POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating a violent crime and have made an arrest.

Just after 12:30a.m. Sunday the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call of a woman who was run over in the 20000 block of Pauling Run Road, rural Wamego, Pottawatomie County, according to a media release.

 Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the location and were able to determine that a female suspect, identified as Dana Blume, 43, of Onaga, had intentionally run over the victim, identified as Kara Murray, 52, of Wamego with a vehicle following an argument. 

The victim sustained serious injuries and was flown by helicopter to an area hospital, where she is being treated. Blume was arrested and is currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail awaiting bond to be set on charges of Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree.&nbsp;

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating a violent crime and have made an arrest.Just after 12:30a.m. Sunday the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call of a woman who was run over in the 20000 block of Pauling Run Road, rural Wamego, Pottawatomie County, according to a media release. Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the location and were able to determine that a female suspect, identified as Dana Blume, 43, of Onaga, had intentionally run over the victim, identified as Kara Murray, 52, of Wamego with a vehicle following an argument. The victim sustained serious injuries and was flown by helicopter to an area hospital, where she is being treated. Blume was arrested and is currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail awaiting bond to be set on charges of Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree.&nbsp;

Sheriff: Woman drove over Kan. woman during argument

Newsom departs Southeastern Oklahoma State to lead enrollment-challenged PSU

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents selected the president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University to take over leadership of Pittsburg State University.

Thomas Newsom, a former Texan with more than 20 years of experience in higher education, will become the 11th president of 5,700-student public university in southeast Kansas.

“Dr. Newsom brings a wealth of experience as a university and community college president,” said Blake Benson,&nbsp;a Pittsburg resident due to become chairperson of the Board of Regents in July. “He has helped multiple institutions grow enrollment and improve, all while focusing on student affordability.”

Newsom, appointed president of Southeastern Oklahoma State in 2020, was credited with helping set an all-time enrollment record of 5,800 students in 2024 on the campus in Durant, Oklahoma.

Enrollment at Southeastern Oklahoma State has grown nearly 500 students since 2020, while PSU enrollment has declined 13% in that period.

Newsom was previously vice president of student success and dean of students at Texas A&amp;M University at Commerce, Texas. He worked five years as president of Mesalands Community College in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

He said in a statement Friday announcing the PSU appointment that he was appreciative of the faculty and staff at Southeastern Oklahoma State.

“I would also like to thank the Kansas Board of Regents for the opportunity to make this amazing professional and personal move,” Newsom said.

Newsom earned a doctorate in higher education administration at University of North Texas, a master’s degree in higher education from Texas A&amp;M-Commerce and an undergraduate degree in business at Austin College.

He was selected to replace Dan Shipp, who resigned as PSU president in May to become president of Maryville University in St. Louis.

The Board of Regents’ objective was to hire a “growth-oriented, proven leader” capable of building on PSU’s foundation of “good fiscal management, unique program delivery and exceptional relationships” with the city of Pittsburg.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750605272479.png" alt="Kansas Board of Regents appoints Thomas Newsom, far right, president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, to become president of Pittsburg State University. He replaces Dan Shipp, who resigned to become president of Maryville University in St. Louis. (Southeastern Oklahoma State University)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Board of Regents appoints Thomas Newsom, far right, president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, to become president of Pittsburg State University. He replaces Dan Shipp, who resigned to become president of Maryville University in St. Louis. (Southeastern Oklahoma State University)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Newsom departs Southeastern Oklahoma State to lead enrollment-challenged PSU</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents selected the president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University to take over leadership of Pittsburg State University.Thomas Newsom, a former Texan with more than 20 years of experience in higher education, will become the 11th president of 5,700-student public university in southeast Kansas.“Dr. Newsom brings a wealth of experience as a university and community college president,” said Blake Benson,&nbsp;a Pittsburg resident due to become chairperson of the Board of Regents in July. “He has helped multiple institutions grow enrollment and improve, all while focusing on student affordability.”Newsom, appointed president of Southeastern Oklahoma State in 2020, was credited with helping set an all-time enrollment record of 5,800 students in 2024 on the campus in Durant, Oklahoma.Enrollment at Southeastern Oklahoma State has grown nearly 500 students since 2020, while PSU enrollment has declined 13% in that period.Newsom was previously vice president of student success and dean of students at Texas A&amp;M University at Commerce, Texas. He worked five years as president of Mesalands Community College in Tucumcari, New Mexico.He said in a statement Friday announcing the PSU appointment that he was appreciative of the faculty and staff at Southeastern Oklahoma State.“I would also like to thank the Kansas Board of Regents for the opportunity to make this amazing professional and personal move,” Newsom said.Newsom earned a doctorate in higher education administration at University of North Texas, a master’s degree in higher education from Texas A&amp;M-Commerce and an undergraduate degree in business at Austin College.He was selected to replace Dan Shipp, who resigned as PSU president in May to become president of Maryville University in St. Louis.The Board of Regents’ objective was to hire a “growth-oriented, proven leader” capable of building on PSU’s foundation of “good fiscal management, unique program delivery and exceptional relationships” with the city of Pittsburg.

Kansas ed board hires Oklahoman to serve as president of Pittsburg State University

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating a rescue at a creek on Saturday in Kansas City.

Just after 1:30p.m., KC Fire Department companies were dispatched to Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Prospect Avenue for reports of a person on a mower rolling into Brush Creek, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

As companies arrived on scene, they observed someone being pulled out of the water by bystanders and placed on the bank of Brush Creek. It was determined the rescue boats were not needed and were cancelled.&nbsp;KCFD personnel immediately took over medical care of the patient and transported them to the hospital.&nbsp; Nolan released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750542669503.png" alt="Brush Creek photo KC Parks and Rec" />
 <figcaption>Brush Creek photo KC Parks and Rec</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating a rescue at a creek on Saturday in Kansas City.Just after 1:30p.m., KC Fire Department companies were dispatched to Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd and Prospect Avenue for reports of a person on a mower rolling into Brush Creek, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.As companies arrived on scene, they observed someone being pulled out of the water by bystanders and placed on the bank of Brush Creek. It was determined the rescue boats were not needed and were cancelled.&nbsp;KCFD personnel immediately took over medical care of the patient and transported them to the hospital.&nbsp; Nolan released no additional details.

Man rescued after mower rolled into Kansas City area creek

The U.S. bombers struck three sites in Iran early Sunday, according to a statement from President Donald Trump.&nbsp; The Pentagon held a press briefing to provide additional details on the mission.

The U.S. bombers struck three sites in Iran early Sunday, according to a statement from President Donald Trump.&nbsp; The Pentagon held a press briefing to provide additional details on the mission.(click the videos below to watch)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine (<a href="https://twitter.com/thejointstaff?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thejointstaff</a>) on Operation MIDNIGHT HAMMER: &quot;This was the largest B-2 operation strike in U.S. history.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/VeyUjP84JT">pic.twitter.com/VeyUjP84JT</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1936763649411973190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth (<a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDef</a>): &quot;We devastated the Iran nuclear program...Iran&#39;s nuclear ambitions have been obliterated.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/39zW06zFtm">pic.twitter.com/39zW06zFtm</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1936761039011414133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Pentagon: Dramatic details of Iran bombing 'Operation Midnight Hammer'

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal Kansas officer involved shooting.

Just after 3a.m. Sunday, police responded to report of a person armed with a gun at an apartment complex&nbsp; in the 12400 block of W. 97th Terrace in Lenexa, according to a media release. 

Shots were fired by at least one Lenexa officer, and one person is deceased. No officers were injured. The Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Investigation Team has been activated and is in charge of this investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750595634129.png" alt="Photo Lenexa Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lenexa Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal Kansas officer involved shooting.Just after 3a.m. Sunday, police responded to report of a person armed with a gun at an apartment complex&nbsp; in the 12400 block of W. 97th Terrace in Lenexa, according to a media release. Shots were fired by at least one Lenexa officer, and one person is deceased. No officers were injured. The Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Investigation Team has been activated and is in charge of this investigation.

One dead in Kansas officer involved shooting

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tonight, President Trump and our brave military demonstrated the importance of strength in pursuit of peace. We strongly support the President’s actions against Iranian nuclear facilities. Missourians are proud of the men and women from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.&mdash; Governor Mike Kehoe (@GovMikeKehoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeKehoe/status/1936611210054828112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump is a foreign policy realist not an ideologue. He has taken limited military action to achieve a crucial objective that is in the core national interest of the United States: preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. He doesn’t want another Forever War. He…&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1936599592659017852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Peace through strength. <a href="https://t.co/o3Z2otW7Md">pic.twitter.com/o3Z2otW7Md</a>&mdash; Rep. Sam Graves (@RepSamGraves) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSamGraves/status/1936583064089444756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As the Congressman for Whiteman AFB, I’ve been saying for weeks that our airmen in the 509th bomber wing are ready, capable, and lethal. Tonight, they showed the world what they can do to protect American interests and keep our citizens safe. MO-04 strong! <a href="https://t.co/osuwoTvzhl">pic.twitter.com/osuwoTvzhl</a>&mdash; Rep. Mark Alford (@RepMarkAlford) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMarkAlford/status/1936585247002689914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran is an adversary of the U.S. and should not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Tonight our military executed its mission professionally and courageously. I pray for the safety of all our troops in the region, and we must be vigilant in protecting against any Iranian…&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1936606358041751563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran was given every chance to get rid of its nuclear program, but instead of choosing peace the Ayatollah embraced violence and chaos. President Trump was absolutely right to send our bombers in and strike the Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear facilities, and this decision…&mdash; Ann Wagner (@RepAnnWagner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepAnnWagner/status/1936598761448337749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you to our brave American Air Force and their successful mission as no Americans were harmed. We stand tall with President Trump who is protecting the world from a nuclear capable Iran. <a href="https://t.co/MLWc1FbPF9">https://t.co/MLWc1FbPF9</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1936591179078086896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Missouri lawmakers comment on US bombing of Iran

NEOSHO COUNTY — The search continues for the body of one of two boys who died after struck by a train on a river bridge Wednesday in Neosho County.

Another combined effort Saturday was unsuccessful in finding the body of a 12-year-old&nbsp; Kollin Showwalter of Erie, according to Sheriff Greg Taylor.

 Over the last few days, first responders have utilized drones, planes, helicopters, boats, sonar systems, divers, law enforcement K9’s, cadaver dogs, and shoreline search crews.

This has been a disheartening experience for all involved, according to Sheriff Taylor. Saturday, the water began to rise and the current increased in the late afternoon. Searchers are suspending the search until the water can drop to a normal level.

The sheriff thanked all of the first responders and dog handlers, some of which traveled across the state to get to assist. The sheriff also thanked the property owner who was kind enough to allow us to stage and deploy from his boat ramp and property.

"We had an overwhelming amount of support and donations from the community of food and water for the responders. Our thoughts and prayers are with both families of this tragedy. We are still hopeful that the child will be found once the river drops to a favorable level. "

Just after 12:30p.m. Wednesday the Neosho County 911 Center received a report from the Union Pacific Railroad that two individuals had been struck on the Railroad Bridge south of Erie near 115th Road, according to Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor.

First responders found 16-year-old Arthur Pollries of Walnut, Kansas, deceased, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

&nbsp;Kansas Deparatment of Wildlife and Parks responded with personnel, a drone and boat. KHP sent numerous personnel, helicopter, and search dogs in an attempt to find the body of the 12-year-old.

After reviewing the Engine Camera footage and physical evidence, the two children were on the bridge and unable to outrun the train. Unfortunately after reviewing the footage and physical evidence at the scene, the search went from hopeful rescue effort to a recovery effort.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750415791745.png" alt="Photo Anderson County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Anderson County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>NEOSHO COUNTY — The search continues for the body of one of two boys who died after struck by a train on a river bridge Wednesday in Neosho County.Another combined effort Saturday was unsuccessful in finding the body of a 12-year-old&nbsp; Kollin Showwalter of Erie, according to Sheriff Greg Taylor. Over the last few days, first responders have utilized drones, planes, helicopters, boats, sonar systems, divers, law enforcement K9’s, cadaver dogs, and shoreline search crews.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750415806128.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This has been a disheartening experience for all involved, according to Sheriff Taylor. Saturday, the water began to rise and the current increased in the late afternoon. Searchers are suspending the search until the water can drop to a normal level.The sheriff thanked all of the first responders and dog handlers, some of which traveled across the state to get to assist. The sheriff also thanked the property owner who was kind enough to allow us to stage and deploy from his boat ramp and property."We had an overwhelming amount of support and donations from the community of food and water for the responders. Our thoughts and prayers are with both families of this tragedy. We are still hopeful that the child will be found once the river drops to a favorable level. "Just after 12:30p.m. Wednesday the Neosho County 911 Center received a report from the Union Pacific Railroad that two individuals had been struck on the Railroad Bridge south of Erie near 115th Road, according to Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor.First responders found 16-year-old Arthur Pollries of Walnut, Kansas, deceased, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.&nbsp;Kansas Deparatment of Wildlife and Parks responded with personnel, a drone and boat. KHP sent numerous personnel, helicopter, and search dogs in an attempt to find the body of the 12-year-old.After reviewing the Engine Camera footage and physical evidence, the two children were on the bridge and unable to outrun the train. Unfortunately after reviewing the footage and physical evidence at the scene, the search went from hopeful rescue effort to a recovery effort.

Recovery effort suspended after 2 Kan. boys killed on river bridge

OSAGE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Saturday in Osage County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Chevy Silverado driven by Louis R. Madden, 27, Waverly, was northbound on S Jordan Road&nbsp; just north of the W 317th Street junction. The pickup traveled off the road to the right and the driver overcorrected. The pickup then rolled onto its roof in the west ditch. 

Madden was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Forensic Medical. EMS transported a 5-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl to Stormont Vail Health for treatment of minor injuries. The driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

OSAGE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Saturday in Osage County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Chevy Silverado driven by Louis R. Madden, 27, Waverly, was northbound on S Jordan Road&nbsp; just north of the W 317th Street junction. The pickup traveled off the road to the right and the driver overcorrected. The pickup then rolled onto its roof in the west ditch. Madden was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Forensic Medical. EMS transported a 5-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl to Stormont Vail Health for treatment of minor injuries. The driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kan. man dead, two 5-year-olds injured in rollover crash

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Donald J. Trump Delivers Address to the Nation, June 21, 2025 <a href="https://t.co/yutRDvtWv0">https://t.co/yutRDvtWv0</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1936602999553433965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0eDnzuBAGJkTkYPzYhbNGHiGVMjbEJr79xgwPEwbCPQDaoDyvNppzHEyJQ8KSMtbfl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="645" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

🎥 President Trump address to the nation after attack on Iran

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750540951558.png" alt="FILE PHOTO -- The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions.&nbsp; (U.S. Air Force photo by Bobbie Garcia)" />
 <figcaption>FILE PHOTO -- The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions.&nbsp; (U.S. Air Force photo by Bobbie Garcia)</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/wu9mMkxtUg">pic.twitter.com/wu9mMkxtUg</a>&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1936573183634645387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750552826391.png" alt="President Trump arriving back at the White House Saturday afternoon" />
 <figcaption>President Trump arriving back at the White House Saturday afternoon</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/5z5p2JMPf1">pic.twitter.com/5z5p2JMPf1</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1936578685986910309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/C5vWu396WF">pic.twitter.com/C5vWu396WF</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1936587221483577642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

President Trump: US attacked three Iranian nuclear sites

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces felony charges in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place near Midtown earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2655/Holmes-Johnny---Complaint-Packet">Johnny X. Holmes</a>, 36, faces 2nd Degree Murder and one count of Armed Criminal Action, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2656/Holmes-Johnny---PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to the area of 34th Street and Broadway Boulevard on June 12 regarding a cutting. They found the deceased victim with multiple lacerations.&nbsp;

Surveillance footage showed the victim and the suspect walking separately near the crime scene before the homicide occurred. While the homicide took place outside the camera range, footage shows the suspect leaving the scene.

The investigation revealed another violent incident. Detectives identified an additional assault in the same general area with similar characteristics of last week’s fatal stabbing. Holmes was identified as a suspect in a prior assault and matched the description of the fatal stabbing suspect from the surveillance footage.&nbsp;

Holmes was taken into custody, he was wearing shoes with blood on them. Lab testing later confirmed that the blood matched the victim. In Holmes apartment, detectives found a pocketknife with blood on it and clothing that matched clothing worn by the suspect captured on surveillance footage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750279675472.png" alt="Holmes photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Holmes photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces felony charges in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place near Midtown earlier this month.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2655/Holmes-Johnny---Complaint-Packet">Johnny X. Holmes</a>, 36, faces 2nd Degree Murder and one count of Armed Criminal Action, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2656/Holmes-Johnny---PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to the area of 34th Street and Broadway Boulevard on June 12 regarding a cutting. They found the deceased victim with multiple lacerations.&nbsp;Surveillance footage showed the victim and the suspect walking separately near the crime scene before the homicide occurred. While the homicide took place outside the camera range, footage shows the suspect leaving the scene.The investigation revealed another violent incident. Detectives identified an additional assault in the same general area with similar characteristics of last week’s fatal stabbing. Holmes was identified as a suspect in a prior assault and matched the description of the fatal stabbing suspect from the surveillance footage.&nbsp;Holmes was taken into custody, he was wearing shoes with blood on them. Lab testing later confirmed that the blood matched the victim. In Holmes apartment, detectives found a pocketknife with blood on it and clothing that matched clothing worn by the suspect captured on surveillance footage.Holmes is being held without bond.&nbsp;.

Bloody shoes led to arrest in fatal KC knife attack

KANSAS CITY – An Ozark, Missouri man pleaded guilty in federal court today to one count of attempting to evade or defeat taxation, according to the United State's Attorney.

<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/file/SC96223_McMillin_brief.pdf">Click here to read the</a> respondent's brief

Ryan J. McMillin, 52, admitted during his plea that he did not report income he received while employed as a timeshare salesman with four different companies from 2018 to 2023. Because McMillin claimed exempt status on his W-4s his employers did not withhold taxes from McMillin’s paychecks. McMillin also failed to make an income tax return or pay income taxes to the IRS for those six calendar years. McMillin owes the IRS an estimated $581,981 in unpaid taxes.

Under federal statutes, McMillin is subject to a sentence of up to five years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigations.

KANSAS CITY – An Ozark, Missouri man pleaded guilty in federal court today to one count of attempting to evade or defeat taxation, according to the United State's Attorney.<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/file/SC96223_McMillin_brief.pdf">Click here to read the</a> respondent's briefRyan J. McMillin, 52, admitted during his plea that he did not report income he received while employed as a timeshare salesman with four different companies from 2018 to 2023. Because McMillin claimed exempt status on his W-4s his employers did not withhold taxes from McMillin’s paychecks. McMillin also failed to make an income tax return or pay income taxes to the IRS for those six calendar years. McMillin owes the IRS an estimated $581,981 in unpaid taxes.Under federal statutes, McMillin is subject to a sentence of up to five years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigations.

Read the brief: Timeshare salesman admits attempting to skip paying taxes

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

Just after 4p.m June 19, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop at 4th and Topeka in Carbondale for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.

Crystal R. Fisher, 41 of Carbondale was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750291101317.png" alt="Fisher photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Fisher photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple drug allegations.Just after 4p.m June 19, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop at 4th and Topeka in Carbondale for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.Crystal R. Fisher, 41 of Carbondale was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kansas K9 unit caught woman transporting meth,  marijuana

First District congressman answers critique of GOP’s immigration, Medicaid policies

TOPEKA — Republican U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann of Kansas said Friday the nation ought to get behind President Donald Trump’s ultimate decision on whether to authorize military strikes to interrupt Iran’s development of nuclear weapons.

The Trump administration said a determination could be made within two weeks about deployment of sophisticated weapons aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear sites. Meanwhile, Israel and Iran continued to exchange barrages in a weeklong shooting conflict.

“Under no circumstance should Iran be allowed to have a nuclear weapon,” Mann said in an interview. “President Trump has always been clear that his goal is to attain American peace through strength. We need to support our president on whatever his decision is.”

Mann wasn’t the only member of the Kansas delegation drawn to the clash between Iran and Israel.

“Iran should not have nuclear capabilities,” said U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, a Republican serving the Wichita region. “They are a state sponsor of terrorism and a threat to the Middle East and the entire world.”

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said he was confident Trump was examining different sides of the question. He said he hoped Israel could finish the job without direct involvement of the United States.

“What we’re hoping to see over there is a regime change as well and end this terrorist organization,” Marshall said. “I know philosophically President Trump is not going to get us into another endless war.”

Mann, who serves the large 1st District stretching from Dodge City in the west to Lawrence in the east, said the House and Senate was intent on passing a massive bill featuring tax cuts, investment in border security and deportation of people in the country illegally, modernization of air traffic control systems, expansion of agriculture programs and reform of the social safety net.

“If we fail to pass this bill the average Kansas family will face a tax hike of $2,200 in January,” Mann said. “That’s the last thing Kansas families need after four years of level records of inflation.”

Mann objected to the latest projection from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office that budget legislation passed last month by the House and undergoing vetting by the Senate could increase federal deficits by $2.8 trillion over the next decade. The CBO produced a dynamic analysis that took into account how the economy could adjust to changes in revenue and spending.

Mann said the CBO’s estimate of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act underestimated economic growth tied to tax reductions. In 2022, he said, CBO said the Inflation Reduction Act would lower the deficit by $238 billion. That was revised in 2024 to indicate it could boost the deficit.

In addition, he said economic assumptions related to implementation of the pending “big, beautiful bill” were too modest.

“I believe once it’s passed the economic growth will exceed expectations as President Trump has done in the first five months of his presidency,” Mann said.

Mann said the Senate shouldn’t make broad changes to the House version because “I was really happy with what we passed.”

Mann said he had heard concern among Kansas farmers about Trump’s tariff and immigration policies disrupting the agriculture economy. Trump has been criticized by baffled business owners for the on-again, off-again targeting of immigrant labor on farms. There have been calls to exempt agriculture from Trump’s immigration crackdown.

Mann said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel were focused on deporting individuals with a violent background.

“No one loves America’s farmers, ranchers and ag producers more than President Trump,” Mann said. “America has the safest, most secure food supply in the world and this administration is working around the clock to ensure that we further strengthen the farm economy.”

Assertions tax provisions in the House bill excessively rewarded billionaires while making life difficult for lower-income individuals were misplaced, Mann said. He said the bill featured the largest tax cut for middle-class families in U.S. history and eliminated income taxes on overtime and tips, reduced taxes on Social Security and expanded the child tax credit.

“I’ve never met a billionaire who is counting on overtime pay, living off of Social Security or banking on tips to make ends meet so I just reject that notion,” Mann said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750468758715.png" alt="U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, R-Kansas, said it was important to prevent Iran from securing nuclear weapons and defended his vote for a GOP-crafted House bill that controversially delved into budgets, immigration, agriculture and the social safety net. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, R-Kansas, said it was important to prevent Iran from securing nuclear weapons and defended his vote for a GOP-crafted House bill that controversially delved into budgets, immigration, agriculture and the social safety net. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>First District congressman answers critique of GOP’s immigration, Medicaid policies</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Republican U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann of Kansas said Friday the nation ought to get behind President Donald Trump’s ultimate decision on whether to authorize military strikes to interrupt Iran’s development of nuclear weapons.The Trump administration said a determination could be made within two weeks about deployment of sophisticated weapons aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear sites. Meanwhile, Israel and Iran continued to exchange barrages in a weeklong shooting conflict.“Under no circumstance should Iran be allowed to have a nuclear weapon,” Mann said in an interview. “President Trump has always been clear that his goal is to attain American peace through strength. We need to support our president on whatever his decision is.”Mann wasn’t the only member of the Kansas delegation drawn to the clash between Iran and Israel.“Iran should not have nuclear capabilities,” said U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, a Republican serving the Wichita region. “They are a state sponsor of terrorism and a threat to the Middle East and the entire world.”U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said he was confident Trump was examining different sides of the question. He said he hoped Israel could finish the job without direct involvement of the United States.“What we’re hoping to see over there is a regime change as well and end this terrorist organization,” Marshall said. “I know philosophically President Trump is not going to get us into another endless war.”<h2>The big bill</h2>Mann, who serves the large 1st District stretching from Dodge City in the west to Lawrence in the east, said the House and Senate was intent on passing a massive bill featuring tax cuts, investment in border security and deportation of people in the country illegally, modernization of air traffic control systems, expansion of agriculture programs and reform of the social safety net.“If we fail to pass this bill the average Kansas family will face a tax hike of $2,200 in January,” Mann said. “That’s the last thing Kansas families need after four years of level records of inflation.”Mann objected to the latest projection from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office that budget legislation passed last month by the House and undergoing vetting by the Senate could increase federal deficits by $2.8 trillion over the next decade. The CBO produced a dynamic analysis that took into account how the economy could adjust to changes in revenue and spending.Mann said the CBO’s estimate of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act underestimated economic growth tied to tax reductions. In 2022, he said, CBO said the Inflation Reduction Act would lower the deficit by $238 billion. That was revised in 2024 to indicate it could boost the deficit.In addition, he said economic assumptions related to implementation of the pending “big, beautiful bill” were too modest.“I believe once it’s passed the economic growth will exceed expectations as President Trump has done in the first five months of his presidency,” Mann said.Mann said the Senate shouldn’t make broad changes to the House version because “I was really happy with what we passed.”<h2>Farm economy</h2>Mann said he had heard concern among Kansas farmers about Trump’s tariff and immigration policies disrupting the agriculture economy. Trump has been criticized by baffled business owners for the on-again, off-again targeting of immigrant labor on farms. There have been calls to exempt agriculture from Trump’s immigration crackdown.Mann said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel were focused on deporting individuals with a violent background.“No one loves America’s farmers, ranchers and ag producers more than President Trump,” Mann said. “America has the safest, most secure food supply in the world and this administration is working around the clock to ensure that we further strengthen the farm economy.”Assertions tax provisions in the House bill excessively rewarded billionaires while making life difficult for lower-income individuals were misplaced, Mann said. He said the bill featured the largest tax cut for middle-class families in U.S. history and eliminated income taxes on overtime and tips, reduced taxes on Social Security and expanded the child tax credit.“I’ve never met a billionaire who is counting on overtime pay, living off of Social Security or banking on tips to make ends meet so I just reject that notion,” Mann said.

Mann, Estes, Marshall share confidence in Trump’s approach to deterring Iran’s nuclear ambition

NEOSHO COUNTY — The search continues for the body one of two boys who died after struck by a train on a river bridge Wednesday in Neosho County.

Early Friday, officials determined the Neosho River had dropped approximately 10 feet, according to Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor.

A large contingent of first responders assisted with the search for the body of 12-year-old&nbsp;Kollin Showwalter of Erie. Search crews were able to use cadaver dogs. The sheriff believes the river may drop another 5 feet and authorities will resume the search Saturday.

The Neosho River is private property and the law requires anyone on the river to have permission from the landowners on both sides of the river, according to the sheriff.&nbsp; "I know we have a large contingent of river fishermen who have such permission for certain stretches of the river. No doubt many of these fishermen will be out enjoying their usual fishing holes on their Saturday off work."

"If any of the fisherman happen to see something while enjoying your normal activities, please call and we will get a first responder to your location."&nbsp;

"We desperately want to find this child, and hopefully give the family a little closure."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750415806128.png" alt="Photos Anderson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Anderson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>NEOSHO COUNTY — The search continues for the body one of two boys who died after struck by a train on a river bridge Wednesday in Neosho County.Early Friday, officials determined the Neosho River had dropped approximately 10 feet, according to Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor.A large contingent of first responders assisted with the search for the body of 12-year-old&nbsp;Kollin Showwalter of Erie. Search crews were able to use cadaver dogs. The sheriff believes the river may drop another 5 feet and authorities will resume the search Saturday.The Neosho River is private property and the law requires anyone on the river to have permission from the landowners on both sides of the river, according to the sheriff.&nbsp; "I know we have a large contingent of river fishermen who have such permission for certain stretches of the river. No doubt many of these fishermen will be out enjoying their usual fishing holes on their Saturday off work."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750415791745.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"If any of the fisherman happen to see something while enjoying your normal activities, please call and we will get a first responder to your location."&nbsp;"We desperately want to find this child, and hopefully give the family a little closure."Just after 12:30p.m. Wednesday the Neosho County 911 Center received a report from the Union Pacific Railroad that two individuals had been struck on the Railroad Bridge south of Erie near 115th Road, according to Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor.First responders found 16-year-old Arthur Pollries of Walnut, Kansas, deceased, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.&nbsp;Kansas Deparatment of Wildlife and Parks responded with personnel, a drone and boat. KHP sent numerous personnel, helicopter, and search dogs in an attempt to find the body of the 12-year-old.After reviewing the Engine Camera footage and physical evidence, the two children were on the bridge and unable to outrun the train. Unfortunately after reviewing the footage and physical evidence at the scene, the search went from hopeful rescue effort to a recovery effort.

Sheriff asks for help: 2 Kan. boys tried to outrun train on river bridge

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

Fees for new licenses and vehicle registrations would increase 50% to attract bidders under legislation on the governor’s desk

When the state announced the Caruthersville license office was going to close, residents needing to renew registrations or driver license were directed to the closest open offices in Kennett, New Madrid and Malden.&nbsp;

Those communities are all at least an hour, round-trip, from Caruthersville. The inconvenience would be compounded if, after waiting in line, the transaction couldn’t be completed for lack of a required document.

The Missouri Department of Revenue was quick to note motorists renewing vehicle registrations — but not new vehicle registrations or drivers license transactions —&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/plates/" target="_blank">could do so online</a>.

But the situation in Caruthersville is not unique, as a growing number of license offices around the state are shuttering — currently at least six of 175 — with dozens more operating under an expired contract.

<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=235" target="_blank">A bill</a>&nbsp;sponsored by state Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Republican from Buffalo, and awaiting action from Gov. Mike Kehoe, would increase the fees received by the license offices by 50%.

The transaction fee for a drivers license or motor vehicle would go from $6 to $9 for the shortest period and from $12 to $18 for the longest, six years for a drivers license and two years for a vehicle registration.

The fee on transactions is in addition to the state charge for&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/titling-registration/fees.html" target="_blank">titling and registering</a>&nbsp;a vehicle and obtaining or renewing&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/resources/license.html#fees" target="_blank">a drivers license</a>.

The goal is to make the offices attractive to contractors and avoid closures, Crawford said during a House committee hearing in April.

“I live in a small town, and if my license bureau were to close, I would likely have to drive 45 minutes, take a half a day to drive and get my license,” Crawford said. “And so I would much rather pay $3 than take off half a day and drive 45 miles or 45 minutes to get this done.”

There is supposed to be at least one license office in every county.

“Many small agents in rural communities have stated they are closing or not rebidding upon contract expiration,” said Ryan Williams, the license office contractor in Gladstone in Clay County. “Hopefully this increase will help enough to keep them open and solvent.”

Williams is also the legislative chair of the Missouri Association of License Offices.

The smallest office currently closed is in Unionville, in Putnam County on the Iowa border. The nearest open office is in Milan, a 50-minute round-trip. The busiest is the South Springfield License Office, which&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/contact/documents/FY2024-MV-and-DL-Estimated-Transactions.pdf" target="_blank">processed more than 100,000 transactions</a>&nbsp;in fiscal 2024. There are two other offices within five miles.

The other offices currently closed are in Cuba, Willow Springs, Sedalia and&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/news/newsitem/uuid/39dacb8b-5467-4c37-b3d2-dbfc19a27a84" target="_blank">Palmyra</a>.

License offices, also known as fee offices for the transaction fees they charge, at one time were awarded by governors as political patronage. Until 2005, there were a dozen state-operated offices in the largest cities.

A bidding and contract system was created in the following years. The fees have been raised twice previously this century, in 2003 and 2019. There are currently 16 license offices listed on the state purchasing website, including Caruthersville and Unionville, which is on for the second time this year.

“We’re the only direct interaction that most people have with the state of Missouri,” Williams said.

In fiscal 2024, license offices processed almost 9 million transactions and charged $58.4 million in fees.

The Unionville office generated $28,736 in fees on 4,519 transactions. The Caruthersville office took in $119,260 from 18,747 transactions. And the South Springfield office received fees of $702,290 to process 105,516 transactions.

The reputation of license offices is not good, as seen by comments of members of the House Commerce Committee during the April hearing.

“If I had $1 for every time my office got called for the unpleasantness of the Rolla, Missouri, office, I’d be a millionaire today,” said state Rep. Tara Peters, a Republican from Rolla in her third year in the legislature.

State Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican, said he was glad lawmakers get special service for their license plates, which have legislative identifiers. There are two two license offices in Branson.

“I’m so glad that as a representative, I get to do the things right here in the Capitol that I need to do so I can continue to serve the people instead of wait an hour and a half in line without a bathroom,” Seitz said.

During the hearing, Williams said the contract office system saves the state money.

“If the state took it over, it would be a considerable expense,” he said.

The facilities and staffing are dependent on the amount of fees an office generates, Williams said. The contractor must meet payroll, pay rent and cover office expenses from the fee revenue.

“When you have long wait times, that’s a direct result that we can’t afford to hire the staff that we need, or pay them or attract the staff that we need,” Williams said.

The issues forcing contractors to give up their offices aren’t all financial, said Terri Harris, owner of Elle Management in St. Louis. At one point, Harris operated nine license offices around the state and was the contractor at South Springfield when it closed.

The contract had been repeatedly extended, for short periods, leaving her with uncertainty about the future and making it difficult to hire staff, she said.

After 34 years in the business, including almost two decades managing license offices for others, health issues and working through bureaucratic and political issues with the department became too much, she said.

The fee increase in 2019 was welcome, Harris said, but came just before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The first thing I did when we got that increase is I brought my employees’ wages up to where I could stay competitive,” Harris said. “After COVID, everything changed for all employers, and my offices were large. It required a lot of employees, and frankly, the increase that I could afford to make was eaten up when you wait 17 and a half years for an increase.”

When she surrendered the contract, Harris said, she was offering $20.50 an hour to employees.

“We couldn’t keep people at that pay rate,” she said.

The fee increases will not induce her to return to the business of operating license offices, Harris said.

The South Springfield office was on an extended contract, but the extensions were short. That uncertainty also made staffing difficult, she said.&nbsp;

“We went through years of being extended, two months, three months, maybe four months at a time,” she said. “That was ridiculous.”

She was reluctant to seek new contracts because the requirements being added didn’t work in the office situations she dealt with, Harris said. Specific performance numbers for managers, who Harris wanted supervising rather than processing transactions, was one issue, she said.

“The relationship became adversarial,”

&nbsp;Initial contracts are generally for five years and the bill before Kehoe allows an extension of five years at the discretion of the director of revenue.

The bill would also bar department employees from becoming contractors or part owners of a license office company for a year after leaving state employment.

The department should figure out how to give more support to the small, rural offices where fee income is low, Harris said.

The contract requirements for the Unionville office call for it to be open 24 hours a week. It processed about four transactions an hour during fiscal 2024.&nbsp;

“These communities, when you close an office, they’re not going 10 minutes away to the next office,” Harris said. “They’re going counties away, right to the next office. It’s it’s tough on the community period. I also understand there is a very small profit margin in them, and that makes it difficult."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750444315864.png" alt=" The Columbia License Office, one of two contract Department of Revenue offices in the city. Six of the 175 license offices in Missouri are closed because no contractor is willing to operate them. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption> The Columbia License Office, one of two contract Department of Revenue offices in the city. Six of the 175 license offices in Missouri are closed because no contractor is willing to operate them. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>Fees for new licenses and vehicle registrations would increase 50% to attract bidders under legislation on the governor’s desk</h2>When the state announced the Caruthersville license office was going to close, residents needing to renew registrations or driver license were directed to the closest open offices in Kennett, New Madrid and Malden.&nbsp;Those communities are all at least an hour, round-trip, from Caruthersville. The inconvenience would be compounded if, after waiting in line, the transaction couldn’t be completed for lack of a required document.The Missouri Department of Revenue was quick to note motorists renewing vehicle registrations — but not new vehicle registrations or drivers license transactions —&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/plates/" target="_blank">could do so online</a>.But the situation in Caruthersville is not unique, as a growing number of license offices around the state are shuttering — currently at least six of 175 — with dozens more operating under an expired contract.<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=235" target="_blank">A bill</a>&nbsp;sponsored by state Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Republican from Buffalo, and awaiting action from Gov. Mike Kehoe, would increase the fees received by the license offices by 50%.The transaction fee for a drivers license or motor vehicle would go from $6 to $9 for the shortest period and from $12 to $18 for the longest, six years for a drivers license and two years for a vehicle registration.The fee on transactions is in addition to the state charge for&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/titling-registration/fees.html" target="_blank">titling and registering</a>&nbsp;a vehicle and obtaining or renewing&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/resources/license.html#fees" target="_blank">a drivers license</a>.The goal is to make the offices attractive to contractors and avoid closures, Crawford said during a House committee hearing in April.“I live in a small town, and if my license bureau were to close, I would likely have to drive 45 minutes, take a half a day to drive and get my license,” Crawford said. “And so I would much rather pay $3 than take off half a day and drive 45 miles or 45 minutes to get this done.”There is supposed to be at least one license office in every county.“Many small agents in rural communities have stated they are closing or not rebidding upon contract expiration,” said Ryan Williams, the license office contractor in Gladstone in Clay County. “Hopefully this increase will help enough to keep them open and solvent.”Williams is also the legislative chair of the Missouri Association of License Offices.The smallest office currently closed is in Unionville, in Putnam County on the Iowa border. The nearest open office is in Milan, a 50-minute round-trip. The busiest is the South Springfield License Office, which&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/contact/documents/FY2024-MV-and-DL-Estimated-Transactions.pdf" target="_blank">processed more than 100,000 transactions</a>&nbsp;in fiscal 2024. There are two other offices within five miles.The other offices currently closed are in Cuba, Willow Springs, Sedalia and&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/news/newsitem/uuid/39dacb8b-5467-4c37-b3d2-dbfc19a27a84" target="_blank">Palmyra</a>.<h2>Financial challenges</h2>License offices, also known as fee offices for the transaction fees they charge, at one time were awarded by governors as political patronage. Until 2005, there were a dozen state-operated offices in the largest cities.A bidding and contract system was created in the following years. The fees have been raised twice previously this century, in 2003 and 2019. There are currently 16 license offices listed on the state purchasing website, including Caruthersville and Unionville, which is on for the second time this year.“We’re the only direct interaction that most people have with the state of Missouri,” Williams said.In fiscal 2024, license offices processed almost 9 million transactions and charged $58.4 million in fees.The Unionville office generated $28,736 in fees on 4,519 transactions. The Caruthersville office took in $119,260 from 18,747 transactions. And the South Springfield office received fees of $702,290 to process 105,516 transactions.The reputation of license offices is not good, as seen by comments of members of the House Commerce Committee during the April hearing.“If I had $1 for every time my office got called for the unpleasantness of the Rolla, Missouri, office, I’d be a millionaire today,” said state Rep. Tara Peters, a Republican from Rolla in her third year in the legislature.State Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican, said he was glad lawmakers get special service for their license plates, which have legislative identifiers. There are two two license offices in Branson.“I’m so glad that as a representative, I get to do the things right here in the Capitol that I need to do so I can continue to serve the people instead of wait an hour and a half in line without a bathroom,” Seitz said.During the hearing, Williams said the contract office system saves the state money.“If the state took it over, it would be a considerable expense,” he said.The facilities and staffing are dependent on the amount of fees an office generates, Williams said. The contractor must meet payroll, pay rent and cover office expenses from the fee revenue.“When you have long wait times, that’s a direct result that we can’t afford to hire the staff that we need, or pay them or attract the staff that we need,” Williams said.<h2>Administrative issues</h2>The issues forcing contractors to give up their offices aren’t all financial, said Terri Harris, owner of Elle Management in St. Louis. At one point, Harris operated nine license offices around the state and was the contractor at South Springfield when it closed.The contract had been repeatedly extended, for short periods, leaving her with uncertainty about the future and making it difficult to hire staff, she said.After 34 years in the business, including almost two decades managing license offices for others, health issues and working through bureaucratic and political issues with the department became too much, she said.The fee increase in 2019 was welcome, Harris said, but came just before the COVID-19 pandemic.“The first thing I did when we got that increase is I brought my employees’ wages up to where I could stay competitive,” Harris said. “After COVID, everything changed for all employers, and my offices were large. It required a lot of employees, and frankly, the increase that I could afford to make was eaten up when you wait 17 and a half years for an increase.”When she surrendered the contract, Harris said, she was offering $20.50 an hour to employees.“We couldn’t keep people at that pay rate,” she said.The fee increases will not induce her to return to the business of operating license offices, Harris said.The South Springfield office was on an extended contract, but the extensions were short. That uncertainty also made staffing difficult, she said.&nbsp;“We went through years of being extended, two months, three months, maybe four months at a time,” she said. “That was ridiculous.”She was reluctant to seek new contracts because the requirements being added didn’t work in the office situations she dealt with, Harris said. Specific performance numbers for managers, who Harris wanted supervising rather than processing transactions, was one issue, she said.“The relationship became adversarial,”&nbsp;Initial contracts are generally for five years and the bill before Kehoe allows an extension of five years at the discretion of the director of revenue.The bill would also bar department employees from becoming contractors or part owners of a license office company for a year after leaving state employment.The department should figure out how to give more support to the small, rural offices where fee income is low, Harris said.The contract requirements for the Unionville office call for it to be open 24 hours a week. It processed about four transactions an hour during fiscal 2024.&nbsp;“These communities, when you close an office, they’re not going 10 minutes away to the next office,” Harris said. “They’re going counties away, right to the next office. It’s it’s tough on the community period. I also understand there is a very small profit margin in them, and that makes it difficult."

Five Missouri counties no longer have a license office. A fee hike seeks to fix that

KANSAS CITY —One person died inan accident just after midnight Friday in Kansas City.

According to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino, a white Toyota Camry was northbound on&nbsp;Interstate 49 at Interstate 470 at a very high rate of speed.

 The driver failed to negotiate the curve in the roadway. The car traveled off the roadway to the right and struck a concrete bridge support located underneath&nbsp;Interstate 470. 

The unrestrained driver&nbsp;and&nbsp;sole occupant of the Toyota was ejected from the vehicle&nbsp;and&nbsp;pronounced deceased at the scene.

 This is fatality #37 compared to #48 at this time last year, according to&nbsp;&nbsp;DiMartino. The accident remains under investigation.

KANSAS CITY —One person died inan accident just after midnight Friday in Kansas City.According to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino, a white Toyota Camry was northbound on&nbsp;Interstate 49 at Interstate 470 at a very high rate of speed. The driver failed to negotiate the curve in the roadway. The car traveled off the roadway to the right and struck a concrete bridge support located underneath&nbsp;Interstate 470. The unrestrained driver&nbsp;and&nbsp;sole occupant of the Toyota was ejected from the vehicle&nbsp;and&nbsp;pronounced deceased at the scene. This is fatality #37 compared to #48 at this time last year, according to&nbsp;&nbsp;DiMartino. The accident remains under investigation.

KCPD: Speeding driver dies after crash into concrete bridge

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating an altercation that sent a paramedic to the hospital in Kansas City.

Just before 10a.m. Friday, a Kansas City Fire Departmnt paramedic received a minor injury after an altercation in the back of an ambulance, while transporting a patient to the hospital, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

This led to a "crew emergency" being called and the response of additional Kansas City Police and KC Fire Department resources.

A second ambulance arrived on scene to transport the original patient to the hospital for their initial complaint. The KCFD paramedic was transported to the hospital to be evaluated for their injury.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750453639041.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating an altercation that sent a paramedic to the hospital in Kansas City.Just before 10a.m. Friday, a Kansas City Fire Departmnt paramedic received a minor injury after an altercation in the back of an ambulance, while transporting a patient to the hospital, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.This led to a "crew emergency" being called and the response of additional Kansas City Police and KC Fire Department resources.A second ambulance arrived on scene to transport the original patient to the hospital for their initial complaint. The KCFD paramedic was transported to the hospital to be evaluated for their injury.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

KC paramedic hospitalized after altercation in back of ambulance

LYON COUNTY—Authorities investigating the cause of a fatal home explosion in Lyon County have identified the two victims as Darrell Bontrager, 78 and Terry Bontrager, 73, both of Emporia. The Bontrager’s were known residents of the home , according to Christine Torrens with the city of Emporia.

Just before 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Emporia emergency crews were dispatched to a report of a house explosion near E 6th Avenue and Weaver Street,&nbsp; according to Torrens.

Emporia Police and Fire Departments responded 1814 E 6th Avenue. The home had collapsed, and was fully engulfed with fire within minutes.

Around 8:30 pm, emergency workers found the bodies within the debris.

Preliminary investigation into the explosion appears to be accidental. 

The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Emporia Fire Department with assistance from the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Emporia Police Department. Authorities do not suspect foul play at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750293716487.png" alt="First responders near the investigation -photo courtesy KVOE" />
 <figcaption>First responders near the investigation -photo courtesy KVOE</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY—Authorities investigating the cause of a fatal home explosion in Lyon County have identified the two victims as Darrell Bontrager, 78 and Terry Bontrager, 73, both of Emporia. The Bontrager’s were known residents of the home , according to Christine Torrens with the city of Emporia.Just before 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Emporia emergency crews were dispatched to a report of a house explosion near E 6th Avenue and Weaver Street,&nbsp; according to Torrens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750439261977.png" alt="Image courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Emporia Police and Fire Departments responded 1814 E 6th Avenue. The home had collapsed, and was fully engulfed with fire within minutes.Around 8:30 pm, emergency workers found the bodies within the debris.Preliminary investigation into the explosion appears to be accidental. The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Emporia Fire Department with assistance from the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Emporia Police Department. Authorities do not suspect foul play at this time.

Authorities ID couple who died in Kan. home explosion, fire

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 26-year-old Mikeal B. Copenhaver, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil Dimartino.

Just after 10p.m. Thursday,&nbsp;patrol officers were dispatched to the 4300 block of Northern on a reported disturbance, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

While officers were on the way to the scene, they received information that other callers reported sounds of gunshots and a shooting in the area. 

As officers arrived they were directed to the outside of an apartment building. There they located a victim later identified as Copenhaver suffering from gunshot wounds. 

KCFD EMS responded to the scene and pronounced him deceased. Officers located an additional adult male victim on scene suffering from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; He was transported to a local hospital with non life threatening injuries.

This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary information revealed there was a disturbance between several individuals that led to shots being fired and the Copenhaver being struck. 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 26-year-old Mikeal B. Copenhaver, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil Dimartino.Just after 10p.m. Thursday,&nbsp;patrol officers were dispatched to the 4300 block of Northern on a reported disturbance, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.While officers were on the way to the scene, they received information that other callers reported sounds of gunshots and a shooting in the area. As officers arrived they were directed to the outside of an apartment building. There they located a victim later identified as Copenhaver suffering from gunshot wounds. KCFD EMS responded to the scene and pronounced him deceased. Officers located an additional adult male victim on scene suffering from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; He was transported to a local hospital with non life threatening injuries.This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary information revealed there was a disturbance between several individuals that led to shots being fired and the Copenhaver being struck.

Man killed in KC apartment complex gunfight

President&nbsp;Donald Trump kept silent Thursday about the Juneteenth Holiday.&nbsp; Late Thursday, the President finally wrote on social media to complain about too many non-working holidays..

During the Thursday press briefing,&nbsp; White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt thanked reporters for showing up to work on the Juneteenth Federal Holiday. "We are certainly here. We’re working 24/7 right now.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750269288982.png" alt="File image White House" />
 <figcaption>File image White House</figcaption>
 </figure>President&nbsp;Donald Trump kept silent Thursday about the Juneteenth Holiday.&nbsp; Late Thursday, the President finally wrote on social media to complain about too many non-working holidays..<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/5DPtr8EtwQ">pic.twitter.com/5DPtr8EtwQ</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1935836246133080540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>During the Thursday press briefing,&nbsp; White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt thanked reporters for showing up to work on the Juneteenth Federal Holiday. "We are certainly here. We’re working 24/7 right now.”

President Trump complains about too many 'non-working holidays'

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Thursday in Kansas City.

A Toyota RAV4 was traveling eastbound on Interstate 435 at Cookingham Drive, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

The Toyota traveled off the roadway to the left through the grassy center median and struck a westbound Peterbilt semi. The impact ruptured the fuel tanks of the truck, causing the truck and trailer to become fully engulfed in flames. 

The unrestrained driver and sole occupant of the Toyota was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Peterbilt was not injured.

This is fatality #36 compared to #48 at this time last year, according to DiMartino. The accident remains under investigation. Police have not released the name of the driver who died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750413470035.png" alt="Photo KC Scout camera just after 6:30p.m. Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Scout camera just after 6:30p.m. Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Thursday in Kansas City.A Toyota RAV4 was traveling eastbound on Interstate 435 at Cookingham Drive, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.The Toyota traveled off the roadway to the left through the grassy center median and struck a westbound Peterbilt semi. The impact ruptured the fuel tanks of the truck, causing the truck and trailer to become fully engulfed in flames. The unrestrained driver and sole occupant of the Toyota was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Peterbilt was not injured.This is fatality #36 compared to #48 at this time last year, according to DiMartino. The accident remains under investigation. Police have not released the name of the driver who died.

KCPD: Driver dies after SUV semi crash and fire

NEOSHO COUNTY —Anderson County provided mutual aid resources to support response efforts following a tragic incident south of Erie, where two boys were struck by a train on a railroad bridge.

The search continues for the body of 12-year-old  Kollin Showwalter of Erie, according to Anderson County Emergency Management.

Anderson County deployed water rescue-trained personnel along with a utility truck, rescue boat, rescue truck, and a transport-capable UTV to assist in search operations along the rising, debris-filled Neosho River.

First responders found 16-year-old Arthur  Pollries of Walnut, Kansas, deceased, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The Neosho River is currently rising, nearly bank full, with a very swift current, and full of debris.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750415806128.png" alt="Photos Anderson Countyi Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Photos Anderson Countyi Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>NEOSHO COUNTY —Anderson County provided mutual aid resources to support response efforts following a tragic incident south of Erie, where two boys were struck by a train on a railroad bridge.The search continues for the body of 12-year-old Kollin Showwalter of Erie, according to Anderson County Emergency Management.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750415791745.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anderson County deployed water rescue-trained personnel along with a utility truck, rescue boat, rescue truck, and a transport-capable UTV to assist in search operations along the rising, debris-filled Neosho River.Just after 12:30p.m. Wednesday the Neosho County 911 Center received a report from the Union Pacific Railroad that two individuals had been struck on the Railroad Bridge south of Erie near 115th Road, according to Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor.First responders found 16-year-old Arthur Pollries of Walnut, Kansas, deceased, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.&nbsp;Kansas Deparatment of Wildlife and Parks responded with personnel, a drone and boat. KHP sent numerous personnel, helicopter, and search dogs in an attempt to find the body of the 12-year-old.After reviewing the Engine Camera footage and physical evidence, the two children were on the bridge and unable to outrun the train. Unfortunately after reviewing the footage and physical evidence at the scene, the search went from hopeful rescue effort to a recovery effort.The Neosho River is currently rising, nearly bank full, with a very swift current, and full of debris.&nbsp;