ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chevy Aveo driven by Logan R. Hughes, 21, Rosendale, was southbound on County Road 179 at County Road 177.

The driver failed to yield to an eastbound 2017 Dodge Charger driven by Tommy J. Hudson, 51, St. Joseph. The Chevy struck the front of the Dodge.

Andrew County EMS transported Hughes to Mosaic in Maryville. A private vehicle transported Hudson to Mosaic in St. Joseph. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chevy Aveo driven by Logan R. Hughes, 21, Rosendale, was southbound on County Road 179 at County Road 177.The driver failed to yield to an eastbound 2017 Dodge Charger driven by Tommy J. Hudson, 51, St. Joseph. The Chevy struck the front of the Dodge.Andrew County EMS transported Hughes to Mosaic in Maryville. A private vehicle transported Hudson to Mosaic in St. Joseph. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after 2-vehicle Andrew County crash

Warm weather means fishing and getting the boat out in the water, and the Missouri Highway Patrol wants you to practice boat safety. 

Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says before you hit the open water you should make sure have adequate life jackets on board. 

"Whether they are US Coast Guard certified or not, make sure they fit properly," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

He says another big thing on your to do list should be to check if your boat is ready for the water

"You know properly inspected, make sure everything is working properly, the last thing you want to do is get out there and have mechanical issues and get stranded," Hux says. 

Hux says to his knowledge most boaters take the rules seriously. 

"Most of the boaters we have out there are responsible," Hux explains. "However, not everybody is of course that's why it's important that we be out there, not only for their safety but the safety of the other boaters and swimmers that are out there enjoying the recreational time. 

Hux says the Troop H water patrol division will be patrolling the waters in the Troop H region watching for violations and doing safety inspections. 

Troop H will hold a boater safety course on June 4th. 

"It is going to teach them a lot about safety, basically rules of operating watercraft, whether it be boats or personal watercraft," Hux explains. "Because a lot of people don't realize even a personal watercraft, so like a jet ski, you still have to have your certification to be able to operate one of those."

The course will run from 8am to 4pm at the Troop H headquarters in St. Joseph. 

Any boater that was born after January 1st, 1984 is required to take the course to get the state required certified boating safety education card

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWarm weather means fishing and getting the boat out in the water, and the Missouri Highway Patrol wants you to practice boat safety. Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says before you hit the open water you should make sure have adequate life jackets on board. "Whether they are US Coast Guard certified or not, make sure they fit properly," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. He says another big thing on your to do list should be to check if your boat is ready for the water"You know properly inspected, make sure everything is working properly, the last thing you want to do is get out there and have mechanical issues and get stranded," Hux says. Hux says to his knowledge most boaters take the rules seriously. "Most of the boaters we have out there are responsible," Hux explains. "However, not everybody is of course that's why it's important that we be out there, not only for their safety but the safety of the other boaters and swimmers that are out there enjoying the recreational time. Hux says the Troop H water patrol division will be patrolling the waters in the Troop H region watching for violations and doing safety inspections. Troop H will hold a boater safety course on June 4th. "It is going to teach them a lot about safety, basically rules of operating watercraft, whether it be boats or personal watercraft," Hux explains. "Because a lot of people don't realize even a personal watercraft, so like a jet ski, you still have to have your certification to be able to operate one of those."The course will run from 8am to 4pm at the Troop H headquarters in St. Joseph. Any boater that was born after January 1st, 1984 is required to take the course to get the state required certified boating safety education card

With people getting back out on the water, boat safety should be top of mind

The St. Joseph School District's Vision Forward Committee has held four community meetings this year that are open to the public, and the fifth and final one of the school year comes up Tuesday night

Bob Miller, one of the co-chairs on the Vision Forward Committee, says the amount of engagement and interest these meetings have gotten so far has been encouraging.

The first Vision Forward meeting took place in January, with another in February, one on March 28th and the most recent on April 26 at Lafayette High School.

Tonight's meeting will be held at Benton from 6-8 p.m. The subject matter will be facilities for learning.

Miller says facilities has been one of the larger  inequities within the district, especially within the middle schools.

"It's just not a very equitable system across  the district," he said. "A lot of that is kind of shaped around facilities as we closed some elementary schools in certain parts of town. We've had to shift sixth graders to middle school buildings for space purposes."

Two of the district's middle schools educate sixth-eighth graders, while two others educate just seventh and eighth.

The previous four meetings have covered a wide variety of subjects, including how to recruit and retain quality staff, along with academic achievement and curriculum.

Vision Forward was formed in order to gather input from the public and share accurate information, with the hope of making better decisions for the city's schools. 

Miller says the district tries to give people the most straightforward information at these meetings.

"We really strive to present really hard data," he said. "So that people are just really informed. A lot of times, people have opinions on things, but that's not always coming from an informed place. So, just want to make sure we're giving people the actual reality. Like, this is what it's like on the ground."

After Vision Forward meets tonight, the committee will meet with consulting firm 'Community Entourage' over the summer and present their findings.

The committee will then have another meeting this fall to present their findings to the public before any action items are put before the school board.

"Before it gets handed off to the board, we want to bring it back to the community one more time and say, 'Hey, did we get this right?' Miller said. "We want to make sure it's your voice and not just ours."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph School District's Vision Forward Committee has held four community meetings this year that are open to the public, and the fifth and final one of the school year comes up Tuesday nightBob Miller, one of the co-chairs on the Vision Forward Committee, says the amount of engagement and interest these meetings have gotten so far has been encouraging."Miller1The first Vision Forward meeting took place in January, with another in February, one on March 28th and the most recent on April 26 at Lafayette High School.Tonight's meeting will be held at Benton from 6-8 p.m. The subject matter will be facilities for learning.Miller says facilities has been one of the larger inequities within the district, especially within the middle schools."It's just not a very equitable system across the district," he said. "A lot of that is kind of shaped around facilities as we closed some elementary schools in certain parts of town. We've had to shift sixth graders to middle school buildings for space purposes."Two of the district's middle schools educate sixth-eighth graders, while two others educate just seventh and eighth.The previous four meetings have covered a wide variety of subjects, including how to recruit and retain quality staff, along with academic achievement and curriculum.Vision Forward was formed in order to gather input from the public and share accurate information, with the hope of making better decisions for the city's schools. Miller says the district tries to give people the most straightforward information at these meetings."We really strive to present really hard data," he said. "So that people are just really informed. A lot of times, people have opinions on things, but that's not always coming from an informed place. So, just want to make sure we're giving people the actual reality. Like, this is what it's like on the ground."After Vision Forward meets tonight, the committee will meet with consulting firm 'Community Entourage' over the summer and present their findings.The committee will then have another meeting this fall to present their findings to the public before any action items are put before the school board."Before it gets handed off to the board, we want to bring it back to the community one more time and say, 'Hey, did we get this right?' Miller said. "We want to make sure it's your voice and not just ours."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

SJSD Vision Forward holding last meeting of the school year Tuesday at Benton

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Four people were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Monday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Escape driven by Addison R. Wilson, 19, Dawn, was northbound on U.S. 65 four miles north of Chillicothe.

The vehicle made a turn onto Livingston Road 214 and the driver attempted a U-turn. The Ford traveled into the path of a northbound 2003 Dodge Durango driven by Brent A. Murphy, 48, Chillicothe.

The Ford struck the Dodge in the passenger side. The Durango skidded off the road, struck a sign post and overturned.

Chillicothe EMS transported Murphy and a passenger in the Dodge Anthony J. Kohl, 34, Chillicothe, to Hedrick Medical Center. A private vehicle transported Wilson to Hedrick Medical Center. A 19-year-old passenger in the Ford refused treatment at the scene. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Four people were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Monday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Escape driven by Addison R. Wilson, 19, Dawn, was northbound on U.S. 65 four miles north of Chillicothe.The vehicle made a turn onto Livingston Road 214 and the driver attempted a U-turn. The Ford traveled into the path of a northbound 2003 Dodge Durango driven by Brent A. Murphy, 48, Chillicothe.The Ford struck the Dodge in the passenger side. The Durango skidded off the road, struck a sign post and overturned.Chillicothe EMS transported Murphy and a passenger in the Dodge Anthony J. Kohl, 34, Chillicothe, to Hedrick Medical Center. A private vehicle transported Wilson to Hedrick Medical Center. A 19-year-old passenger in the Ford refused treatment at the scene. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

4 injured after crash when driver attempts u-turn

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Monday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 GMC 2500 driven by Carl W. Uthe, 65, Altamont, was northbound on Dallas Road three miles north of Weatherby.

The pickup traveled off the road, overturned and struck a fence. DeKalb-Clinton County Ambulance transported Uthe to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Monday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 GMC 2500 driven by Carl W. Uthe, 65, Altamont, was northbound on Dallas Road three miles north of Weatherby.The pickup traveled off the road, overturned and struck a fence. DeKalb-Clinton County Ambulance transported Uthe to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized in St. Joe after pickup overturns

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man on multiple charges after a Sunday arrest

On Sunday, police arrested Jon T. Johnson, 56, Weston Mo, on a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Johnson is also being held on a requested charge of possession of methamphetamine which was found on his person during the warrant arrest.&nbsp;

Police jailed Johnson twice in 2019 for failure to appear, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652735496771.png" alt="Johnson-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Johnson-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man on multiple charges after a Sunday arrestOn Sunday, police arrested Jon T. Johnson, 56, Weston Mo, on a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Johnson is also being held on a requested charge of possession of methamphetamine which was found on his person during the warrant arrest.&nbsp;Police jailed Johnson twice in 2019 for failure to appear, according to online jail records.

Missouri man jailed again in Kansas for failure to appear

HARRISON COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before noon Monday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Freightliner driven by John L. Steinman, 57, Sheridan, Mo., was eastbound on MO 46 two miles west of Hatfield.

The vehicle traveled off the road and overturned. North Harrison Ambulance transported Steinman to Ringold County Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before noon Monday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Freightliner driven by John L. Steinman, 57, Sheridan, Mo., was eastbound on MO 46 two miles west of Hatfield.The vehicle traveled off the road and overturned. North Harrison Ambulance transported Steinman to Ringold County Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after semi overturns

Agricultural groups remain opposed to an expansion of
Environmental Protection Agency authority under the Clean Water Act.

The Biden Administration has resurrected the Waters of the United
States rule which the Obama Administration failed to implement, unable to
overcome legal challenges.

Missouri US Senator Roy Blunt, a Republican, asserts the Clean
Water Act is clear:&nbsp; the EPA has
jurisdiction only over navigable waters.

“The problem is that the EPA and other organizations under
President Obama wanted to decide that navigable water was basically all the water.
It was any water that could ever run into any water that could ever run into
any water that could run into navigable water,” according to Blunt. “Again,
where we live in Missouri, that means like every roadside ditch.”

The Biden Administration has picked up the proposal discarded
during the Trump years.

“Certainly frustrating that it appears to be coming back,”
Blunt says, “but certainly the good news was the Trump Administration did
change it, did walk away from that ridiculous Waters of the US rule that the
Obama Administration was pursuing.”

Blunt says the Waters of the United States rule would give the
EPA jurisdiction over virtually all waters in Missouri, an expansion of its
authority Blunt insists was never intended in the Clean Water Act.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAgricultural groups remain opposed to an expansion of
Environmental Protection Agency authority under the Clean Water Act.The Biden Administration has resurrected the Waters of the United
States rule which the Obama Administration failed to implement, unable to
overcome legal challenges.Missouri US Senator Roy Blunt, a Republican, asserts the Clean
Water Act is clear:&nbsp; the EPA has
jurisdiction only over navigable waters.“The problem is that the EPA and other organizations under
President Obama wanted to decide that navigable water was basically all the water.
It was any water that could ever run into any water that could ever run into
any water that could run into navigable water,” according to Blunt. “Again,
where we live in Missouri, that means like every roadside ditch.”The Biden Administration has picked up the proposal discarded
during the Trump years.Blunt isn’t happy to see its return.“Certainly frustrating that it appears to be coming back,”
Blunt says, “but certainly the good news was the Trump Administration did
change it, did walk away from that ridiculous Waters of the US rule that the
Obama Administration was pursuing.”Blunt says the Waters of the United States rule would give the
EPA jurisdiction over virtually all waters in Missouri, an expansion of its
authority Blunt insists was never intended in the Clean Water Act.

Sen. Blunt frustrated to see WOTUS return

<a href="https://mikerowe.com/">Mike Rowe</a>, the narrator of the TV show, "<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/shows/how-america-works">How America Works</a>," features St. Joseph's <a href="https://www.lifeline-foods.com/">Lifeline Foods</a> in an episode that aired last week on the Fox Business Channel. The episode highlights how vital corn farmers and processors are to the rest of the country.

Rowe describes a childhood job of detasseling corn, he said it wasn't the best corn related job that he's ever had. "His best job would be narrating this episode of "How America Works" because he gets to introduce a few of the men and women who are directly responsible for processing over 100,000 tons of corn every single day."

"Corn is our nation's largest crop, so it is safe to say that the U.S. grows a lot of it," Rowe asks, " Just how much are we talking about? Lately, that's just shy of 400 million tons a year, or if we are talking ears of corn, enough to wrap end to end around the earth, five times."

"Every year U.S. farmers plant and harvest an area roughly the size of Montana exclusively with corn. It is then up to 40 corn mills scattered across the country to turn those raw kernals into consumable product," Rowe says. "Mills, like Lifeline Foods in St. Joseph, Missouri, here a team of nearly 200 employees labor day in and day out to create a wide variety of meals, grits and flours used in everything from tortilla chips to beer."

Rowe showcases several of Lifeline's workers- Kyle Mann- Director of Milling Ops, Tom Hayden- Head Fabricator and Andrew Axmacher- Masa Ops Lead. Rowe also has a local corn farmer on the show.

In an interview with KFEQ, Ryan Swafford, Lifeline's Marketing Administrator, talks about who the farmer is, "John Schenkel, who owns Schenkel farms near Maryville, Missouri."

Mike Rowe shows just some of the obstacles that both Lifeline employees and farmer John Schenkel have to overcome to get the corn products ready. 

Rowe concludes the show by showing corn farmer John Schenkel making it to Lifeline, just in time. According to John Schenkel, "It takes about 15 minutes to load the corn, and about 30 seconds to unload. It goes out a lot faster than it goes in."

The episode is available to view online and can be found <a href="https://vimeo.com/warmspringsproductions/review/705521276/022eea5f5b">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652722604067.jpeg" alt="Lifeline Foods /photo by Dionne Bertling" />
 <figcaption>Lifeline Foods /photo by Dionne Bertling</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIONNE BERTLINGSt. Joseph Post<a href="https://mikerowe.com/">Mike Rowe</a>, the narrator of the TV show, "<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/shows/how-america-works">How America Works</a>," features St. Joseph's <a href="https://www.lifeline-foods.com/">Lifeline Foods</a> in an episode that aired last week on the Fox Business Channel. The episode highlights how vital corn farmers and processors are to the rest of the country.Rowe describes a childhood job of detasseling corn, he said it wasn't the best corn related job that he's ever had. "His best job would be narrating this episode of "How America Works" because he gets to introduce a few of the men and women who are directly responsible for processing over 100,000 tons of corn every single day.""Corn is our nation's largest crop, so it is safe to say that the U.S. grows a lot of it," Rowe asks, " Just how much are we talking about? Lately, that's just shy of 400 million tons a year, or if we are talking ears of corn, enough to wrap end to end around the earth, five times.""Every year U.S. farmers plant and harvest an area roughly the size of Montana exclusively with corn. It is then up to 40 corn mills scattered across the country to turn those raw kernals into consumable product," Rowe says. "Mills, like Lifeline Foods in St. Joseph, Missouri, here a team of nearly 200 employees labor day in and day out to create a wide variety of meals, grits and flours used in everything from tortilla chips to beer."Rowe showcases several of Lifeline's workers- Kyle Mann- Director of Milling Ops, Tom Hayden- Head Fabricator and Andrew Axmacher- Masa Ops Lead. Rowe also has a local corn farmer on the show.In an interview with KFEQ, Ryan Swafford, Lifeline's Marketing Administrator, talks about who the farmer is, "John Schenkel, who owns Schenkel farms near Maryville, Missouri."Mike Rowe shows just some of the obstacles that both Lifeline employees and farmer John Schenkel have to overcome to get the corn products ready. Rowe concludes the show by showing corn farmer John Schenkel making it to Lifeline, just in time. According to John Schenkel, "It takes about 15 minutes to load the corn, and about 30 seconds to unload. It goes out a lot faster than it goes in."The episode is available to view online and can be found <a href="https://vimeo.com/warmspringsproductions/review/705521276/022eea5f5b">HERE</a>.

St. Joseph takes the spotlight on "How America Works"

Officials from both North Central Missouri College and Missouri Western State University see a new partnership program benefiting both campuses. &nbsp;

North Central President Lenny Klaver says the new dual admissions process, called the Pirates to Griffons pathway program, will be a great thing. &nbsp;

"It's going to be a lot more flexible for students to get into their higher education, to use the scholarship money that's available, and also to have a social life that's connected with a community college that you wouldn't have if you're outside the immediate region of Trenton," Klaver tells reporters. &nbsp;

The agreement signed last week will give North Central students the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of being a Missouri Western student part time, while earning an associate degree as a full time North Central student. &nbsp;

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says this is another seamless pathway as she calls it, similar to the universities dual credit with high school students. &nbsp;

"We're providing opportunities for students to map out how efficiently, how quickly, they are able to work towards a degree," Kennedy says. "And I think the fact that we can do an associates' to a bachelors', perhaps to a masters', those kinds of opportunities when you lay them out for students it becomes a lot easier and more doable, and I think too the financial component will be especially beneficial."&nbsp;

Kennedy says the vision of President Lenny Klaver at North Central matched well with where she wanted Missouri Western to go, making the partnership between the two schools a no brainer. &nbsp;

The new Pirates2Griffons pathway program will provide new opportunities to North Central Missouri College and Missouri Western State University students. &nbsp;

Klaver says the largest potential growth for North Central College is in the western part of its service region. &nbsp;

"And that is St. Joseph primarily and Savannah so, it's going to be a situation where together with Missouri Western we want to welcome students, we want to make that transfer seamless," Klaver explains. "So, we're hopeful and you never know, I'd hate to predict the future, but I think there's great opportunity for growth over here."&nbsp;

Klaver says the project in Savannah is moving on schedule for the new building to be open in Fall 2023, with the existing building to be open this fall.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652473104599.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy (left) and North Central President Lenny Klaver (right) sign the dual admission agreement/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy (left) and North Central President Lenny Klaver (right) sign the dual admission agreement/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Officials from both North Central Missouri College and Missouri Western State University see a new partnership program benefiting both campuses. &nbsp;North Central President Lenny Klaver says the new dual admissions process, called the Pirates to Griffons pathway program, will be a great thing. &nbsp;"It's going to be a lot more flexible for students to get into their higher education, to use the scholarship money that's available, and also to have a social life that's connected with a community college that you wouldn't have if you're outside the immediate region of Trenton," Klaver tells reporters. &nbsp;The agreement signed last week will give North Central students the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of being a Missouri Western student part time, while earning an associate degree as a full time North Central student. &nbsp;Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says this is another seamless pathway as she calls it, similar to the universities dual credit with high school students. &nbsp;"We're providing opportunities for students to map out how efficiently, how quickly, they are able to work towards a degree," Kennedy says. "And I think the fact that we can do an associates' to a bachelors', perhaps to a masters', those kinds of opportunities when you lay them out for students it becomes a lot easier and more doable, and I think too the financial component will be especially beneficial."&nbsp;Kennedy says the vision of President Lenny Klaver at North Central matched well with where she wanted Missouri Western to go, making the partnership between the two schools a no brainer. &nbsp;The new Pirates2Griffons pathway program will provide new opportunities to North Central Missouri College and Missouri Western State University students. &nbsp;Klaver says the largest potential growth for North Central College is in the western part of its service region. &nbsp;"And that is St. Joseph primarily and Savannah so, it's going to be a situation where together with Missouri Western we want to welcome students, we want to make that transfer seamless," Klaver explains. "So, we're hopeful and you never know, I'd hate to predict the future, but I think there's great opportunity for growth over here."&nbsp;Klaver says the project in Savannah is moving on schedule for the new building to be open in Fall 2023, with the existing building to be open this fall.&nbsp;

Missouri Western-North Central excited about possibilities for dual admission

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged hit-and-run accident.

On Saturday, an unidentified driver of a semi truck pulling a grain trailer struck a gas pump at Max’s BP at 11373 U.S.59, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;

The driver left the scene without reporting the accident.&nbsp; Police release

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652710541102.png" alt="Max's BP -Google image" />
 <figcaption>Max's BP -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged hit-and-run accident.On Saturday, an unidentified driver of a semi truck pulling a grain trailer struck a gas pump at Max’s BP at 11373 U.S.59, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;The driver left the scene without reporting the accident.&nbsp; Police release

Police: Semi struck gas pump without reporting accident

A Lathrop man has been taken into custody, being held in
connection with the kidnapping and torture of a woman.

The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office reports a woman escaped
after being severely assaulted and tortured over two days.

Clinton County deputies and Missouri State Highway Patrol
troopers responded to Southeast Apache Drive in Lake Arrowhead Saturday morning
after the woman escaped her kidnappers.

Residents of the home refused to answer the door until
negotiations convinced one person to come out. Another, said to be armed and suicidal,
barricaded himself inside.

Clinton County reports James Larson, Junior was arrested when officers found him hiding in a false wall after a five-hour standoff. Larson is
being held on an unrelated no bond probation violation warrant.

The victim is reported to be in guarded, critical condition,
being treated at a nearby hospital.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA Lathrop man has been taken into custody, being held in
connection with the kidnapping and torture of a woman.The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office reports a woman escaped
after being severely assaulted and tortured over two days.Clinton County deputies and Missouri State Highway Patrol
troopers responded to Southeast Apache Drive in Lake Arrowhead Saturday morning
after the woman escaped her kidnappers.Residents of the home refused to answer the door until
negotiations convinced one person to come out. Another, said to be armed and suicidal,
barricaded himself inside.Clinton County reports James Larson, Junior was arrested when officers found him hiding in a false wall after a five-hour standoff. Larson is
being held on an unrelated no bond probation violation warrant.The victim is reported to be in guarded, critical condition,
being treated at a nearby hospital.

Lathrop man arrested after woman, tortured for 2 days, escapes

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old girl from Kidder was northbound crossing U.S. 36 and failed to yield. A westbound 2019 Ford Expedition driven by Patricia L. Eggers, 58, Olathe, struck the pickup.

A private vehicle transported the teen driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Eggers and a 16-year-old male passenger in the pickup refused treatment at the scene. The teen passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old girl from Kidder was northbound crossing U.S. 36 and failed to yield. A westbound 2019 Ford Expedition driven by Patricia L. Eggers, 58, Olathe, struck the pickup.A private vehicle transported the teen driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Eggers and a 16-year-old male passenger in the pickup refused treatment at the scene. The teen passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

16-year-old injured after pickup, SUV crash

Lafayette High School officials have confirmed the death of a
freshman student.

Additional counselors, social workers, and other staff will be
on hand at the high school in northern St. Joseph Monday following the death of
Elsie Smith.

Smith was pronounced dead at Mosaic Life Care. No cause of
death has been released.

Lafayette High School Principal Ashly McGinnis confirmed the
death in an email sent out to students and families Friday evening.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLafayette High School officials have confirmed the death of a
freshman student.Additional counselors, social workers, and other staff will be
on hand at the high school in northern St. Joseph Monday following the death of
Elsie Smith.Smith was pronounced dead at Mosaic Life Care. No cause of
death has been released.Lafayette High School Principal Ashly McGinnis confirmed the
death in an email sent out to students and families Friday evening.

Lafayette HS in mourning in wake of student death

Missouri Western State University
Head Softball Coach Joe Yegge has received a public reprimand from the school’s
conference stemming from his ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament.

The Mid-America Intercollegiate
Athletics Association issued the public reprimand of Yegge on Friday.

“Coach Yegge’s conduct
surrounding an ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament did not satisfy the
MIAA’s expectation of sportsmanship and game behavior at our conference
championships," MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy said in a written statement
released by the conference.

Yegge also has received a two-game
suspension to be served during the first doubleheader series of the 2023 MIAA
Softball conference schedule.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University
Head Softball Coach Joe Yegge has received a public reprimand from the school’s
conference stemming from his ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament.The Mid-America Intercollegiate
Athletics Association issued the public reprimand of Yegge on Friday.“Coach Yegge’s conduct
surrounding an ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament did not satisfy the
MIAA’s expectation of sportsmanship and game behavior at our conference
championships," MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy said in a written statement
released by the conference.Yegge also has received a two-game
suspension to be served during the first doubleheader series of the 2023 MIAA
Softball conference schedule.

MWSU Softball Coach Joe Yegge reprimanded by MIAA

A former respiratory therapist charged in the mysterious death
of a Chillicothe hospital patient 20 years ago has been taken into custody.

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office reports 41-year-old
Jennifer Anne Hall was arrested Thursday night by Kansas authorities. The
office says extradition proceedings will begin immediately.

Twenty years ago, nine patients at Hedrick Medical Center in
Chillicothe died from unexplained circumstances. The cause of death for each
patient was listed as cardiac collapse.

Prosecutors have charged Hall with first-degree murder in the
death of one of those patients, Fern Franco. Hall was working as a respiratory
therapist at Hedrick at the time of the deaths. Matthew O'Connor, who has represented Hall in the past, says no evidence exists to connect Hall to the deaths.

The case was revived after an analysis of Franco’s tissue samples found morphine and a powerful muscle relaxant used in anesthesia in her system. Neither drug was prescribed or ordered for her by her doctors, investigators said.

Some staff at the hospital&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-missouri-eb1f83b41c6749218dc02ecad99a295a">believed Hall was responsible</a>&nbsp;because of her proximity to the stricken patients, her access to deadly pharmaceuticals, and because she notified staff of every patient’s cardiac emergency, according to court documents.

Hall was placed on administrative leave three days after Franco’s death.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652474493585.png" alt="Jennifer Hall, 41, was arrested in Johnson County, Kansas, on Thursday evening under the name Jennifer Semaboye, of Overland Park, Kansas-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Hall, 41, was arrested in Johnson County, Kansas, on Thursday evening under the name Jennifer Semaboye, of Overland Park, Kansas-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>---------By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA former respiratory therapist charged in the mysterious death
of a Chillicothe hospital patient 20 years ago has been taken into custody.The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office reports 41-year-old
Jennifer Anne Hall was arrested Thursday night by Kansas authorities. The
office says extradition proceedings will begin immediately.Twenty years ago, nine patients at Hedrick Medical Center in
Chillicothe died from unexplained circumstances. The cause of death for each
patient was listed as cardiac collapse.Prosecutors have charged Hall with first-degree murder in the
death of one of those patients, Fern Franco. Hall was working as a respiratory
therapist at Hedrick at the time of the deaths. Matthew O'Connor, who has represented Hall in the past, says no evidence exists to connect Hall to the deaths.The case was revived after an analysis of Franco’s tissue samples found morphine and a powerful muscle relaxant used in anesthesia in her system. Neither drug was prescribed or ordered for her by her doctors, investigators said.Some staff at the hospital&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-missouri-eb1f83b41c6749218dc02ecad99a295a">believed Hall was responsible</a>&nbsp;because of her proximity to the stricken patients, her access to deadly pharmaceuticals, and because she notified staff of every patient’s cardiac emergency, according to court documents.Hall was placed on administrative leave three days after Franco’s death.The Associated Press contributed to this article.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652449498878.png" alt="Hall-photo Livingston Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Hall-photo Livingston Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>

Former Chillicothe hospital worker accused in mysterious deaths arrested

Students from North Central Missouri College will have the opportunity to learn on the campus of Missouri Western State University through a new program. &nbsp;

The two universities signed a dual admission agreement today called the Pirates2Griffons pathway program&nbsp;

Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Melissa Mace says the program will allow full time North Central students to learn part time at Missouri Western, as well as enjoy the benefits of university life.&nbsp;

"Pirates2Griffons pathway students will be able to live on this campus in our residence halls, join student organizations, and attend the athletic events while pursuing their associates degree from NCMC," Mace tells a crowd in Missouri Westerns Eder Hall&nbsp;

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says with this agreement St. Joseph area students can have the best of both worlds, pursuing education as a Pirate, while living the life of a Griffon.&nbsp;

Dean of Instruction at North Central Mitch Holder says the Pirates to Griffons Pathway program will help meet the diverse needs of students. &nbsp;

"Through this program students throughout our region can now enjoy the university campus experience offered here at Missouri Western while being able to utilize the A+ Scholarship Program and other affordability measures while enjoying wrap around academic services offered by North Central Missouri College," Holder says.&nbsp;

North Central President Lenny Klaver says the relationship with Missouri Western began many months ago.&nbsp; Klaver says this is a win-win for both schools.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652473104599.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western State University President Elizabeth Kennedy (left) and North Central Missouri College President Lenny Klaver (right) sign the dual admission agreement/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western State University President Elizabeth Kennedy (left) and North Central Missouri College President Lenny Klaver (right) sign the dual admission agreement/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Students from North Central Missouri College will have the opportunity to learn on the campus of Missouri Western State University through a new program. &nbsp;The two universities signed a dual admission agreement today called the Pirates2Griffons pathway program&nbsp;Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Melissa Mace says the program will allow full time North Central students to learn part time at Missouri Western, as well as enjoy the benefits of university life.&nbsp;"Pirates2Griffons pathway students will be able to live on this campus in our residence halls, join student organizations, and attend the athletic events while pursuing their associates degree from NCMC," Mace tells a crowd in Missouri Westerns Eder Hall&nbsp;Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says with this agreement St. Joseph area students can have the best of both worlds, pursuing education as a Pirate, while living the life of a Griffon.&nbsp;Dean of Instruction at North Central Mitch Holder says the Pirates to Griffons Pathway program will help meet the diverse needs of students. &nbsp;"Through this program students throughout our region can now enjoy the university campus experience offered here at Missouri Western while being able to utilize the A+ Scholarship Program and other affordability measures while enjoying wrap around academic services offered by North Central Missouri College," Holder says.&nbsp;North Central President Lenny Klaver says the relationship with Missouri Western began many months ago.&nbsp; Klaver says this is a win-win for both schools.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652472512088.jpeg" alt="President Elizabeth Kennedy (at podium) speaks to an onlooking crowd at Eder Hall on the Missouri Western campus/photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>President Elizabeth Kennedy (at podium) speaks to an onlooking crowd at Eder Hall on the Missouri Western campus/photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>

Partnership between Missouri Western and North Central Missouri College brings new opportunities

Political primaries would become a thing of the past and
ranked-choice voting would come to Missouri if voters approve a ballot
initiative in November.

A group that calls itself Better Elections has gathered more
than 300,000 signatures, which is more than enough to make the ballot.
Certification is underway.

Better Elections spokesperson Scott Charton says the proposed
constitutional amendment is aimed at improving Missouri elections.

“And it would give you more choices in elections,” Charton
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It would provide for better accountability of
officeholders once they’re in office if they lose their way. And it provides
better integrity in elections through some very sensible ballot security measures.”

Under the measure, both Republicans and Democrats would be
placed on the same primary ballot. Voters could rank their choices, one through
four, with the top four vote-getters advancing to the General Election.

Charton says the concept is easier to grasp than many might
think.

“In a ranked-choice election, the goal is that the ultimate
office-holder winner achieves 50% plus one or more of the votes,” according to
Charton. “Why is that important? Well, voters feel ignored now. This makes
candidates go out and campaign for every vote.”

The method isn’t widely used in the United States, but has
been adopted by a few municipalities.

“This is a different idea. It’s a change,” Charton acknowledges.
“Missourians, though, like the idea. When we’ve talked to them in every county
where we’ve gathered signatures, they like the idea of more choices.”

Charton says the change would take power from the political
parties and place it in the hands of the voters.

The security measures in the initiative include testing all
electronic voting machines to certify them secure prior to elections, requiring
a paper trail of individual votes, and including representatives of all
political parties when paper ballots are counted and stored.

It also would require a special election to fill vacancies,
rather than allowing for a gubernatorial appointment.

The group awaits certification for the ballot from the Secretary
of State.

Click <a href="https://betterelectionsmo.org/">here</a> for the Better Elections website.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostPolitical primaries would become a thing of the past and
ranked-choice voting would come to Missouri if voters approve a ballot
initiative in November.A group that calls itself Better Elections has gathered more
than 300,000 signatures, which is more than enough to make the ballot.
Certification is underway.Better Elections spokesperson Scott Charton says the proposed
constitutional amendment is aimed at improving Missouri elections.“And it would give you more choices in elections,” Charton
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It would provide for better accountability of
officeholders once they’re in office if they lose their way. And it provides
better integrity in elections through some very sensible ballot security measures.”Under the measure, both Republicans and Democrats would be
placed on the same primary ballot. Voters could rank their choices, one through
four, with the top four vote-getters advancing to the General Election.Charton says the concept is easier to grasp than many might
think.“In a ranked-choice election, the goal is that the ultimate
office-holder winner achieves 50% plus one or more of the votes,” according to
Charton. “Why is that important? Well, voters feel ignored now. This makes
candidates go out and campaign for every vote.”The method isn’t widely used in the United States, but has
been adopted by a few municipalities.“This is a different idea. It’s a change,” Charton acknowledges.
“Missourians, though, like the idea. When we’ve talked to them in every county
where we’ve gathered signatures, they like the idea of more choices.”Charton says the change would take power from the political
parties and place it in the hands of the voters.The security measures in the initiative include testing all
electronic voting machines to certify them secure prior to elections, requiring
a paper trail of individual votes, and including representatives of all
political parties when paper ballots are counted and stored.It also would require a special election to fill vacancies,
rather than allowing for a gubernatorial appointment.The group awaits certification for the ballot from the Secretary
of State.Click <a href="https://betterelectionsmo.org/">here</a> for the Better Elections website.

Missouri elections would change drastically under proposal set for November

NODAWAY COUNTY —A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just before 5a.m. Friday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International Harvester semi driven by Billy D. Blizzard, 50, St. Joseph, was northbound on U.S. 71 one and one half miles north of Wilcox.

The vehicle traveled off the easts side of the rain covered road. The truck returned to the road, crossed the center line, traveled off the west side of the road and came to rest on the drivers side facing east.

A private vehicle transported Bizzard to Urgent Care in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just before 5a.m. Friday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International Harvester semi driven by Billy D. Blizzard, 50, St. Joseph, was northbound on U.S. 71 one and one half miles north of Wilcox.The vehicle traveled off the easts side of the rain covered road. The truck returned to the road, crossed the center line, traveled off the west side of the road and came to rest on the drivers side facing east.A private vehicle transported Bizzard to Urgent Care in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man injured after semi accident on rain covered road

St. Joseph will become Hollywood tomorrow as the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art invites you to walk the red carpet at the annual Pot of Gold Gala. &nbsp;

The museum is inviting guests to dress like they are going to a movie premiere or as their favorite movie characters to walk the red carpet on Saturday. &nbsp;

Communications Director Jill Carlson says that as you walk the red carpet into the Gala, you'll experience the paparazzi snapping your photos. &nbsp;

"You may end up on page six or you may, you know, have some sort of fun times with all the photographers," Carlson tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.&nbsp;

Executive Director Eric Fuson says you could be a local celebrity at least&nbsp;

"You'll definitely show up on our website," he adds to Birr.&nbsp;

Fuson says giving people the chance to dress like a movie premiere or as their favorite movie character gives them some flexibility. &nbsp;

"Of saying, you know I don't have to spend a lot of money to come, I can donate, I can have a fantastic meal, great time, and have a chance at some really cool items," Fuson explains. "You know you can buy a flight over St. Joe so you can fly right over the top of your house at this event, so how often can you do that?" &nbsp;

Carlson says Pot of Gold is one of the museum's biggest fundraisers.&nbsp;

"All of the funds that are raised from this event really help us throughout the year, it's not just happening right now, it's really through the 12 months of the year," Carlson explains.&nbsp;

Fuson says most of the funds for the museums exhibitions comes from its supporters.&nbsp;

"That really understand the value of what we do in this community, because if you think about taking some of that away, gosh St. Joe would be a vastly different place, it's amazing just knowing it's there," Fuson says. &nbsp;

The gala will begin at 5pm on Saturday and tickets are still available.&nbsp; You can find more information <a href="http://albrecht-kemper.org/pog/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652374638639.jpeg" alt="Dorothy Tietz &amp; Donna Jean Boyer&nbsp; during last year's Pot of Gold Gala and Auction. /photo by Alex Asher" />
 <figcaption>Dorothy Tietz &amp; Donna Jean Boyer&nbsp; during last year's Pot of Gold Gala and Auction. /photo by Alex Asher</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;St. Joseph will become Hollywood tomorrow as the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art invites you to walk the red carpet at the annual Pot of Gold Gala. &nbsp;The museum is inviting guests to dress like they are going to a movie premiere or as their favorite movie characters to walk the red carpet on Saturday. &nbsp;Communications Director Jill Carlson says that as you walk the red carpet into the Gala, you'll experience the paparazzi snapping your photos. &nbsp;"You may end up on page six or you may, you know, have some sort of fun times with all the photographers," Carlson tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.&nbsp;Executive Director Eric Fuson says you could be a local celebrity at least&nbsp;"You'll definitely show up on our website," he adds to Birr.&nbsp;Fuson says giving people the chance to dress like a movie premiere or as their favorite movie character gives them some flexibility. &nbsp;"Of saying, you know I don't have to spend a lot of money to come, I can donate, I can have a fantastic meal, great time, and have a chance at some really cool items," Fuson explains. "You know you can buy a flight over St. Joe so you can fly right over the top of your house at this event, so how often can you do that?" &nbsp;Carlson says Pot of Gold is one of the museum's biggest fundraisers.&nbsp;"All of the funds that are raised from this event really help us throughout the year, it's not just happening right now, it's really through the 12 months of the year," Carlson explains.&nbsp;Fuson says most of the funds for the museums exhibitions comes from its supporters.&nbsp;"That really understand the value of what we do in this community, because if you think about taking some of that away, gosh St. Joe would be a vastly different place, it's amazing just knowing it's there," Fuson says. &nbsp;The gala will begin at 5pm on Saturday and tickets are still available.&nbsp; You can find more information <a href="http://albrecht-kemper.org/pog/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Hollywood comes to St. Joseph; walk the red carpet at the Albrecht Kemper Saturday

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. (AP) — A man is dead after he doused himself with liquid and set himself on fire after being stopped by police for erratic driving, Chillicothe police said.

Police said in a news release the events began Wednesday evening when people reported a man was approaching businesses south of Chillicothe and asking for a lighter while carrying a container of flammable liquid.

The man was later seen driving erratically in Chillicothe, police said. When officers stopped him, he ran to the back of his repurposed bus.

The man ignored orders to get out of the bus and officers could not see inside because the windows were tinted, police said.

The man poured the liquid on himself and ignited it, then ran toward the officers, who tried to put out the flames, according to the release.

The victim, a 43-year-old man from Dalton, was airlifted to a hospital, but died from his injuries.

Police said the man's intentions aren't known and the investigation is continuing.

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. (AP) — A man is dead after he doused himself with liquid and set himself on fire after being stopped by police for erratic driving, Chillicothe police said.Police said in a news release the events began Wednesday evening when people reported a man was approaching businesses south of Chillicothe and asking for a lighter while carrying a container of flammable liquid.The man was later seen driving erratically in Chillicothe, police said. When officers stopped him, he ran to the back of his repurposed bus.The man ignored orders to get out of the bus and officers could not see inside because the windows were tinted, police said.The man poured the liquid on himself and ignited it, then ran toward the officers, who tried to put out the flames, according to the release.The victim, a 43-year-old man from Dalton, was airlifted to a hospital, but died from his injuries.Police said the man's intentions aren't known and the investigation is continuing.

Police: Man dies after setting himself on fire

During a special meeting on Thursday the St. Joseph School Board held a special meeting to begin the process of selecting its next board member.&nbsp;

A seat on the board was left open after the resignation of Lori Witham.&nbsp;

The list of 10 residents that expressed interest in running for the board seat was narrowed down to five after a majority of the board voted to narrow the field.&nbsp;

Don Crabtree, David Jordan, David Mason, Tom Richmond, and Phil Vandel will be interviewed in-person by the board on Monday starting at 2pm. &nbsp;

Each candidate will have 15 minutes to make a statement and address questions asked by the Board members. The Board will make its final selection following all the interviews and a swearing-in ceremony will take place that afternoon. &nbsp;

The individual selected will serve until the end of the term in April 2023. They will participate in their first Board meeting on May 23.&nbsp;

The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed on the district’s YouTube channel&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;During a special meeting on Thursday the St. Joseph School Board held a special meeting to begin the process of selecting its next board member.&nbsp;A seat on the board was left open after the resignation of Lori Witham.&nbsp;The list of 10 residents that expressed interest in running for the board seat was narrowed down to five after a majority of the board voted to narrow the field.&nbsp;Don Crabtree, David Jordan, David Mason, Tom Richmond, and Phil Vandel will be interviewed in-person by the board on Monday starting at 2pm. &nbsp;Each candidate will have 15 minutes to make a statement and address questions asked by the Board members. The Board will make its final selection following all the interviews and a swearing-in ceremony will take place that afternoon. &nbsp;The individual selected will serve until the end of the term in April 2023. They will participate in their first Board meeting on May 23.&nbsp;The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed on the district’s YouTube channel&nbsp;

St. Joseph School Board starts process of selecting next board member

A string of fires near Polo on Tuesday classified as arson are still under investigation by the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;

One of them claimed the life of a 96-year-old woman. The body of Lorene Fickess was found in the first house fire.&nbsp;

Caldwell County Sheriff Mitch Allen says the suspect's vehicle was spotted in front of all three house fires near Polo.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A string of fires near Polo on Tuesday classified as arson are still under investigation by the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;One of them claimed the life of a 96-year-old woman. The body of Lorene Fickess was found in the first house fire.&nbsp;Caldwell County Sheriff Mitch Allen says the suspect's vehicle was spotted in front of all three house fires near Polo.&nbsp;"Plus, the fact when you have three fires on the same road within a four-mile distance, and there's signs of arson in at least one of the houses, it's pretty obvious that they're all connected," Allen tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The vehicle in question spotted at the scene is a black SUV with dark tinted windows driven by a black male. &nbsp;Allen says his department will continue to question people in the area who had cameras at their homes or may have seen something.&nbsp;"A lot of times people see something or they know something, they don't know they know something until we talk to them," Allen explains. "So, we're hoping that somebody comes forward or we talk to somebody that may have that piece of the puzzle that puts it all together for us."&nbsp;The Sheriff's department is asking the public for help in the investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 816 586 2681 or the Tips hotline at 816 586 TIPS.&nbsp;A suspicious fire in Lafayette County is also currently under investigation.&nbsp;Investigators are working to determine if it is linked with the fires in Caldwell County.&nbsp;Allen says he's spoken to Lafayette County Sheriff Kerrick Alumbaugh and exchanged information about the case. &nbsp;"I know that that is arson as well, however there is no evidence that would connect that fire with our fire up here, they're still investigating it down there," Allen says.&nbsp;Allen adds that he will stay in contact with Alumbaugh to compare notes and see if a link to the fires is found.&nbsp;

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