By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6aaZJbhCI5sJZmEB5iDDjK?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5yLWyyhUmu0EIO1g9ihxEb?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

DAVIESS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Sunday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Juke driven by a 69-year-old Des Moines, Iowa, woman was southbound on Interstate 35 seven miles south of Pattonsburg. The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road down an embankment, struck a cluster of trees and overturned.

Cameron ambulance transported the driver and a 68-year-old female passenger to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

DAVIESS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Sunday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Juke driven by a 69-year-old Des Moines, Iowa, woman was southbound on Interstate 35 seven miles south of Pattonsburg. The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road down an embankment, struck a cluster of trees and overturned.Cameron ambulance transported the driver and a 68-year-old female passenger to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2 women hospitalized after violent crash down embankment

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —A juvenile was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Sunday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Equnox driven by a 47-year-old Bethany man was eastbound on U.S. 136 one mile east of Brownville, Nebraska, in heavy fog and smoke. The 2020 Equinox rear-ended a 2019 Chevy Equinox driven by a 42-year-old Beatrice, Nebraska, man who had slowed and stopped due to a separate vehicle crash.

Nemaha County Fire and Rescue transported a 3-year-old female passenger in the 2019 Equinox to Nemaha County Hospital. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —A juvenile was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Sunday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Equnox driven by a 47-year-old Bethany man was eastbound on U.S. 136 one mile east of Brownville, Nebraska, in heavy fog and smoke. The 2020 Equinox rear-ended a 2019 Chevy Equinox driven by a 42-year-old Beatrice, Nebraska, man who had slowed and stopped due to a separate vehicle crash.Nemaha County Fire and Rescue transported a 3-year-old female passenger in the 2019 Equinox to Nemaha County Hospital. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

3-year-old hospitalized after rear-end crash in fog, smoke

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3a.m. Sunday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Freighliner semi driven by a 52-year-old Brooklyn, New York, man was northbound on Interstate 29&nbsp; Thirteen miles north of St. Joseph. The driver fell asleep. The semi traveled off the west side of the road and the driver over corrected. The vehicle returned to the road, overturned and blocked both northbound lanes.&nbsp;

Andrew County EMS transported the driver to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the&nbsp; MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3a.m. Sunday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Freighliner semi driven by a 52-year-old Brooklyn, New York, man was northbound on Interstate 29&nbsp; Thirteen miles north of St. Joseph. The driver fell asleep. The semi traveled off the west side of the road and the driver over corrected. The vehicle returned to the road, overturned and blocked both northbound lanes.&nbsp;Andrew County EMS transported the driver to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the&nbsp; MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver fell asleep and semi overturned in Anrdrew County

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/sydneywaldron/">Sydney Waldron</a>

The trucking industry is a major economic driver supporting multiple sectors, but lately it is facing challenges due to a lack of freight to haul and labor constraints.

The Missouri Department of Transportation estimates that over&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/fast-facts" target="_blank">985 million tons of goods</a>&nbsp;pass through Missouri annually, with a net worth of $1.1 trillion. About 87% of these goods&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/trucks" target="_blank">are moved by trucks</a>.

“If we’re doing our job right, you don’t notice us,” Tom Crawford, president and CEO of the Missouri Trucking Association, said. “The shelves are full, and life is good.”

Crawford said that the economy has a direct impact on the trucking industry due to its integral role in the supply chain.

“Our industry is a reflection of the economy,” Crawford said. “A few years ago, the economy was running and gunning — everybody was spending like it was. So we got a lot of demand for goods.”

Consumer spending across the United States surged between 2021 and 2022, rising about 9%, and then about 5.9% from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2024/consumer-spending-increased-for-all-income-groups-from-2022-to-2023.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">2022 to 2023</a>, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Meanwhile, inflation remains elevated as the consumer price index&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf" target="_blank">rose approximately 3%</a>&nbsp;on an annual basis since September 2024.

“You’re buying less than you did in 2022,” Crawford said. “You’re probably spending the same amount of money, but you’re not buying as much.”

Crawford explains that these economic changes are usually reflected back in the trucking industry’s demand for freight hauling. When there is an increase in consumer spending, there may be the challenge of finding more drivers to haul goods. While when the economy is facing a downturn, there might be a challenge of finding freight loads to haul.

One area where Crawford said this is often apparent is in the construction industry.

“When you see construction starting, with the ground being worked and foundations being set, you are also seeing a spike in freight demand,” Crawford said. “All of the raw materials, like concrete, gravel, and lumber, have to be delivered by truck. So changes in construction activity directly drive the volume of loads the trucking industry handles, especially in segments like flatbed trucking.”

There have been nationwide concerns from trucking organizations about the shortages of truck drivers. Representatives from the American Trucking Association, the largest trucking organization in the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trucking.org/news-insights/spear-drives-ata-priorities-capitol-hill" target="_blank">testified before Congress in July</a>&nbsp;to address the issue of a driver shortage, among other challenges.

Labor shortages have been an ongoing issue for the trucking industry, which caused the Biden administration to introduce the Trucking Action Plan in 2021.

One of the Trucking Action Plan’s main goals was to reduce barriers for individuals seeking commercial driver’s licenses. As part of this effort, the&nbsp;<a href="https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/12/16/fact-sheet-the-biden-%E2%81%A0harris-administration-trucking-action-plan-to-strengthen-americas-trucking-workforce/" target="_blank">Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provided over $30 million</a>&nbsp;in funding to help states expedite the commercial driver’s licensing process.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/cdl" target="_blank">CDL</a>&nbsp;process involves first obtaining a learner’s permit by passing a knowledge test and meeting age and medical requirements. Drivers then complete training and pass a skills test, which includes vehicle inspection, basic maneuvers and on-road driving.

The current Trump administration has sought to reverse the Biden administration’s efforts to reduce barriers for the CDL licensing process. To do so, it has made&nbsp;the English Language Proficiency aspect of the test an out-of-service violation.

“It’s really all about safety, because, you know, if you think about it, if someone cannot understand what a road sign means, then that could be a real issue,” said Sicily Waters, director of communications for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. “And that’s really why I think everybody has really galvanized and supported this issue. The actions that this administration has taken are rooted in safety, and that’s not a partisan issue.”

<a href="https://www.missourinet.com/2025/11/11/missouri-cites-494-commercial-drivers-for-flunking-english-proficiency/" target="_blank">Reporting from Missourinet</a>&nbsp;indicates that 484 commercial drivers have been cited and pulled from driving on Missouri roads as of Oct. 21 because they are not fluent in English, according to information from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Crawford acknowledged that many drivers in Missouri’s trucking industry speak English as a second language. However, he stressed that it is the responsibility of employers to verify English proficiency during the hiring process.

“I know several members who have drivers for whom English isn’t their first language, but they are conversant,” Crawford said. “That’s what the law requires, and that’s a safe driver.”

This story originally appeared in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missouribusinessalert.com/industries/missouri-trucking-industry-faces-labor-challenges-as-freight-hauling-demand-dwindles/article_502d62c0-3215-41fe-bf7d-2cd2126c41be.html" target="_blank">Missouri Business Alert</a>, a digital newsroom covering businessand the economy in Missouri.

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/sydneywaldron/">Sydney Waldron</a>The trucking industry is a major economic driver supporting multiple sectors, but lately it is facing challenges due to a lack of freight to haul and labor constraints.The Missouri Department of Transportation estimates that over&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/fast-facts" target="_blank">985 million tons of goods</a>&nbsp;pass through Missouri annually, with a net worth of $1.1 trillion. About 87% of these goods&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/trucks" target="_blank">are moved by trucks</a>.“If we’re doing our job right, you don’t notice us,” Tom Crawford, president and CEO of the Missouri Trucking Association, said. “The shelves are full, and life is good.”Crawford said that the economy has a direct impact on the trucking industry due to its integral role in the supply chain.“Our industry is a reflection of the economy,” Crawford said. “A few years ago, the economy was running and gunning — everybody was spending like it was. So we got a lot of demand for goods.”Consumer spending across the United States surged between 2021 and 2022, rising about 9%, and then about 5.9% from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2024/consumer-spending-increased-for-all-income-groups-from-2022-to-2023.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">2022 to 2023</a>, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Meanwhile, inflation remains elevated as the consumer price index&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf" target="_blank">rose approximately 3%</a>&nbsp;on an annual basis since September 2024.“You’re buying less than you did in 2022,” Crawford said. “You’re probably spending the same amount of money, but you’re not buying as much.”Crawford explains that these economic changes are usually reflected back in the trucking industry’s demand for freight hauling. When there is an increase in consumer spending, there may be the challenge of finding more drivers to haul goods. While when the economy is facing a downturn, there might be a challenge of finding freight loads to haul.One area where Crawford said this is often apparent is in the construction industry.“When you see construction starting, with the ground being worked and foundations being set, you are also seeing a spike in freight demand,” Crawford said. “All of the raw materials, like concrete, gravel, and lumber, have to be delivered by truck. So changes in construction activity directly drive the volume of loads the trucking industry handles, especially in segments like flatbed trucking.”<h2>Labor challenges&nbsp;</h2>There have been nationwide concerns from trucking organizations about the shortages of truck drivers. Representatives from the American Trucking Association, the largest trucking organization in the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trucking.org/news-insights/spear-drives-ata-priorities-capitol-hill" target="_blank">testified before Congress in July</a>&nbsp;to address the issue of a driver shortage, among other challenges.Labor shortages have been an ongoing issue for the trucking industry, which caused the Biden administration to introduce the Trucking Action Plan in 2021.One of the Trucking Action Plan’s main goals was to reduce barriers for individuals seeking commercial driver’s licenses. As part of this effort, the&nbsp;<a href="https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/12/16/fact-sheet-the-biden-%E2%81%A0harris-administration-trucking-action-plan-to-strengthen-americas-trucking-workforce/" target="_blank">Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provided over $30 million</a>&nbsp;in funding to help states expedite the commercial driver’s licensing process.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/cdl" target="_blank">CDL</a>&nbsp;process involves first obtaining a learner’s permit by passing a knowledge test and meeting age and medical requirements. Drivers then complete training and pass a skills test, which includes vehicle inspection, basic maneuvers and on-road driving.The current Trump administration has sought to reverse the Biden administration’s efforts to reduce barriers for the CDL licensing process. To do so, it has made&nbsp;the English Language Proficiency aspect of the test an out-of-service violation.“It’s really all about safety, because, you know, if you think about it, if someone cannot understand what a road sign means, then that could be a real issue,” said Sicily Waters, director of communications for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. “And that’s really why I think everybody has really galvanized and supported this issue. The actions that this administration has taken are rooted in safety, and that’s not a partisan issue.”<a href="https://www.missourinet.com/2025/11/11/missouri-cites-494-commercial-drivers-for-flunking-english-proficiency/" target="_blank">Reporting from Missourinet</a>&nbsp;indicates that 484 commercial drivers have been cited and pulled from driving on Missouri roads as of Oct. 21 because they are not fluent in English, according to information from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.Crawford acknowledged that many drivers in Missouri’s trucking industry speak English as a second language. However, he stressed that it is the responsibility of employers to verify English proficiency during the hiring process.“I know several members who have drivers for whom English isn’t their first language, but they are conversant,” Crawford said. “That’s what the law requires, and that’s a safe driver.”This story originally appeared in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missouribusinessalert.com/industries/missouri-trucking-industry-faces-labor-challenges-as-freight-hauling-demand-dwindles/article_502d62c0-3215-41fe-bf7d-2cd2126c41be.html" target="_blank">Missouri Business Alert</a>, a digital newsroom covering businessand the economy in Missouri.

Missouri trucking industry faces labor challenges as freight hauling demand dwindles

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday night in Basehor, Kansas.

Just before 9p.m., deputies from the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 16900 block of Dempsey Road where a resident reported being threatened, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; The reporting party provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle, which was a white Honda SUV.

Preliminary information indicates deputies located the Honda nearby, and attempted to stop the SUV, when the driver fled. While the Honda traveled eastbound in the 17000 block of Dempsey Road, gunshots were fired from the SUV toward the pursuing patrol vehicle. Near N. 147th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, in Basehor, gunshots were again fired from the Honda, and the responding deputy crashed his patrol vehicle.

The pursuit continued to the area of N. 156th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, where the Honda collided with a passenger car. As a deputy pulled behind the Honda, a male subject, later identified as Andrew M. Amundsen, 33, of Leavenworth, exited the passenger side, and fired several rounds. The deputy returned fire. The driver of the vehicle, Mariah Huggins, 29, of Kansas City, Kansas, was taken into custody at the crash site.

Amundsen fled on foot. In an attempt to hide, he broke a basement window of an area home, entered the residence, but then exited and continued to flee. Sheriff's deputies located him hiding in a truck bed in the area of N. 157th&nbsp;and Cedar Street and took him into custody. Amundsen was uninjured, and later booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on an outstanding arrest warrant.

The deputy involved in the wreck was transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. No other deputies or civilians were hurt during this incident. As a precaution, Huggins was examined by hospital personnel, and then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on a pre-existing warrant.

Additional charges, related to this incident, are expected for Amundsen and Huggins.

This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.

When this investigation concludes case findings will be presented to the Leavenworth County Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763841640176.png" alt="Amundsen -photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Amundsen -photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday night in Basehor, Kansas.Just before 9p.m., deputies from the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 16900 block of Dempsey Road where a resident reported being threatened, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; The reporting party provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle, which was a white Honda SUV.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763841798756.png" alt="Huggins -photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Huggins -photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary information indicates deputies located the Honda nearby, and attempted to stop the SUV, when the driver fled. While the Honda traveled eastbound in the 17000 block of Dempsey Road, gunshots were fired from the SUV toward the pursuing patrol vehicle. Near N. 147th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, in Basehor, gunshots were again fired from the Honda, and the responding deputy crashed his patrol vehicle.The pursuit continued to the area of N. 156th&nbsp;and Parallel Road, where the Honda collided with a passenger car. As a deputy pulled behind the Honda, a male subject, later identified as Andrew M. Amundsen, 33, of Leavenworth, exited the passenger side, and fired several rounds. The deputy returned fire. The driver of the vehicle, Mariah Huggins, 29, of Kansas City, Kansas, was taken into custody at the crash site.Amundsen fled on foot. In an attempt to hide, he broke a basement window of an area home, entered the residence, but then exited and continued to flee. Sheriff's deputies located him hiding in a truck bed in the area of N. 157th&nbsp;and Cedar Street and took him into custody. Amundsen was uninjured, and later booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on an outstanding arrest warrant.The deputy involved in the wreck was transported to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then released. No other deputies or civilians were hurt during this incident. As a precaution, Huggins was examined by hospital personnel, and then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on a pre-existing warrant.Additional charges, related to this incident, are expected for Amundsen and Huggins.This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.When this investigation concludes case findings will be presented to the Leavenworth County Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

Couple jailed after exchange of gunfire with Kansas deputy

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4robNIThyW85KiZstGh7Ml?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Week in Review

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Friday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Edge driven by a 19-year-old Parkville man was westbound on U.S. 36 at Joe Montana Road three miles east of Cameron.&nbsp; The SUV struck a westbound 2022 Chevy Trailblazer driven by a 58-year-old Lawson man who was slowing. After impact the Chevy struck a bridge railing.&nbsp;

Caldwell County EMS transported a 53-year-old female passenger in th Chevy to Liberty Hospital. The drivers were not injured. The occupants of the Chevy were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Friday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Edge driven by a 19-year-old Parkville man was westbound on U.S. 36 at Joe Montana Road three miles east of Cameron.&nbsp; The SUV struck a westbound 2022 Chevy Trailblazer driven by a 58-year-old Lawson man who was slowing. After impact the Chevy struck a bridge railing.&nbsp;Caldwell County EMS transported a 53-year-old female passenger in th Chevy to Liberty Hospital. The drivers were not injured. The occupants of the Chevy were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman injured after crash pushed SUV into bridge rail

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5aGpupgi77w874KNPBaeqJ?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Sports

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2oyJGcaCNBI2N1GM7QOO4T?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ News

St. Joseph Police
Chief Paul Luster says his department is responding to residents’ concerns
about traffic violations, including expired temporary license plates.

Luster says the
city survey confirmed what he has heard during community meetings.

The police chief
says the department has partnered with the Missouri State Highway Patrol to use
its helicopter during traffic saturation efforts. Luster says he hopes the word
gets out about a crackdown on traffic violations.

“Getting that
message out that we’re going to take this seriously,” Luster tells KFEQmmunity.
“So, we get out there do a lot of traffic stops, write a lot of tickets, write
a lot of warnings, do a lot of education, but then also have that helicopter
element in the sky, too, which works out really well for us.”

Two recent
saturation events illustrate the point. In the first, five drivers fled from
police officers attempting to pull them over. All five were apprehended. In the
second, four drivers fled. All four face charges.

Luster says none
realized they were being tracked by the Highway Patrol helicopter.

“A lot of them,
home base is their residence,” Luster says. “So, they’ll run and they’ll pull
in their driveway and they think, oh I made it, and then all of the sudden
three or four police cars are surrounding their house instantly, because the
helicopter’s putting out that information.”

Missouri lawmakers
moved to increase the penalties for fleeing from police a couple of years ago.
Legislators approve Valentine’s Law, putting sharper teeth into state law.

Luster says
drivers who fled from police during the recent saturation efforts found out how
sharp those teeth were.

“They’re learning
this is a really serious charge and there’s no I can just go get probation for
this anymore. You have to do those 12 months,” Luster says. “And that’s a giant
deterrent that says, for Missouri, we’re taking this seriously.” 

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763743869459.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Police
Chief Paul Luster says his department is responding to residents’ concerns
about traffic violations, including expired temporary license plates.Luster says the
city survey confirmed what he has heard during community meetings.The police chief
says the department has partnered with the Missouri State Highway Patrol to use
its helicopter during traffic saturation efforts. Luster says he hopes the word
gets out about a crackdown on traffic violations.“Getting that
message out that we’re going to take this seriously,” Luster tells KFEQmmunity.
“So, we get out there do a lot of traffic stops, write a lot of tickets, write
a lot of warnings, do a lot of education, but then also have that helicopter
element in the sky, too, which works out really well for us.”Two recent
saturation events illustrate the point. In the first, five drivers fled from
police officers attempting to pull them over. All five were apprehended. In the
second, four drivers fled. All four face charges.Luster says none
realized they were being tracked by the Highway Patrol helicopter.“A lot of them,
home base is their residence,” Luster says. “So, they’ll run and they’ll pull
in their driveway and they think, oh I made it, and then all of the sudden
three or four police cars are surrounding their house instantly, because the
helicopter’s putting out that information.”Missouri lawmakers
moved to increase the penalties for fleeing from police a couple of years ago.
Legislators approve Valentine’s Law, putting sharper teeth into state law.Luster says
drivers who fled from police during the recent saturation efforts found out how
sharp those teeth were.“They’re learning
this is a really serious charge and there’s no I can just go get probation for
this anymore. You have to do those 12 months,” Luster says. “And that’s a giant
deterrent that says, for Missouri, we’re taking this seriously.” You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

St. Joe police use patrol helicopter to crack down on traffic violations

The director and a star from a movie filmed throughout the St. Joseph and Savannah area will return next month for a special one-night screening.  

Director Matthew Toronto and co-leading actress Kylee Levien will come to the Trail Theatre on December 4th for a meet and greet and a Q and A session to go along with the screening of ‘A ChrisMystery’. 

St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau spokesperson Christian Mengel says the event came to life thanks to someone local who worked on the film  

"We had somebody who was local to the region on the crew that said hey I’m still in contact with some of the people in the LA area that said they would be willing to come back for a showing,” Mengel tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, naturally we were like what’s their schedule, what’s it look like? And so December 4th was the day that seemed to work for the director and Kylee.” 

 Mengel says people from the movie coming back is a great opportunity, because while they are here, they don't get much of a chance to experience the town.  

"This is an opportunity for them to come back on their own time, on their own schedule, kind of relax and just have conversations with people who maybe were directly involved either as crew in the region or were extras or had property that was part of the film, maybe offered up their car or their home,” Mengel explains. 

Tickets to the screening are $5 and can be purchased online or at the door, while available.  The meet and greet will begin at 6:30pm with the screening at 7.  

Mengel says there will also be an opportunity for people to ask questions about the film 

“This is an opportunity for them in the room to basically give you that off the wall detail of now here’s exactly where we filmed or what it was like on this day, you get those kind of special moments and details that you otherwise wouldn’t get,” Mengel says. 

 The question-and-answer session, hosted by Bob Schultz will follow the movie. 

The movie is available to view currently on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.54a25b9f-4515-4245-8337-a5ab160ab91c?ref_=imdbref_tt_ov_wbr_ovf__pvt_aiv&amp;tag=imdbtag_tt_ov_wbr_ovf__pvt_aiv-20">Prime Video</a>. A trailer is also available on YouTube.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763743559622.png" alt="A ChrisMystery is a movie filmed around the St. Joseph and Savannah area.&nbsp; A special screening will happen at the beginning of December at the Trail Theatre/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>A ChrisMystery is a movie filmed around the St. Joseph and Savannah area.&nbsp; A special screening will happen at the beginning of December at the Trail Theatre/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe director and a star from a movie filmed throughout the St. Joseph and Savannah area will return next month for a special one-night screening. Director Matthew Toronto and co-leading actress Kylee Levien will come to the Trail Theatre on December 4th for a meet and greet and a Q and A session to go along with the screening of ‘A ChrisMystery’. St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau spokesperson Christian Mengel says the event came to life thanks to someone local who worked on the film "We had somebody who was local to the region on the crew that said hey I’m still in contact with some of the people in the LA area that said they would be willing to come back for a showing,” Mengel tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, naturally we were like what’s their schedule, what’s it look like? And so December 4th was the day that seemed to work for the director and Kylee.” Mengel says people from the movie coming back is a great opportunity, because while they are here, they don't get much of a chance to experience the town. "This is an opportunity for them to come back on their own time, on their own schedule, kind of relax and just have conversations with people who maybe were directly involved either as crew in the region or were extras or had property that was part of the film, maybe offered up their car or their home,” Mengel explains. Tickets to the screening are $5 and can be purchased online or at the door, while available. The meet and greet will begin at 6:30pm with the screening at 7. Mengel says there will also be an opportunity for people to ask questions about the film “This is an opportunity for them in the room to basically give you that off the wall detail of now here’s exactly where we filmed or what it was like on this day, you get those kind of special moments and details that you otherwise wouldn’t get,” Mengel says. The question-and-answer session, hosted by Bob Schultz will follow the movie. The movie is available to view currently on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.54a25b9f-4515-4245-8337-a5ab160ab91c?ref_=imdbref_tt_ov_wbr_ovf__pvt_aiv&amp;tag=imdbtag_tt_ov_wbr_ovf__pvt_aiv-20">Prime Video</a>. A trailer is also available on YouTube. <div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4Dd34FTRHGs?si=wZCEqZ3nBR5SmV-j" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Local film shot in St. Joseph, Savannah to be screened at the Trail Theatre

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Toyota Corolla driven by a 17-year-old Bethany girl was northbound on U.S. 69 just south of NE 121 six miles south of Cameron. the car struck a deer.

Cameron EMS transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained at the time of the crash, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Toyota Corolla driven by a 17-year-old Bethany girl was northbound on U.S. 69 just south of NE 121 six miles south of Cameron. the car struck a deer.Cameron EMS transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained at the time of the crash, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri teen injured after car, deer crash

Five people were arrested in Faucett on Tuesday by the Buchanan County Special Operation Division in connection with crimes across the Midwest.  

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports that on Tuesday, the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force, comprised of the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office Career Criminal Unit, St. Joseph Police Department, and Missouri Highway Patrol located three vehicles in Faucett at the Pilot gas station connected to crimes in several states across the Midwest.  

Officers took four males and one female into custody and seized the three vehicles at the scene.  All five suspects were found to be citizens of Venezuela and due to the significance of the alleged crimes ICE was notified. 

All five suspects were taken to the Buchanan County jail for further investigation before being transferred into ICE custody.   

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFive people were arrested in Faucett on Tuesday by the Buchanan County Special Operation Division in connection with crimes across the Midwest. Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports that on Tuesday, the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force, comprised of the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office Career Criminal Unit, St. Joseph Police Department, and Missouri Highway Patrol located three vehicles in Faucett at the Pilot gas station connected to crimes in several states across the Midwest. Officers took four males and one female into custody and seized the three vehicles at the scene. All five suspects were found to be citizens of Venezuela and due to the significance of the alleged crimes ICE was notified. All five suspects were taken to the Buchanan County jail for further investigation before being transferred into ICE custody. The investigation is ongoing. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Five arrested in connection with multiple crimes across Midwest

DeKalb County
authorities are investigating a fatal fire in Weatherby.

The DeKalb County
Sheriff’s Office reports the residential fire very early Thursday morning
claimed the lives of three occupants. The office reports deputies along with
first responders arrived at the home to find the three dead.

The State Fire
Marshal has been called in to help with the investigation.

If anyone has
information, they are asked to call DeKalb County Captain Mike Morris at
816-449-5802.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostDeKalb County
authorities are investigating a fatal fire in Weatherby.The DeKalb County
Sheriff’s Office reports the residential fire very early Thursday morning
claimed the lives of three occupants. The office reports deputies along with
first responders arrived at the home to find the three dead.The State Fire
Marshal has been called in to help with the investigation.If anyone has
information, they are asked to call DeKalb County Captain Mike Morris at
816-449-5802.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Fatal house fire in Weatherby claims three lives

The City of St. Joseph will see just its third change in city clerk leadership in more than 70 years as longtime city clerk Paula Heyde announced her upcoming retirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Heyde will retire at the end of January after more than four decades of service.&nbsp; The St. Joseph City Council has appointed Deputy Clerk Kaycee Garton to assume the role at the beginning of February.

Heyde, a native of Stanberry, Missouri, began her work with the city clerk’s office in January 1983 and became an official staff member the following year. She was appointed city clerk in October of 1988, succeeding Walter Welsh, who had served since 1954. Her 40-plus-year career has spanned generations of city leaders.

“I’ve enjoyed working with all the different councils and mayors over the years, and some of them, along with coworkers, have become friends I keep in touch with,” Heyde said in a news release from the city. “It’s been great working with Kay, and I’m sure she will do an excellent job.”

Mayor John Josendale praised Heyde’s enduring contributions to the city.

“Paula is the life and soul of the city. She knows more than anybody when you think about the longevity and the number of councils she’s worked with over the years,” he said. “She’s taught me a lot, which proves you can teach old dogs. I know Kaycee has learned from her as well, which is why I have confidence that she will do an excellent job in this new role and continue the great service that office is known for.”

Garton, a St. Joseph native and Benton High School graduate, began her career with the City of St. Joseph as a police officer in 2018. She transitioned to an administrative assistant role in 2022, supporting the offices of the city manager, City Council, legal, communications and clerk. She was appointed deputy clerk in the summer of 2025.

“I’m honored and excited to step into the role of City Clerk,” Garton said. “This position carries a legacy of integrity, professionalism and service that Paula Heyde embodied for more than 40 years. Paula set the standard for excellence, and I’m committed to upholding that tradition while bringing new energy and dedication to support our organization, our elected officials, and our community. It’s a privilege to build on the foundation she created.”

Garton’s salary will be $80,000 effective on the date of her new appointment.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763663157298.jpeg" alt="Paula Heyde/ Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Paula Heyde/ Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe City of St. Joseph will see just its third change in city clerk leadership in more than 70 years as longtime city clerk Paula Heyde announced her upcoming retirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Heyde will retire at the end of January after more than four decades of service.&nbsp; The St. Joseph City Council has appointed Deputy Clerk Kaycee Garton to assume the role at the beginning of February.Heyde, a native of Stanberry, Missouri, began her work with the city clerk’s office in January 1983 and became an official staff member the following year. She was appointed city clerk in October of 1988, succeeding Walter Welsh, who had served since 1954. Her 40-plus-year career has spanned generations of city leaders.“I’ve enjoyed working with all the different councils and mayors over the years, and some of them, along with coworkers, have become friends I keep in touch with,” Heyde said in a news release from the city. “It’s been great working with Kay, and I’m sure she will do an excellent job.”Mayor John Josendale praised Heyde’s enduring contributions to the city.“Paula is the life and soul of the city. She knows more than anybody when you think about the longevity and the number of councils she’s worked with over the years,” he said. “She’s taught me a lot, which proves you can teach old dogs. I know Kaycee has learned from her as well, which is why I have confidence that she will do an excellent job in this new role and continue the great service that office is known for.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763663189672.jpeg" alt="Kaycee Garton/ Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Kaycee Garton/ Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>Garton, a St. Joseph native and Benton High School graduate, began her career with the City of St. Joseph as a police officer in 2018. She transitioned to an administrative assistant role in 2022, supporting the offices of the city manager, City Council, legal, communications and clerk. She was appointed deputy clerk in the summer of 2025.“I’m honored and excited to step into the role of City Clerk,” Garton said. “This position carries a legacy of integrity, professionalism and service that Paula Heyde embodied for more than 40 years. Paula set the standard for excellence, and I’m committed to upholding that tradition while bringing new energy and dedication to support our organization, our elected officials, and our community. It’s a privilege to build on the foundation she created.”Garton’s salary will be $80,000 effective on the date of her new appointment.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph City Clerk Paula Heyde announces retirement; Kaycee Garton to take over role

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5VDsB2oEwx6IISTLabLjaF?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4EKMR8eR8v7M3MpMwqurDw?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Buchanan County
commissioners have written the St. Joseph Board of Education, urging the board
to stick with its original long-range plan to move the school district to a two
high school model.

Buchanan County
Presiding Commissioner, Scott Nelson, says the three commissioners simply want
to support the plan to reduce the number of St. Joseph public high schools.

“We just supported
that whole process knowing that they felt at the time and we agreed that St.
Joseph should go to a two (high) school model,” Nelson tells KFEQmmunity. “We’re
not picking schools. It’s just two schools.”

The move came
after it appeared the St. Joseph Board of Education backed off its original
long-range plan and decided to remain with the three high school model. The
board, though, now appears to have again embraced the two high school model,
favoring retaining Central High School along with Benton High School, using
neighboring Hyde Elementary School to provide sufficient space.

Nelson says the
Buchanan County Commission drafted the letter after he spoke with the other two
commissioners following a discussion at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce about
the future of the school district.

“So, I brought that
information back to the commissioners and we said, yeah, we do need to support
our school board and not this whole idea of a last-minute change to things,” Nelson
says. “That’s just chaos. Nothing good comes from chaos. Why is chaos even brought
into the picture? Why a last-minute change? &nbsp;I just don’t understand that.”

Nelson says the
commission understands the importance of the St. Joseph School District to the
county as a whole and believes the plan to reduce the number of high schools
makes the most sense.

“We are losing
population. We are losing school numbers. Those are facts,” Nelson says. “Employers,
and I’m not going to say which ones, are reluctant to come – some – are reluctant
to come to the area or live in the area, because of the school district.”

Nelson says the school
board earlier realized the district needed to change and that change wouldn’t
be easy.

“But I felt like
they kind of did their due diligence and came up with a plan and then all of
the sudden the plan changes on the drop of a hat? &nbsp;I’m not sure that’s productive.”

The St. Joseph
Board of Education is scheduled to consider the move to the two high school model
during its Monday regular meeting.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County
commissioners have written the St. Joseph Board of Education, urging the board
to stick with its original long-range plan to move the school district to a two
high school model.Buchanan County
Presiding Commissioner, Scott Nelson, says the three commissioners simply want
to support the plan to reduce the number of St. Joseph public high schools.“We just supported
that whole process knowing that they felt at the time and we agreed that St.
Joseph should go to a two (high) school model,” Nelson tells KFEQmmunity. “We’re
not picking schools. It’s just two schools.”The move came
after it appeared the St. Joseph Board of Education backed off its original
long-range plan and decided to remain with the three high school model. The
board, though, now appears to have again embraced the two high school model,
favoring retaining Central High School along with Benton High School, using
neighboring Hyde Elementary School to provide sufficient space.Nelson says the
Buchanan County Commission drafted the letter after he spoke with the other two
commissioners following a discussion at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce about
the future of the school district.“So, I brought that
information back to the commissioners and we said, yeah, we do need to support
our school board and not this whole idea of a last-minute change to things,” Nelson
says. “That’s just chaos. Nothing good comes from chaos. Why is chaos even brought
into the picture? Why a last-minute change? &nbsp;I just don’t understand that.”Nelson says the
commission understands the importance of the St. Joseph School District to the
county as a whole and believes the plan to reduce the number of high schools
makes the most sense.“We are losing
population. We are losing school numbers. Those are facts,” Nelson says. “Employers,
and I’m not going to say which ones, are reluctant to come – some – are reluctant
to come to the area or live in the area, because of the school district.”Nelson says the school
board earlier realized the district needed to change and that change wouldn’t
be easy.“But I felt like
they kind of did their due diligence and came up with a plan and then all of
the sudden the plan changes on the drop of a hat? &nbsp;I’m not sure that’s productive.”The St. Joseph
Board of Education is scheduled to consider the move to the two high school model
during its Monday regular meeting.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Buchanan County Commission urges St. Joe school board to stick with plan

A true crime series hosted by the St. Joseph Public Libraries will host a presentation this evening talking about some lesser-known St. Joseph criminals. 

Kim Schutte will present at the East Hills Library, teaching people about St. Joseph's equivalent of Bonnie and Clyde, Clarence and Juanita Spargur. 

Downtown library manager Jen Wildhagen who organized the series says even she had never heard of this couple, so she's excited to learn more about them 

"The fact that the environment could put out people like this regularly and in our area, is very interesting to me,” Wildhagen tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “I’m looking forward to learning more about who these people were, how they got involved in the crimes they did, and what ended up happening to them, because I don’t really know anything about that.” 

Wildhagen says along with the fascination on true crime, learning about it 100 years later helps soften the blow of what they did 

"The thirties mob, bank robber, Baby Face Nelson and all of that crew, those stories I think are really fun to listen to probably because they are so long ago now that the impact isn’t as direct and awful on a personal level,” Wildhagen explains.  “So that’s another thing it has going for it I think.” 

Wildhagen says the fascination with true crime seems to come with people touching the dark, without worrying about it touching them back 

"Learning about the stories without the fear necessarily of it happening to you personally or learning about terrible stories in a safe environment is fascinating,” Wildhagen says. 

Wildhagen says she has been fascinated with true crime for some time now, and one thing that has been a benefit to her from it, is learning more how to protect herself 

"Because I’ve heard about the terrible things people can do to one another, I am on alert,” Wildhagen points out.  “And I’m not necessarily saying that that’s what everybody gets out of it, but that is something that I’ve gotten from it.” 

The presentation is free to attend and will begin at 6pm tonight at the East Hills Library in the theatre. 

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA true crime series hosted by the St. Joseph Public Libraries will host a presentation this evening talking about some lesser-known St. Joseph criminals. Kim Schutte will present at the East Hills Library, teaching people about St. Joseph's equivalent of Bonnie and Clyde, Clarence and Juanita Spargur. Downtown library manager Jen Wildhagen who organized the series says even she had never heard of this couple, so she's excited to learn more about them "The fact that the environment could put out people like this regularly and in our area, is very interesting to me,” Wildhagen tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’m looking forward to learning more about who these people were, how they got involved in the crimes they did, and what ended up happening to them, because I don’t really know anything about that.” Wildhagen says along with the fascination on true crime, learning about it 100 years later helps soften the blow of what they did "The thirties mob, bank robber, Baby Face Nelson and all of that crew, those stories I think are really fun to listen to probably because they are so long ago now that the impact isn’t as direct and awful on a personal level,” Wildhagen explains. “So that’s another thing it has going for it I think.” Wildhagen says the fascination with true crime seems to come with people touching the dark, without worrying about it touching them back "Learning about the stories without the fear necessarily of it happening to you personally or learning about terrible stories in a safe environment is fascinating,” Wildhagen says. Wildhagen says she has been fascinated with true crime for some time now, and one thing that has been a benefit to her from it, is learning more how to protect herself "Because I’ve heard about the terrible things people can do to one another, I am on alert,” Wildhagen points out. “And I’m not necessarily saying that that’s what everybody gets out of it, but that is something that I’ve gotten from it.” The presentation is free to attend and will begin at 6pm tonight at the East Hills Library in the theatre. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph public libraries true crime series spotlights pair of infamous local criminals

It appears the two
high school model is back on the table for the St. Joseph School District.

The Board of
Education, after holding public hearings over the last couple of weeks, has
reverted to the two high school model after switching back to the current three
high school model. The school board now is expected to vote Monday on moving to
two high schools:&nbsp; Central High School
and Benton High School with the addition of neighboring Hyde Elementary School
to provide enough space.

The latest move
comes after the St. Joseph Board of Education in late October scrapped plans to
move to two high schools and embraced the current three high school model.

The board’s
long-range plan reached a couple of years ago called for the elimination of one
high school, but public backlash moved the board to reconsider.

In April, St. Joseph voters rejected a $157 million bond
issue which would have financed the building of a new high school, pivotal to
the St. Joseph School District plan to downsize from three to two high schools.
The Board of Education decided to forge ahead on the two high school model,
first considering using Central High School and Lafayette High School. The
board then instructed staff to consider using Benton High School as well, which
would have required using Hyde Elementary to provide enough space.

A final vote is
expected during the Board of Education regularly scheduled meeting on Monday,
November 24th.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIt appears the two
high school model is back on the table for the St. Joseph School District.The Board of
Education, after holding public hearings over the last couple of weeks, has
reverted to the two high school model after switching back to the current three
high school model. The school board now is expected to vote Monday on moving to
two high schools:&nbsp; Central High School
and Benton High School with the addition of neighboring Hyde Elementary School
to provide enough space.The latest move
comes after the St. Joseph Board of Education in late October scrapped plans to
move to two high schools and embraced the current three high school model.The board’s
long-range plan reached a couple of years ago called for the elimination of one
high school, but public backlash moved the board to reconsider.In April, St. Joseph voters rejected a $157 million bond
issue which would have financed the building of a new high school, pivotal to
the St. Joseph School District plan to downsize from three to two high schools.
The Board of Education decided to forge ahead on the two high school model,
first considering using Central High School and Lafayette High School. The
board then instructed staff to consider using Benton High School as well, which
would have required using Hyde Elementary to provide enough space.A final vote is
expected during the Board of Education regularly scheduled meeting on Monday,
November 24th.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Back to 2:  St. Joseph school board embraces 2 high school model once again

A fight broke out
at a St. Joseph funeral home leading to the arrest of two adults.

St. Joseph police
report officers arrived at the Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel on
Frederick Avenue shortly after seven o’clock Wednesday night after emergency
calls described a fight involving as many as 50 people.

Police say relatives
began to argue during the funeral leading to a physical altercation. Officers
arrested one woman and one man, both from out of town.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA fight broke out
at a St. Joseph funeral home leading to the arrest of two adults.St. Joseph police
report officers arrived at the Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel on
Frederick Avenue shortly after seven o’clock Wednesday night after emergency
calls described a fight involving as many as 50 people.Police say relatives
began to argue during the funeral leading to a physical altercation. Officers
arrested one woman and one man, both from out of town.The fight remains
under investigation.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

St. Joseph funeral fight leads to arrest of two

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an encounter with police.

Just before 2a.m. Wednesday, an officer on patrol observed a vehicle stopped in the lane of traffic in the 900 block U.S.Highway 59, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. 

The officer made contact with the driver of the vehicle identified as 32-year-old Kyle White of Hiawatha who appeared to be asleep or passed out. 

An investigation at the scene resulted in the discovery of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia in White’s possession and in the vehicle. He was taken into custody and jailed on requested charges of&nbsp;possession of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763570202382.png" alt="White -Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>White -Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure> ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an encounter with police.Just before 2a.m. Wednesday, an officer on patrol observed a vehicle stopped in the lane of traffic in the 900 block U.S.Highway 59, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. The officer made contact with the driver of the vehicle identified as 32-year-old Kyle White of Hiawatha who appeared to be asleep or passed out. An investigation at the scene resulted in the discovery of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia in White’s possession and in the vehicle. He was taken into custody and jailed on requested charges of&nbsp;possession of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

Kan. man caught with fentanyl was asleep in his car on highway

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri will try to seize assets owned by China to collect a $24 billion default judgment in its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/04/21/840550059/missouri-sues-china-communist-party-over-the-coronavirus-pandemic" target="_blank">case accusing the Asian nation</a>&nbsp;of lying to the world about the COVID-19 pandemic that began in Wuhan, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway said.

U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/State-of-Missouri-v.-Peoples-Republic-of-China-Judgment.pdf" target="_blank">entered the verdict in March</a>&nbsp;after China did not defend itself in the lawsuit. Speaking to reporters at her office Wednesday, Hanaway said she is working to compile a list of properties and other assets owned by government agencies named in the lawsuit.

“It’s been a long process for us to be able to enforce that judgment, but now we’ll enforce that judgment, much like any other judgment in this area,” Hanaway said.

The state will not try to take assets from companies owned by Chinese citizens or businesses, she said.

That would put the Smithfield Hog Production operation in north Missouri, previously known as Premium Standard Farms, off-limits. The farm is owned by China-based WH Group and is one of the most valuable Chinese-owned assets in the state.

“We can’t go after Chinese individuals or companies necessarily,” Hanaway said. “I might be proven wrong over time, but my belief is that we’ve got to go after those assets actually owned by China.”

In his ruling, Limbaugh wrote that China concealed the true nature of COVID-19 so it could stockpile protective gear that could limit spread of the virus.

“China’s pattern of actions strongly suggests that it had knowledge of the existence and human-to-human transmission of the COVID-19 virus as early as September 2019,” Limbaugh wrote. “China’s actions also suggest that China engaged in a deliberate campaign to suppress information about the COVID-19 pandemic in order to support its campaign to hoard PPE from Missouri and an unsuspecting world.”

Limbaugh found that Missouri lost tax revenue due to the pandemic and will experience a long-term loss of revenue as well, accepting the $8.04 billion estimate for the period 2020 to 2051. He added the state’s increased cost for protective gear, estimated at $123 million, due to the hoarding and tripled the amount to set the final judgment.

The judgment is against the Chinese government, the Communist Party of China, several national agencies, provincial and local governments around Wuhan and the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

The first step toward collecting any part of the judgment will be getting a copy of the judgment, translated into Mandarin, and other documentation to the State Department via the federal court clerk, Hanaway said in a news release Wednesday evening.

Once the defendants are served, she said, the state will be back in court to identify assets it wants to seize.

The case was first filed by Eric Schmitt, who is now a U.S. Senator, and continued by Andrew Bailey, now co-deputy director of the FBI. Hanaway was appointed attorney general in September.

The Chinese embassy in Washington, D.C., issued a harsh statement about the judgment and Hanaway’s actions to collect.

The steps China took to limit the spread of infection and provide for its people “are acts of national sovereignty and are not subject to the jurisdiction of US courts,”&nbsp;spokesperson Liu Pengyu said. “The so-called pandemic compensation lawsuits fabricated by certain forces in the U.S. ignore basic objective facts and violate fundamental legal principles; they are purely malicious frivolous lawsuits and political manipulation, with extremely sinister intentions.”

China will not pay and will retaliate if necessary, Pengyu said, “to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests in response to the so-called lawsuits and judgments from the US.”

<figure>
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 </figure>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri will try to seize assets owned by China to collect a $24 billion default judgment in its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/04/21/840550059/missouri-sues-china-communist-party-over-the-coronavirus-pandemic" target="_blank">case accusing the Asian nation</a>&nbsp;of lying to the world about the COVID-19 pandemic that began in Wuhan, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway said.U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/State-of-Missouri-v.-Peoples-Republic-of-China-Judgment.pdf" target="_blank">entered the verdict in March</a>&nbsp;after China did not defend itself in the lawsuit. Speaking to reporters at her office Wednesday, Hanaway said she is working to compile a list of properties and other assets owned by government agencies named in the lawsuit.“It’s been a long process for us to be able to enforce that judgment, but now we’ll enforce that judgment, much like any other judgment in this area,” Hanaway said.The state will not try to take assets from companies owned by Chinese citizens or businesses, she said.That would put the Smithfield Hog Production operation in north Missouri, previously known as Premium Standard Farms, off-limits. The farm is owned by China-based WH Group and is one of the most valuable Chinese-owned assets in the state.“We can’t go after Chinese individuals or companies necessarily,” Hanaway said. “I might be proven wrong over time, but my belief is that we’ve got to go after those assets actually owned by China.”In his ruling, Limbaugh wrote that China concealed the true nature of COVID-19 so it could stockpile protective gear that could limit spread of the virus.“China’s pattern of actions strongly suggests that it had knowledge of the existence and human-to-human transmission of the COVID-19 virus as early as September 2019,” Limbaugh wrote. “China’s actions also suggest that China engaged in a deliberate campaign to suppress information about the COVID-19 pandemic in order to support its campaign to hoard PPE from Missouri and an unsuspecting world.”Limbaugh found that Missouri lost tax revenue due to the pandemic and will experience a long-term loss of revenue as well, accepting the $8.04 billion estimate for the period 2020 to 2051. He added the state’s increased cost for protective gear, estimated at $123 million, due to the hoarding and tripled the amount to set the final judgment.The judgment is against the Chinese government, the Communist Party of China, several national agencies, provincial and local governments around Wuhan and the Wuhan Institute of Virology.The first step toward collecting any part of the judgment will be getting a copy of the judgment, translated into Mandarin, and other documentation to the State Department via the federal court clerk, Hanaway said in a news release Wednesday evening.Once the defendants are served, she said, the state will be back in court to identify assets it wants to seize.The case was first filed by Eric Schmitt, who is now a U.S. Senator, and continued by Andrew Bailey, now co-deputy director of the FBI. Hanaway was appointed attorney general in September.The Chinese embassy in Washington, D.C., issued a harsh statement about the judgment and Hanaway’s actions to collect.The steps China took to limit the spread of infection and provide for its people “are acts of national sovereignty and are not subject to the jurisdiction of US courts,”&nbsp;spokesperson Liu Pengyu said. “The so-called pandemic compensation lawsuits fabricated by certain forces in the U.S. ignore basic objective facts and violate fundamental legal principles; they are purely malicious frivolous lawsuits and political manipulation, with extremely sinister intentions.”China will not pay and will retaliate if necessary, Pengyu said, “to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests in response to the so-called lawsuits and judgments from the US.”