SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement have released the name of the pedestrian who died in a hit-and-run crash early Sunday morning near the Sedgwick County Zoo.

Adam Wayne Condit, 29, of Wichita, died after he was struck by a pickup truck shortly after midnight March 15 in the 5800 block of West Windmill Road, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.

The pickup truck deputies were seeking has now been identified. Detectives are continuing to work to identify the driver. No arrests have been made.

The Sheriff’s Office thanks members of the public for the tips that helped investigators identify the vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Condit

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement have released the name of the pedestrian who died in a hit-and-run crash early Sunday morning near the Sedgwick County Zoo.Adam Wayne Condit, 29, of Wichita, died after he was struck by a pickup truck shortly after midnight March 15 in the 5800 block of West Windmill Road, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.The pickup truck deputies were seeking has now been identified. Detectives are continuing to work to identify the driver. No arrests have been made.The Sheriff’s Office thanks members of the public for the tips that helped investigators identify the vehicle.The Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Condit

Sheriff releases name of victim in fatal Kansas hit-and-run

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Three suspects accused in the drug overdose death of a 15-year-old Kansas girl are due back in court Monday.

Danielle Wheeler, 53; Isaac L. Hord, 24 and Niklas Wiley, 24, are scheduled for a preliminary hearing in&nbsp;Judge Jeffrey Syrios courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In October, Wheeler was charged with&nbsp; involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment in the death of 15-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Hord and Wiley have both been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated endangering a child. Wiley is also facing charges of criminal sodomy, sexual exploitation of a child and aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the district attorney's office.

On September 14, police responded to the report of a deceased 15-year-old in Wichita, according to a media release from police. The investigation determined the death of Kennedy Herren was the result of a drug overdose.

Since then, Wichita police overdose analyst worked to pursue justice and ensure accountability for the people responsible for this senseless death.&nbsp;

On October 15,&nbsp;K-9 officers arrested 24-year-old Isaac L. Hord and on October 19 they arrested 24-year-old Niklas Wiley in connection with this case. Wheeler was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on October 22, according to online jail records. She met the requirement for bond and is no longer in custody.

Both men remain in custody in the Sedgwick Count Jail. Hord on a one-million dollar bond and Wiley on bonds totaling over $1,250,000 according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760610637070.png" alt="Hord-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hord-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Three suspects accused in the drug overdose death of a 15-year-old Kansas girl are due back in court Monday.Danielle Wheeler, 53; Isaac L. Hord, 24 and Niklas Wiley, 24, are scheduled for a preliminary hearing in&nbsp;Judge Jeffrey Syrios courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In October, Wheeler was charged with&nbsp; involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment in the death of 15-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Hord and Wiley have both been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated endangering a child. Wiley is also facing charges of criminal sodomy, sexual exploitation of a child and aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the district attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761260796231.png" alt="Wheeler photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Wheeler photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>On September 14, police responded to the report of a deceased 15-year-old in Wichita, according to a media release from police. The investigation determined the death of Kennedy Herren was the result of a drug overdose.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079684304.png" alt="-<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>&nbsp;-photo courtesy Cozine Memorial Group" />
 <figcaption>-<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>&nbsp;-photo courtesy Cozine Memorial Group</figcaption>
 </figure>Since then, Wichita police overdose analyst worked to pursue justice and ensure accountability for the people responsible for this senseless death.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761265375529.png" alt="Wiley-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Wiley-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>On October 15,&nbsp;K-9 officers arrested 24-year-old Isaac L. Hord and on October 19 they arrested 24-year-old Niklas Wiley in connection with this case. Wheeler was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on October 22, according to online jail records. She met the requirement for bond and is no longer in custody.Both men remain in custody in the Sedgwick Count Jail. Hord on a one-million dollar bond and Wiley on bonds totaling over $1,250,000 according to online jail records.

Preliminary hearing for 3 in Kansas teen's overdose death

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Donald Trump said he has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-democrats-oil-midterms-e4919b1a69f90f47f8f61c5967e12fac">demanded</a>&nbsp;about seven countries send warships to keep the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-hormuz-oil-shipping-49a1901c35cf2507830776a29706cf98">Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;open as Iranian strikes continued to rain down on Gulf countries Monday.

Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest, gradually restarted operations after a drone struck a fuel tank and started a fire. Authorities said it was quickly contained and no injuries were reported.

Tehran has accused the United States without evidence of using “ports, docks and hideouts” in the United Arab Emirates to launch strikes on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-islands-strait-hormuz-oil-trump-1b3e770e61c6a05d3e078223e15b20b2">Kharg Island</a>, home to the main terminal handling Iran’s oil exports evidence, as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jet-fuel-airfares-flights-prices-oil-ac2446896f112746345702bd6e1986cc">oil prices soared</a>. Brent crude oil was trading near $105 per barrel on Monday.

Trump said the U.S. is negotiating with countries heavily reliant on Middle East crude to join a coalition to police the waterway where about one-fifth the world’s traded oil normally flows, but declined to name them.

Israeli strikes have deepened&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/lebanon-shelter-hezbollah-israel-war-487792d7f62cfc2c5d9d20a2fd62fea1">Lebanon's humanitarian crisis</a>, with more than 850 people killed and over 850,000 displaced.

American efforts to protect Strait of Hormuz continue, US military commander says

The top U.S. military commander in the Middle East says American forces are zeroing in on Iran’s threats to freighters carrying oil and natural gas through a vital chokepoint in the Persian Gulf.

“We will continue to rapidly deplete Iran’s ability to threaten freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz,” Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of U.S. Central Command, said in a video posted to X on Monday.

Iranian strikes on commercial vessels have effectively stopped shipping traffic in the waterway, through which a fifth of the world’s oil is transported. That has dramatically increased the price of oil and put pressure on Washington to do something to ease the pain for consumers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772503887603.png" alt="File photo Operation Epic Fury- U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo Operation Epic Fury- U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —President Donald Trump said he has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-democrats-oil-midterms-e4919b1a69f90f47f8f61c5967e12fac">demanded</a>&nbsp;about seven countries send warships to keep the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-hormuz-oil-shipping-49a1901c35cf2507830776a29706cf98">Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;open as Iranian strikes continued to rain down on Gulf countries Monday.Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest, gradually restarted operations after a drone struck a fuel tank and started a fire. Authorities said it was quickly contained and no injuries were reported.Tehran has accused the United States without evidence of using “ports, docks and hideouts” in the United Arab Emirates to launch strikes on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-islands-strait-hormuz-oil-trump-1b3e770e61c6a05d3e078223e15b20b2">Kharg Island</a>, home to the main terminal handling Iran’s oil exports evidence, as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jet-fuel-airfares-flights-prices-oil-ac2446896f112746345702bd6e1986cc">oil prices soared</a>. Brent crude oil was trading near $105 per barrel on Monday.Trump said the U.S. is negotiating with countries heavily reliant on Middle East crude to join a coalition to police the waterway where about one-fifth the world’s traded oil normally flows, but declined to name them.Israeli strikes have deepened&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/lebanon-shelter-hezbollah-israel-war-487792d7f62cfc2c5d9d20a2fd62fea1">Lebanon's humanitarian crisis</a>, with more than 850 people killed and over 850,000 displaced.Here is the latest:<h2>American efforts to protect Strait of Hormuz continue, US military commander says</h2>The top U.S. military commander in the Middle East says American forces are zeroing in on Iran’s threats to freighters carrying oil and natural gas through a vital chokepoint in the Persian Gulf.“We will continue to rapidly deplete Iran’s ability to threaten freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz,” Admiral Brad Cooper, the head of U.S. Central Command, said in a video posted to X on Monday.Iranian strikes on commercial vessels have effectively stopped shipping traffic in the waterway, through which a fifth of the world’s oil is transported. That has dramatically increased the price of oil and put pressure on Washington to do something to ease the pain for consumers.

American efforts to protect Strait of Hormuz continue

MIAMI COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple allegations after an alleged violent attack on her mother.

Just before 11a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to 601 17th Street in Osawatomie where a woman had reportdly fled to home after being struck in the head and body multiple times with a baseball bat,&nbsp;according to Police Chief David Stuteville.

The victim was identified as 68-year-old Tina L. Day and the alleged suspect her 50-year-old daughter Anegela M. Platt.

Miami County EMS transported Day to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Meanshile, Platt locked herself inside the home and would not respond to police.

After multiple attempts to get Platt to exit the home, an officer finally convinced Platt to step outside onto an elevated deck at the rear of the home.&nbsp; As the officer and Platt were talking, two officers including Chief Stuteville made their up the side of the deck near the residence, as to be able to keep Platt from being able to go back inside. Once on the deck, Platt was safely taken into custody without futher incident.

After getting a search warrant, officers collected evidence related to the reported assault of Mrs. Day.

Platt was transported to the Miami County Jail where she is being held on requested charges of aggravated domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773658026439.png" alt="Platt from an October drug arrest in Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Platt from an October drug arrest in Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple allegations after an alleged violent attack on her mother.Just before 11a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to 601 17th Street in Osawatomie where a woman had reportdly fled to home after being struck in the head and body multiple times with a baseball bat,&nbsp;according to Police Chief David Stuteville.The victim was identified as 68-year-old Tina L. Day and the alleged suspect her 50-year-old daughter Anegela M. Platt.Miami County EMS transported Day to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Meanshile, Platt locked herself inside the home and would not respond to police.After multiple attempts to get Platt to exit the home, an officer finally convinced Platt to step outside onto an elevated deck at the rear of the home.&nbsp; As the officer and Platt were talking, two officers including Chief Stuteville made their up the side of the deck near the residence, as to be able to keep Platt from being able to go back inside. Once on the deck, Platt was safely taken into custody without futher incident.After getting a search warrant, officers collected evidence related to the reported assault of Mrs. Day.Platt was transported to the Miami County Jail where she is being held on requested charges of aggravated domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

Kan. woman accused of baseball bat attack on her mother

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating an other homicide in Kansas City.

Just before 4:30a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a shoosting in the 2600 block of NE. 42nd Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

At the scene, officers heard the sound of a gunshot coming from inside an upstairs apartment. Officers made entry inside of the residence to search for any victims and render any necessary medical aid. An adult male was located suffering from gunshot trauma. He was unresponsive. An additional adult female was located. She unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS responded to the scene and declared both individuals deceased.

Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to the scene to begin collecting evidence and gathering any witness statements. This incident is being investigated as a homicide. Detectives are not currently seeking any person of interest, according to Gonzalez.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating an other homicide in Kansas City.Just before 4:30a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a shoosting in the 2600 block of NE. 42nd Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.At the scene, officers heard the sound of a gunshot coming from inside an upstairs apartment. Officers made entry inside of the residence to search for any victims and render any necessary medical aid. An adult male was located suffering from gunshot trauma. He was unresponsive. An additional adult female was located. She unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS responded to the scene and declared both individuals deceased.Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to the scene to begin collecting evidence and gathering any witness statements. This incident is being investigated as a homicide. Detectives are not currently seeking any person of interest, according to Gonzalez.

Homicide: Man and woman found dead in KC apartment

LOS ANGELES (AP) — “One Battle After Another” won several awards at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/oscars-2026-updates">Sunday’s Oscars</a>, including best picture, director and the first-ever casting award.

“Sinners” star Michael B. Jordan, won&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2026-oscars-academy-awards-show-b868da63dd16aa6ca289ba4a8ac3a157">best actor</a>, earning his first Oscar. Jessie Buckley won best actress for her role in “Hamnet.”

Amy Madigan took home the first award of the night. She won best supporting actress for “Weapons.” She was the first winner announced at the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday night hosted by Conan O’Brien.

Ryan Coogler won best original screenplay for “Sinners,” which entered the night with a record-breaking 16 nominations.

Sean Penn, “One Battle After Another”

Paul Thomas Anderson, “One Battle After Another”

“Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters,” EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seon and Teddy Park

Cassandra Kulukundis, “One Battle After Another”

Gareth John, Al Nelson, Gwendolyn Yates Whittle, Gary A. Rizzo and Juan Peralta, “F1”

“One Battle After Another,” Paul Thomas Anderson

(tie) “The Singers” and “Two People Exchanging Saliva”

Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett, “Avatar: Fire and Ash”

Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau, “Frankenstein”

Andy Jurgensen, “One Battle After Another”

Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel, Cliona Furey, “Frankenstein”

LOS ANGELES (AP) — “One Battle After Another” won several awards at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/oscars-2026-updates">Sunday’s Oscars</a>, including best picture, director and the first-ever casting award.“Sinners” star Michael B. Jordan, won&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2026-oscars-academy-awards-show-b868da63dd16aa6ca289ba4a8ac3a157">best actor</a>, earning his first Oscar. Jessie Buckley won best actress for her role in “Hamnet.”Amy Madigan took home the first award of the night. She won best supporting actress for “Weapons.” She was the first winner announced at the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday night hosted by Conan O’Brien.Ryan Coogler won best original screenplay for “Sinners,” which entered the night with a record-breaking 16 nominations.Here is an list of winners.<h2>Best picture</h2>“One Battle After Another”<h2>Best Actor</h2>Michael B. Jordan, “Sinners”<h2>Best Actress</h2>Jessie Buckley, “Hamnet”<h2>Best Supporting Actress</h2>Amy Madigan, “Weapons”<h2>Best Supporting Actor</h2>Sean Penn, “One Battle After Another”<h2>Director</h2>Paul Thomas Anderson, “One Battle After Another”<h2>Original Song</h2>“Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters,” EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seon and Teddy Park<h2>Original Score</h2>“Sinners,” Ludwig Göransson.<h2>Animated Film</h2>“KPop Demon Hunters”<h2>International Film</h2>“Sentimental Value,” Norway<h2>Documentary Feature</h2>“Mr. Nobody Against Putin”<h2>Casting</h2>Cassandra Kulukundis, “One Battle After Another”<h2>Best Sound</h2>Gareth John, Al Nelson, Gwendolyn Yates Whittle, Gary A. Rizzo and Juan Peralta, “F1”<h2>Cinematography</h2>Autumn Durald Arkapaw, “Sinners”<h2>Original Screenplay</h2>“Sinners,” Ryan Coogler<h2>Adapted Screenplay</h2>“One Battle After Another,” Paul Thomas Anderson<h2>Live Action Short Film</h2>(tie) “The Singers” and “Two People Exchanging Saliva”<h2>Animated Short Film</h2>“The Girl Who Cried Pearls”<h2>Documentary Short Film</h2>“All the Empty Rooms”<h2>Visual Effects</h2>Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett, “Avatar: Fire and Ash”<h2>Production Design</h2>Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau, “Frankenstein”<h2>Film Editing</h2>Andy Jurgensen, “One Battle After Another”<h2>Makeup and Hairstyling</h2>Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel, Cliona Furey, “Frankenstein”<h2>Costume Design</h2>

Who won? Complete list of 2026 Academy Awards winners

SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person was injured in a&nbsp; weekend house fire.

Just before 11p.m. Saturday, crews&nbsp;responded to a house fire located at 417 SW Polk Street in Topeka, according to a media release.

Crews encountered heavy smoke and fire coming from the residence. Firefighters initiated fire attack operations and were able to quickly extinguish the fire.

Fire crews rescued a woman from a first-floor apartment within the home. American Medical Response transported her to a local hospital in critical condition. A second occupant who resides in a second-floor apartment was able to escape prior to the arrival of firefighters.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Non-working smoke detectors were found in the home.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person was injured in a&nbsp; weekend house fire.Just before 11p.m. Saturday, crews&nbsp;responded to a house fire located at 417 SW Polk Street in Topeka, according to a media release.Crews encountered heavy smoke and fire coming from the residence. Firefighters initiated fire attack operations and were able to quickly extinguish the fire.Fire crews rescued a woman from a first-floor apartment within the home. American Medical Response transported her to a local hospital in critical condition. A second occupant who resides in a second-floor apartment was able to escape prior to the arrival of firefighters.The cause of the fire is under investigation. Non-working smoke detectors were found in the home.

Woman hospitalized after fire at a Kansas home

TOPEKA, KAN. – A previously convicted sex offender was sentenced to 137 months in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) while he was on supervised release for similar crimes, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Michael Pinkerton, 48, of Topeka pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.

In September 2010, a U.S. District Court judge in the Western District of Missouri sentenced Pinkerton to 120 months in prison followed by 60 months of supervised release after convictions for attempted receipt of child pornography and attempted possession of child of pornography.&nbsp;

In April 2024, while Pinkerton was living in Kansas on supervised release, two U.S Probation Office officers went to his home in Topeka. They observed Pinkerton attempting to hide something and asked him what it was. Pinkerton admitted to having an unauthorized smartphone that contained saved images of CSAM. Investigators later confirmed the phone contained CSAM.

“After child sex offenders complete their prison sentences, tools like supervised release and registries are used to monitor them and try to keep our communities safe from deviant behavior. &nbsp;These mechanisms worked in this case thanks to the proactive work of our probation officers.” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773574635248.png" alt="Pinkerton photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Pinkerton photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, KAN. – A previously convicted sex offender was sentenced to 137 months in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) while he was on supervised release for similar crimes, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Michael Pinkerton, 48, of Topeka pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor – possession of child pornography.In September 2010, a U.S. District Court judge in the Western District of Missouri sentenced Pinkerton to 120 months in prison followed by 60 months of supervised release after convictions for attempted receipt of child pornography and attempted possession of child of pornography.&nbsp;In April 2024, while Pinkerton was living in Kansas on supervised release, two U.S Probation Office officers went to his home in Topeka. They observed Pinkerton attempting to hide something and asked him what it was. Pinkerton admitted to having an unauthorized smartphone that contained saved images of CSAM. Investigators later confirmed the phone contained CSAM.“After child sex offenders complete their prison sentences, tools like supervised release and registries are used to monitor them and try to keep our communities safe from deviant behavior. &nbsp;These mechanisms worked in this case thanks to the proactive work of our probation officers.” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.

Kan. sex offender caught with child porn on his cell phone

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Johnson County, Kansas.

Just after 4:30a.m. Sunday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to a burglary in progress at Target, 6100 Broadmoor in the city of Mission, Kansas, according to a media release. Officers responded to both the front and rear of the store to establish a perimeter. 

Soon after arrival an officer witnessed a person at the rear of the store carrying duffle bags. The officer confronted the suspect who fled on foot. The officer gave chase. The suspect then fired a handgun at the officer, discharging multiple rounds toward the officer.

 The officer returned fire, striking the suspect. First aid was rendered by officers on scene, and the suspect was transported to a local hospital. The suspect’s injuries are non-life threatening. No officers were hurt during this incident. 

The Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Team will be handling the investigation and all media inquiries should be directed to that team.

The Target store is one of multiple crime scenes in this incident. Police released no additional details.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Johnson County, Kansas.Just after 4:30a.m. Sunday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to a burglary in progress at Target, 6100 Broadmoor in the city of Mission, Kansas, according to a media release. Officers responded to both the front and rear of the store to establish a perimeter. Soon after arrival an officer witnessed a person at the rear of the store carrying duffle bags. The officer confronted the suspect who fled on foot. The officer gave chase. The suspect then fired a handgun at the officer, discharging multiple rounds toward the officer. The officer returned fire, striking the suspect. First aid was rendered by officers on scene, and the suspect was transported to a local hospital. The suspect’s injuries are non-life threatening. No officers were hurt during this incident. The Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Team will be handling the investigation and all media inquiries should be directed to that team.The Target store is one of multiple crime scenes in this incident. Police released no additional details.

Kan. burglary suspect injured in exchange of gunfire with police

HARVEY COUNTY —A Newton woman died in a house fire late Sunday morning in the 500 block of West Fourth Street , according to a statement from Newton Fire and EMS.

Just after 11:30 a.m.&nbsp; crews responded to the call and found the home engulfed in fire and smoke. An active power line was on the ground. Crews pushed through the fire and found the woman inside. She has been identified as Susan Taylor, 74. Two dogs also died in the fire. 

The fire was extinguished but caused heavy damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773605631515.png" alt="Photo Newton Fire and EMS" />
 <figcaption>Photo Newton Fire and EMS</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —A Newton woman died in a house fire late Sunday morning in the 500 block of West Fourth Street , according to a statement from Newton Fire and EMS.Just after 11:30 a.m.&nbsp; crews responded to the call and found the home engulfed in fire and smoke. An active power line was on the ground. Crews pushed through the fire and found the woman inside. She has been identified as Susan Taylor, 74. Two dogs also died in the fire. The fire was extinguished but caused heavy damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Kansas woman, her two dogs killed in house fire

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/mike-stobbe">MIKE STOBBE</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — As the U.S. flu season winds down, health officials say the flu vaccine didn’t work very well, with one of its worst effectiveness rates in more than a decade.

A new strain that dominated the early winter was not well matched to the vaccine, leading to an intense early onslaught of flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday posted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2026-week-09.html" target="_blank">data</a>&nbsp;that showed a continued decline in doctor’s office and hospital visits for flu symptoms through last week. The number of states reporting high flu activity dropped to 16, many of them in a belt stretching from Colorado to Virginia.

“The winter respiratory virus season is slowly coming to a close, and we’re all very grateful for that,” said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University vaccine expert.

This season’s vaccines were around 25% to 30% effective in preventing adults from getting sick enough from the flu that they had to go to a doctor’s office, clinic or hospital, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/75/wr/mm7509a2.htm?s_cid=OS_mm7509a2_w" target="_blank">CDC report</a>&nbsp;this week. Children who were vaccinated were about 40% less likely to get treatment at a doctor’s office or hospital.

Officials generally are pleased if a flu vaccine is 40% to 60% effective. Judging from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu-vaccines-work/php/effectiveness-studies/index.html" target="_blank">past CDC research</a>, this season saw one of the lowest effectiveness rates in the last two decades.

Flu infections&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-flu-cases-cdc-subclade-k-29cc5a68eb100585c8e0dbd2ec47b3eb">surged in late December</a>&nbsp;and were especially intense in some parts of the country. New York City health officials called it the most intense season in 20 years.

Relatively low flu vaccination rates did not help, but experts also blamed the new flu strain that was causing most infections.

The new strain belonged to a category of flu virus, called A H3N2. This new version, subclade K, seemed to spread more easily — though it did not necessarily cause more severe illness.

The vaccine available for this season was built to address a different version of H3N2, and the new strain’s explosion is a likely explanation for why the vaccine was less effective, Schaffner said.

CDC scientists estimate there have been at least 27 million illnesses, 350,000 hospitalizations and 22,000 deaths from flu so far this season. At the same point last year, the estimates were at least 40 million illnesses, 520,000 hospitalizations, but about the same number of deaths.

At least 101 children have died so far this season. For those whose vaccination status is known, about 85% were not fully vaccinated against flu.

The flu vaccine may not protect everyone from getting sick, but it can prevent people from becoming severely ill and dying. That’s why getting a flu shot remains worthwhile, Schaffner said.

CDC data suggests&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluvaxview/dashboard/adult-coverage.html" target="_blank">adult vaccination rates</a>&nbsp;are up slightly this season, to 46.5%, following an unusually bad season last year that set a record for the most child deaths this century.

An estimated 48% of U.S. kids were vaccinated against flu around the end of last month. That’s about the same as last year, but down from the 52% vaccinated at this point in 2024, according to CDC data.

Starting in 2010, the government recommended annual flu vaccinations for Americans 6 months and older. In January, however, the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/childhood-vaccine-schedule-trump-rfk-hhs-9b8df9e2767c1261aaac4e2331e77fa3">stopped broadly recommending</a>&nbsp;flu shots for all children, saying instead that it’s up to parents and family doctors to decide.

Meanwhile, work is already underway for next winter’s flu season. Last month, the World Health Organization announced its recommendations for which virus strains to address in the vaccines for the 2026-27 northern hemisphere flu season. The vaccines should be built to handle subclade K, the organization said. This week, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee endorsed the WHO recommendations.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773501065010.png" alt="CDC Flu map from late December 2025" />
 <figcaption>CDC Flu map from late December 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/mike-stobbe">MIKE STOBBE</a>NEW YORK (AP) — As the U.S. flu season winds down, health officials say the flu vaccine didn’t work very well, with one of its worst effectiveness rates in more than a decade.A new strain that dominated the early winter was not well matched to the vaccine, leading to an intense early onslaught of flu.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday posted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2026-week-09.html" target="_blank">data</a>&nbsp;that showed a continued decline in doctor’s office and hospital visits for flu symptoms through last week. The number of states reporting high flu activity dropped to 16, many of them in a belt stretching from Colorado to Virginia.“The winter respiratory virus season is slowly coming to a close, and we’re all very grateful for that,” said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University vaccine expert.This season’s vaccines were around 25% to 30% effective in preventing adults from getting sick enough from the flu that they had to go to a doctor’s office, clinic or hospital, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/75/wr/mm7509a2.htm?s_cid=OS_mm7509a2_w" target="_blank">CDC report</a>&nbsp;this week. Children who were vaccinated were about 40% less likely to get treatment at a doctor’s office or hospital.Officials generally are pleased if a flu vaccine is 40% to 60% effective. Judging from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu-vaccines-work/php/effectiveness-studies/index.html" target="_blank">past CDC research</a>, this season saw one of the lowest effectiveness rates in the last two decades.Flu infections&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-flu-cases-cdc-subclade-k-29cc5a68eb100585c8e0dbd2ec47b3eb">surged in late December</a>&nbsp;and were especially intense in some parts of the country. New York City health officials called it the most intense season in 20 years.Relatively low flu vaccination rates did not help, but experts also blamed the new flu strain that was causing most infections.The new strain belonged to a category of flu virus, called A H3N2. This new version, subclade K, seemed to spread more easily — though it did not necessarily cause more severe illness.The vaccine available for this season was built to address a different version of H3N2, and the new strain’s explosion is a likely explanation for why the vaccine was less effective, Schaffner said.CDC scientists estimate there have been at least 27 million illnesses, 350,000 hospitalizations and 22,000 deaths from flu so far this season. At the same point last year, the estimates were at least 40 million illnesses, 520,000 hospitalizations, but about the same number of deaths.At least 101 children have died so far this season. For those whose vaccination status is known, about 85% were not fully vaccinated against flu.The flu vaccine may not protect everyone from getting sick, but it can prevent people from becoming severely ill and dying. That’s why getting a flu shot remains worthwhile, Schaffner said.CDC data suggests&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluvaxview/dashboard/adult-coverage.html" target="_blank">adult vaccination rates</a>&nbsp;are up slightly this season, to 46.5%, following an unusually bad season last year that set a record for the most child deaths this century.An estimated 48% of U.S. kids were vaccinated against flu around the end of last month. That’s about the same as last year, but down from the 52% vaccinated at this point in 2024, according to CDC data.Starting in 2010, the government recommended annual flu vaccinations for Americans 6 months and older. In January, however, the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/childhood-vaccine-schedule-trump-rfk-hhs-9b8df9e2767c1261aaac4e2331e77fa3">stopped broadly recommending</a>&nbsp;flu shots for all children, saying instead that it’s up to parents and family doctors to decide.Meanwhile, work is already underway for next winter’s flu season. Last month, the World Health Organization announced its recommendations for which virus strains to address in the vaccines for the 2026-27 northern hemisphere flu season. The vaccines should be built to handle subclade K, the organization said. This week, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee endorsed the WHO recommendations.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Officials found flu vaccines didn't work that well in the US

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are&nbsp;investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash involving a pedestrian early Sunday morning near the Sedgwick County Zoo.

At about 12:06 a.m., deputies along with Sedgwick County EMS and the Wichita Fire Department responded to a report of a pickup truck striking a pedestrian in the 5800 block of West Windmill Road, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt. Witnesses stopped to assist and called 911 after the pickup truck left the scene.

Despite life-saving measures, the pedestrian, a 29-year-old Wichita man, died at the scene.

Based on preliminary findings and debris recovered at the scene, the suspect vehicle is believed to be a black Dodge Ram 1500 pickup, model years 2013 through 2022. The truck was last seen traveling westbound on Windmill Road toward 13th Street North and Ridge Road and is expected to have noticeable damage to the front driver’s side, including a broken grille.

The Sheriff’s Office Major Crash Team and detectives are continuing to investigate.

Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact the Major Crash Team at 316-660-3760 or Sheriff’s Investigations at 316-660-5300. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Wichita/Sedgwick County by calling 316-267-2111 or by using the P3 Tips app.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are&nbsp;investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash involving a pedestrian early Sunday morning near the Sedgwick County Zoo.At about 12:06 a.m., deputies along with Sedgwick County EMS and the Wichita Fire Department responded to a report of a pickup truck striking a pedestrian in the 5800 block of West Windmill Road, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt. Witnesses stopped to assist and called 911 after the pickup truck left the scene.Despite life-saving measures, the pedestrian, a 29-year-old Wichita man, died at the scene.Based on preliminary findings and debris recovered at the scene, the suspect vehicle is believed to be a black Dodge Ram 1500 pickup, model years 2013 through 2022. The truck was last seen traveling westbound on Windmill Road toward 13th Street North and Ridge Road and is expected to have noticeable damage to the front driver’s side, including a broken grille.The Sheriff’s Office Major Crash Team and detectives are continuing to investigate.Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact the Major Crash Team at 316-660-3760 or Sheriff’s Investigations at 316-660-5300. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Wichita/Sedgwick County by calling 316-267-2111 or by using the P3 Tips app.

Police looking for pickup in deadly Kan. hit-and-run

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — High winds fueled multiple wildfires across a broad swath of Nebraska’s range and grassland, causing one death in Arthur County, officials said. The victim was not immediately identified, and the sheriff’s office did not disclose other details about the death.

What state officials have dubbed the Morrill County fire has burned at least 735 square miles (about 1,880 square kilometers) so far across four counties. At least 12 structures have been destroyed, according to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

Chelle Ladely of Sidney said her home was currently safe, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of the nearest fire. But she worries for other friends and family in the area.

“Smoke is filling the air, and at night I can see the burn of the fires on the horizon,” Ladely said. “My father is a crop agronomist, and his company as well as other local farmers are all gathering their water trucks to help aid with the fires, and truckloads of bottled water and food is being supplied by our good patrons for our volunteer firemen trying to extinguish the blazes.”

Several other wildfires pushed by winds of up to 65 mph (105 kph) burned another 225 square miles (about 580 square kilometers) for a total of nearly 938 square miles (about 2,430 square kilometers) by midday Saturday. The strong winds have kept firefighters from containing any of the fires, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said. Gov. Jim Pillen toured areas burned by the Morrill County fire.

Hundreds of thousands of people were left without power Saturday after high winds raked eastward from the Great Lakes region, leaving trees down and substantial property damage in their wake. Farther west, at least one person died in a massive wind-driven wildfire in Nebraska.

About 346,00 customers were still without electricity as of the late afternoon in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan, according to PowerOutage.us, which tracks outages nationwide.

A 66 mph (106 kph) gust at Pittsburgh International Airport on Friday was deemed its fourth-strongest on record that was not caused by a thunderstorm, according to the National Weather Service. Cleveland Burke Lakefront Airport saw winds hit 85 mph (137 km) that afternoon.

Winds took down a gas station canopy in New Franklin, Ohio, and an auto parts store sign in Baldwin, Pennsylvania. Trees and tree limbs fell into or onto homes and cars from Cleveland to Pittsburgh. The roof of a school building in the Chicago suburb of Niles, Illinois, was severely damaged by wind.

In Chicago, thousands of revelers turned out to see the city's namesake river dyed bright green and a downtown parade celebrating the St. Patrick's Day holiday, despite the threat of snow and stiff winds that drove the feels-like temperature well below freezing.

Dangerous winds were but one piece of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/heat-dome-snow-blizzard-cold-polar-flooding-55e3baf6877e81ee1961aade3cb361c3">wild weather mosaic</a>&nbsp;that included heavy rains in Hawaii, triple-digit heat coming next week in Phoenix and a return of winter cold to the Midwest and Northeast. Chicago was forecast to approach the single digits Fahrenheit by Tuesday, with Minneapolis seeing lows around zero (minus 18 C).

Several Minnesota cities have already declared snow emergencies starting Sunday, when what could be the season’s largest snowfall is expected to hit. Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula are also in the crosshairs.

AccuWeather warned of a “potent triple-threat March megastorm” from Sunday into Monday.

“It’s definitely a very active weather weekend, that’s for sure,” AccuWeather senior meteorologist John Feerick said. “It’s a highly amplified pattern, which means you get a lot of extremes. Also, not just the Lower 48, but Hawaii’s getting hit hard right now with some very heavy rain.”

Feerick said people along the Wisconsin-Iowa border might see some ice as travel conditions become dangerous in large parts of the Upper Midwest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773543516002.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Fire and Rescue loads for a trip to western Nebraska to help fight Morrill Fire and Cottonwood Fire. Photo Lincoln Fire &amp; Rescue" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Fire and Rescue loads for a trip to western Nebraska to help fight Morrill Fire and Cottonwood Fire. Photo Lincoln Fire &amp; Rescue</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — High winds fueled multiple wildfires across a broad swath of Nebraska’s range and grassland, causing one death in Arthur County, officials said. The victim was not immediately identified, and the sheriff’s office did not disclose other details about the death.What state officials have dubbed the Morrill County fire has burned at least 735 square miles (about 1,880 square kilometers) so far across four counties. At least 12 structures have been destroyed, according to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.Chelle Ladely of Sidney said her home was currently safe, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of the nearest fire. But she worries for other friends and family in the area.“Smoke is filling the air, and at night I can see the burn of the fires on the horizon,” Ladely said. “My father is a crop agronomist, and his company as well as other local farmers are all gathering their water trucks to help aid with the fires, and truckloads of bottled water and food is being supplied by our good patrons for our volunteer firemen trying to extinguish the blazes.”Several other wildfires pushed by winds of up to 65 mph (105 kph) burned another 225 square miles (about 580 square kilometers) for a total of nearly 938 square miles (about 2,430 square kilometers) by midday Saturday. The strong winds have kept firefighters from containing any of the fires, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said. Gov. Jim Pillen toured areas burned by the Morrill County fire.Hundreds of thousands of people were left without power Saturday after high winds raked eastward from the Great Lakes region, leaving trees down and substantial property damage in their wake. Farther west, at least one person died in a massive wind-driven wildfire in Nebraska.About 346,00 customers were still without electricity as of the late afternoon in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan, according to PowerOutage.us, which tracks outages nationwide.A 66 mph (106 kph) gust at Pittsburgh International Airport on Friday was deemed its fourth-strongest on record that was not caused by a thunderstorm, according to the National Weather Service. Cleveland Burke Lakefront Airport saw winds hit 85 mph (137 km) that afternoon.Winds took down a gas station canopy in New Franklin, Ohio, and an auto parts store sign in Baldwin, Pennsylvania. Trees and tree limbs fell into or onto homes and cars from Cleveland to Pittsburgh. The roof of a school building in the Chicago suburb of Niles, Illinois, was severely damaged by wind.In Chicago, thousands of revelers turned out to see the city's namesake river dyed bright green and a downtown parade celebrating the St. Patrick's Day holiday, despite the threat of snow and stiff winds that drove the feels-like temperature well below freezing.Dangerous winds were but one piece of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/heat-dome-snow-blizzard-cold-polar-flooding-55e3baf6877e81ee1961aade3cb361c3">wild weather mosaic</a>&nbsp;that included heavy rains in Hawaii, triple-digit heat coming next week in Phoenix and a return of winter cold to the Midwest and Northeast. Chicago was forecast to approach the single digits Fahrenheit by Tuesday, with Minneapolis seeing lows around zero (minus 18 C).Several Minnesota cities have already declared snow emergencies starting Sunday, when what could be the season’s largest snowfall is expected to hit. Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula are also in the crosshairs.AccuWeather warned of a “potent triple-threat March megastorm” from Sunday into Monday.“It’s definitely a very active weather weekend, that’s for sure,” AccuWeather senior meteorologist John Feerick said. “It’s a highly amplified pattern, which means you get a lot of extremes. Also, not just the Lower 48, but Hawaii’s getting hit hard right now with some very heavy rain.”Feerick said people along the Wisconsin-Iowa border might see some ice as travel conditions become dangerous in large parts of the Upper Midwest.___Beck reported from Omaha, Nebraska.

1 dead as high winds fuel wildfires across Nebraska grassland

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/david-a-lieb">DAVID A. LIEB</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/mark-scolforo">MARK SCOLFORO</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/julie-walker">JULIE WALKER</a>

A pilot from Alabama had just been promoted to major in January and had been deployed less than a week when the refueling aircraft he was aboard&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-iran-tanker-aircraft-crash-iraq-kc135-c337359a58be6280dc96fdbf1cb48a5b">crashed in Iraq</a>&nbsp;this week, killing him and five others, his brother-in-law said Saturday.

Alex Klinner, 33, leaves behind three small children: 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son, his brother-in-law, James Harrill, said Saturday while confirming his death.

“It’s kind of heartbreaking to say: He was just a really good dad and really loved his family a lot — like a lot,” Harrill said.

Klinner was one of three people killed in the Thursday crash who the U.S. government said were assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida and who Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey said were stationed in Birmingham. On Saturday, the U.S. government identified the other two as Capt. Ariana Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington, and Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky.

Three additional deceased service members on the aircraft were assigned to the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio. They were identified by federal and state officials as Capt. Seth Koval, 38, Capt. Curtis Angst, 30, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28.

The U.S. government listed Koval from Mooresville, Indiana, while the Ohio National Guard listed his home Stoutsville, Ohio. The Ohio National Guard listed both Angst and Simmons from Columbus, Ohio, while the U.S. government listed Angst as from Wilmington, Ohio.

The aircraft was in “friendly” airspace, supporting operations against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran</a>, when an unspecified incident involving another aircraft occurred, according to U.S. Central Command. The other plane landed safety, U.S. military officials said.

Klinner, a graduate of Auburn University and an eight-year U.S. Air Force veteran from Birmingham, Alabama, had just moved with his family into a new home, his wife, Libby Klinner, said in an Instagram post mourning his death.

An outdoorsman who enjoyed hiking, Klinner was also ready to help others. When Harrill last saw him in January, Klinner had shoveled Harrill’s vehicle out of the snow during a family wedding.

“Alex was one of those guys that had this steady command about him,” said Harrill, of Atlanta, who helped set up a GoFundMe site for Klinner’s family. “He was literally one of the most kindest, giving people.”

Libby Klinner said in a post that her heart is broken for their children, who will grow up not knowing their father.

“They won’t get to see firsthand the way he would jump up to help in any way he could,” she wrote. “They won’t see how goofy and funny he was. They won’t witness his selflessness, the way he thought about everyone else before himself. They won’t get to feel the deep love he had for them.”

Simmons was a boom operator responsible for transferring fuel from the tanker to the receiving aircraft, according to his Air Force biography.

His mother, Cheryl Simmons, said Saturday that she was making funeral plans for her son.

In a statement obtained by WCMH-TV in Columbus, Tyler Simmons’ family said it was saddened beyond measure to hear of the fatal crash.

“Tyler’s smile could light up any room, his strong presence would fill it. His parents, grandparents, family and friends are grief stricken for the loss of life,” they said.

The Ohio National Guard said Koval was an aircraft commander with 19 years of service. A graduate of Purdue University, he served in the Indiana National Guard before transferring to an Ohio unit in 2017, according to his Air Force biography.

Angst was a pilot with 10 years of service who graduated from the University of Cincinnati, according to his Air Force biography provided by the Ohio National Guard.

The refueling aircraft is a mainstay in the US military

U.S. Central Command, which oversees the Middle East, has said the crash occurred&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-iran-tanker-aircraft-crash-iraq-kc135-c337359a58be6280dc96fdbf1cb48a5b">on a combat mission</a>&nbsp;but was over “friendly” territory in western Iraq. Military officials said it is being investigated and was “not due to hostile or friendly fire.”

The KC-135 aircraft refuels other planes in midair, allowing them to fly longer distances and sustain operations without landing. The plane can also be used to transport wounded personnel and conduct surveillance missions, according to military experts.

The Congressional Research Service says the Air Force last year had 376 KC-135s, including 151 on active duty, 163 in the Air National Guard and 62 in the Air Force Reserve. It has been in service for more than 60 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773573408043.png" alt="Clockwise from top left: Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, and Maj. John A. Klinner.- Photos provided by the National Guard" />
 <figcaption>Clockwise from top left: Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, and Maj. John A. Klinner.- Photos provided by the National Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/david-a-lieb">DAVID A. LIEB</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/mark-scolforo">MARK SCOLFORO</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/julie-walker">JULIE WALKER</a>A pilot from Alabama had just been promoted to major in January and had been deployed less than a week when the refueling aircraft he was aboard&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-iran-tanker-aircraft-crash-iraq-kc135-c337359a58be6280dc96fdbf1cb48a5b">crashed in Iraq</a>&nbsp;this week, killing him and five others, his brother-in-law said Saturday.Alex Klinner, 33, leaves behind three small children: 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son, his brother-in-law, James Harrill, said Saturday while confirming his death.“It’s kind of heartbreaking to say: He was just a really good dad and really loved his family a lot — like a lot,” Harrill said.Klinner was one of three people killed in the Thursday crash who the U.S. government said were assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida and who Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey said were stationed in Birmingham. On Saturday, the U.S. government identified the other two as Capt. Ariana Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington, and Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky.Three additional deceased service members on the aircraft were assigned to the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio. They were identified by federal and state officials as Capt. Seth Koval, 38, Capt. Curtis Angst, 30, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28.The U.S. government listed Koval from Mooresville, Indiana, while the Ohio National Guard listed his home Stoutsville, Ohio. The Ohio National Guard listed both Angst and Simmons from Columbus, Ohio, while the U.S. government listed Angst as from Wilmington, Ohio.The aircraft was in “friendly” airspace, supporting operations against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran</a>, when an unspecified incident involving another aircraft occurred, according to U.S. Central Command. The other plane landed safety, U.S. military officials said.<h2>A new father and a new major</h2>Klinner, a graduate of Auburn University and an eight-year U.S. Air Force veteran from Birmingham, Alabama, had just moved with his family into a new home, his wife, Libby Klinner, said in an Instagram post mourning his death.An outdoorsman who enjoyed hiking, Klinner was also ready to help others. When Harrill last saw him in January, Klinner had shoveled Harrill’s vehicle out of the snow during a family wedding.“Alex was one of those guys that had this steady command about him,” said Harrill, of Atlanta, who helped set up a GoFundMe site for Klinner’s family. “He was literally one of the most kindest, giving people.”Libby Klinner said in a post that her heart is broken for their children, who will grow up not knowing their father.“They won’t get to see firsthand the way he would jump up to help in any way he could,” she wrote. “They won’t see how goofy and funny he was. They won’t witness his selflessness, the way he thought about everyone else before himself. They won’t get to feel the deep love he had for them.”<h2>A man with a ready smile</h2>Simmons was a boom operator responsible for transferring fuel from the tanker to the receiving aircraft, according to his Air Force biography.His mother, Cheryl Simmons, said Saturday that she was making funeral plans for her son.In a statement obtained by WCMH-TV in Columbus, Tyler Simmons’ family said it was saddened beyond measure to hear of the fatal crash.“Tyler’s smile could light up any room, his strong presence would fill it. His parents, grandparents, family and friends are grief stricken for the loss of life,” they said.The Ohio National Guard said Koval was an aircraft commander with 19 years of service. A graduate of Purdue University, he served in the Indiana National Guard before transferring to an Ohio unit in 2017, according to his Air Force biography.Angst was a pilot with 10 years of service who graduated from the University of Cincinnati, according to his Air Force biography provided by the Ohio National Guard.<h2>The refueling aircraft is a mainstay in the US military</h2>U.S. Central Command, which oversees the Middle East, has said the crash occurred&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-iran-tanker-aircraft-crash-iraq-kc135-c337359a58be6280dc96fdbf1cb48a5b">on a combat mission</a>&nbsp;but was over “friendly” territory in western Iraq. Military officials said it is being investigated and was “not due to hostile or friendly fire.”The KC-135 aircraft refuels other planes in midair, allowing them to fly longer distances and sustain operations without landing. The plane can also be used to transport wounded personnel and conduct surveillance missions, according to military experts.The Congressional Research Service says the Air Force last year had 376 KC-135s, including 151 on active duty, 163 in the Air National Guard and 62 in the Air Force Reserve. It has been in service for more than 60 years.

U.S. identifies six airmen killed in KC-135 crash in support of Epic Fury

KANSAS CITY —&nbsp; Six people were injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Saturday outside a nightclub in Kansas City.

According to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez,&nbsp; a Chevrolet Impala carrying five women occupants was stopped in the streetcar lane in front of Aura,&nbsp;3832 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri,&nbsp; while speaking with a bouncer. 

At the same time, a southbound Chevrolet Malibu was traveling on Main from&nbsp;38th Street&nbsp;at a high rate of speed and rear-ended the Impala with significant force.

 All individuals involved were transported to area hospitals for treatment. A passenger in the Malibu was listed in critical condition. impairment appears to be a factor, according to Gonzalez.

KANSAS CITY —&nbsp; Six people were injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Saturday outside a nightclub in Kansas City.According to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez,&nbsp; a Chevrolet Impala carrying five women occupants was stopped in the streetcar lane in front of Aura,&nbsp;3832 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri,&nbsp; while speaking with a bouncer. At the same time, a southbound Chevrolet Malibu was traveling on Main from&nbsp;38th Street&nbsp;at a high rate of speed and rear-ended the Impala with significant force. All individuals involved were transported to area hospitals for treatment. A passenger in the Malibu was listed in critical condition. impairment appears to be a factor, according to Gonzalez.

KCPD: 5 women hospitalized after crash outside nightclub

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — The American flag was raised Saturday over the U.S. Embassy in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/venezuela">Venezuela</a>&nbsp;for the first time since 2019, a move that highlighted the recent shift in relations between the two countries since then President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;was captured by American troops in January.

Though the flag is now waving, the building is undergoing renovations and it remains unclear when it will fully reopen.

The move comes after several statements from U.S. President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/venezuela-government-supporters-holds-a-small-solidarity-march-for-iran-e54b05c4cecc45a2b9cd026d05663984">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;in support of Maduro’s successor, acting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/machado-trump-venezuela-us-chile-opposition-ddb91c7d22559c0952e4b23433d63edf">President Delcy Rodríguez</a>, who has tried to keep negotiations open with the American government.

The flag was raised “exactly seven years after it was taken down,” the U.S. Embassy team said in a statement published on its social media channels.

The American flag being raised drew immediate attention from local residents.

“It’s a good thing, really, what a joy,” said Caracas resident Luz Verónica López. “Other countries must come back too because that’s what we need; progress, to move forward with good relations with the rest of the world, as it should be.”

Alessandro Di Benedetto, another Caracas resident, noted the positive atmosphere among those witnessing the moment.

“I found several people here surprised and happy because today they raised the U.S. flag at the embassy,” he said. “This is positive; this is another step.”

Despite the initiative, large chunks of Venezuelan society and the political establishment remain critics of Trump, his decision to forcefully remove Maduro from office and jail him in New York with his wife, and growing U.S. influence in the South American country’s oil industry.

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — The American flag was raised Saturday over the U.S. Embassy in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/venezuela">Venezuela</a>&nbsp;for the first time since 2019, a move that highlighted the recent shift in relations between the two countries since then President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;was captured by American troops in January.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The morning of March 14, 2019, the American flag was lowered for the final time at U.S. Embassy Caracas. This morning, on March 14, 2026, at the same time, my team and I raised the American flag—exactly seven years after it was lowered. A new era for U.S.-Venezuela relations… <a href="https://t.co/ivyzHfo0j7">pic.twitter.com/ivyzHfo0j7</a>&mdash; Embajada de los EE.UU., Venezuela (@usembassyve) <a href="https://twitter.com/usembassyve/status/2032819261165416506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Though the flag is now waving, the building is undergoing renovations and it remains unclear when it will fully reopen.The move comes after several statements from U.S. President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/venezuela-government-supporters-holds-a-small-solidarity-march-for-iran-e54b05c4cecc45a2b9cd026d05663984">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;in support of Maduro’s successor, acting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/machado-trump-venezuela-us-chile-opposition-ddb91c7d22559c0952e4b23433d63edf">President Delcy Rodríguez</a>, who has tried to keep negotiations open with the American government.The flag was raised “exactly seven years after it was taken down,” the U.S. Embassy team said in a statement published on its social media channels.The American flag being raised drew immediate attention from local residents.“It’s a good thing, really, what a joy,” said Caracas resident Luz Verónica López. “Other countries must come back too because that’s what we need; progress, to move forward with good relations with the rest of the world, as it should be.”Alessandro Di Benedetto, another Caracas resident, noted the positive atmosphere among those witnessing the moment.“I found several people here surprised and happy because today they raised the U.S. flag at the embassy,” he said. “This is positive; this is another step.”Despite the initiative, large chunks of Venezuelan society and the political establishment remain critics of Trump, his decision to forcefully remove Maduro from office and jail him in New York with his wife, and growing U.S. influence in the South American country’s oil industry.

🎥American flag raised at US Embassy in Venezuela; 1st time since 2019

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A man accused of attempting to kidnap and 8-year-old in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case Wednesday.

Tanner J. Warren, 27, was charged with&nbsp;attempted kidnapping and attempted interference with parental custody, according to online jail records.

Just before 11:30a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 2800 block of West Central in Wichita for a reported disturbance. The caller told police that their 8-year-old had left home and was walking in the 600 block of North Gordon when a man approached her and grabbed her.

The girl was able to break free and run to her grandparents' location, who called 911.

Officers arrived quickly, located the suspect, later identified in Sedgwick County booking records as Tanner J. Warren, near North Gordon, and detained him without incident.&nbsp; He remains jailed on a bond of $40,000, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772969650307.png" alt="Warren photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Warren photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A man accused of attempting to kidnap and 8-year-old in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case Wednesday.Tanner J. Warren, 27, was charged with&nbsp;attempted kidnapping and attempted interference with parental custody, according to online jail records.Just before 11:30a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 2800 block of West Central in Wichita for a reported disturbance. The caller told police that their 8-year-old had left home and was walking in the 600 block of North Gordon when a man approached her and grabbed her.The girl was able to break free and run to her grandparents' location, who called 911.Officers arrived quickly, located the suspect, later identified in Sedgwick County booking records as Tanner J. Warren, near North Gordon, and detained him without incident.&nbsp; He remains jailed on a bond of $40,000, according to online jail records.

Kan. man, accused of attempted abduction of 8-year-old, faces a judge

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

Just before 8a.m. March 9, police&nbsp;were alerted to a burglary in progress in the 1100 block of Hubbard Street in Great Bend, according to a media release.

 The reporting party advised that a woman that he did not know had entered his residence and taken several items, including a firearm. Officers began to search for the suspect with the description provided by the reporting party. 

A short time later, an officer located the suspect in the 1100 block of Holland Street in the alley way. Officers gave several commands to the suspect, who failed to comply.&nbsp; K9 Niko was deployed to subdue the suspect. 

After a successful apprehension, officers located the stolen firearm and several other stolen items. Officers arrested 41-year-old Crystal Caruthers on requested charges of Aggravated Burglary, Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement.  Caruthers was treated for her minor injuries by the Great Bend Fire Department Emergency Medical Services. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773397243649.png" alt="Caruthers-photo Barton County" />
 <figcaption>Caruthers-photo Barton County</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations.Just before 8a.m. March 9, police&nbsp;were alerted to a burglary in progress in the 1100 block of Hubbard Street in Great Bend, according to a media release. The reporting party advised that a woman that he did not know had entered his residence and taken several items, including a firearm. Officers began to search for the suspect with the description provided by the reporting party. A short time later, an officer located the suspect in the 1100 block of Holland Street in the alley way. Officers gave several commands to the suspect, who failed to comply.&nbsp; K9 Niko was deployed to subdue the suspect. After a successful apprehension, officers located the stolen firearm and several other stolen items. Officers arrested 41-year-old Crystal Caruthers on requested charges of Aggravated Burglary, Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement. Caruthers was treated for her minor injuries by the Great Bend Fire Department Emergency Medical Services.

Police: Kansas woman jailed after home invasion burglary

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hannah-schoenbaum">HANNAH SCHOENBAUM</a>

PROVO, Utah (AP) — The Utah man accused of killing Charlie Kirk was back in court Friday as a state judge denied some efforts by his attorneys to restrict public access to court documents while not ruling out the possibility of closing portions of an upcoming hearing.

The outcome sets the stage for an April hearing in which attorneys for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-assassination-tyler-robinson-media-e90d404b03383dec9e0d9a327b491920">Tyler Robinson</a>&nbsp;will make their case to exclude TV cameras, microphones and photographers from the courtroom.

Judge Tony Graf has been weighing the public’s right to know details about the case against concerns by defense attorneys that the heightened media attention could undermine Robinson’s right to a fair trial. Prosecutors, Kirk’s widow and attorneys for news organizations have urged Graf to keep the proceedings open.

Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem. They have said DNA evidence connects Robinson to the killing.

Attorneys on Friday debated whether the defense’s written request to exclude cameras, which was classified by the court as private, should be made public.

Graf said the defense failed to make its case to keep the motion private but that he will continue “balancing all the factors” when deciding which portions of the upcoming hearing may be closed.

Staci Visser, an attorney for Robinson, told the judge before the ruling that the defense is not arguing in the court of public opinion.

“There seems to be an idea that flooding the public sphere with information from this courtroom will somehow dispel conspiracy theories or shift public narratives. That, in and of itself, is concerning to the defense,” Visser said. “All we should be worried about is protecting what happens in this courtroom.”

Robinson’s defense team went on to say that the April 17 hearing will involve discussions about prejudicial pretrial publicity, such as evidence that has yet to be admitted, personal opinions about guilt or public statements that would otherwise be inadmissible in court. Revisiting that in open court could end up “reinflicting a wound” to Robinson’s rights, defense attorney Michael Burt said.

Christopher Ballard, a prosecutor with the Utah County Attorney’s Office, dismissed those arguments. He said careful questioning during jury selection and tools like expanding the jury pool can ensure a defendant gets a fair trial.

“So just saying that this is a content tornado or there’s been a barrage of media coverage doesn’t necessarily mean that there is going to be prejudice to the defendant,” Ballard said.

Ballard noted that most of the evidence that will be discussed in April is already public, so most of the hearing should be open.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765490146270.jpeg" alt="File photo Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (Rick Egan/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)" />
 <figcaption>File photo Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (Rick Egan/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hannah-schoenbaum">HANNAH SCHOENBAUM</a>PROVO, Utah (AP) — The Utah man accused of killing Charlie Kirk was back in court Friday as a state judge denied some efforts by his attorneys to restrict public access to court documents while not ruling out the possibility of closing portions of an upcoming hearing.The outcome sets the stage for an April hearing in which attorneys for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-assassination-tyler-robinson-media-e90d404b03383dec9e0d9a327b491920">Tyler Robinson</a>&nbsp;will make their case to exclude TV cameras, microphones and photographers from the courtroom.Judge Tony Graf has been weighing the public’s right to know details about the case against concerns by defense attorneys that the heightened media attention could undermine Robinson’s right to a fair trial. Prosecutors, Kirk’s widow and attorneys for news organizations have urged Graf to keep the proceedings open.Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem. They have said DNA evidence connects Robinson to the killing.Robinson has not yet entered a plea.Attorneys on Friday debated whether the defense’s written request to exclude cameras, which was classified by the court as private, should be made public.Graf said the defense failed to make its case to keep the motion private but that he will continue “balancing all the factors” when deciding which portions of the upcoming hearing may be closed.Staci Visser, an attorney for Robinson, told the judge before the ruling that the defense is not arguing in the court of public opinion.“There seems to be an idea that flooding the public sphere with information from this courtroom will somehow dispel conspiracy theories or shift public narratives. That, in and of itself, is concerning to the defense,” Visser said. “All we should be worried about is protecting what happens in this courtroom.”Robinson’s defense team went on to say that the April 17 hearing will involve discussions about prejudicial pretrial publicity, such as evidence that has yet to be admitted, personal opinions about guilt or public statements that would otherwise be inadmissible in court. Revisiting that in open court could end up “reinflicting a wound” to Robinson’s rights, defense attorney Michael Burt said.Christopher Ballard, a prosecutor with the Utah County Attorney’s Office, dismissed those arguments. He said careful questioning during jury selection and tools like expanding the jury pool can ensure a defendant gets a fair trial.“So just saying that this is a content tornado or there’s been a barrage of media coverage doesn’t necessarily mean that there is going to be prejudice to the defendant,” Ballard said.Ballard noted that most of the evidence that will be discussed in April is already public, so most of the hearing should be open.Coalitions of national and local news organizations, including The Associated Press, have been fighting to preserve media access in the case. Michael Judd, an attorney for the news media, urged the judge to keep the upcoming hearing entirely open.Media access has been a focal point of several recent hearings, with the judge placing temporary restrictions on local TV stations for showing Robinson’s shackles in violation of a court order and filming close-up shots that might allow viewers to interpret what he was discussing with his attorneys.The judge also has prevented full&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-biased-jurors-robinson-video-40d48c3427590c45c8b5e67517a117ef">video recordings of Kirk’s shooting</a>&nbsp;from being shown in court after defense attorneys argued the graphic footage would interfere with a fair trial. An estimated 3,000 people attended the outdoor rally to hear Kirk, an ally of President Donald Trump who worked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-turning-point-trump-cf2a68e4303c5628299ffe383d09c1e9">steer young voters toward conservatism</a>.