habitat and preventing wildfires that kill countless birds every year. These amended plans will accomplish these goals and will greatly increase conservation efforts. 

“The revised sage grouse management plans recognize the role of cattle producers, as the original conservationists, and follow the best available science,” said NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “Without ranchers actively managing millions of acres of western rangeland, there would be less habitat and forage, and the grouse populations would be substantially smaller.” A single conservation strategy among all states would have been ineffective.

Sage Grouse Plains Use Science and Stakeholder Input

March corn closed down 1 cent per bushel at $4.50 and May Corn&nbsp;closed down 3/4 cent per bushel at $4.58 1/4 and January soybeans closed down 4 1/2 cents at $10.58 3/4 and March soybeans were down 4 cents at $10.72 1/2. March KC wheat closed down 1/2 cent at $5.33 1/2, March Chicago wheat was down 2 3/4 cents at $5.19 and MIAX March Minneapolis wheat was down 0.01 cents at $5.7925.

With little in the way of fresh news, and in typical holiday-slowed futures trade, corn, soybeans and for the most part wheat traded lower after an early start, with beans and Chicago wheat weakest.

The livestock complex was trading mixed into Friday's noon hour as the market tries to regain focus following the Christmas holiday. Still no new cash cattle trade had developed and no bids were currently on the table.

The live cattle complex was trading higher into Friday's noon hour after as the market is seeing a little bit of a post-holiday rally. More than anything it seemed as though the contracts were trading a tic higher after a weaker close on Wednesday as traders elected to let the contracts fall away from the market's resistance at its 100-day moving average.

The feeder cattle complex was again following the direction of the live cattle market as it too was higher. But what's different about the feeder cattle complex as opposed to the live cattle market is that for the last four trading days, the feeder cattle complex has been able to maintain a position above the market's 100-day moving average in its spot March contract.

Although pork cutout values are up noticeably, the lean hog contracts were still trading lower.&nbsp;

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2025/10/24195559/30001.mp3">Click HERE fro Audio</a>

Commodity market daily recap

For only the second time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above a growth-neutral reading of 50.0. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in a rural ten-state region dependent on agriculture and energy. The December reading hit 50.1, its highest level since July 2025, and was up from November’s 44.0. The index ranges from 0 to 100, with 50.0 representing growth neutral. 

“Weak agriculture commodity prices and high input costs for grain producers continue to restrain economic activity in the ten-state region,” said Ernie Goss of Creighton University. When asked to identify the most effective policy changes to boost farm income, half of the bank CEOs named the reduction of farm tariffs and trade restrictions as the most effective or useful. For only the second time in the past 20 months, farmland prices expanded above growth-neutral. Farm loan delinquencies only grew by 1.6 percent during the past six months.

Rural Mainstreet Index Climbed Above Growth Neutral

ST. LOUIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Tuesday in St. Louis County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Explorer driven by a 39-year-old St. Louis woman who was westbound on Interstate 70 at MO 115.

The SUV s truck a pedestrian identified as a 40-year-old Topeka, Kansas, man. Fire personnel pronounced the pedestrian deceased just before 11p.m. The SUV driver was not injured and properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Kan. man dies after struck by SUV on Missouri highway

MANHATTAN, KAN. – The Riley County Police Department arrested three individuals on drug-related charges following the execution of two search warrants on Tuesday, stemming from an ongoing investigation.

Scott Marchand, 48, of Manhattan, was arrested at approximately 12:34 p.m. in the 3200 block of Fort Riley Blvd. Marchand is in the Riley County jail on a&nbsp; $156,000 bond on requested charges that include four counts of distributing or possessing with intent to distribute heroin/fentanyl within 1000 feet of a school, two counts of distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/heroin within 1000 feet of a school, two counts of use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia, one count of criminal use of weapons, one count possession of an opiate/opium/narcotic or certain stimulant and one count of manufacture/plant/cultivate a controlled substance. Marchand was issued a total bond of $156,000 and remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

Angeli Moragne, 39, of Ogden, was arrested at approximately 1:40 p.m. in the 2400 block of Walden Lane. Moragne is being held on a $25,000 bond on requested charges of distribution or possession with intent to distribute heroin/fentanyl within 1000 feet of a school and use/possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia.s

David Labombarbe, 39, of Manhattan, was arrested at approximately 9:48 p.m. in the 1600 block of Woodcrest Drive. Labombarbe is being held on a&nbsp; $150,000 bond on requested charges of possession opiate/opium/narcotic or certain stimulant, two counts of distribute or possess with intent to distribute heroin/fentanyl within 1000 feet of a school, one count distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/heroin within 1000 feet of a school, one of count of distribution of certain depressant withing 1000 feet of a school, one count of possession of substance in KSA 65-4105(h) [opiates], one count of use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia, one count of manufacture/plant/cultivate a controlled substance and one count of criminal use of weapons.&nbsp;

Police: 3 jailed in Manhattan for allegedly selling fentanyl

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a deadly gun fight at a home in Kansas City.

Just before 11:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a shooting at a home in the 4000 Block of Arlington Avenue, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

FIrst responders were led inside a residence where they located 3 total shooting victims (1 adult female and 2 adult males) 

One of the victims, an adult male, was unresponsive, the other two victims had serious injuries but were conscious. Officers ordered EMS who responded to the scene moments later. EMS declared the unresponsive adult male deceased at the scene. 

EMS&nbsp; transported the surviving man and woman to the hospital for further treatment. Both of their injuries are described as critical, but they are reported to be in stable condition.

Homicide detectives were on scene and investigating this case as a homicide. 

Preliminary information indictes all three victims were inside the residence when an argument ensued. That interaction escalated to gunfire between one or more of the victims which led to all 3 of them being struck by gunfire. 

All parties involved remained at the scene and detectives are not searching for any additional suspects.The exact sequence of events as well as the relationship, if any, between the victims remains under investigation.&nbsp;

1 dead, 2 injured: Argument inside KC home led to gunfight

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —On Tuesday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office recovered a stolen race car and trailer near 61st and Berryton Road in Shawnee County, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

On October 21, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report that the trailer and race car had been stolen from where it was being kept in the 9000 Block of 110th Road in rural Mayetta. 

 Jackson County Detectives discovered where the stolen items were located and obtained a search warrant for the property.  The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Detectives and Deputies assisted with the execution of the search warrant. 

 If anyone has information about this crime they are asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.

Sheriff: Stolen race car and trailer recovered in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating the death of two people at a home in Topeka have identified the homicide victim as&nbsp;Erica Beckem, 35, of Topeka and the&nbsp;deceased suspect as Travoris Steele, 26, Topeka.

Just after 11:45p.m. Friday, police responded to a report of a possible shooting in the 900 block of SW Lincoln Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. John Trimble.

First responders located Beckem and Steele who were deceased.&nbsp;

The Topeka Police Department is still investigating this incident as a murder-suicide.&nbsp;

Police ID man, woman found dead in Kansas shooting

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 3p.m. Tuesday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 GMC Terrain driven by Robert S&nbsp;Deatherage, 70, Coffeyville, was eastbound on U.S. 160 at County Road 4500. The SUV traveled off the roadway to the right, struck a culvert, continued eastbound across County Road 4500, struck another embankment and rolled into the east ditch.

EMS transported Deatherage to Freeman Hospital in Joplin where he was pronounced deceased. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies in SUV rollover accident

KANSAS CITY —Police in Kansas City investigating Christmas weekend homicide have identified the victim as 54-year-old Luis Cruz

Just before 2a.m Saturday, officers were dispatched to a shooting in the 3900 block of St. John Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

As officers arrived they located Cruz on the sidewalk, suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD EMS arrived on scene. Medics transported Cruz to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Just before 3a.m., Cruz was pronounced deceased at the hospital.&nbsp;

Police ID Christmas weekend homicide victim in Kansas City

BARRY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Barry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1991 Mazda passenger vehicle driven by&nbsp; 42-year-old Amberel L. Macdermant of Purdy who was southbound on at 1090 Farm Road two miles north of Purdy.

The vehicle struck a pedestrian identified as an 84-year-old Monett woman who was in the roadway.&nbsp; The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

Macdermant was arrested on requested charges of felony DWI; death of another; driving with no valid license and no insurance.

Mo. woman accused of DWI in crash that killed pedestrian

DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp; – The Lawrence Kansas Police Department in collaboration with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office announce the arrest of an alleged child sex offender whose crimes date back to 2000-2003. The announcement came during a press conference Tuesday in Lawrence.

 The identification and ultimate arrest are the result of meticulous investigative work and the same science that brought in California’s “Golden State Killer” in 2018.

Monday, December 29, 2025, at the request of the Lawrence Kansas Police Department, U.S. Marshals arrested 58-year-old David James Zimbrick of Raytown, Missouri. Zimbrick is being held in Jackson County Missouri as he awaits extradition to Douglas County.

Between 2000 and 2003, a series of sex crimes occurred in the Naismith Valley Park area, 1400 W. 27th Street. Reports indicate the suspect would lure children into the bushes to perform sexual assaults. The children involved were between 7 and 10 years old.

Despite unknown future technology, detectives thoroughly inspected the scene collecting any potential clues. While a distinct DNA profile was recovered, it yielded no match in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the national database of known offenders. With no further leads, the case eventually sat dormant.

In 2018, when California’s “Golden State Killer” was arrested, Detective Amy Price, who was involved in the original investigations, took note of their use of genetic genealogy. Detective Price submitted a request for funding and ultimately sent the evidence to Parbon Nanolabs. Parabon specializes in forensic genetic genealogy to solve cases where there is DNA evidence, but the offender’s identity remains unknown.

In March of 2020, Parabon notified Price that they had successfully genotyped the newly submitted DNA from one of the cases. The lengthy investigation that followed led to clues throughout the United States until the suspect was ultimately identified then located in Raytown, MO.

U.S. Marshals made the arrest without incident. David James Zimbrick is charged with one count of Aggravated Criminal Sodomy and one count of Rape in two cases. He’s being held in Jackson County Missouri Correctional Facility awaiting extradition back to Douglas County, Kansas.

“This arrest is a testament to the fact that time does not diminish our commitment to victims and their families,” says Chief Rich Lockhart. “I am continually impressed with the dedicated professionals who work in this department and am specifically proud of Detective Amy Price, who was assigned to this case and never let time nor dead ends deter her from continuing the search. Crimes against children last a lifetime. It is my hope that this arrest provides some comfort.”

🎥 Arrest made in decades-old Kan. cold case involving child sex assault

The Lawrence Kansas Police Department has cancelled the Silver Alert for Mr. Roger Bean.&nbsp; Information led us to the Kansas City metro area where an officer traveled to confirm his identity.&nbsp;

DOUGLAS COUNTY —The Lawrence Kansas Police Department is issuing a Silver Alert and asking for help in finding 77-year-old Roger Harry Bean.  He has not been seen since December 23.

Mr Bean has cognitive issues, and is known to wander and hitchhike. He is described 6-feet-2&nbsp; and weighs 195 pounds.&nbsp;If you see Mr. Bean, please call dispatch at 785.843.0250 or 911 immediately.

Silver Alert canceled, Kan. man missing for a week found safe

 Chiefs head coach Andy Reid says he plans to return next season, batting away any thought of an impending retirement, making a tongue-in-cheek joke about his status with a franchise which he has led to three Super Bowl titles.

"I mean, I think I'm coming back, right?" Reid said during his weekly Zoom press conference with Kansas City reporters. "If they'll have me back, I'll come back. You never know in this business. That's a tough one. But I plan on it, yeah."

Now 67, Reid is accustomed to answering questions about his future in February, after the Chiefs have played in the Super Bowl, which they had done each of the past three years. He's less familiar though with facing those questions in the final days of December, now that the Chiefs have been eliminated from postseason contention.

Reid, who signed a five-year, $100 million extension with the Chiefs in April 2024, spent his first 14 seasons as an NFL head coach in Philadelphia, where he led the Philadelphia Eagles to 130 regular-season wins and 10 more in the playoffs. That included four seasons that ended in the NFC title game and another that ended with a loss in the Super Bowl.

His past 13 years have come in Kansas City, where he has won at an even greater clip.&nbsp; With Alex Smith at quarterback the first five years and Patrick Mahomes under center since, the Chiefs have piled up 149 regular-season wins and gone 18-8 in the playoffs. This season will end streaks of 10 consecutive playoff trips, nine straight AFC West titles, seven consecutive AFC title game appearances and the past three years in the Super Bowl.

Reid has 307 wins overall. He needs 18 to pass George Halas for third on the NFL's career list behind Belichick and Don Shula.&nbsp; In five trips to the big game, Reid &amp; Co. have brought three Lombardi Trophies back to Kansas City. Bill Belichick and Chuck Noll are the only coaches with more Super Bowl rings. Belichick captured six of them with Tom Brady and the Patriots and Noll won four with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Kansas City is 6-10 as it prepares for its season finale this weekend in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 3:25pm the NFL announced on Monday.&nbsp; Pregame will air at 2:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7 FM).

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Andy Reid plans to be back with Chiefs next season

Bo Nix ran for a score before throwing a go-ahead touchdown pass to R.J. Harvey with 1:45 left in the game, and the Denver Broncos held on in the closing seconds for a 20-13 victory over the banged-up Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas in a Thursday Night Football matchup.

After giving up a grinding, 14-play drive that soaked up more than half the first quarter and ended with the Broncos Will Lutz knocking through a 27 yard field goal, Kansas City allowed little else through the first 30 minutes. Along the way, a defense put its top two cornerbacks on injured reserve this week managed to pick off Nix, Kristian Fulton tipping the ball to set up a Nick Bolton interception, which set up a short field for the Chiefs that Chris Oladokun converted into his first career touchdown throw.

It also happened to be Brashard Smith's first career touchdown catch.&nbsp; The Broncos tried to answer with another 8-plus minute drive late in the half, but Courtland Sutton dropped a would-be touchdown toss in the closing seconds, and Wil Lutz had to kick his second chip-shot field goal to make it 7-6 at the break.

Denver finally got one of its long, time-consuming drives into the end zone in the third quarter. The Chiefs had pushed the lead to 10-6 on a 53 yard field goal from Harrison Butker, when the Broncos churned through 72 yards in nearly 10 minutes, and Nix finished by scrambling nine yards for the score.&nbsp; Kansas City tied the game in the fourth quarter on another field goal from Butker, from 47 yards out.

The Chiefs managed just 16 yards on their first three possessions of the second half and that gave the Broncos a chance. They drove 65 yards late in the fourth quarter, twice converting on third down and then getting a fourth-down gift when Chris Jones went early inside the 10-yard line, allowing Nix to find Harvey in the back of the end zone on third-and-goal for the eventual winning score.

&nbsp;Oladokun and tight end Travis Kelce gave Kansas City a chance, driving quickly down field after the Broncos had taken the lead. But a third-down pass at the Denver 26 was just out of Kelce's reach, and Oladokun overthrew Marquise Brown in the end zone on fourth down in the final seconds.

Oladokun wound up with 66 yards passing. Kelce had five catches for 36 of those yards in what might have been the last game played by the Pro Bowl tight end at Arrowhead Stadium.&nbsp; He plans to announce soon after the season whether he is retiring.&nbsp; Kareem Hunt rushed seven times for 38 yards, while Isiah Pacheco rushed nine times for 32 yards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Up next, Kansas City (6-10) finishes its season in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Kickoff time is to be determined, the game will air on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7 FM).

Oladokun, Smith score first NFL touchdowns as Chiefs fall 20-13

KFEQ Sports 12/24/2025

 Kansas lawmakers approved a proposal today to help pay for a new stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs, which is expected to lure the team across the state line from Missouri and replace the popular but aging Arrowhead Stadium.

The Legislative Coordinating Council, which includes the state's top lawmakers, voted unanimously at the state capitol in Topeka to allow for STAR bonds to be issued to cover up to 70% of the cost of a stadium and accompanying district. The bonds would be paid off with state sales and liquor tax revenues generated in a defined area around it.

The council meeting was attended by Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and team president Mark Donovan, along with other officials. They are expected to announce their intention to move later Monday from their longtime home in Kansas City, Missouri.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has called a news conference for 3 p.m.&nbsp; "to present a major economic development announcement for the State of Kansas and the Kansas City Region." She will be joined by legislators and Kansas City-area representatives.

The move by the Chiefs would be a massive blow to Missouri lawmakers and Gov. Mike Kehoe, who had been working on their own package to prevent a second NFL franchise in a decade from leaving their borders. The Rams left St. Louis for Los Angeles in part due to their inability to secure funding to help replace The Dome at America's Center.

Kehoe had backed a special legislative session in June to authorize bonds covering up to 50% of the cost of new or renovated stadiums, plus up to $50 million of tax credits for each stadium and unspecified aid from local governments.

Quinton Lucas, the mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, has been working to keep both the Chiefs and Kansas City Royals on the Missouri side of the state line. He has called a news conference for later today as well regarding "sports team developments."

The Chiefs originally planned an $800 million renovation of Arrowhead Stadium in a joint effort with the Royals, who are similarly planning to build a new facility to replace Kauffman Stadium. The facilities sit a couple of hundred yards across the parking lot from each other, and both teams have leases with Jackson County, Missouri, that expire in January 2031.

Last year however, Jackson County voters soundly defeated a local sales tax extension which would have helped to pay for those renovations to the football stadium while helping to fund a new ballpark for the Royals in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.

The most likely landing place for the Chiefs is Kansas City, Kansas, near the Kansas Speedway and a retail and entertainment district known as The Legends. The area is also home to Children's Mercy Park, the home of MLS club Sporting Kansas City.

The Royals were not discussed by Kansas lawmakers today, but momentum appears to be building behind their own move across the state line. An affiliate of the club already has purchased the mortgage on a tract of land in Overland Park, Kansas.

Hunt has long said his preference was to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, which was beloved by his father and team founder, the late Lamar Hunt. It is considered one of the jewels of the NFL, alongside Lambeau Field in Green Bay, and is revered for its tailgating scene and home-field advantage; it currently holds the Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium roar.

This summer, Arrowhead Stadium will host six World Cup matches, including matches in the Round of 32 and quarterfinals.

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