WICHITA, Kan.— The Kansas Turnpike’s conversion to cashless tolling is on-schedule for mid-2024, according to a statement on the KTA website.

 In preparation for the change, the KTA Board established a simplified toll structure that keeps the Kansas Turnpike at the bottom of toll rates across the country.

(Click below to watch how new cashless tolling works)

Cashless tolling allows for more consistent fares since elements used for cash collection, such as rounding to the nearest nickel or quarter, are no longer necessary. With the elimination of rounding to the nearest nickel or quarter, many short-distance travelers will see a reduction in the toll they pay.

The new toll structure will be a flat, per-mile rate based upon axle count and whether the vehicle has a transponder or is identified by their license plate. Find&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksturnpike.com/uploads/misc-documents/Cashless-Toll-Rates.pdf">new per-mile rates here</a>.

"This change will be especially beneficial for customers who drive shorter distances, such as Kansans commuting to work or school,” Deb Miller, Chairperson of the Kansas Turnpike Authority Board, said.

These new per-mile toll rates will go into effect when the Kansas Turnpike converts to cashless tolling in mid-2024.

Establishment of these toll rates is one of many tasks necessary for the modernization. In addition to on-roadway work, KTA teams have been developing the account management functions necessary to support customers.

This month, customer service call center hours will increase to 7:30 am – 6:30 pm, Monday through Friday, to better serve customers in advance of the conversion. Walk-in retail hours will remain the same 8 am – 5 pm.

Customers will also see a refreshed K-TAG logo that aligns visually with its parent organization, the Kansas Turnpike Authority. K-TAG is a small in-vehicle device used to facilitate a customer’s toll payment and provides the lowest toll rate on the Kansas Turnpike – now and in the future.

“We are excited about our progress toward cashless tolling and believe our customers will be too,” Steve Hewitt, CEO of the Kansas Turnpike Authority, said. “KTA’s recent satisfaction survey shows that 84 percent of customers support the modernization to cashless tolling.”

Additional information will be provided in the months leading up to the conversion. Learn more about cashless tolling, and watch short informational videos, at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksturnpike.com/cashless-tolling">www.DriveKS.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706545368725.png" alt="Image KTA" />
 <figcaption>Image KTA</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.— The Kansas Turnpike’s conversion to cashless tolling is on-schedule for mid-2024, according to a statement on the KTA website. In preparation for the change, the KTA Board established a simplified toll structure that keeps the Kansas Turnpike at the bottom of toll rates across the country.(Click below to watch how new cashless tolling works)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kdgGrbsT68A?si=1xl5UKVy3G1j3hKl" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Cashless tolling allows for more consistent fares since elements used for cash collection, such as rounding to the nearest nickel or quarter, are no longer necessary. With the elimination of rounding to the nearest nickel or quarter, many short-distance travelers will see a reduction in the toll they pay.The new toll structure will be a flat, per-mile rate based upon axle count and whether the vehicle has a transponder or is identified by their license plate. Find&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksturnpike.com/uploads/misc-documents/Cashless-Toll-Rates.pdf">new per-mile rates here</a>."This change will be especially beneficial for customers who drive shorter distances, such as Kansans commuting to work or school,” Deb Miller, Chairperson of the Kansas Turnpike Authority Board, said.These new per-mile toll rates will go into effect when the Kansas Turnpike converts to cashless tolling in mid-2024.Establishment of these toll rates is one of many tasks necessary for the modernization. In addition to on-roadway work, KTA teams have been developing the account management functions necessary to support customers.This month, customer service call center hours will increase to 7:30 am – 6:30 pm, Monday through Friday, to better serve customers in advance of the conversion. Walk-in retail hours will remain the same 8 am – 5 pm.Customers will also see a refreshed K-TAG logo that aligns visually with its parent organization, the Kansas Turnpike Authority. K-TAG is a small in-vehicle device used to facilitate a customer’s toll payment and provides the lowest toll rate on the Kansas Turnpike – now and in the future.“We are excited about our progress toward cashless tolling and believe our customers will be too,” Steve Hewitt, CEO of the Kansas Turnpike Authority, said. “KTA’s recent satisfaction survey shows that 84 percent of customers support the modernization to cashless tolling.”Additional information will be provided in the months leading up to the conversion. Learn more about cashless tolling, and watch short informational videos, at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksturnpike.com/cashless-tolling">www.DriveKS.com</a>.

🎥How the new cashless tolling will work on the Kansas Turnpike

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">An enemy drone</a>&nbsp;that killed three American troops and wounded dozens of others in Jordan may have been confused with an American drone returning to the U.S. installation, two U.S. officials said Monday.

The officials, who were not authorized to comment and insisted on anonymity, said the preliminary accounts suggest the enemy drone that struck the installation known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-jordan-drone-attack-iran-tower-22-israel-hamas-war-0265beed527e3009a966c0531c08838e">Tower 22</a>&nbsp;may have been mistaken for an American drone that was in the air at the same time.

The officials said that as the enemy drone was flying in at a low altitude, a U.S. drone was returning to the base. As a result, there was no effort to shoot down the enemy drone.

Explanation for how the enemy drone evaded U.S. air defenses on the installation came as the White House said Monday it’s not looking for war with Iran even as President Joe Biden vows retaliatory action. The Democratic administration believes Tehran was behind the strike.

The brazen attack, which the Biden administration blames on Iranian-based proxies, adds another layer of complexity to an already tense Mideast situation as the Biden administration tries to keep the Israel-Hamas war from expanding into a broader regional conflict.

“The president and I will not tolerate attacks on U.S. forces, and we will take all necessary actions to defend the U.S. and our troops,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Monday as he met at the Pentagon with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Biden</a>&nbsp;faces a difficult balancing act as he looks to strike back against Tehran in a forceful way without allowing the Gaza conflict to further metastasize. The drone attack was one of dozens on U.S. troops in the Middle East since Hamas launched attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, spurring the war in Gaza. But it’s the first in which American service members have been killed.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby reiterated a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Biden</a>&nbsp;promised to “hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner (of) our choosing” that the U.S. administration wasn’t seeking to get into another conflict in the Middle East.

But Kirby also made clear that the American patience has worn thin after more than two months of attacks by Iranian proxies on U.S. troops in Iraq, Syria and Jordan and on the U.S. Navy and commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The groups — including Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Iraq based Kataeb Hezbollah — say the attacks are in response to Israel’s ongoing to military operations in Gaza.

“We are not looking for a war with Iran,” Kirby told NBC’s “Today” show. ”We are not looking to escalate the conflict in the region. … Obviously, these attacks keep coming. We’ll keep looking at the options. I can’t speak for the supreme leader or what he wants or he doesn’t want. I can tell you what we want. What we want is a stable, secure, prosperous Middle East, and we want these attacks to stop.”

Iran on Monday denied it was behind the Jordan strike.

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">An enemy drone</a>&nbsp;that killed three American troops and wounded dozens of others in Jordan may have been confused with an American drone returning to the U.S. installation, two U.S. officials said Monday.The officials, who were not authorized to comment and insisted on anonymity, said the preliminary accounts suggest the enemy drone that struck the installation known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-jordan-drone-attack-iran-tower-22-israel-hamas-war-0265beed527e3009a966c0531c08838e">Tower 22</a>&nbsp;may have been mistaken for an American drone that was in the air at the same time.The officials said that as the enemy drone was flying in at a low altitude, a U.S. drone was returning to the base. As a result, there was no effort to shoot down the enemy drone.Explanation for how the enemy drone evaded U.S. air defenses on the installation came as the White House said Monday it’s not looking for war with Iran even as President Joe Biden vows retaliatory action. The Democratic administration believes Tehran was behind the strike.The brazen attack, which the Biden administration blames on Iranian-based proxies, adds another layer of complexity to an already tense Mideast situation as the Biden administration tries to keep the Israel-Hamas war from expanding into a broader regional conflict.“The president and I will not tolerate attacks on U.S. forces, and we will take all necessary actions to defend the U.S. and our troops,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Monday as he met at the Pentagon with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Biden</a>&nbsp;faces a difficult balancing act as he looks to strike back against Tehran in a forceful way without allowing the Gaza conflict to further metastasize. The drone attack was one of dozens on U.S. troops in the Middle East since Hamas launched attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, spurring the war in Gaza. But it’s the first in which American service members have been killed.National Security Council spokesman John Kirby reiterated a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Biden</a>&nbsp;promised to “hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner (of) our choosing” that the U.S. administration wasn’t seeking to get into another conflict in the Middle East.But Kirby also made clear that the American patience has worn thin after more than two months of attacks by Iranian proxies on U.S. troops in Iraq, Syria and Jordan and on the U.S. Navy and commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The groups — including Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Iraq based Kataeb Hezbollah — say the attacks are in response to Israel’s ongoing to military operations in Gaza.“We are not looking for a war with Iran,” Kirby told NBC’s “Today” show. ”We are not looking to escalate the conflict in the region. … Obviously, these attacks keep coming. We’ll keep looking at the options. I can’t speak for the supreme leader or what he wants or he doesn’t want. I can tell you what we want. What we want is a stable, secure, prosperous Middle East, and we want these attacks to stop.”Iran on Monday denied it was behind the Jordan strike.

How U.S. failed to stop drone attack that killed, injured American troops

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are&nbsp;investigating the shooting death of 14-year-old Claude Hodges of Wichita. 

The incident occurred inside an apartment on the 8400 block of W Central Avenue, where it is believed he was shot and killed by his 43-year-old mother, according to a media release from Wichita Police.

Just after 6p.m. Sunday, police received a call from Claude's father expressing concerns about his son's well-being. The father requested a welfare check at the W Central Avenue address after Claude had not arrived at a designated exchange point. 

Multiple attempts to contact Claude were unsuccessful. Upon arriving at the apartment where the victim was staying, patrol officers tried to establish contact by knocking and calling multiple times but received no response. 

Officers observed what appeared to be an exit hole in the apartment's exterior wall and discovered an expended bullet outside the entry door on the ground. 

Concerned about the potential for someone inside to be injured, officers immediately entered the apartment and found the 43-year-old suspect holding a handgun and while near a shotgun. 

Recognizing the potential danger of an armed subject, officers quickly withdrew from the apartment and notified negotiators. Police negotiators spent several hours negotiating with and attempting to negotiate with the her.

The objective was to convince her to disarm herself of the handgun she had and surrender peacefully. Despite the prolonged negotiation attempts, the she continued to refuse to put the handgun down, leading SWAT officers to fire two shots that struck her. 

She was then transported to a local hospital in critical condition by Sedgwick County EMS. Upon re-entering the apartment, officers discovered Claude Hodges in a bedroom, deceased, with an apparent gunshot wound to his upper body.

&nbsp;Both Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan and Sheriff Jeff Easter have formally requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to take charge of the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

Police did not release the names or additional information on the law enforcement personnel involved in officer-involved shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706532733268.png" alt="Police on the scene of the overnight investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the overnight investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are&nbsp;investigating the shooting death of 14-year-old Claude Hodges of Wichita. The incident occurred inside an apartment on the 8400 block of W Central Avenue, where it is believed he was shot and killed by his 43-year-old mother, according to a media release from Wichita Police.Just after 6p.m. Sunday, police received a call from Claude's father expressing concerns about his son's well-being. The father requested a welfare check at the W Central Avenue address after Claude had not arrived at a designated exchange point. Multiple attempts to contact Claude were unsuccessful. Upon arriving at the apartment where the victim was staying, patrol officers tried to establish contact by knocking and calling multiple times but received no response. Officers observed what appeared to be an exit hole in the apartment's exterior wall and discovered an expended bullet outside the entry door on the ground. Concerned about the potential for someone inside to be injured, officers immediately entered the apartment and found the 43-year-old suspect holding a handgun and while near a shotgun. Recognizing the potential danger of an armed subject, officers quickly withdrew from the apartment and notified negotiators. Police negotiators spent several hours negotiating with and attempting to negotiate with the her.The objective was to convince her to disarm herself of the handgun she had and surrender peacefully. Despite the prolonged negotiation attempts, the she continued to refuse to put the handgun down, leading SWAT officers to fire two shots that struck her. She was then transported to a local hospital in critical condition by Sedgwick County EMS. Upon re-entering the apartment, officers discovered Claude Hodges in a bedroom, deceased, with an apparent gunshot wound to his upper body.&nbsp;Both Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan and Sheriff Jeff Easter have formally requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to take charge of the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.Police did not release the names or additional information on the law enforcement personnel involved in officer-involved shooting.

Police: Kan. woman shot by SWAT officers after she killed teen son

Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said a number of factors will go into deciding which schools to close and consolidate, including enrollment trends, the building’s age and condition, staffing levels and a school’s location within the district.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/people/suzanne-perez">Suzanne Perez</a>, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/kansasnewsservice">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kansas —&nbsp;About a half-dozen Wichita public schools will close for good at the end of the school year, as the district deals with declining enrollment and a massive budget shortfall.

Wichita Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said four to seven schools will likely close. Officials plan to present a list to the school board at its next meeting Feb. 12, and board members plan to vote on closings before spring break in March.

Wichita faces a $42 million budget gap, and leaders say closing buildings is the only way to prevent job cuts.

Susan Willis, chief financial officer for Wichita schools, says resources are spread too thinly over the district’s 90-plus schools. Wichita’s enrollment is trending downward. Meanwhile, the district faces about $1.2 billion in needed building repairs and maintenance, and staff shortages continue.

“It’s hard to even say the words, right?” Willis said. “Because it’s emotional to say the answer that solves those three problems is: Reduce the number of school buildings.”

Wichita is the state’s largest district, but enrollment has been declining since 2016.

“We are a district built for 63,000 students. We currently educate 47,000 students and change,” Willis said. “By definition, we are underutilizing square footage in our buildings, specifically elementary and middle.”

Consultants hired by the district told board members last month that the district has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2023-12-13/amid-enrollment-declines-and-aging-buildings-wichita-district-could-shutter-some-schools" target="_blank">too many small elementary schools</a>&nbsp;and can’t afford to maintain them all.

Nearly half of Wichita’s 54 elementary schools have fewer than 350 students, which is inefficient and costly to maintain, consultants said. Twelve elementaries have fewer than 300 students.

Bielefeld said a number of factors will go into deciding which schools to close and consolidate, including enrollment trends, the building’s age and condition, staffing levels and a school’s location within the district.

“There’s not an easy way to do it,” he said. “We have to have schools geographically spread out around the city, just for efficiency purposes… So we want to take an objective, data-based approach in making these decisions.”

Wichita has 54 elementary schools, 15 middle schools, three K-8s, nine high schools and nine special schools. The average age of the district’s buildings is over 60 years.

Wichita’s enrollment has dropped by more than 8% over the past seven years. Some of that came from declining birth rates and shifting housing patterns, but the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-05-05/the-pandemic-shrunk-kansas-public-school-enrollment-and-that-means-cuts-in-education-budgets" target="_blank">COVID-19 pandemic worsened the problem</a>.

Districts around the country will soon face tough decisions about closures and cuts as they face what educators call the “fiscal cliff” — a storm of financial chaos brought on by declining enrollments, aging buildings, and the abrupt end of federal pandemic relief funds.

Data prepared by researchers at the Brookings Institution shows that over a four-year period that includes the pandemic, about 12% of the nation’s public elementary schools and 9% of middle schools<a href="https://www.hamiltonproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/20231012_THP_Enrollment_FullPaper.pdf" target="_blank">lost at least one-fifth of their enrollment</a>.

Denver school officials&nbsp;<a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2022/11/10/jeffco-elementary-school-closures-approved/" target="_blank">closed 16 elementary schools</a>&nbsp;last year as a way to tackle plunging enrollment, and that was just the first step in a larger consolidation plan.

Bielefeld, the Wichita superintendent, said building closures are part of the natural cycle of school districts. In 2012, as part of budget cuts and boundary changes, Wichita closed four elementary schools – Bryant, Emerson, Lincoln and Mueller – as well as the former Northeast Magnet High School at 17th and Chautauqua.

Bielefeld said the district doesn’t foresee job cuts. Employees at closed buildings will be offered positions elsewhere, including schools where some classrooms are staffed with long-term substitutes.

“If we can take some of those staff and reallocate them in a better way, we have a better chance of every kid in the district having a certified teacher,” he said.

Wichita teachers approved a contract last summer that includes 5% pay raises for the next two years. The district used about $20 million in COVID relief funds to help finance the salary package.

In addition to closing schools, the district plans to scale back its longtime&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd259.org/Page/17303" target="_blank">AVID program</a>, which promotes college and career readiness. The program, now offered in all seven comprehensive high schools, will be limited to North, South, East and Heights.

Bielefeld said school closings this year would save about $16 million, or the equivalent of 230 teaching positions. Board members will consider using cash balances to plug the remainder of the budget shortfall.

This year's closures may be just the first part of a larger consolidation. Officials with Cooperative Strategies plan to present options for a districtwide facilities master plan in May.

Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KMUW, KCUR, Kansas Public Radio and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706532709391.png" alt="Wichita Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld says closing some elementary or middle schools is the only way to avoid massive job cuts." />
 <figcaption>Wichita Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld says closing some elementary or middle schools is the only way to avoid massive job cuts.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said a number of factors will go into deciding which schools to close and consolidate, including enrollment trends, the building’s age and condition, staffing levels and a school’s location within the district.</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/people/suzanne-perez">Suzanne Perez</a>, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/kansasnewsservice">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kansas —&nbsp;About a half-dozen Wichita public schools will close for good at the end of the school year, as the district deals with declining enrollment and a massive budget shortfall.Wichita Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said four to seven schools will likely close. Officials plan to present a list to the school board at its next meeting Feb. 12, and board members plan to vote on closings before spring break in March.Wichita faces a $42 million budget gap, and leaders say closing buildings is the only way to prevent job cuts.Susan Willis, chief financial officer for Wichita schools, says resources are spread too thinly over the district’s 90-plus schools. Wichita’s enrollment is trending downward. Meanwhile, the district faces about $1.2 billion in needed building repairs and maintenance, and staff shortages continue.“It’s hard to even say the words, right?” Willis said. “Because it’s emotional to say the answer that solves those three problems is: Reduce the number of school buildings.”Wichita is the state’s largest district, but enrollment has been declining since 2016.“We are a district built for 63,000 students. We currently educate 47,000 students and change,” Willis said. “By definition, we are underutilizing square footage in our buildings, specifically elementary and middle.”Consultants hired by the district told board members last month that the district has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2023-12-13/amid-enrollment-declines-and-aging-buildings-wichita-district-could-shutter-some-schools" target="_blank">too many small elementary schools</a>&nbsp;and can’t afford to maintain them all.Nearly half of Wichita’s 54 elementary schools have fewer than 350 students, which is inefficient and costly to maintain, consultants said. Twelve elementaries have fewer than 300 students.Bielefeld said a number of factors will go into deciding which schools to close and consolidate, including enrollment trends, the building’s age and condition, staffing levels and a school’s location within the district.“There’s not an easy way to do it,” he said. “We have to have schools geographically spread out around the city, just for efficiency purposes… So we want to take an objective, data-based approach in making these decisions.”Wichita has 54 elementary schools, 15 middle schools, three K-8s, nine high schools and nine special schools. The average age of the district’s buildings is over 60 years.Wichita’s enrollment has dropped by more than 8% over the past seven years. Some of that came from declining birth rates and shifting housing patterns, but the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-05-05/the-pandemic-shrunk-kansas-public-school-enrollment-and-that-means-cuts-in-education-budgets" target="_blank">COVID-19 pandemic worsened the problem</a>.Districts around the country will soon face tough decisions about closures and cuts as they face what educators call the “fiscal cliff” — a storm of financial chaos brought on by declining enrollments, aging buildings, and the abrupt end of federal pandemic relief funds.Data prepared by researchers at the Brookings Institution shows that over a four-year period that includes the pandemic, about 12% of the nation’s public elementary schools and 9% of middle schools<a href="https://www.hamiltonproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/20231012_THP_Enrollment_FullPaper.pdf" target="_blank">lost at least one-fifth of their enrollment</a>.Denver school officials&nbsp;<a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2022/11/10/jeffco-elementary-school-closures-approved/" target="_blank">closed 16 elementary schools</a>&nbsp;last year as a way to tackle plunging enrollment, and that was just the first step in a larger consolidation plan.Bielefeld, the Wichita superintendent, said building closures are part of the natural cycle of school districts. In 2012, as part of budget cuts and boundary changes, Wichita closed four elementary schools – Bryant, Emerson, Lincoln and Mueller – as well as the former Northeast Magnet High School at 17th and Chautauqua.Bielefeld said the district doesn’t foresee job cuts. Employees at closed buildings will be offered positions elsewhere, including schools where some classrooms are staffed with long-term substitutes.“If we can take some of those staff and reallocate them in a better way, we have a better chance of every kid in the district having a certified teacher,” he said.Wichita teachers approved a contract last summer that includes 5% pay raises for the next two years. The district used about $20 million in COVID relief funds to help finance the salary package.In addition to closing schools, the district plans to scale back its longtime&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd259.org/Page/17303" target="_blank">AVID program</a>, which promotes college and career readiness. The program, now offered in all seven comprehensive high schools, will be limited to North, South, East and Heights.Bielefeld said school closings this year would save about $16 million, or the equivalent of 230 teaching positions. Board members will consider using cash balances to plug the remainder of the budget shortfall.This year's closures may be just the first part of a larger consolidation. Officials with Cooperative Strategies plan to present options for a districtwide facilities master plan in May.Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KMUW, KCUR, Kansas Public Radio and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

$42 million budget gap: Largest school district in Kan. will close some schools

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for the shooting death of a security guard outside a convenience store.

On Friday, a judge sentenced 44-year-old Laroy West to life in prison without the eligibility of parole for 50 years, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In October, a jury found West guilty of first-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the District Attorney’s office. In June of 2021 West had to undergo a mental competency examination as part of the investigation.

Just after 10p.m. May 5, 2021 police responded to report of a shooting near the QuikTrip convience store at Broadway and Murdoch in Wichita, according to Police Captain Jason Stephens.

At the scene, officers located 39-year-old Will Robinson, the Quick Trip security guard, in the alley across from the business with a gunshot wound to his upper body.

EMS transported him to a local hospital where he died two days later, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Investigators learned Robinson encountered West who was causing a disruption inside the store. He escorted the man from the store and ultimately to the edge of the property where the disturbance continued and West shot him.&nbsp;

Robinson had worked as a security guard at QuikTrip for about a year. Before that he was a Wichita police officer. He was a married father of two children. QuikTrip, in a statement, said it was “absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the tragic loss of Will.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706373936542.png" alt="West as seen from the QuikTrip security camera the night of the fatal shooting-image courtesy Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>West as seen from the QuikTrip security camera the night of the fatal shooting-image courtesy Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for the shooting death of a security guard outside a convenience store.On Friday, a judge sentenced 44-year-old Laroy West to life in prison without the eligibility of parole for 50 years, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620393217853.png" alt="West booking photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>West booking photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>In October, a jury found West guilty of first-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the District Attorney’s office. In June of 2021 West had to undergo a mental competency examination as part of the investigation.Just after 10p.m. May 5, 2021 police responded to report of a shooting near the QuikTrip convience store at Broadway and Murdoch in Wichita, according to Police Captain Jason Stephens.At the scene, officers located 39-year-old Will Robinson, the Quick Trip security guard, in the alley across from the business with a gunshot wound to his upper body.EMS transported him to a local hospital where he died two days later, according to Officer Charley Davidson.Investigators learned Robinson encountered West who was causing a disruption inside the store. He escorted the man from the store and ultimately to the edge of the property where the disturbance continued and West shot him.&nbsp;Robinson had worked as a security guard at QuikTrip for about a year. Before that he was a Wichita police officer. He was a married father of two children. QuikTrip, in a statement, said it was “absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the tragic loss of Will.”

Man sentenced for killing Kan. convenience store security guard

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Employees from a Ukrainian arms firm conspired with defense ministry officials to embezzle almost $40 million earmarked to buy 100,000 mortar shells for the war with Russia, Ukraine's security service reported.

The SBU said late Saturday that five people have been charged, with one person detained while trying to cross the Ukrainian border. If found guilty, they face up to 12 years in prison.

The investigation comes as Kyiv attempts to clamp down on corruption in a bid to speed up its membership in the European Union and NATO. Officials from both blocs have demanded widespread anti-graft reforms before Kyiv can join them.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was elected on an anti-corruption platform in 2019, long before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Both the president and his aides have portrayed the recent firings of top officials, notably that of Ivan Bakanov, former head of the State Security Service, in July 2022, as proof of their efforts to crack down on graft.

Security officials say that the current investigation dates back to August 2022, when officials signed a contract for artillery shells worth 1.5 billion hryvnias ($39.6 million) with arms firm Lviv Arsenal.

After receiving payment, company employees were supposed to transfer the funds to a business registered abroad, which would then deliver the ammunition to Ukraine.

However, the goods were never delivered and the money was instead sent to various accounts in Ukraine and the Balkans, investigators said.

Ukraine’s prosecutor general says that the funds have since been seized and will be returned to the country's defense budget.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695327062140.png" alt="File photo&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an Oct. 2023 visit to Washington- White House photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an Oct. 2023 visit to Washington- White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Employees from a Ukrainian arms firm conspired with defense ministry officials to embezzle almost $40 million earmarked to buy 100,000 mortar shells for the war with Russia, Ukraine's security service reported.The SBU said late Saturday that five people have been charged, with one person detained while trying to cross the Ukrainian border. If found guilty, they face up to 12 years in prison.The investigation comes as Kyiv attempts to clamp down on corruption in a bid to speed up its membership in the European Union and NATO. Officials from both blocs have demanded widespread anti-graft reforms before Kyiv can join them.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was elected on an anti-corruption platform in 2019, long before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Both the president and his aides have portrayed the recent firings of top officials, notably that of Ivan Bakanov, former head of the State Security Service, in July 2022, as proof of their efforts to crack down on graft.Security officials say that the current investigation dates back to August 2022, when officials signed a contract for artillery shells worth 1.5 billion hryvnias ($39.6 million) with arms firm Lviv Arsenal.After receiving payment, company employees were supposed to transfer the funds to a business registered abroad, which would then deliver the ammunition to Ukraine.However, the goods were never delivered and the money was instead sent to various accounts in Ukraine and the Balkans, investigators said.Ukraine’s prosecutor general says that the funds have since been seized and will be returned to the country's defense budget.

Ukraine: Officials stole $40 million meant to buy arms for the war

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Sunday in Wyandotte County.

Kansas City, Kansas police reported a vehicle was westbound on Central Avenue at Interstate 70. A dirt bike turned onto westbound Central from the entrance ramp and struck the vehicle.&nbsp;

The driver of the dirt bike was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and has cooperated with the investigation. Police released no additional details early Monday.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Sunday in Wyandotte County.Kansas City, Kansas police reported a vehicle was westbound on Central Avenue at Interstate 70. A dirt bike turned onto westbound Central from the entrance ramp and struck the vehicle.&nbsp;The driver of the dirt bike was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and has cooperated with the investigation. Police released no additional details early Monday.

One dead after Kansas dirt bike crash 

JERUSALEM (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-houthis-red-sea-jake-sullivan-yemen-ff507d06a7a44d6f3644f128e7766b3d">Yemen's Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;said they attacked a U.S. Navy mobile base at sea Monday without offering evidence, something immediately rejected by an American defense official.

Houthi military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed the group fired a missile at the USS Lewis B. Puller in the Gulf of Aden. The Puller, which serves as a floating landing base, had been earlier stationed in the Arabian Sea as part of American efforts to curtail Houthi attacks on commercial shipping through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Houthi attacks will continue “until the aggression is stopped, and the siege is lifted on the people of Palestine in the Gaza Strip,” Saree said in the statement.

A U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters, said there had been no reported attack on the Puller. However, the Houthis have previously launched missiles that did not reach their intended target, instead crashing onto the land or sea.

The Puller served as a mobile base for the U.S. Navy SEALs who conducted a Jan. 11 operation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-missiles-iran-seizure-us-8112fbadd3b0689c71a92890895a9368">seizing Iranian-made ballistic missile and cruise missile</a>&nbsp;components believed to be bound for Yemen. Two SEALs went missing in the operation and are presumed to have died.

Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade between Asia, the Mideast and Europe.

The Houthis hit a commercial vessel with a missile on Friday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-red-sea-israel-hamas-war-attacks-f36fc8911e069a5b4dbc4d9e67f31e50">sparking a fire that burned for hours</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703418619283.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-houthis-red-sea-jake-sullivan-yemen-ff507d06a7a44d6f3644f128e7766b3d">Yemen's Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;said they attacked a U.S. Navy mobile base at sea Monday without offering evidence, something immediately rejected by an American defense official.Houthi military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed the group fired a missile at the USS Lewis B. Puller in the Gulf of Aden. The Puller, which serves as a floating landing base, had been earlier stationed in the Arabian Sea as part of American efforts to curtail Houthi attacks on commercial shipping through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.Houthi attacks will continue “until the aggression is stopped, and the siege is lifted on the people of Palestine in the Gaza Strip,” Saree said in the statement.A U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters, said there had been no reported attack on the Puller. However, the Houthis have previously launched missiles that did not reach their intended target, instead crashing onto the land or sea.The Puller served as a mobile base for the U.S. Navy SEALs who conducted a Jan. 11 operation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-missiles-iran-seizure-us-8112fbadd3b0689c71a92890895a9368">seizing Iranian-made ballistic missile and cruise missile</a>&nbsp;components believed to be bound for Yemen. Two SEALs went missing in the operation and are presumed to have died.Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade between Asia, the Mideast and Europe.The Houthis hit a commercial vessel with a missile on Friday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-red-sea-israel-hamas-war-attacks-f36fc8911e069a5b4dbc4d9e67f31e50">sparking a fire that burned for hours</a>.

American officials reject new claim of rebel attack on US warship

KANSAS CITY— Fans who have the time and money to support the Chiefs at Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers in Las Vegas now have additional options to fly.

Following the finish of the AFC Championship game, American Airlines and United Airlines announced they were adding additional flights to the regularly scheduled round trips between Kansas City and Las Vegas. Both airlines along with Southwest and Allegiant also fly from Wichita to Las Vegas.

United Airlines is adding three flights from Kansas City to Las Vegas.

United is also offering three return flights to Kansas City.

United estimates the added flights will give up to 1,000 fans the chance to make the game.

American Airlines also added three additional round-trip flights between from Kansas City to Las Vegas&nbsp;

According to American Airlines Director of Las Vegas Operations, “these additional flights will give sports fans more direct travel options so that they can touch down, rally with fellow sports fans and cheer on their favorite team.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706487840927.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) holds up the Lamar Hunt Trophy next to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) after the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) holds up the Lamar Hunt Trophy next to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) after the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY— Fans who have the time and money to support the Chiefs at Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers in Las Vegas now have additional options to fly.Following the finish of the AFC Championship game, American Airlines and United Airlines announced they were adding additional flights to the regularly scheduled round trips between Kansas City and Las Vegas. Both airlines along with Southwest and Allegiant also fly from Wichita to Las Vegas.United Airlines is adding three flights from Kansas City to Las Vegas.<ul>
 <li>5:15 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8 (Flight 1587)</li><li>10:15 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 9 (Flight 2287)</li><li>4:15 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 9 (Flight 1989)</li>
 </ul>United is also offering three return flights to Kansas City.<ul>
 <li>11:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11 (Flight 2722)</li><li>10:10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 12 (Flight 2731)</li><li>1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 12 (Flight 2691)</li>
 </ul>United estimates the added flights will give up to 1,000 fans the chance to make the game.American Airlines also added three additional round-trip flights between from Kansas City to Las Vegas&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>12:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 to LAS</li><li>12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9 to LAS</li><li>12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 to LAS</li><li>12:20 a.m. Monday, Feb. 12 to MCI</li><li>8:30 a.m., Monday, Feb. 12 to MCI</li><li>9:30 a.m., Monday, Feb. 12 to MCI</li>
 </ul>According to American Airlines Director of Las Vegas Operations, “these additional flights will give sports fans more direct travel options so that they can touch down, rally with fellow sports fans and cheer on their favorite team.”

Airlines add more flights from KC to Vegas for the Super Bowl

&nbsp;Three American troops were killed and 25 were injured Sunday in a drone strike in northeast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jordan">Jordan</a>&nbsp;near the Syrian border, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3658484/announcement-of-us-casualties-in-northeast-jordan-near-syria-border/">U.S. military said</a>.&nbsp;President Joe Biden&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;Iran-backed militias&nbsp;for the first U.S. fatalities after months of strikes by the groups against American forces across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war.

President Biden who is traveling in South Carolina issued a written statement.

"Today, America’s heart is heavy. Last night, three U.S. service members were killed—and&nbsp;many&nbsp;wounded—during an unmanned aerial drone attack on our forces stationed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border.&nbsp; While we are still gathering the facts of this attack,&nbsp;we know it&nbsp;was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq."

"Jill and I join the families and friends of our fallen—and Americans across the country—in grieving the loss of these warriors in this despicable and wholly unjust attack. These service members embodied the very best of our nation: Unwavering in their bravery. Unflinching in their duty. Unbending in their commitment to our country— risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. &nbsp;It is a fight we will not cease."

"The three American service members we lost were patriots in the highest sense. And their ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten by our nation. Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honor and valor. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt — we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner our choosing."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706478858769.png" alt="President Biden, who is on the campaign trail in South Carolina, asked for a moment of silence to honor three U.S. Service members who died in the attack on Sunday.-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Biden, who is on the campaign trail in South Carolina, asked for a moment of silence to honor three U.S. Service members who died in the attack on Sunday.-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Three American troops were killed and 25 were injured Sunday in a drone strike in northeast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jordan">Jordan</a>&nbsp;near the Syrian border, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3658484/announcement-of-us-casualties-in-northeast-jordan-near-syria-border/">U.S. military said</a>.&nbsp;President Joe Biden&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;Iran-backed militias&nbsp;for the first U.S. fatalities after months of strikes by the groups against American forces across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war.President Biden who is traveling in South Carolina issued a written statement."Today, America’s heart is heavy. Last night, three U.S. service members were killed—and&nbsp;many&nbsp;wounded—during an unmanned aerial drone attack on our forces stationed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border.&nbsp; While we are still gathering the facts of this attack,&nbsp;we know it&nbsp;was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.""Jill and I join the families and friends of our fallen—and Americans across the country—in grieving the loss of these warriors in this despicable and wholly unjust attack. These service members embodied the very best of our nation: Unwavering in their bravery. Unflinching in their duty. Unbending in their commitment to our country— risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. &nbsp;It is a fight we will not cease.""The three American service members we lost were patriots in the highest sense. And their ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten by our nation. Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honor and valor. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt — we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner our choosing."

Read Biden's full statement following deadly attack on U.S. base

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting and have made an arrest.

Just after 11:45p.m. Friday the Wichita Police Department responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

 Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims.

Emoni Shears, 14, and Jhiquez Roberts, 19, both of Wichita were later pronounced deceased at the hospital. 

Detectives and patrol officers immediately began investigating this case and following up on leads. Later Saturday, police&nbsp;arrested a 14-year-old from Wichita on requested charges of felony murder and one count of juvenile in possession of a firearm. 

Homicide investigators continue their work to determine what led to this tragic shooting. The investigation has led police to believe that all parties involved in this incident knew each other and were meeting at the location of the shooting.

Violence among youth in Wichita is everyone’s responsibility. We will continue to work with

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706389022620.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting and have made an arrest.Just after 11:45p.m. Friday the Wichita Police Department responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo. Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims.Emoni Shears, 14, and Jhiquez Roberts, 19, both of Wichita were later pronounced deceased at the hospital. Detectives and patrol officers immediately began investigating this case and following up on leads. Later Saturday, police&nbsp;arrested a 14-year-old from Wichita on requested charges of felony murder and one count of juvenile in possession of a firearm. Homicide investigators continue their work to determine what led to this tragic shooting. The investigation has led police to believe that all parties involved in this incident knew each other and were meeting at the location of the shooting.Violence among youth in Wichita is everyone’s responsibility. We will continue to work with

14-year-old accused of killing two Kansas teens

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.

Just after 7:30a.m. Jan. 24, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Nissan Altima near 150th and Q. Road for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The deputy located illegal drug contraband on the passenger and inside the vehicle. The passenger, Steven Ralph Barker, 61, of Topeka, was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail.

He was booked into the Jail on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug,  possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container and trafficking contraband into a corrections facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706368618162.png" alt="Barker-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Barker-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.Just after 7:30a.m. Jan. 24, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Nissan Altima near 150th and Q. Road for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The deputy located illegal drug contraband on the passenger and inside the vehicle. The passenger, Steven Ralph Barker, 61, of Topeka, was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail.He was booked into the Jail on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container and trafficking contraband into a corrections facility.

Sheriff: Passenger in Kan. traffic stop couldn't hide drugs

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/01/28/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-attack-on-u-s-service-members-in-northeastern-jordan-near-the-syria-border/">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;said Sunday that the U.S. “shall respond” after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3658484/announcement-of-us-casualties-in-northeast-jordan-near-syria-border/">three American troops were killed</a>&nbsp;and dozens more were injured in an overnight drone strike in northeast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jordan">Jordan</a>&nbsp;near the Syrian border. Biden blamed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran-backed militias</a>&nbsp;for the first U.S. fatalities after months of strikes by such groups against American forces across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>.

Biden, who was traveling in South Carolina, asked for a moment of silence during an appearance at a Baptist church's banquet hall.

“We had a tough day last night in the Middle East. We lost three brave souls in an attack on one of our bases," he said. After the moment of silence, Biden added, “and we shall respond.”

With an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-missiles-iran-seizure-us-8112fbadd3b0689c71a92890895a9368">increasing risk of military escalation</a>&nbsp;in the region, U.S. officials were working to conclusively identify the precise group responsible for the attack, but they have assessed that one of several Iranian-backed groups was behind it.

Biden said in a written statement that the United States “will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner (of) our choosing.” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said "we will take all necessary actions to defend the United States, our troops, and our interests.”

Iran-backed fighters in east Syria began evacuating their posts, fearing U.S. airstrikes, according to Omar Abu Layla, a Europe-based activist who heads the Deir Ezzor 24 media outlet. He told The Associated Press that the areas are the strongholds of Mayadeen and Boukamal.

According to a U.S. official, the number of troops injured by the one-way attack drone rose to at least 34. Another official, who also spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not made public, said a large drone struck the base, which two other American officials identified as an installation in Jordan known as Tower 22. It is along the Syrian border and is used largely by troops involved in the advise-and-assist mission for Jordanian forces.

The small installation, which Jordan does not publicly disclose, includes U.S. engineering, aviation, logistics and security troops. Austin said the troops were deployed there “to work for the lasting defeat of ISIS.” Three officials said the drone struck near the troops' sleeping quarters, which they said explained the high casualty count.

The U.S. military base at al-Tanf in Syria is just 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Tower 22. The Jordanian installation provides a critical logistical hub for U.S. forces in Syria, including those at al-Tanf, which is near the intersection of the Iraq, Syria and Jordan borders.

Jordanian state television quoted Muhannad Mubaidin, a government spokesman, as insisting the attack happened across the border in Syria.

U.S. troops long have used Jordan, a kingdom bordering Iraq, Israel, the Palestinian territory of the West Bank, Saudi Arabia and Syria, as a basing point. Some 3,000 American troops typically are stationed across Jordan, but the number at Tower 22 wasn’t immediately known and isn’t routinely disclosed.

Since the war in Gaza began Oct. 7, Iranian-backed militias have struck American military installations in Iraq more than 60 times and in Syria more than 90 times, with a mix of drones, rockets, mortars and ballistic missiles. The attack Sunday was the first targeting American troops in Jordan during the Israel-Hamas war and the first to result in the loss of American lives. Scores of U.S. personnel have been wounded, including some with traumatic brain injuries, during the attacks.

The militias have said that their strikes are in retaliation for Washington’s support for Israel in the war in Gaza and have also said they aim to push U.S. forces out of the region.

The U.S. in recent months has struck targets in Iraq, Syria and Yemen to respond to attacks on American forces in the region and to deter Iran-backed Houthi rebels from continuing to threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

“I am confident the Biden Administration will respond in a deliberate and proportional manner,” said Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., who heads the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Republicans in Congress said the administration's approach had failed to deter America's adversaries in the region.

“We need a major reset of our Middle East policy to protect our national security interests,” said Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-S.C., went further, urging the administration “to strike targets of significance inside Iran, not only as reprisal for the killing of our forces, but as deterrence against future aggression. The only thing the Iranian regime understands is force.”

Biden, who was in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday, was briefed in the morning by Austin, national security adviser Jake Sullivan, and principal deputy national security adviser Jon Finer, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. In the afternoon, he met virtually with Vice President Kamala Harris and his national security team for an update.

The president, in the written statement, called it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack” and said the service members were “risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. It is a fight we will not cease.”

Syria is still in the midst of a civil war and long has been a launch pad for Iranian-backed forces there, including the Lebanese militia Hezbollah. Iraq has multiple Iranian-backed Shiite militias operating there as well.

Jordan, a staunch Western ally and a crucial power in Jerusalem for its oversight of holy sites there, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-jordan-sweida-captagon-smuggling-strike-24423e9b3b1038e5bced4a446dd3aee6">suspected of launching airstrikes in Syria</a>&nbsp;to disrupt drug smugglers, including one that killed nine people earlier this month.

An umbrella group for Iran-backed factions known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq earlier claimed launching explosive drone attacks targeting three areas in Syria, as well as one inside of “occupied Palestine.” The group has claimed responsibility for dozens of attacks against bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria since the Israel-Hamas war began.

Three officials with Iran-backed militias in Iraq, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter with journalists, said the drone attack against the base in Jordan was launched by one of the Iraqi groups. No faction has yet officially claimed responsibility.

Officials said the U.S. military is not tracking any other attacks on its forces Sunday in the region.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706478858769.png" alt="President Biden, who is on the campaign trail in South Carolina, asked for a moment of silence to honor three U.S. Service members who died in the attack on Sunday.-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Biden, who is on the campaign trail in South Carolina, asked for a moment of silence to honor three U.S. Service members who died in the attack on Sunday.-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/01/28/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-attack-on-u-s-service-members-in-northeastern-jordan-near-the-syria-border/">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;said Sunday that the U.S. “shall respond” after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3658484/announcement-of-us-casualties-in-northeast-jordan-near-syria-border/">three American troops were killed</a>&nbsp;and dozens more were injured in an overnight drone strike in northeast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jordan">Jordan</a>&nbsp;near the Syrian border. Biden blamed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran-backed militias</a>&nbsp;for the first U.S. fatalities after months of strikes by such groups against American forces across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Last night, three U.S. service members were killed, and many wounded, during an unmanned aerial drone attack on our forces stationed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border. Jill and I join the families and friends of our fallen in grieving the loss of these warriors in this…&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1751667937792967039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My prayers are with the families of the fallen soldiers and those injured in the attack on our service members stationed in Jordan last night. May God bless our troops. <a href="https://t.co/ARrMik8odB">https://t.co/ARrMik8odB</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1751705948563890254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">3 American servicemembers were killed and more than 25 injured during a drone strike in Jordan last night. The Iran-backed terrorists responsible for this attack on US troops must be held accountable. Join me in praying for the families, friends, and loved ones of these…&mdash; Rep. Jake LaTurner (@RepLaTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLaTurner/status/1751699443911446853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are saddened by the loss of three American heroes in Jordan last night, and we are praying for their families and for the 25 other service members who have been injured. America must send a crystal clear message across the globe that attacks on our troops will not be…&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1751664975305654734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Will Pres Biden finally take decisive action against Iran???&mdash; Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChuckGrassley/status/1751668647272104018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hit Iran now. Hit them hard.&mdash; Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1751657471280652397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Doug and I mourn the loss of the three U.S. service members killed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border in a despicable attack by Iran-backed militant groups. Our prayers are with their loved ones and those injured. These fallen patriots served bravely and selflessly,…&mdash; Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1751656481668129098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today’s news of 3 service-members killed in an attack on an American base in Jordan is deeply disheartening. While I urge everyone to join me in praying for the families of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, I also call on the Biden administration to respond swiftly and…&mdash; Mark Alford (@RepMarkAlford) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMarkAlford/status/1751659782723788851?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“You probe with bayonets: if you find mush, you push. If you find steel, you withdraw” Vladimir Ilich Lenin <a href="https://t.co/HwcjqXabmP">https://t.co/HwcjqXabmP</a>&mdash; Senator John Cornyn (@JohnCornyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnCornyn/status/1751710251055997275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My statement following the Iran-backed attacks in Jordan that killed three U.S. service members and injured 25: <a href="https://t.co/L8ckks5ch4">pic.twitter.com/L8ckks5ch4</a>&mdash; Tom Cotton (@SenTomCotton) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenTomCotton/status/1751658979938148565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After 158 attacks on our forces over the past 100 days it was only a matter of time until these Iranian-backed units found their target. The US has the capability and inherent right to eliminate the sources of these continued attacks. The fact that the White House has failed to… <a href="https://t.co/JUDFZmXGrq">https://t.co/JUDFZmXGrq</a>&mdash; Rep. Don Bacon 🇺🇸 (@RepDonBacon) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDonBacon/status/1751700724004560966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderMcConnell?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderMcConnell</a> Statement On Iran-Backed Attack That Killed 3 American Servicemembers: <a href="https://t.co/kFVO9Aej61">https://t.co/kFVO9Aej61</a>&mdash; Senator McConnell&#39;s Press Office (@McConnellPress) <a href="https://twitter.com/McConnellPress/status/1751691676207243772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Biden, who was traveling in South Carolina, asked for a moment of silence during an appearance at a Baptist church's banquet hall.“We had a tough day last night in the Middle East. We lost three brave souls in an attack on one of our bases," he said. After the moment of silence, Biden added, “and we shall respond.”With an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-missiles-iran-seizure-us-8112fbadd3b0689c71a92890895a9368">increasing risk of military escalation</a>&nbsp;in the region, U.S. officials were working to conclusively identify the precise group responsible for the attack, but they have assessed that one of several Iranian-backed groups was behind it.Biden said in a written statement that the United States “will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner (of) our choosing.” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said "we will take all necessary actions to defend the United States, our troops, and our interests.”Iran-backed fighters in east Syria began evacuating their posts, fearing U.S. airstrikes, according to Omar Abu Layla, a Europe-based activist who heads the Deir Ezzor 24 media outlet. He told The Associated Press that the areas are the strongholds of Mayadeen and Boukamal.According to a U.S. official, the number of troops injured by the one-way attack drone rose to at least 34. Another official, who also spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not made public, said a large drone struck the base, which two other American officials identified as an installation in Jordan known as Tower 22. It is along the Syrian border and is used largely by troops involved in the advise-and-assist mission for Jordanian forces.The small installation, which Jordan does not publicly disclose, includes U.S. engineering, aviation, logistics and security troops. Austin said the troops were deployed there “to work for the lasting defeat of ISIS.” Three officials said the drone struck near the troops' sleeping quarters, which they said explained the high casualty count.The U.S. military base at al-Tanf in Syria is just 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Tower 22. The Jordanian installation provides a critical logistical hub for U.S. forces in Syria, including those at al-Tanf, which is near the intersection of the Iraq, Syria and Jordan borders.Jordanian state television quoted Muhannad Mubaidin, a government spokesman, as insisting the attack happened across the border in Syria.U.S. troops long have used Jordan, a kingdom bordering Iraq, Israel, the Palestinian territory of the West Bank, Saudi Arabia and Syria, as a basing point. Some 3,000 American troops typically are stationed across Jordan, but the number at Tower 22 wasn’t immediately known and isn’t routinely disclosed.Since the war in Gaza began Oct. 7, Iranian-backed militias have struck American military installations in Iraq more than 60 times and in Syria more than 90 times, with a mix of drones, rockets, mortars and ballistic missiles. The attack Sunday was the first targeting American troops in Jordan during the Israel-Hamas war and the first to result in the loss of American lives. Scores of U.S. personnel have been wounded, including some with traumatic brain injuries, during the attacks.The militias have said that their strikes are in retaliation for Washington’s support for Israel in the war in Gaza and have also said they aim to push U.S. forces out of the region.The U.S. in recent months has struck targets in Iraq, Syria and Yemen to respond to attacks on American forces in the region and to deter Iran-backed Houthi rebels from continuing to threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea.“I am confident the Biden Administration will respond in a deliberate and proportional manner,” said Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., who heads the Senate Armed Services Committee.Republicans in Congress said the administration's approach had failed to deter America's adversaries in the region.“We need a major reset of our Middle East policy to protect our national security interests,” said Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-S.C., went further, urging the administration “to strike targets of significance inside Iran, not only as reprisal for the killing of our forces, but as deterrence against future aggression. The only thing the Iranian regime understands is force.”Biden, who was in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday, was briefed in the morning by Austin, national security adviser Jake Sullivan, and principal deputy national security adviser Jon Finer, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. In the afternoon, he met virtually with Vice President Kamala Harris and his national security team for an update.The president, in the written statement, called it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack” and said the service members were “risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. It is a fight we will not cease.”Syria is still in the midst of a civil war and long has been a launch pad for Iranian-backed forces there, including the Lebanese militia Hezbollah. Iraq has multiple Iranian-backed Shiite militias operating there as well.Jordan, a staunch Western ally and a crucial power in Jerusalem for its oversight of holy sites there, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-jordan-sweida-captagon-smuggling-strike-24423e9b3b1038e5bced4a446dd3aee6">suspected of launching airstrikes in Syria</a>&nbsp;to disrupt drug smugglers, including one that killed nine people earlier this month.An umbrella group for Iran-backed factions known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq earlier claimed launching explosive drone attacks targeting three areas in Syria, as well as one inside of “occupied Palestine.” The group has claimed responsibility for dozens of attacks against bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria since the Israel-Hamas war began.Three officials with Iran-backed militias in Iraq, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter with journalists, said the drone attack against the base in Jordan was launched by one of the Iraqi groups. No faction has yet officially claimed responsibility.Officials said the U.S. military is not tracking any other attacks on its forces Sunday in the region.

Lawmakers respond after US troops killed, injured by Iran-backed militia 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services and Sedgwick County Commission chose property in southwest Wichita for construction of a new state psychiatric hospital expected to provide at least 50 inpatient treatment beds.

A committee of representatives from KDADS and Sedgwick County considered 11 properties and three buildings before recommending Friday the use of open land at MacArthur and Meridian for construction of the South Central Regional Psychiatric Hospital. The Sedgwick County Commission authorized final negotiations for acquisition of land to be donated by the Lange Community Foundation.

A tentative timeline would allow construction to begin in 2025. The budget included $15 million appropriated by the state and $25 million in federal COVID-19 relief funding earmarked for the project. The hospital for the mentally ill, would be owned, secured and operated by KDADS, could open by 2027.

Kansas operates state psychiatric hospitals in Osawatomie and Larned, but both were more than a two-hour drive from Wichita and neither had capacity to meet the state’s need for in-patient services.

The new hospital would be anchored in the Wichita population center to address a concentration of demand for inpatient services. Nearly 20% of patients admitted to state hospitals in Osawatomie and Larned came from Sedgwick County.

“Selecting a site lets us move forward with the design process and allows us to have a more focused conversation with residents and a discussion with stakeholders about incorporating state hospital services into what is already available in Sedgwick County and the region as a whole,” said KDADS deputy secretary Scott Brunner.

The South Central Regional Psychiatric Hospital would deliver inpatient care to patients with acute mental illness. Plans call for inclusion of adult forensic beds to shorten time required for completion of psychiatric evaluations of people held at the county jail, KDADS said.

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said when the bipartisan State Finance Council unanimously voted to provide $15 million for the project that he understood the necessity for a Wichita regional state hospital, noting “it needs to be done.”

The objective has been to establish a state hospital in south-central Kansas with at least 50 beds, but final design of the facility could result in as many as 100 beds.

“All of us on the review committee and involved in the site selection process are excited to continue progress toward building the regional hospital,” Brunner said.

In August, Gov. Laura Kelly issued an executive order establishing a 14-person advisory panel to make recommendations on the hospital’s location, workforce needs and operation. The panel has responsibility for considering how the new hospital could best fit into region’s need for mental health services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706447481513.png" alt=" Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and Gov. Laura Kelly, D-Topeka, supported state appropriations to finance construction of a new state psychiatric hospital in Sedgwick County to meet demand for inpatient mental health services and the evaluation and treatment of people held in the Sedgwick County Jail. On Friday, a site in southwest Wichita was chosen for the hospital. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and Gov. Laura Kelly, D-Topeka, supported state appropriations to finance construction of a new state psychiatric hospital in Sedgwick County to meet demand for inpatient mental health services and the evaluation and treatment of people held in the Sedgwick County Jail. On Friday, a site in southwest Wichita was chosen for the hospital. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services and Sedgwick County Commission chose property in southwest Wichita for construction of a new state psychiatric hospital expected to provide at least 50 inpatient treatment beds.A committee of representatives from KDADS and Sedgwick County considered 11 properties and three buildings before recommending Friday the use of open land at MacArthur and Meridian for construction of the South Central Regional Psychiatric Hospital. The Sedgwick County Commission authorized final negotiations for acquisition of land to be donated by the Lange Community Foundation.A tentative timeline would allow construction to begin in 2025. The budget included $15 million appropriated by the state and $25 million in federal COVID-19 relief funding earmarked for the project. The hospital for the mentally ill, would be owned, secured and operated by KDADS, could open by 2027.Kansas operates state psychiatric hospitals in Osawatomie and Larned, but both were more than a two-hour drive from Wichita and neither had capacity to meet the state’s need for in-patient services.The new hospital would be anchored in the Wichita population center to address a concentration of demand for inpatient services. Nearly 20% of patients admitted to state hospitals in Osawatomie and Larned came from Sedgwick County.“Selecting a site lets us move forward with the design process and allows us to have a more focused conversation with residents and a discussion with stakeholders about incorporating state hospital services into what is already available in Sedgwick County and the region as a whole,” said KDADS deputy secretary Scott Brunner.The South Central Regional Psychiatric Hospital would deliver inpatient care to patients with acute mental illness. Plans call for inclusion of adult forensic beds to shorten time required for completion of psychiatric evaluations of people held at the county jail, KDADS said.Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said when the bipartisan State Finance Council unanimously voted to provide $15 million for the project that he understood the necessity for a Wichita regional state hospital, noting “it needs to be done.”The objective has been to establish a state hospital in south-central Kansas with at least 50 beds, but final design of the facility could result in as many as 100 beds.“All of us on the review committee and involved in the site selection process are excited to continue progress toward building the regional hospital,” Brunner said.In August, Gov. Laura Kelly issued an executive order establishing a 14-person advisory panel to make recommendations on the hospital’s location, workforce needs and operation. The panel has responsibility for considering how the new hospital could best fit into region’s need for mental health services.

Kansas selects property for construction of new state psychiatric hospital

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Kansas Highway Patrol Troopers assisted with the escort of a B1-Bomber through Kansas on Saturday.

The bomber made it safely to the National Institute for Aviation Research at Wichita State University.

The institute's centers promote the safety, research, manufacturing and design elements of today’s aviation industry, according to their website. They strengthen airworthiness assurance in the short and long term. "They make the concerns of the general aviation industry their own. And they make dreams of composite-made airplanes reality. This happens not only through NIAR’s own research, but through the exchange of knowledge with researchers in other centers."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706454732395.png" alt="photos KHP" />
 <figcaption>photos KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Kansas Highway Patrol Troopers assisted with the escort of a B1-Bomber through Kansas on Saturday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAndoverPoliceDepartment%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0RJmAZSdNmb1PvqrpRg38nyL98EnWo6JqtxaP7Sf3ibb3jArc57mSnUCHyEnHmto6l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="640" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The bomber made it safely to the National Institute for Aviation Research at Wichita State University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706454712748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The institute's centers promote the safety, research, manufacturing and design elements of today’s aviation industry, according to their website. They strengthen airworthiness assurance in the short and long term. "They make the concerns of the general aviation industry their own. And they make dreams of composite-made airplanes reality. This happens not only through NIAR’s own research, but through the exchange of knowledge with researchers in other centers."

KHP helped escort a B1-Bomber through Kansas

JERUSALEM (AP) — Three American troops were killed and 25 were injured Sunday in a drone strike in northeast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jordan">Jordan</a>&nbsp;near the Syrian border, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3658484/announcement-of-us-casualties-in-northeast-jordan-near-syria-border/">U.S. military said</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/01/28/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-attack-on-u-s-service-members-in-northeastern-jordan-near-the-syria-border/">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran-backed militias</a>&nbsp;for the first U.S. fatalities after months of strikes by the groups against American forces across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>.

With an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-missiles-iran-seizure-us-8112fbadd3b0689c71a92890895a9368">increasing the risk of military escalation</a>&nbsp;in the region, U.S. officials were working to conclusively identify the precise group responsible for the attack, but they have assessed that one of several Iranian-backed groups was behind it.

Biden said the United States “will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner (of) our choosing.”

According to a U.S. official, the number of troops wounded in the attack by a one-way attack drone may grow. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not made public, said a large drone struck the base, which two other American officials identified as an installation in Jordan known as Tower 22. It is along the Syrian border and is used largely by troops involved in the advise-and-assist mission for Jordanian forces.

The small installation, which Jordan does not publicly disclose, includes U.S. engineering, aviation, logistics and security troops.

U.S. troops long have used Jordan, a kingdom bordering Iraq, Israel, the Palestinian territory of the West Bank, Saudi Arabia and Syria, as a basing point. U.S. Central Command put the toll at three killed and 25 injured.

Some 3,000 American troops typically are stationed in Jordan.

The militias have said that their strikes are in retaliation for Washington’s support for Israeli in the war in Gaza and have also said they aim to push U.S. forces out of the region.

The U.S. in recent months has struck targets in Iraq, Syria and Yemen to respond to attacks on American forces in the region and to deter Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from continuing to threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

Biden, who was in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday, was briefed by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, national security adviser Jake Sullivan, and principal deputy national security adviser Jon Finer, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. He was expected to meet again with his national security team later Sunday.

The president called it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack” and said the service members were “risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. It is a fight we will not cease.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561036312700.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM (AP) — Three American troops were killed and 25 were injured Sunday in a drone strike in northeast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jordan">Jordan</a>&nbsp;near the Syrian border, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3658484/announcement-of-us-casualties-in-northeast-jordan-near-syria-border/">U.S. military said</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/01/28/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-attack-on-u-s-service-members-in-northeastern-jordan-near-the-syria-border/">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran-backed militias</a>&nbsp;for the first U.S. fatalities after months of strikes by the groups against American forces across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>.With an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-missiles-iran-seizure-us-8112fbadd3b0689c71a92890895a9368">increasing the risk of military escalation</a>&nbsp;in the region, U.S. officials were working to conclusively identify the precise group responsible for the attack, but they have assessed that one of several Iranian-backed groups was behind it.Biden said the United States “will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner (of) our choosing.”According to a U.S. official, the number of troops wounded in the attack by a one-way attack drone may grow. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not made public, said a large drone struck the base, which two other American officials identified as an installation in Jordan known as Tower 22. It is along the Syrian border and is used largely by troops involved in the advise-and-assist mission for Jordanian forces.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706467111384.png" alt="Google map" />
 <figcaption>Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>The small installation, which Jordan does not publicly disclose, includes U.S. engineering, aviation, logistics and security troops.The U.S. military base at al-Tanf in Syria is just 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Tower 22. The Jordanian installation provides a critical logistical hub for U.S. forces in Syria, including those at al-Tanf, which is near the intersection of the Iraq, Syria and Jordan borders.Jordanian state television quoted Muhannad Mubaidin, a government spokesman, as insisting the attack happened across the border in Syria.U.S. troops long have used Jordan, a kingdom bordering Iraq, Israel, the Palestinian territory of the West Bank, Saudi Arabia and Syria, as a basing point. U.S. Central Command put the toll at three killed and 25 injured.Some 3,000 American troops typically are stationed in Jordan.Since the war in Gaza began Oct. 7, Iranian-backed militias have struck American military installations in Iraq more than 60 times and in Syria more than 90 times, with a mix of drones, rockets, mortars and ballistic missiles. The attack Sunday was the first targeting American troops in Jordan during the Israel-Hamas war and the first to result in the loss of American lives. Scores of U.S. personnel have been wounded, including some with traumatic brain injuries, during the attacks.The militias have said that their strikes are in retaliation for Washington’s support for Israeli in the war in Gaza and have also said they aim to push U.S. forces out of the region.The U.S. in recent months has struck targets in Iraq, Syria and Yemen to respond to attacks on American forces in the region and to deter Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from continuing to threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea.Biden, who was in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday, was briefed by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, national security adviser Jake Sullivan, and principal deputy national security adviser Jon Finer, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. He was expected to meet again with his national security team later Sunday.The president called it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack” and said the service members were “risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. It is a fight we will not cease.”Syria is still in the midst of a civil war and long has been a launch pad for Iranian-backed forces there, including the Lebanese militia Hezbollah. Iraq has multiple Iranian-backed Shiite militias operating there as well.Jordan, a staunch Western ally and a crucial power in Jerusalem for its oversight of holy sites there, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-jordan-sweida-captagon-smuggling-strike-24423e9b3b1038e5bced4a446dd3aee6">suspected of launching airstrikes in Syria</a>&nbsp;to disrupt drug smugglers, including one that killed nine people earlier this month.An umbrella group for Iran-backed factions known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq earlier claimed launching explosive drone attacks targeting three areas in Syria, as well as one inside of “occupied Palestine.” The group has claimed responsibility for dozens of attacks against bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria since the Israel-Hamas war began.___

Biden: U.S. service members killed, 'many' wounded in attack by Iran-back militia

KANSAS CITY (AP) —It has been three weeks since three Kansas City fans joined friends to watch the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-chargers-score-a2a7d7cc00886055cda31d1d9c3f3808">Chiefs play the Los Angeles Chargers</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-playoffs-analysis-23676cf40d7f56b4b80a2247e9372e26">final game</a>&nbsp;of the regular season. Their bodies were found in a friend's backyard two days later. Police still haven't said how the men died, but affirmed Saturday amid intense public speculation that they still have no evidence of foul play.

It’s common for police to decline to comment much on an investigation before it’s complete. So here's a look at what's known and not known in a mystery that has taken on a life of its own on social media and the internet despite — or perhaps because of — the lack of solid information.

Police accounts say Ricky Johnson, 38; Clayton McGeeney, 36; and David Harrington, 37; went to the home of a friend in Kansas City, Missouri, to watch the Chiefs game Jan. 7. None of them made it home. Two nights later, McGeeney's fiancé went to the home looking for him.

“When there was no answer at the door, she broke into the basement of the residence and located an unknown dead body on the back porch. Officers responded to the back porch and confirmed there was a dead body. Upon further investigation, officers located two other dead bodies in the back yard,” an initial police report on the incident said. “There were no obvious signs of foul play observed at or near the crime scene.”

Police say there are still no signs that any crime was committed.

“This still remains a death investigation and nothing more," Officer Alayna Gonzalez, a spokeswoman for the Kansas City Police Department, said in an email Saturday to The Associated Press. "We still have no evidence or indication of foul play, no one is in police custody,”

Investigators say they don't know yet. They have not said publicly whether they believe drugs or alcohol were involved in what might have been three relatively sudden and simultaneous deaths, though it's clear that that's a possibility they are considering. Weather records indicate the low temperature that night was around 33 degrees (1 degree Celsius).

“This incident has been gathering a significant amount of media attention and we (KCPD) would like answers on the cause of death just as much as everyone else does,” Gonzalez wrote.

The department is still waiting on a ruling on the cause of death from Frontier Forensics, Gonzalez said. It's a private company that proves autopsy services for numerous counties across Kansas and Missouri. Once police get the cause of death back, she said, they will be able to provide additional updates on the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705095774621.png" alt="Police near the home under investigation -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police near the home under investigation -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) —It has been three weeks since three Kansas City fans joined friends to watch the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-chargers-score-a2a7d7cc00886055cda31d1d9c3f3808">Chiefs play the Los Angeles Chargers</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-playoffs-analysis-23676cf40d7f56b4b80a2247e9372e26">final game</a>&nbsp;of the regular season. Their bodies were found in a friend's backyard two days later. Police still haven't said how the men died, but affirmed Saturday amid intense public speculation that they still have no evidence of foul play.It’s common for police to decline to comment much on an investigation before it’s complete. So here's a look at what's known and not known in a mystery that has taken on a life of its own on social media and the internet despite — or perhaps because of — the lack of solid information.WHAT HAPPENED?Police accounts say Ricky Johnson, 38; Clayton McGeeney, 36; and David Harrington, 37; went to the home of a friend in Kansas City, Missouri, to watch the Chiefs game Jan. 7. None of them made it home. Two nights later, McGeeney's fiancé went to the home looking for him.“When there was no answer at the door, she broke into the basement of the residence and located an unknown dead body on the back porch. Officers responded to the back porch and confirmed there was a dead body. Upon further investigation, officers located two other dead bodies in the back yard,” an initial police report on the incident said. “There were no obvious signs of foul play observed at or near the crime scene.”Police say there are still no signs that any crime was committed.“This still remains a death investigation and nothing more," Officer Alayna Gonzalez, a spokeswoman for the Kansas City Police Department, said in an email Saturday to The Associated Press. "We still have no evidence or indication of foul play, no one is in police custody,”HOW DID THEY DIE?Investigators say they don't know yet. They have not said publicly whether they believe drugs or alcohol were involved in what might have been three relatively sudden and simultaneous deaths, though it's clear that that's a possibility they are considering. Weather records indicate the low temperature that night was around 33 degrees (1 degree Celsius).“This incident has been gathering a significant amount of media attention and we (KCPD) would like answers on the cause of death just as much as everyone else does,” Gonzalez wrote.The department is still waiting on a ruling on the cause of death from Frontier Forensics, Gonzalez said. It's a private company that proves autopsy services for numerous counties across Kansas and Missouri. Once police get the cause of death back, she said, they will be able to provide additional updates on the investigation.“They are an entirely separate entity from the police department, so we have zero impact on the timeline of their medical findings," Gonzalez wrote. "We have been notified it could be as much as an additional six or more weeks to receive the toxicology reports.”IS THE HOMEOWNER UNDER INVESTIGATION?One factor fueling the speculation has been that the homeowner says he didn't know the bodies of his three longtime friends were on his back porch and in his backyard for the two days before they were found.But Gonzalez affirmed that the homeowner has cooperated with the investigation, an assertion that his lawyer, John Picerno, also has been making.Picerno didn't immediately return a call from the AP on Saturday. He said in a statement to Kansas City media earlier this month that his client was devastated by the deaths of his friends and that he didn't know that they were still in his backyard — or that they needed medical attention — until police showed up. Picerno said the last time that the homeowner saw them was when they left and he went to bed, and that he didn't know how they died.The attorney said his client was “anxiously awaiting the results of the autopsy and toxicology report,” and that they both wanted "to express our deepest sympathies to the friends and family members of these young men, and our thoughts and prayers are with them.”THE REACTIONAmong the questions raging on social media are: “Why hasn’t the owner been named a suspect?” and “What’s taking so long to determine a cause of death?” The mystery has gone viral on TikTok and other social platforms for its true-crime overtones. And family members of the three men have taken their frustrations to Kansas City-area media.“My son and these other men were wonderful people. They deserve justice,” Jennifer Marquez,&nbsp;<a href="https://fox4kc.com/news/families-devastated-still-waiting-for-answers-after-3-men-found-dead-at-kc-home/">Harrington's mother, told WDAF-TV.</a>&nbsp;“The story, the whole story needs to come out.”But the statements from police indicate that it could still be weeks before they can provide definitive answers.