Vice President Kamala Harris participated in an online town hall&nbsp; Thursday evening with former talk show host Oprah Winfrey. The "Unite for America" event in Michigan featured a number of celebrities.

Harris discussed abortion rights, gun violence and the economy.

The Harris campaign livestreamed the event on YouTube and other social media platforms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726796309324.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Vice President Kamala Harris participated in an online town hall&nbsp; Thursday evening with former talk show host Oprah Winfrey. The "Unite for America" event in Michigan featured a number of celebrities.Harris discussed abortion rights, gun violence and the economy.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bZasBoVhuUA?si=t0Y7R3kt2ONgkg8C&amp;start=787" 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>The Harris campaign livestreamed the event on YouTube and other social media platforms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726796287122.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The election is November 5.

🎥Oprah and Kamala Harris host online town hall

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police have not reported an arrest and continue asking the public for help to find a Kansas man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day.

Wichita Police have reported no new update on missing 33-year-old Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, who is wanted for violating his pre-trial restrictions.&nbsp;On June 21, he cut his ankle monitor, according to Wichita Police.

On June 16, police arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Aron Lara.

Just after 8:30p.m. on Father's Day, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.

While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.

First responders discovered Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.

Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.

The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with the Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.

It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.

If you have any information on Gonzalez-Gutierrez whereabouts, please call 911 or WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407. To provide anonymous tips call 316-267-2111

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718711572362.png" alt="GONZALES-GUTIERREZ" />
 <figcaption>GONZALES-GUTIERREZ</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police have not reported an arrest and continue asking the public for help to find a Kansas man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day.Wichita Police have reported no new update on missing 33-year-old Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, who is wanted for violating his pre-trial restrictions.&nbsp;On June 21, he cut his ankle monitor, according to Wichita Police.On June 16, police arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Aron Lara.Just after 8:30p.m. on Father's Day, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.First responders discovered Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with the Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.If you have any information on Gonzalez-Gutierrez whereabouts, please call 911 or WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407. To provide anonymous tips call 316-267-2111

Search continues for suspect in deadly Kan. BBQ gunfight

SEDGWICK COUNTY —After officially moving Wichita into stage 2 of its drought response, Wichita has continued to see a decline in levels at Cheney Reservoir, which now sits less than 59% full overall and less than 67% of the 12-month average of the conservation pool, according to a media release from the city/

Stage 3 of the drought response will be discussed should water levels within Cheney’s conservation pool reach a 12-month average of below 50%. In stage 3 of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://library.municode.com/ks/wichita/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT17WA_CH17.14WASUEM_S17.14.020DE">drought response plan</a>, all outdoor watering for non-exempt customers is prohibited. This would include lawn and non-vegetable garden watering, private pool use and more.

All water customers are urged to continue to find ways to cut back on water usage. Even though outdoor irrigation season is coming to a close, there are many ways to save water through small habit changes throughout the house. To date, 302 warning letters have been issued to water customers who have been reported to have been watering outside of their allotted outdoor watering day.

Tuesdays typically see the biggest spike in water usage across the community. After seeing an initial drastic decline the first several weeks of drought restrictions, community water use is starting to inch back up. 

Before stage 2 restrictions, weekly highest water use was around 74 million gallons a day (MGD). The first week of restrictions, weekly highest water use was just over 55 MGD. Last week, the highest water usage was 64 MGD. During the last two months, efforts on education were prioritized over issuing fines. Going forward, staff plans to increase enforcement, including issuance of fines if warranted, while still continuing educational efforts on ways to cut back on water use.

&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.wichita.gov/499/Save-Wichita-Water">here</a>&nbsp;for more tips and information on Wichita’s drought response.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722530622759.png" alt="Stage 2 drought watering schedule-image city of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Stage 2 drought watering schedule-image city of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —After officially moving Wichita into stage 2 of its drought response, Wichita has continued to see a decline in levels at Cheney Reservoir, which now sits less than 59% full overall and less than 67% of the 12-month average of the conservation pool, according to a media release from the city/Stage 3 of the drought response will be discussed should water levels within Cheney’s conservation pool reach a 12-month average of below 50%. In stage 3 of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://library.municode.com/ks/wichita/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT17WA_CH17.14WASUEM_S17.14.020DE">drought response plan</a>, all outdoor watering for non-exempt customers is prohibited. This would include lawn and non-vegetable garden watering, private pool use and more.All water customers are urged to continue to find ways to cut back on water usage. Even though outdoor irrigation season is coming to a close, there are many ways to save water through small habit changes throughout the house. To date, 302 warning letters have been issued to water customers who have been reported to have been watering outside of their allotted outdoor watering day.Tuesdays typically see the biggest spike in water usage across the community. After seeing an initial drastic decline the first several weeks of drought restrictions, community water use is starting to inch back up. Before stage 2 restrictions, weekly highest water use was around 74 million gallons a day (MGD). The first week of restrictions, weekly highest water use was just over 55 MGD. Last week, the highest water usage was 64 MGD. During the last two months, efforts on education were prioritized over issuing fines. Going forward, staff plans to increase enforcement, including issuance of fines if warranted, while still continuing educational efforts on ways to cut back on water use.&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.wichita.gov/499/Save-Wichita-Water">here</a>&nbsp;for more tips and information on Wichita’s drought response.

Wichita to increase enforcement of mandatory water restrictions

JOHNSON COUNTY —A suspect&nbsp; in a 19-year-old murder is now in custody in a Kansas jail.

On September 15, 2005, police responded to the report of suspicious activity at an apartment in the 11900 block of W. 77th Terrace in Lenexa, according to a media release.

 Officers arrived and found 30-year-old Maria Morfin-Rojas of Lenexa. She had been stabbed to death.&nbsp;

Lenexa detectives quickly identified a suspect in this case, identified as Angel Maria Herrera, of Shawnee, Kansas. Detectives learned that Herrera fled the United States into Mexico a few days prior to the discovery of Morfin-Rojas’ body at the Lenexa apartment.

On September 17, 2005, the Johnson County District Attorney’s charged Herrera with 1st Degree Murder in this case, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On April 27, 2023, detectives were notified that Herrera had been arrested in El Salvador and was being held pending extradition to the United States.

On Wednesday, the lead detective for the Lenexa Police Department who has been working on this case since 2005 flew to El Salvador along with federal agents to take custody of Herrera and extradite him back to Johnson County. 

Herrera was booked into the Johnson County Adult Detention Center Thursday morning to await his arraignment in Johnson County District Court for the murder of Morfin-Rojas.

The investigation, arrest, and extradition of Herrera are the culmination of many years of diligent work by Lenexa officers, detectives, the Johnson County Crime Lab, the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and others who have tirelessly sought for justice for Maria Morfin-Rojas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726766972266.png" alt="Herrera photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Herrera photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A suspect&nbsp; in a 19-year-old murder is now in custody in a Kansas jail.On September 15, 2005, police responded to the report of suspicious activity at an apartment in the 11900 block of W. 77th Terrace in Lenexa, according to a media release. Officers arrived and found 30-year-old Maria Morfin-Rojas of Lenexa. She had been stabbed to death.&nbsp;Lenexa detectives quickly identified a suspect in this case, identified as Angel Maria Herrera, of Shawnee, Kansas. Detectives learned that Herrera fled the United States into Mexico a few days prior to the discovery of Morfin-Rojas’ body at the Lenexa apartment.On September 17, 2005, the Johnson County District Attorney’s charged Herrera with 1st Degree Murder in this case, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.On April 27, 2023, detectives were notified that Herrera had been arrested in El Salvador and was being held pending extradition to the United States.On Wednesday, the lead detective for the Lenexa Police Department who has been working on this case since 2005 flew to El Salvador along with federal agents to take custody of Herrera and extradite him back to Johnson County. Herrera was booked into the Johnson County Adult Detention Center Thursday morning to await his arraignment in Johnson County District Court for the murder of Morfin-Rojas.The investigation, arrest, and extradition of Herrera are the culmination of many years of diligent work by Lenexa officers, detectives, the Johnson County Crime Lab, the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and others who have tirelessly sought for justice for Maria Morfin-Rojas.

Suspect in Kan. woman's murder extradited from El Salvador

The description of Brandon Pace dying in April 2023 after being pepper-sprayed mirrors allegations made in Cole County murder charges against four corrections officers for the December death Othel Moore

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

Missouri corrections officers drenched an inmate with pepper spray and ignored his pleas for help for four hours, responding only when his screaming stopped as he died in the Tipton Correctional Center, a federal lawsuit filed this month alleges.

The events that led to Brandon Pace’s death on April 7, 2023, began when correctional officers intervened in an altercation between Pace and another inmate, according to the lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri.&nbsp;

Both men were taken into administrative segregation in restraints.

When Pace refused to give up what corrections officers believed to be methamphetamine, the lawsuit states, they put him in a holding cell and ordered him to strip for a search. When he refused, the officers called the Correctional Emergency Response Team, a unit used in cases where use of force may be required to deal with an inmate who will not comply with officer instructions.

An officer from the team used a fire extinguisher-sized can of pepper spray, a type usually used for riot situations, to subdue Pace.

The officers “took the&nbsp;<a href="https://danasafetysupply.com/mk-46-crowd-control-size-pepper-spray-oc-cs-aerosol-projector/" target="_blank">MK-46 canister of OC</a>&nbsp;and sprayed Mr. Pace with an excessive dose of the chemical agent at close range while Mr. Pace was in a confined space and, based upon information and belief, Mr. Pace’s hands were restrained behind his back and his legs shackled,” the lawsuit filed on behalf of Pace’s mother, Tammy Reed, states. “Mr. Pace began screaming in pain, gasping for air, and saying ‘I can’t breathe.’ He kept saying, ‘Help me, I can’t breathe,’ over and over.”

The lawsuit names former department Director Anne Precythe, current acting director Trevor Foley, three deputy directors, the department’s general counsel, former Tipton warden Brock Van Loo, medical care contractor Centurion Health, 12 corrections officers and a nurse as defendants.

The 11 counts in the lawsuit seek damages for wrongful death, civil rights violations and Missouri Sunshine Law violations for refusing to turn over any of the records, including video recordings, of the events prior to Pace’s death.

The lawsuit relies on statements from other men, held in nearby cells, for many of the allegations.

“The Department of Corrections is duty-bound to protect those individuals like Brandon Pace, who are in state custody,” said Lynn Ellenberger, one of Reed’s attorneys . “They’re obligated to provide for his well being and for his care, and in this case, that was not done.”

The department does not comment on pending litigation, Foley said last week.

The lawsuit is the latest in a string of cases filed this year related to inmate deaths. Despite a one-third reduction in the number of men and women being held by the department over the past decade, inmate deaths are at record levels.

In June, four former correctional officers were&nbsp;charged with assault and murder&nbsp;and a fifth was charged with involuntary manslaughter for the December death of Othel Moore while he was incarcerated at the Jefferson City Correctional Center.

Moore, 38, was pepper-sprayed in the face multiple times, had his face improperly covered by a hood that blocked his nose and mouth and was left unattended in a cell for more than 30 minutes, according to documents filed in the criminal case.

The charges against one of the corrections officers have been dropped and the remaining defendants were charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Joint%20Indictment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3293395" target="_blank">assault and second-degree murder</a>&nbsp;in September by the Cole County Grand Jury. An arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 16.

The criminal charges came after four officers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article286346160.html" target="_blank">were fired in March</a>&nbsp;and the warden at the Jefferson City prison was&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/17/warden-of-missouri-prison-replaced-after-investigation-of-inmate-death/">fired in June</a>.

“We take seriously our responsibility for creating the safest environment possible and will not tolerate behaviors or conditions that endanger the wellbeing of Missourians working or living in our facilities,” the corrections department said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://doc.mo.gov/media-center/newsroom/moore-investigation" target="_blank">statement issued after the charges</a>&nbsp;were filed. “The department has begun implementing body-worn cameras in restrictive-housing units at maximum-security facilities, starting with Jefferson City Correctional Center, to bolster both security and accountability.”

The family of Othel Moore began&nbsp;<a href="https://abc17news.com/news/jefferson-city/2023/12/19/family-of-man-who-died-in-jefferson-city-correctional-center-asks-for-video/" target="_blank">publicly agitating for release of records</a>, including video showing the actions of the officers, in the weeks following his Dec. 8 death. The case was investigated by the Cole County Sheriff’s office.

No outside agency has investigated Pace’s death, said Tom Porto, an attorney working with Pace’s family.&nbsp;

“That’s not going to be done until the facts are brought to light,” Porto said. “There’s not going to be an investigation from the police, from the prosecutor’s office, from the Attorney General’s Office, until you smack them with the facts right in their face.”

Tony Wheatley, Moniteau County sheriff, said in an interview Wednesday that he has not received a complaint from the family about Pace’s death and he has not been asked to investigate by the department. His office has the necessary resources and no conflicts that would prevent him from investigating.

“What really upsets me is, and this happens all the time, is everybody wants to blame the local sheriff’s office because they didn’t do anything,” Wheatley said.

The only way he can act is if he gets a call, Wheatley said.

“I have not once heard from the family, I have not once heard from the state, I have not heard from anybody on this,” Wheatley said.

If Reed or her attorneys send him the complaint, Wheatley said, he will read it and evaluate whether it warrants further action.

The mother of another man who died in custody, Willa Hynes, won a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/24/missouri-prison-agency-to-pay-60k-for-sunshine-law-violations-over-inmate-death-records/">$60,000 judgment against the department</a>&nbsp;for withholding records in the death of her son Jahi, who died April 4, 2021, at the Southeast Missouri Correctional Center in Charleston.

Jahi Hynes, who was 27, was serving a 13-year sentence for first degree robbery when he hanged himself with a bedsheet while in solitary confinement.

On April 1, Willa Hynes filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/cnet/cases/newHeader.do?inputVO.caseNumber=24MI-CV00185&amp;inputVO.courtId=SMPDB0005_CT33#header" target="_blank">wrongful death lawsuit</a>&nbsp;accusing the department, Centurion Health and 11 corrections employees of negligence in allowing her son to possess the bedsheet and failing to conduct required checks on inmates in administrative segregation.

A hearing is set for Monday in Charleston on a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

Pace’s death was one of 134 among people being held by the Department of Corrections in 2023. This year, with 96 deaths through Aug. 31, could exceed the record 136 deaths in 2022.

Only eight of the inmate deaths over the three years were executions of men sentenced for capital crimes.&nbsp;

“My main concern being an organizer and an advocate is to make sure this information is publicized,” said Michelle Smith, director of the Missouri Justice Coalition, who compiles data on inmate deaths.

Smith, who in January led a memorial service for the deceased inmates at the Missouri Capitol Building, said most elected officials have yet to take the problem seriously.

“They think that I and other people are just being hyperbolic and exaggerating the issues at the Department of Corrections,” she said. “We need legislation, we need transparency, we need accountability at DOC.”

In his opinion in the Hynes case alleging Sunshine Law violations, Western District Court of Appeals Judge Edward Ardini wrote that the department deliberately withheld public records, including video recordings and a death investigation report, to hinder her wrongful death lawsuit.

The department argued unsuccessfully that the material was inmate medical records protected from disclosure even to the family of an inmate.&nbsp;

The same violations are occurring in the case of Pace, his mother’s lawsuit alleges. Reed, who is a former corrections officer, asked for all the video from that day that shows officers with her son. The video recordings being withheld include one recorded by a member of the emergency response team of the pepper spray being used on Pace.

Pace was autopsied two weeks after his death by the Boone/Callaway Medical Examiner’s Office and the toxicology tests showed methamphetamine and Narcan, used by officers as they tried to revive him. The report says Van Loo told the medical examiner’s office he investigated Pace’s death personally and that video showed Pace swallowing the methamphetamine.

“Plaintiff has been denied all video evidence of the events that occurred that day – including the video defendant Van Loo says exists – despite lawful requests for such evidence,” the lawsuit states.

The autopsy report lists the cause of death as accidental due to methamphetamine intoxication, the court filing states.

The lawsuit accuses Van Loo of lying to the medical examiner’s office by stating Pace was taken to a medical unit after he was seen ingesting the unknown substance, and that there was an emergency response in an attempt to revive him when he stopped breathing while in the unit.

Based on statements of other inmates in nearby cells, the lawsuit alleges “other inmates at Tipton were charged with spurious infractions because they said things such as ‘Rest in Pace’ or otherwise referred to Mr. Pace’s death,” the lawsuit states. “The correctional officer defendants did this to instill fear in the inmates to stop them from speaking about the brutality and callousness that led to Mr. Pace’s death.”

In the recitation of events after Pace was doused with pepper spray, the lawsuit alleges the corrections officers joked about his agony. When corrections officer Billie Webb told another officer, Randy Witt, that Pace was “saying he can’t breathe,” Witt allegedly responded, “I don’t give a f**k.”

A nurse “talked and laughed” with another corrections officer stationed outside the cell where Pace was held but never entered the cell to check on Pace. She only did so at the urging of inmates after Pace had stopped crying out for help.

“Defendant (Terry) Payne said to other correctional officers present words to the effect of, ‘make sure you get the restraints off of him before the ambulance arrives,’ in an attempt to cover-up that Mr. Pace was restrained when he suffered and died,” the lawsuit states.

The degrading comments about Pace by corrections officers did not stop when he died, the lawsuit alleges.

“An inmate in administrative segregation said to Defendant (Earl) Roach, ‘they killed that guy,” referring to Brandon Pace,” the filing states. “Defendant Roach responded, ‘we didn’t kill him. He was kinda like a dog that ran out on the street, and we were just the car that hit him.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726783866504.png" alt=" Tammy Reed, center, is suing the Missouri Department of Corrections for wrongful death of her son, Brandon Pace, at Tipton Correctional Center. In January, she was joined by Tina Burger, left, and her daughter, Bethany Pace, at a memorial service for the 382 Missourians who died in department custody in 2021, 2022 and 2023 (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Tammy Reed, center, is suing the Missouri Department of Corrections for wrongful death of her son, Brandon Pace, at Tipton Correctional Center. In January, she was joined by Tina Burger, left, and her daughter, Bethany Pace, at a memorial service for the 382 Missourians who died in department custody in 2021, 2022 and 2023 (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The description of Brandon Pace dying in April 2023 after being pepper-sprayed mirrors allegations made in Cole County murder charges against four corrections officers for the December death Othel Moore</h2>By RUDI KELLER&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri corrections officers drenched an inmate with pepper spray and ignored his pleas for help for four hours, responding only when his screaming stopped as he died in the Tipton Correctional Center, a federal lawsuit filed this month alleges.The events that led to Brandon Pace’s death on April 7, 2023, began when correctional officers intervened in an altercation between Pace and another inmate, according to the lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri.&nbsp;Both men were taken into administrative segregation in restraints.When Pace refused to give up what corrections officers believed to be methamphetamine, the lawsuit states, they put him in a holding cell and ordered him to strip for a search. When he refused, the officers called the Correctional Emergency Response Team, a unit used in cases where use of force may be required to deal with an inmate who will not comply with officer instructions.An officer from the team used a fire extinguisher-sized can of pepper spray, a type usually used for riot situations, to subdue Pace.The officers “took the&nbsp;<a href="https://danasafetysupply.com/mk-46-crowd-control-size-pepper-spray-oc-cs-aerosol-projector/" target="_blank">MK-46 canister of OC</a>&nbsp;and sprayed Mr. Pace with an excessive dose of the chemical agent at close range while Mr. Pace was in a confined space and, based upon information and belief, Mr. Pace’s hands were restrained behind his back and his legs shackled,” the lawsuit filed on behalf of Pace’s mother, Tammy Reed, states. “Mr. Pace began screaming in pain, gasping for air, and saying ‘I can’t breathe.’ He kept saying, ‘Help me, I can’t breathe,’ over and over.”The lawsuit names former department Director Anne Precythe, current acting director Trevor Foley, three deputy directors, the department’s general counsel, former Tipton warden Brock Van Loo, medical care contractor Centurion Health, 12 corrections officers and a nurse as defendants.The 11 counts in the lawsuit seek damages for wrongful death, civil rights violations and Missouri Sunshine Law violations for refusing to turn over any of the records, including video recordings, of the events prior to Pace’s death.The lawsuit relies on statements from other men, held in nearby cells, for many of the allegations.“The Department of Corrections is duty-bound to protect those individuals like Brandon Pace, who are in state custody,” said Lynn Ellenberger, one of Reed’s attorneys . “They’re obligated to provide for his well being and for his care, and in this case, that was not done.”The department does not comment on pending litigation, Foley said last week.<h2>Other death cases</h2>The lawsuit is the latest in a string of cases filed this year related to inmate deaths. Despite a one-third reduction in the number of men and women being held by the department over the past decade, inmate deaths are at record levels.In June, four former correctional officers were&nbsp;charged with assault and murder&nbsp;and a fifth was charged with involuntary manslaughter for the December death of Othel Moore while he was incarcerated at the Jefferson City Correctional Center.Moore, 38, was pepper-sprayed in the face multiple times, had his face improperly covered by a hood that blocked his nose and mouth and was left unattended in a cell for more than 30 minutes, according to documents filed in the criminal case.The charges against one of the corrections officers have been dropped and the remaining defendants were charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Joint%20Indictment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3293395" target="_blank">assault and second-degree murder</a>&nbsp;in September by the Cole County Grand Jury. An arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 16.The criminal charges came after four officers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article286346160.html" target="_blank">were fired in March</a>&nbsp;and the warden at the Jefferson City prison was&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/17/warden-of-missouri-prison-replaced-after-investigation-of-inmate-death/">fired in June</a>.“We take seriously our responsibility for creating the safest environment possible and will not tolerate behaviors or conditions that endanger the wellbeing of Missourians working or living in our facilities,” the corrections department said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://doc.mo.gov/media-center/newsroom/moore-investigation" target="_blank">statement issued after the charges</a>&nbsp;were filed. “The department has begun implementing body-worn cameras in restrictive-housing units at maximum-security facilities, starting with Jefferson City Correctional Center, to bolster both security and accountability.”The family of Othel Moore began&nbsp;<a href="https://abc17news.com/news/jefferson-city/2023/12/19/family-of-man-who-died-in-jefferson-city-correctional-center-asks-for-video/" target="_blank">publicly agitating for release of records</a>, including video showing the actions of the officers, in the weeks following his Dec. 8 death. The case was investigated by the Cole County Sheriff’s office.No outside agency has investigated Pace’s death, said Tom Porto, an attorney working with Pace’s family.&nbsp;“That’s not going to be done until the facts are brought to light,” Porto said. “There’s not going to be an investigation from the police, from the prosecutor’s office, from the Attorney General’s Office, until you smack them with the facts right in their face.”Tony Wheatley, Moniteau County sheriff, said in an interview Wednesday that he has not received a complaint from the family about Pace’s death and he has not been asked to investigate by the department. His office has the necessary resources and no conflicts that would prevent him from investigating.“What really upsets me is, and this happens all the time, is everybody wants to blame the local sheriff’s office because they didn’t do anything,” Wheatley said.The only way he can act is if he gets a call, Wheatley said.“I have not once heard from the family, I have not once heard from the state, I have not heard from anybody on this,” Wheatley said.If Reed or her attorneys send him the complaint, Wheatley said, he will read it and evaluate whether it warrants further action.The mother of another man who died in custody, Willa Hynes, won a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/24/missouri-prison-agency-to-pay-60k-for-sunshine-law-violations-over-inmate-death-records/">$60,000 judgment against the department</a>&nbsp;for withholding records in the death of her son Jahi, who died April 4, 2021, at the Southeast Missouri Correctional Center in Charleston.Jahi Hynes, who was 27, was serving a 13-year sentence for first degree robbery when he hanged himself with a bedsheet while in solitary confinement.On April 1, Willa Hynes filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/cnet/cases/newHeader.do?inputVO.caseNumber=24MI-CV00185&amp;inputVO.courtId=SMPDB0005_CT33#header" target="_blank">wrongful death lawsuit</a>&nbsp;accusing the department, Centurion Health and 11 corrections employees of negligence in allowing her son to possess the bedsheet and failing to conduct required checks on inmates in administrative segregation.A hearing is set for Monday in Charleston on a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.<h2>‘The car that hit him’</h2>Pace’s death was one of 134 among people being held by the Department of Corrections in 2023. This year, with 96 deaths through Aug. 31, could exceed the record 136 deaths in 2022.Only eight of the inmate deaths over the three years were executions of men sentenced for capital crimes.&nbsp;“My main concern being an organizer and an advocate is to make sure this information is publicized,” said Michelle Smith, director of the Missouri Justice Coalition, who compiles data on inmate deaths.Smith, who in January led a memorial service for the deceased inmates at the Missouri Capitol Building, said most elected officials have yet to take the problem seriously.“They think that I and other people are just being hyperbolic and exaggerating the issues at the Department of Corrections,” she said. “We need legislation, we need transparency, we need accountability at DOC.”In his opinion in the Hynes case alleging Sunshine Law violations, Western District Court of Appeals Judge Edward Ardini wrote that the department deliberately withheld public records, including video recordings and a death investigation report, to hinder her wrongful death lawsuit.The department argued unsuccessfully that the material was inmate medical records protected from disclosure even to the family of an inmate.&nbsp;The same violations are occurring in the case of Pace, his mother’s lawsuit alleges. Reed, who is a former corrections officer, asked for all the video from that day that shows officers with her son. The video recordings being withheld include one recorded by a member of the emergency response team of the pepper spray being used on Pace.Pace was autopsied two weeks after his death by the Boone/Callaway Medical Examiner’s Office and the toxicology tests showed methamphetamine and Narcan, used by officers as they tried to revive him. The report says Van Loo told the medical examiner’s office he investigated Pace’s death personally and that video showed Pace swallowing the methamphetamine.“Plaintiff has been denied all video evidence of the events that occurred that day – including the video defendant Van Loo says exists – despite lawful requests for such evidence,” the lawsuit states.The autopsy report lists the cause of death as accidental due to methamphetamine intoxication, the court filing states.The lawsuit accuses Van Loo of lying to the medical examiner’s office by stating Pace was taken to a medical unit after he was seen ingesting the unknown substance, and that there was an emergency response in an attempt to revive him when he stopped breathing while in the unit.Based on statements of other inmates in nearby cells, the lawsuit alleges “other inmates at Tipton were charged with spurious infractions because they said things such as ‘Rest in Pace’ or otherwise referred to Mr. Pace’s death,” the lawsuit states. “The correctional officer defendants did this to instill fear in the inmates to stop them from speaking about the brutality and callousness that led to Mr. Pace’s death.”In the recitation of events after Pace was doused with pepper spray, the lawsuit alleges the corrections officers joked about his agony. When corrections officer Billie Webb told another officer, Randy Witt, that Pace was “saying he can’t breathe,” Witt allegedly responded, “I don’t give a f**k.”A nurse “talked and laughed” with another corrections officer stationed outside the cell where Pace was held but never entered the cell to check on Pace. She only did so at the urging of inmates after Pace had stopped crying out for help.“Defendant (Terry) Payne said to other correctional officers present words to the effect of, ‘make sure you get the restraints off of him before the ambulance arrives,’ in an attempt to cover-up that Mr. Pace was restrained when he suffered and died,” the lawsuit states.The degrading comments about Pace by corrections officers did not stop when he died, the lawsuit alleges.“An inmate in administrative segregation said to Defendant (Earl) Roach, ‘they killed that guy,” referring to Brandon Pace,” the filing states. “Defendant Roach responded, ‘we didn’t kill him. He was kinda like a dog that ran out on the street, and we were just the car that hit him.”

New federal lawsuit pins blame for inmate’s death on Missouri prison officials

CVB Recalls LUCID Platform Beds with Upholstered Square Tufted Headboards Due to Fall and Injury Hazards, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The recalled beds can sag, break, or collapse during use, posing fall and injury hazards to consumers.

The firm has received 245 reports of the beds breaking, sagging or collapsing during use, causing 18 injuries, including contusions and bruises.

The beds were sold online at Amazon.com, Bed Bath &amp; Beyond, Belk.com, Brookside, eBay, Home Depot, JC Penney, Lowes.com, Lucid, Macys, Menards, Overstock, QVC, Sears.com, Target.com, Malouf VIP, Wayfair and Walmart, and in stores nationwide from September 2019 through April 2024 for between $150 and $250

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled beds and contact Lucid for a free replacement bed frame. Consumers must write “recalled” on the support rails of the bed with a permanent marker and send a photo of the bed, as well as a photo of the support rails on the underside of the bed or a photo of the law label, to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:recall@lucidmattress.com">recall@lucidmattress.com</a>&nbsp;to receive the free replacement product.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726767723365.png" alt="Recalled Lucid Upholstered Square Tufted Platform Bed, photo Consumer Product Safety Commission" />
 <figcaption>Recalled Lucid Upholstered Square Tufted Platform Bed, photo Consumer Product Safety Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>CVB Recalls LUCID Platform Beds with Upholstered Square Tufted Headboards Due to Fall and Injury Hazards, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.The recalled beds can sag, break, or collapse during use, posing fall and injury hazards to consumers.The firm has received 245 reports of the beds breaking, sagging or collapsing during use, causing 18 injuries, including contusions and bruises.The beds were sold online at Amazon.com, Bed Bath &amp; Beyond, Belk.com, Brookside, eBay, Home Depot, JC Penney, Lowes.com, Lucid, Macys, Menards, Overstock, QVC, Sears.com, Target.com, Malouf VIP, Wayfair and Walmart, and in stores nationwide from September 2019 through April 2024 for between $150 and $250Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled beds and contact Lucid for a free replacement bed frame. Consumers must write “recalled” on the support rails of the bed with a permanent marker and send a photo of the bed, as well as a photo of the support rails on the underside of the bed or a photo of the law label, to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:recall@lucidmattress.com">recall@lucidmattress.com</a>&nbsp;to receive the free replacement product.

 Bed, sold at major retailers, recalled after falls and injuries

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday spoke on the Senate Floor about the importance of passing a new Farm Bill and providing&nbsp;immediate&nbsp;support for the ranchers, farmers and producers across&nbsp;Kansas and&nbsp;the United States.

“Decisions&nbsp;not to get a farm&nbsp;bill done&nbsp;have come home to roost,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran. “Farm income has declined&nbsp;43% over the past 5 years,&nbsp;and net farm income is expected to be 27% lower this year than it&nbsp;was in 2022. Our agricultural trade deficit, something we were always proud about as we exported more than we imported in agriculture, it’s at a $42.5 billion deficit. We import more than we export. That puts our farmers even more at risk, and it threatens the stability and security of our national economy.”

“The current Farm Bill is not adequate to provide relief or safety nets&nbsp;for&nbsp;our nation’s farmers, nor is it reflective of the current state of the farm economy,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran. “With financial pressures building across the agriculture industry, and due to increased production costs and weakened market prices, the overall financial situation of the farm economy is bleak.”

“The status quo is unacceptable,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“We must pass a long-term farm bill this year, and&nbsp;we must also consider immediate relief for farmers with a supplemental.&nbsp;Our farmers deserve and need better, and in the absence of successful farmers, the future of the places many of us call home is bleak.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday spoke on the Senate Floor about the importance of passing a new Farm Bill and providing&nbsp;immediate&nbsp;support for the ranchers, farmers and producers across&nbsp;Kansas and&nbsp;the United States.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q-koULidae4?si=tV7R1MAVyOLGQZXl&amp;start=1" 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>“Decisions&nbsp;not to get a farm&nbsp;bill done&nbsp;have come home to roost,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran. “Farm income has declined&nbsp;43% over the past 5 years,&nbsp;and net farm income is expected to be 27% lower this year than it&nbsp;was in 2022. Our agricultural trade deficit, something we were always proud about as we exported more than we imported in agriculture, it’s at a $42.5 billion deficit. We import more than we export. That puts our farmers even more at risk, and it threatens the stability and security of our national economy.”“The current Farm Bill is not adequate to provide relief or safety nets&nbsp;for&nbsp;our nation’s farmers, nor is it reflective of the current state of the farm economy,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran. “With financial pressures building across the agriculture industry, and due to increased production costs and weakened market prices, the overall financial situation of the farm economy is bleak.”“The status quo is unacceptable,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“We must pass a long-term farm bill this year, and&nbsp;we must also consider immediate relief for farmers with a supplemental.&nbsp;Our farmers deserve and need better, and in the absence of successful farmers, the future of the places many of us call home is bleak.”

🎥Sen. Moran: Congress must pass immediate relief for farmers

KANSAS CITY— A dozen Kansas City metropolitan area men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, which resulted in at least one death, and to illegally possessing firearms.

Justin D. Rivera, also known as “JD,” 20, Yael Figueroa, also known as “Grit,” 23, Jose R. Lugo, Jr., also known as “El Wey,” 20, Aaron Contreras-Jaquez, also known as “Van Kleefy,” 24, Jose Lorenzo-Medina, 24, and Antonio R. Baeza-Brown, also known as “Tony,” 25, all of Kansas City, Mo.; Simon L. Figueroa, 26, and Jonathan Gonzales, 25, both citizens of Mexico residing in Kansas City, Mo.; Luis Calvillo-Ortiz, also known as “Loc,” 19, of Independence, Mo.; and Marcos Favian Alvarado, also known as “Baby Face,” 20, Chad B. Green, also known as “Gso Yad,” 24, and Crencio Carbajal-Loya, 18, all of Kansas City, Kansas, were charged in a 35-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Sept. 11.

Three residential search warrants also were executed. Law enforcement officers seized 6,738 fentanyl pills, 11 firearms, including a machinegun, five stolen automobiles, and more than $75,000 in cash.

The federal indictment alleges that all 12 of the defendants have participated in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl since Dec. 1, 2022. The indictment also alleges that all 12 of the defendants have participated in a conspiracy to use and carry firearms in relation to that drug-trafficking conspiracy.

In addition to the drug-trafficking and firearms conspiracies, Rivera is charged with distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of a victim identified as “M.M.” on May 7, 2023. Rivera is also charged with eight counts of distributing fentanyl, three counts of using and carrying firearms during a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of using and carrying a machine gun during a drug-trafficking crime.

Alvarado is also charged with one count of distributing fentanyl, one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, and one count of using and carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.

Yael Figueroa is also charged with four counts of distributing fentanyl and one count of using and carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.

Medina is also charged with four counts of distributing fentanyl.

Contreras-Jaquez is also charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl and two counts of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

Calvillo-Ortiz, Gonzales, and Simon Figueroa each are also charged with one count of distributing fentanyl.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726691837457.png" alt="Chad Green is among those included in the indictment-photo from an earlier arrest in Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Chad Green is among those included in the indictment-photo from an earlier arrest in Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY— A dozen Kansas City metropolitan area men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, which resulted in at least one death, and to illegally possessing firearms.Justin D. Rivera, also known as “JD,” 20, Yael Figueroa, also known as “Grit,” 23, Jose R. Lugo, Jr., also known as “El Wey,” 20, Aaron Contreras-Jaquez, also known as “Van Kleefy,” 24, Jose Lorenzo-Medina, 24, and Antonio R. Baeza-Brown, also known as “Tony,” 25, all of Kansas City, Mo.; Simon L. Figueroa, 26, and Jonathan Gonzales, 25, both citizens of Mexico residing in Kansas City, Mo.; Luis Calvillo-Ortiz, also known as “Loc,” 19, of Independence, Mo.; and Marcos Favian Alvarado, also known as “Baby Face,” 20, Chad B. Green, also known as “Gso Yad,” 24, and Crencio Carbajal-Loya, 18, all of Kansas City, Kansas, were charged in a 35-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Sept. 11.Three residential search warrants also were executed. Law enforcement officers seized 6,738 fentanyl pills, 11 firearms, including a machinegun, five stolen automobiles, and more than $75,000 in cash.The federal indictment alleges that all 12 of the defendants have participated in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl since Dec. 1, 2022. The indictment also alleges that all 12 of the defendants have participated in a conspiracy to use and carry firearms in relation to that drug-trafficking conspiracy.In addition to the drug-trafficking and firearms conspiracies, Rivera is charged with distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of a victim identified as “M.M.” on May 7, 2023. Rivera is also charged with eight counts of distributing fentanyl, three counts of using and carrying firearms during a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of using and carrying a machine gun during a drug-trafficking crime.Alvarado is also charged with one count of distributing fentanyl, one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, and one count of using and carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.Yael Figueroa is also charged with four counts of distributing fentanyl and one count of using and carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.Medina is also charged with four counts of distributing fentanyl.Contreras-Jaquez is also charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl and two counts of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.Calvillo-Ortiz, Gonzales, and Simon Figueroa each are also charged with one count of distributing fentanyl.The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Police in KC seized fentanyl, a machine gun, stolen cars and cash.

SALINE COUNTY —The Salina Police Department announced on Thursday the passing of K-9 Tyrann, one of its active service dogs. Tyrann died on Wednesday following an accidental fall from an elevated position while on duty.

K-9 Tyrann had served with the department since February 2021. His dedication and service to the community have been acknowledged by the department, which noted that his loss will be deeply felt by both department members and the public.

Arrangements for services in honor of K-9 Tyrann are currently being made. The Salina Police Department will share details regarding the location, date, and time once finalized. Further information will be released as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726757775230.jpeg" alt="Tyrann courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tyrann courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —The Salina Police Department announced on Thursday the passing of K-9 Tyrann, one of its active service dogs. Tyrann died on Wednesday following an accidental fall from an elevated position while on duty.K-9 Tyrann had served with the department since February 2021. His dedication and service to the community have been acknowledged by the department, which noted that his loss will be deeply felt by both department members and the public.Arrangements for services in honor of K-9 Tyrann are currently being made. The Salina Police Department will share details regarding the location, date, and time once finalized. Further information will be released as it becomes available.

Kansas K-9 Officer dies in an accident while on duty

TOPEKA&nbsp;– With less than one month remaining before voter registration closes for the November general election, Kansas crossed a milestone – 2 million Kansans are on the voter rolls, according to a media release from the Kansas Secretary of State's office.

Secretary of State Scott Schwab announced this week that Kansas met this threshold late last week, and the number is expected to continue to rise before registration closes on October 15th.

Since January 2024, 83,293 new registered voters have been added. “I am pleased to see so many Kansans taking the important step of registering to vote,” Schwab said.

“I remind Kansans that the most secure way to register is through VoteKansas.gov. The use of a .gov address ensures security and lets Kansans know they are accessing an official government site, rather than a third-party one,” Schwab said.

Kansans wishing to participate in the November 5 general election must ensure they are registered and that their voter registration information is up to date by October 15. Also, those who are 17 now but will turn 18 by Election Day can register to vote.

Whether registering to vote for the first time or updating voter registration records, Kansans can do so at&nbsp;<a href="https://votekansas.gov/">VoteKansas.gov</a>&nbsp;or check their voter registration details on Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview" target="_blank">VoterView</a>.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– With less than one month remaining before voter registration closes for the November general election, Kansas crossed a milestone – 2 million Kansans are on the voter rolls, according to a media release from the Kansas Secretary of State's office.Secretary of State Scott Schwab announced this week that Kansas met this threshold late last week, and the number is expected to continue to rise before registration closes on October 15th.Since January 2024, 83,293 new registered voters have been added. “I am pleased to see so many Kansans taking the important step of registering to vote,” Schwab said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Important deadlines for the 2024 General Election. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kselections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kselections</a> <a href="https://t.co/TrYHZ6KekD">pic.twitter.com/TrYHZ6KekD</a>&mdash; Kansas Secretary of State (@KansasSOS) <a href="https://twitter.com/KansasSOS/status/1829562681541480804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“I remind Kansans that the most secure way to register is through VoteKansas.gov. The use of a .gov address ensures security and lets Kansans know they are accessing an official government site, rather than a third-party one,” Schwab said.Kansans wishing to participate in the November 5 general election must ensure they are registered and that their voter registration information is up to date by October 15. Also, those who are 17 now but will turn 18 by Election Day can register to vote.Whether registering to vote for the first time or updating voter registration records, Kansans can do so at&nbsp;<a href="https://votekansas.gov/">VoteKansas.gov</a>&nbsp;or check their voter registration details on Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview" target="_blank">VoterView</a>.

83,293 new registered voters in Kansas since January

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a double-homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 7p.m. Wednesday, patrol officers were dispatched to several reports of shots fired in the 300 block of Maple in Kansas City, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

&nbsp;While en route the call was upgraded to a shooting involving two victims. First responders found two men in Maple Park. They were suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Officers began performing life saving measures and ordered emergency medical personnel to the scene. EMS pronounced the victims were deceased at the scene, according to DiMartino.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726740585084.png" alt="Officer on the scene of the investigation -Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte" />
 <figcaption>Officer on the scene of the investigation -Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a double-homicide in Kansas City.Just after 7p.m. Wednesday, patrol officers were dispatched to several reports of shots fired in the 300 block of Maple in Kansas City, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.&nbsp;While en route the call was upgraded to a shooting involving two victims. First responders found two men in Maple Park. They were suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officers began performing life saving measures and ordered emergency medical personnel to the scene. EMS pronounced the victims were deceased at the scene, according to DiMartino.

Police: Double-homicide in Kansas City park

ALLEN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged road rage incident and made an arrest of the teen driver for allegedly pointing a gun at occupants of another vehicle.

Shortly before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, two individuals from Chanute, Kansas, reported to the Humboldt Police Department that they had been traveling on Old U.S. Hwy 169 to the gym in Humboldt, according to a statement from the Allen County Sheriff's office.

A Jeep Liberty, reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed, passed and repeatedly braked in front of them. The vehicles “leap-frogged” each other a couple of times before a gun was pointed at the Chanute residents as the vehicles crossed the bridge near the Monarch Cement plant.

Officers located the Jeep and two juvenile occupants including&nbsp; a 17-year-old driver from Buffalo, Kansas. They were detained by the Iola Police Department at the Pete’s convenience store on the east side of Iola until a sheriff's deputy arrived.&nbsp;

Deputies removed a .45 caliber handgun matching the description given by the reporting party from the vehicle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Bottles of liquor, nicotine and THC vapes, along with items alleged to be narcotics and drug paraphernalia, were found also in the vehicle and seized. &nbsp;The gun is believed to belong to the girl’s father, who kept the gun in an unlocked safe.

Deputies took the 17-year-old girl into custody and transported her to the juvenile detention center in Girard. The fifteen-year-old passenger in the vehicle was released to a parent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The following charges are being forwarded to the Allen County Attorney’s Officer for consideration:&nbsp; Aggravated Assault with a deadly weapon, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Narcotics, Possession of THC, Possession of Alcohol by a Minor, Possession of Tobacco/Nicotine by a Minor, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

ALLEN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged road rage incident and made an arrest of the teen driver for allegedly pointing a gun at occupants of another vehicle.Shortly before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, two individuals from Chanute, Kansas, reported to the Humboldt Police Department that they had been traveling on Old U.S. Hwy 169 to the gym in Humboldt, according to a statement from the Allen County Sheriff's office.A Jeep Liberty, reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed, passed and repeatedly braked in front of them. The vehicles “leap-frogged” each other a couple of times before a gun was pointed at the Chanute residents as the vehicles crossed the bridge near the Monarch Cement plant.Officers located the Jeep and two juvenile occupants including&nbsp; a 17-year-old driver from Buffalo, Kansas. They were detained by the Iola Police Department at the Pete’s convenience store on the east side of Iola until a sheriff's deputy arrived.&nbsp;Deputies removed a .45 caliber handgun matching the description given by the reporting party from the vehicle.&nbsp;&nbsp; Bottles of liquor, nicotine and THC vapes, along with items alleged to be narcotics and drug paraphernalia, were found also in the vehicle and seized. &nbsp;The gun is believed to belong to the girl’s father, who kept the gun in an unlocked safe.Deputies took the 17-year-old girl into custody and transported her to the juvenile detention center in Girard. The fifteen-year-old passenger in the vehicle was released to a parent.&nbsp;&nbsp;The following charges are being forwarded to the Allen County Attorney’s Officer for consideration:&nbsp; Aggravated Assault with a deadly weapon, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Narcotics, Possession of THC, Possession of Alcohol by a Minor, Possession of Tobacco/Nicotine by a Minor, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Road rage: 17-year-old Kansas girl arrested, gun seized

KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City Fire Department released the name of the firefighter-paramedic&nbsp; who died Tuesday during a training exercise.&nbsp; 

Kyle Brinker, 33, was a ten year veteran with KCFD with the Rescue Division at Station 35, according to the city.

Just before noon,&nbsp;KCFD crews conducted a training exercise when a Brinker experienced a medical emergency.

He was taken to North Kansas City Hospital and was pronounced dead at 1 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Brinker is survived by a wife and his brother, who is also a Kansas City firefighter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726704459151.png" alt="Kyle Brinker courtesy ph oto" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Brinker courtesy ph oto</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City Fire Department released the name of the firefighter-paramedic&nbsp; who died Tuesday during a training exercise.&nbsp; Kyle Brinker, 33, was a ten year veteran with KCFD with the Rescue Division at Station 35, according to the city.Just before noon,&nbsp;KCFD crews conducted a training exercise when a Brinker experienced a medical emergency.He was taken to North Kansas City Hospital and was pronounced dead at 1 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mayor Lucas issued the following statement on the passing of a Kansas City Fire Department firefighter-paramedic: <a href="https://t.co/mNZfcjtg9O">pic.twitter.com/mNZfcjtg9O</a>&mdash; Mayor Quinton Lucas (@MayorLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorLucasKC/status/1836136269187027239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Brinker is survived by a wife and his brother, who is also a Kansas City firefighter.

KCFD releases name of firefighter who died following training exercise

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Kansas City.

Investigators determined a Ford F150 was making a left turn from northbound Blue Ridge Boulevard onto westbound 99th Street, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

A southbound Honda CBR motorcycle that was traveling at a very high rate of speed struck the pickup.

 The operator of the Honda was ejected off the motorcycle and pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and the four juvenile occupants of the Ford were uninjured in the collision. 

This is fatality #70 compared to #65 at this time last year, according to&nbsp; DiMartino. The accident remains under investigation. Police have not released the name of the victim.

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Kansas City.Investigators determined a Ford F150 was making a left turn from northbound Blue Ridge Boulevard onto westbound 99th Street, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.A southbound Honda CBR motorcycle that was traveling at a very high rate of speed struck the pickup. The operator of the Honda was ejected off the motorcycle and pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and the four juvenile occupants of the Ford were uninjured in the collision. This is fatality #70 compared to #65 at this time last year, according to&nbsp; DiMartino. The accident remains under investigation. Police have not released the name of the victim.

Motorcyclist dies after crash with pickup in Kansas City

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Joplin, Mo., man who earlier pleaded guilty in a separate kidnapping case has been convicted at trial by a federal jury, along with his accomplice, of kidnapping a woman who was rescued from her attacker at a Neosho, Mo., hotel room, according to the United State's Attorney.

Freddie Lewis Tilton, 51, of Joplin, Mo., and Alvin Dale Boyer, 39, of Rogers, Arkansas, were found guilty on Tuesday, September 17, of one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and one count of kidnapping. Tilton was also convicted of one count of stalking. This is Tilton’s second conviction in a federal kidnapping case.

Evidence introduced during the trial demonstrated that Tilton and Boyer conspired on July 18 and 19, 2020, to kidnap the victim, identified in court documents as “S.T.”

An employee at Boonslick Lodge in Neosho called police at approximately 11:46 p.m. on July 19, 2020, to report that a woman was being choked and dragged into a room. A police officer knocked on the door of the room, and S.T., bloody and injured, opened the door, and ran out of the room. Tilton had jumped out the back window and escaped.

Boyer rented a room at the motel and invited S.T. to the motel to spend time with him.&nbsp; Unknown to S.T., Boyer had rented the motel room for Tilton and Tilton was waiting in the room for her.&nbsp; S.T. had separated from Tilton and had an ex parte order of protection against him. When S.T. entered the room, she was assaulted by Tilton.&nbsp; S.T. was observed on video surveillance struggling to get out of the room, but she was dragged back in by Tilton.&nbsp; Tilton struck S.T. repeatedly with a firearm and his fist.&nbsp; Tilton attempted to shoot S.T., but the gun jammed.&nbsp; S.T. was assaulted inside the room by Tilton for over eight minutes before law enforcement arrived.

Tilton escaped out of a window inside the motel room with a handgun. Tilton attempted to climb down a vertical rain gutter, but fell to the ground as the guttering broke then ran away.

Officers searched the motel room and found numerous indications that a violent, physical assault had taken place inside the room. In addition to blood on the room floor and door, officers found a chair with rope and zip ties attached, more nylon rope and zip ties, duct tape, a pair of pliers, a blowtorch and lighter fluid, a butane torch, drop cloths, plastic gloves, a Taurus 9mm handgun, and a Kimber .223-caliber semi-automatic rifle.

S.T. was transported to a hospital for treatment of her injuries.

Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Mo., deliberated for one hour and 32 minutes before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool, ending a trial that began Monday, Sept. 16.

Under federal statutes, Tilton and Boyer each are subject to a sentence of up to life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ami Harshad Miller and Anthony Brown. It was investigated by the FBI and the Neosho, Mo., Police Department.

In addition to today’s trial conviction, Tilton has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing for his role in a kidnapping just a few days earlier, which resulted in the torture and death of the victim, and for illegally possessing firearms.

Four co-defendants pleaded guilty in that case and have been sentenced. Amy Kay Thomas, 41, of Webb City, Mo., was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison without parole. James B. Gibson, also known as “Gibby,” 42, of Neosho, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison without parole. Russell Eugene Hurtt, also known as “Uncle,” 52, of Greenwood, Mo., was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole. Lawrence William Vaughan, also known as “Scary Larry,” 53, of Neosho, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison without parole.

Additionally, Carla Jo Ward, 50, of Joplin, pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 3, 2024.

Tilton admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to kidnap the victim, identified as “M.H.,” in July 2020. Tilton offered Ward and Vaughan $5,000 each to locate and secure M.H. for him. Ward picked up M.H., whom she knew was being sought by Tilton, and took him to Vaughan’s residence.

Tilton, Thomas, and Gibson arrived at Vaughan’s residence in the early morning hours of July 15, 2020. They bound M.H.’s hands with handcuffs, and duct tape was placed around his mouth and other parts of his body. Gibson, Thomas, and others assaulted M.H. for a period of time. M.H. was cut, beaten, and shot at. Gibson burned M.H. with a blowtorch. Tilton fatally shot M.H. in the head. Thomas and others cleaned up the blood and damage created during the assault and shooting of M.H. They wrapped M.H.’s body in plastic wrap and Thomas, Tilton, and Gibson transported it to Hurtt’s property.

Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hurtt’s property on July 28, 2020, based on information that a deceased body was located on the acreage. When officers attempted to contact the occupants of the residence, Tilton fired multiple shots from inside the residence at the officers. Tilton was apprehended.

Officers found M.H.’s body on the property. Officers searched the residence and found a Rigarmi .25-caliber pistol, an Ithaca .22-caliber rifle, a Remington .22-caliber rifle without a serial number, a Harrington and Richardson 12-gauge shotgun, a Ruger 9mm handgun, and a Taurus 9mm handgun without a serial number.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726709142711.png" alt="Tilton" />
 <figcaption>Tilton</figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Joplin, Mo., man who earlier pleaded guilty in a separate kidnapping case has been convicted at trial by a federal jury, along with his accomplice, of kidnapping a woman who was rescued from her attacker at a Neosho, Mo., hotel room, according to the United State's Attorney.Freddie Lewis Tilton, 51, of Joplin, Mo., and Alvin Dale Boyer, 39, of Rogers, Arkansas, were found guilty on Tuesday, September 17, of one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and one count of kidnapping. Tilton was also convicted of one count of stalking. This is Tilton’s second conviction in a federal kidnapping case.Evidence introduced during the trial demonstrated that Tilton and Boyer conspired on July 18 and 19, 2020, to kidnap the victim, identified in court documents as “S.T.”An employee at Boonslick Lodge in Neosho called police at approximately 11:46 p.m. on July 19, 2020, to report that a woman was being choked and dragged into a room. A police officer knocked on the door of the room, and S.T., bloody and injured, opened the door, and ran out of the room. Tilton had jumped out the back window and escaped.Boyer rented a room at the motel and invited S.T. to the motel to spend time with him.&nbsp; Unknown to S.T., Boyer had rented the motel room for Tilton and Tilton was waiting in the room for her.&nbsp; S.T. had separated from Tilton and had an ex parte order of protection against him. When S.T. entered the room, she was assaulted by Tilton.&nbsp; S.T. was observed on video surveillance struggling to get out of the room, but she was dragged back in by Tilton.&nbsp; Tilton struck S.T. repeatedly with a firearm and his fist.&nbsp; Tilton attempted to shoot S.T., but the gun jammed.&nbsp; S.T. was assaulted inside the room by Tilton for over eight minutes before law enforcement arrived.Tilton escaped out of a window inside the motel room with a handgun. Tilton attempted to climb down a vertical rain gutter, but fell to the ground as the guttering broke then ran away.Officers searched the motel room and found numerous indications that a violent, physical assault had taken place inside the room. In addition to blood on the room floor and door, officers found a chair with rope and zip ties attached, more nylon rope and zip ties, duct tape, a pair of pliers, a blowtorch and lighter fluid, a butane torch, drop cloths, plastic gloves, a Taurus 9mm handgun, and a Kimber .223-caliber semi-automatic rifle.S.T. was transported to a hospital for treatment of her injuries.Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Mo., deliberated for one hour and 32 minutes before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool, ending a trial that began Monday, Sept. 16.Under federal statutes, Tilton and Boyer each are subject to a sentence of up to life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ami Harshad Miller and Anthony Brown. It was investigated by the FBI and the Neosho, Mo., Police Department.USA v. Tilton, et alIn addition to today’s trial conviction, Tilton has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing for his role in a kidnapping just a few days earlier, which resulted in the torture and death of the victim, and for illegally possessing firearms.Four co-defendants pleaded guilty in that case and have been sentenced. Amy Kay Thomas, 41, of Webb City, Mo., was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison without parole. James B. Gibson, also known as “Gibby,” 42, of Neosho, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison without parole. Russell Eugene Hurtt, also known as “Uncle,” 52, of Greenwood, Mo., was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole. Lawrence William Vaughan, also known as “Scary Larry,” 53, of Neosho, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison without parole.Additionally, Carla Jo Ward, 50, of Joplin, pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 3, 2024.Tilton admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to kidnap the victim, identified as “M.H.,” in July 2020. Tilton offered Ward and Vaughan $5,000 each to locate and secure M.H. for him. Ward picked up M.H., whom she knew was being sought by Tilton, and took him to Vaughan’s residence.Tilton, Thomas, and Gibson arrived at Vaughan’s residence in the early morning hours of July 15, 2020. They bound M.H.’s hands with handcuffs, and duct tape was placed around his mouth and other parts of his body. Gibson, Thomas, and others assaulted M.H. for a period of time. M.H. was cut, beaten, and shot at. Gibson burned M.H. with a blowtorch. Tilton fatally shot M.H. in the head. Thomas and others cleaned up the blood and damage created during the assault and shooting of M.H. They wrapped M.H.’s body in plastic wrap and Thomas, Tilton, and Gibson transported it to Hurtt’s property.Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hurtt’s property on July 28, 2020, based on information that a deceased body was located on the acreage. When officers attempted to contact the occupants of the residence, Tilton fired multiple shots from inside the residence at the officers. Tilton was apprehended.Officers found M.H.’s body on the property. Officers searched the residence and found a Rigarmi .25-caliber pistol, an Ithaca .22-caliber rifle, a Remington .22-caliber rifle without a serial number, a Harrington and Richardson 12-gauge shotgun, a Ruger 9mm handgun, and a Taurus 9mm handgun without a serial number.

Jury convicts two men of violent kidnapping

RILEY COUNTY—Three drivers and students on a school bus avoided injury in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Scott Alan Sheely, 61, Clyde, was westbound on U.S. 77 just west of Crooked Creek Road.

The semi rear-ended a 2012 Buick Regal driven by Merlin Benson&nbsp;Chestnut, 69, Clay Center, who braked suddenly when he noticed the red stop sign activated on a school bus stopped on the south shoulder to let kids out at a home.&nbsp;

 After impact the Buick struck the bus driven by Robert Deemie, 69, of Manhattan, with 26-students on board.&nbsp; There were no injuries reported.&nbsp; All three drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RILEY COUNTY—Three drivers and students on a school bus avoided injury in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Scott Alan Sheely, 61, Clyde, was westbound on U.S. 77 just west of Crooked Creek Road.The semi rear-ended a 2012 Buick Regal driven by Merlin Benson&nbsp;Chestnut, 69, Clay Center, who braked suddenly when he noticed the red stop sign activated on a school bus stopped on the south shoulder to let kids out at a home.&nbsp; After impact the Buick struck the bus driven by Robert Deemie, 69, of Manhattan, with 26-students on board.&nbsp; There were no injuries reported.&nbsp; All three drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. school bus driver, 26 students avoid injury after 3-vehicle crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 4p.m. September 15, a deputy with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office observed an individual with warrants for his arrest in the 6700 block of SW Briarmeade Lane in the Topeka area, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located. The deputy arrested Jeramie J. Morrissey, 37, of Topeka, on requested charges of Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant,&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Morrissey also had the warrants for his arrest and were for Speeding and driving while license suspended and&nbsp;Topeka bench warrants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726418665460.png" alt="Morrissey-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Morrissey-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 4p.m. September 15, a deputy with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office observed an individual with warrants for his arrest in the 6700 block of SW Briarmeade Lane in the Topeka area, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located. The deputy arrested Jeramie J. Morrissey, 37, of Topeka, on requested charges of Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant,&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Morrissey also had the warrants for his arrest and were for Speeding and driving while license suspended and&nbsp;Topeka bench warrants.

Kansas man wanted on warrants was transporting drugs

JACKSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 11a.m. Wednesday in Jackson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Wyatt Edward Lee&nbsp;Shields, 16, Holton, was eastbound on 190th Road crossing U.S. 75 Highway.

The driver failed to yield and pulled out in front of a northbound 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Allison Renee Lee, 26, Effingham.&nbsp; The two vehicles collided at the intersection.

A passenger in the van identified as Scott Edward&nbsp;Reaka, 52, Topeka, was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; Responding fire departments and EMS extricated Lee from the van, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;Lifestar Air Ambulance transported her to K.U. Medical Center. EMS treated Shields at the scene.

All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

JACKSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 11a.m. Wednesday in Jackson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Wyatt Edward Lee&nbsp;Shields, 16, Holton, was eastbound on 190th Road crossing U.S. 75 Highway.The driver failed to yield and pulled out in front of a northbound 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Allison Renee Lee, 26, Effingham.&nbsp; The two vehicles collided at the intersection.A passenger in the van identified as Scott Edward&nbsp;Reaka, 52, Topeka, was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; Responding fire departments and EMS extricated Lee from the van, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;Lifestar Air Ambulance transported her to K.U. Medical Center. EMS treated Shields at the scene.All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. man dead, woman hospitalized after crash with teen driver

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

After weeks of tussling between the two campaigns, Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley and Democrat Lucas Kunce are finally set to square off in a televised debate less than a week before voters head to the polls.

The debate will air Oct 31 on Missouri Nexstar stations, including KTVI/KPLR-St. Louis, WDAF-Kansas City, KRBK-Springfield and KSN-Joplin and their digital platforms. It could be the only time the two main contenders for Missouri’s U.S. Senate seat share a stage.

The Missouri Press Association has held a Senate debate every election cycle for years at its annual convention. Kunce is set to appear at this year’s debate on Friday in Springfield along with third-party candidates Jared Young and Nathan Kline, according to Mark Maassen, the press associations executive director.

“No word yet from Josh Hawley,” Maassen said.

Hawley’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment on Friday’s debate.

Caleb Cavarretta, Kunce’s campaign manager, said in an emailed statement that Kunce agreed to Friday’s debate because “unlike Josh Hawley, Lucas respects the responsibility of a candidate and U.S. Senator to connect with folks they are meant to represent.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723746159729.png" alt="-Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, left, confronts his Democratic challenger, Lucas Kunce, over who is ducking debates during a meeting Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, at the Governor’s Ham Breakfast at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia(Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent). " />
 <figcaption>-Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, left, confronts his Democratic challenger, Lucas Kunce, over who is ducking debates during a meeting Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, at the Governor’s Ham Breakfast at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia(Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent). </figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>After weeks of tussling between the two campaigns, Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley and Democrat Lucas Kunce are finally set to square off in a televised debate less than a week before voters head to the polls.The debate will air Oct 31 on Missouri Nexstar stations, including KTVI/KPLR-St. Louis, WDAF-Kansas City, KRBK-Springfield and KSN-Joplin and their digital platforms. It could be the only time the two main contenders for Missouri’s U.S. Senate seat share a stage.The Missouri Press Association has held a Senate debate every election cycle for years at its annual convention. Kunce is set to appear at this year’s debate on Friday in Springfield along with third-party candidates Jared Young and Nathan Kline, according to Mark Maassen, the press associations executive director.“No word yet from Josh Hawley,” Maassen said.Hawley’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment on Friday’s debate.Caleb Cavarretta, Kunce’s campaign manager, said in an emailed statement that Kunce agreed to Friday’s debate because “unlike Josh Hawley, Lucas respects the responsibility of a candidate and U.S. Senator to connect with folks they are meant to represent.”“This year, we’ve got two weeks of no excuse in-person absentee voting in Missouri so it would be great for voters to hear from Josh Hawley before then,” Cavarretta said, “but unfortunately he wants to hide out as long as he can before election day.”Kunce initially challenged Hawley to five televised debates. Hawley, however, demanded a debate at the Missouri State Fair in early August.When State Fair officials said that was not possible, and that no one from Hawley’s campaign had alerted them to the possibility of a debate, Hawley pushed for a debate hosted by the Missouri Farm Bureau, which has endorsed him in the race.Kunce said he would sign off on the idea as long as Hawley would formally agree to his suggestion of five televised debates, and the farm bureau showdown never materialized.Instead, Kunce and Hawley&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/15/why-are-you-so-weird-lucas-kunce-taunts-josh-hawley-during-squabble-about-debates/">crossed paths at the Governor’s Ham Breakfast at the Missouri State Fair</a>, trading insults and demands for debates.In 2022, Republican Eric Schmitt also&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/16/schmitt-no-shows-missouri-senate-debate-valentine-slams-chinese-ownership-of-farmland/">refused to participate in the press association’s debate</a>, only the second time since 1988 that a major-party candidate refused to attend one of the organization’s forums.While Hawley is unlikely to attend, the two major candidates for Missouri governor will debate on Friday, Maassen said.Republican Mike Kehoe, Democrat Crystal Quade and third party candidates Paul Lehmann and Bill Slantz have agreed to participate in the gubernatorial forum, Maassen said.Both the gubernatorial and Senate debates will be moderated by David Lieb of the Associated Press, with a panel of journalists from around the state — Lucas Presson of the Southeast Missourian, Christine Tempe of the Springfield Business Journal and Alvin Reid of the St. Louis American.