 National Modular MFG LLC has signed a long-term lease to double the size of its Kansas operations, expanding into a 57,600-square-foot facility at the Kansas Enterprise Industrial Park in Hutchinson.

The company, which operates in Haven, Kansas, and Providence, North Carolina, manufactures modular units for national brands including 7 Brew Coffee. Company officials said the additional space will significantly increase manufacturing capacity and support continued growth.

National Modular said its facilities combine the strength and quality of traditional site-built construction with the added benefits of transportability and efficiency. The company completed 138 drive-thru buildings last year and expects the expansion to allow it to complete at least 200 units this year.

The manufacturer distinguishes itself by using welded steel frames exclusively, engineering its structures to meet snow, wind and seismic requirements across the United States and Canada. In addition to constructing the buildings, National Modular also designs and delivers full drive-thru canopy systems — a component often supplied separately in modular or site-built projects.

Company representatives said leasing the spec building in Hutchinson allowed for immediate expansion. They credited city and county leaders for supporting the company’s rapid growth since it established operations in Haven more than five years ago.

Brad Pryor of Salt City Investments said the spec building was designed to accommodate growing companies seeking ready-to-occupy industrial space.

“This is exactly the type of project we are proud to support,” Pryor said, adding that the development model is expected to be replicated for future projects.

Reno County Commission Chair Ron Hirst said the county remains committed to economic development efforts that create jobs and generate broader economic impact.

Hutchinson Mayor Scott Meggers said the city supported the vision for development in the industrial park to demonstrate that Hutchinson is positioned for business expansion.

Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, said the availability of modern, move-in-ready industrial space played a key role in facilitating the company’s growth and strengthening its long-term investment in Reno County.

National Modular MFG to expand locally

 Construction on the new Hutchinson YMCA is progressing on schedule, with major interior work underway and membership continuing to grow ahead of the facility’s anticipated opening later this year.

David Foster, executive director of the Hutchinson YMCA, said contractors have completed much of the exterior enclosure, allowing crews to focus on interior finishes. Tile installation has begun in the aquatics center, including the main pool and lazy river, while ductwork and other infrastructure are largely in place.

The project is being designed by Schaefer Architecture of Wichita and built by Simpson Construction. Foster said materials needed to complete the facility have already been secured, minimizing the risk of supply chain delays. Weather remains the primary variable that could affect the timeline.

The new facility will feature a 5,000-square-foot dedicated gymnastics area, three group exercise studios, expanded aquatics amenities, basketball courts with pickleball capability and a 1/7-mile elevated indoor track designed for walking, jogging and running.

Foster said the dedicated spaces will alleviate crowding and scheduling conflicts that have occurred in the current building, where programs such as gymnastics and group exercise often share space. The expanded layout is expected to allow the YMCA to increase class offerings and community programming.

A community meeting room near the main entrance will be available at no cost to nonprofit organizations in Hutchinson and Reno County when not in use for YMCA business, Foster said.

Membership has continued to rise during construction. Foster said the YMCA added approximately 270 membership units during a January promotion, bringing total membership to about 5,200 — up from roughly 4,800 at the same time last year.

Despite the upgraded facility, Foster said membership rates will not increase when the new YMCA opens. Adult memberships average about $39 per month, while family memberships — covering two adults and dependents under age 24 in the household — average about $59 per month. Youth memberships are $19 per month. Income-based financial assistance will continue to be available.

“We don’t want anyone to see the new building and assume it’s not for them,” Foster said. “We want it to be accessible to everyone.”

The YMCA also participates in a nationwide reciprocity program, allowing members to use participating YMCA facilities across the country when traveling.

In addition to the new construction, the Hutchinson YMCA is marking a milestone year. The local organization traces its presence in the community to 1876 and is celebrating its 150th year of service. The national YMCA organization is marking its 175th anniversary this year.

Spring sports registration for soccer and dodgeball is open through Monday, Foster said. Memberships purchased before the opening will automatically transfer to the new facility once it begins operations.

Construction progressing on new YMCA

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Grace Episcopal, Emanuel Lutheran, First Presbyterian, First Mennonite and Trinity United Methodist churches will jointly host “God’s Chosen Fast: Justice, Mercy, Humility,” a five-week worship and luncheon series beginning Feb. 25 at Trinity United Methodist Church.

Each congregation will take turns hosting the event during Lent. Luncheons begin at 12:05 p.m. and include worship, a brief sermon and a light meal. Pastors from the other participating churches will speak and assist at the host church each week. The gatherings conclude promptly at 1 p.m., although guests are welcome to stay longer.

“The Season of Lent is a season of renewal and reorientation,” said the Rev. Dr. J. Ted Blakley, rector of Grace Episcopal Church. “Lent has a long and deep history in the various expressions of the Christian faith. These ecumenical lunches give us an opportunity to worship together, to learn from one another, and to appreciate the wisdom and the diversity of the gifts of our neighbors in the faith.”

All luncheons are free and open to the public.

Grace Episcopal Church
Founded in 1879, Grace Episcopal Church is part of the Diocese of Western Kansas and the worldwide Anglican Communion. More information is available at <a href="http://www.gracechurchhutch.org">www.gracechurchhutch.org</a>.

Emanuel Lutheran Church
Founded in 1886, Emanuel Lutheran Church is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Learn more at <a href="http://www.emanuel-hutchinson.org">www.emanuel-hutchinson.org</a>.

First Presbyterian Church
A congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Presbytery of Southern Kansas and the Synod of Mid-America, First Presbyterian has been located at the corner of Sherman and Poplar in Hutchinson for 150 years. More information is available at <a href="http://www.fpchutch.org">www.fpchutch.org</a>.

First Mennonite Church
First Mennonite Church traces its roots to 1913, when members met in homes and in a room above Bloom’s Drug Store on Main Street. The congregation now worships at 21st and Rambler Road and is part of Mennonite Church USA. Learn more at <a href="http://www.hutchfmc.org">www.hutchfmc.org</a>.

Trinity United Methodist Church
Since 1923, Trinity United Methodist Church has provided worship services, community outreach and programs for all ages. It is located at the southeast corner of 17th and Main. More information is available at <a href="http://www.trinityhutch.org">www.trinityhutch.org</a>.

Five Hutchinson churches join for lenten worship series

Here's a list of events happening around the area.&nbsp; If your club or organization has an event, you can e-mail the information to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@eaglemedia.com">HutchPost@eaglemedia.com.</a>

Hutch CC Men’s &amp; Women’s Basketball vs Colby – 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Sports Arena&nbsp;

Third Thursday 6 to&nbsp;8&nbsp;p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Downtown Hutchinson&nbsp;

Salthawk&nbsp;Basketball&nbsp;vs&nbsp;Newton – 6 and 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Newton High School&nbsp;

“Newsies” - Family Community Theater – 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;301 North Main Street&nbsp;

Fox Live Series – Celebrate Neil Diamond: ‘I Am, He Said’&nbsp;- 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hutchinson Fox Theater – 18 East First&nbsp;

Saturday Morning Artists – 9 to 11:30 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hutchinson Art Center&nbsp;

Hutch CC Men’s &amp; Women’s Basketball at Coffeyville – 2 &amp; 4 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Nellis Hall, Coffeyville&nbsp;

“Newsies” - Family Community Theater – 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;301 North Main Street&nbsp;

Happenings Around Hutch • Feb. 18 - 22

Hutchinson Community College is proud to join fellow Kansas community colleges and the Kansas Air National Guard (KSANG) in a new collaborative effort aimed at strengthening the state and nation’s cybersecurity workforce.

Recently highlighted by U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, the partnership creates new opportunities for community college students across Kansas to engage directly in training that supports industries throughout Kansas and the nation.

“The safety of our communities is inextricably linked to the security of our digital networks,” said Dr. Tricia Paramore, president of Hutchinson Community College. “Cybersecurity threats impact every industry — from our local hospitals and small businesses to our schools and public agencies. This partnership expands access, strengthens learning opportunities, and demonstrates the power of collaboration in protecting our communities.”

The initiative also reinforces the vital role Kansas community colleges play in workforce development and national security.

“This isn’t just a curriculum enhancement — it’s a direct pipeline to the front lines of digital defense,” said Jesse Newberry, associate professor of Information Technology at Hutchinson Community College. “Our students are learning to defend the same types of systems that support our national infrastructure. Through this partnership, they gain exposure to high-level cybersecurity challenges and are even better positioned to step into critical, high-impact roles immediately after graduation.”

While the initiative represents a powerful statewide collaboration, Hutchinson Community College is uniquely positioned to contribute through its established and comprehensive Cybersecurity program.  HutchCC offers an Associate of Science degree in Cybersecurity that prepares students through hands-on instruction in programming and secure coding. Students train using industry-relevant tools and scenarios that mirror the real-world challenges facing public and private institutions every day.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College and its cybersecurity offerings, visit the college website at www.hutchcc.edu/cybersecurity.

HutchCC joins Kansas Air National Guard partnership

The Dillon Lecture Series (DLS) is proud to announce its first speaker of the 2026 season: legendary award-winning Kansas journalist, Larry Hatteberg.

During a 51-year career centered on telling people’s stories, Hatteberg became a defining voice in Kansas local television. His “Hatteberg’s People” series remains the longest-running television feature in the state’s history, profiling nearly 2,000 Kansans and taking him to 17 foreign countries. A former prime-time anchor and executive news director for KAKE-TV, Hatteberg is also a nationally recognized teacher of photojournalism who has consulted for over 40 stations across the country and the U.S. Department of Defense.

During his lecture, Hatteberg will share insights from his half-century of storytelling — finding the extraordinary in "ordinary" people and illuminating the human spirit through the lens of a camera.

Patrons and attendees should take special note of a change to the traditional schedule for this event. Unlike most Dillon Lectures, which are held in the morning at the Sports Arena, Hatteberg will speak at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the Hutchinson Community College campus.

“Larry Hatteberg is a respected storyteller whose work has had a lasting impact on Kansas communities,” said Susan Buttram, chair of the Dillon Lecture Committee. “We’re excited to welcome him to Hutchinson for what promises to be a meaningful and engaging lecture.”

Tickets to the lecture are available now at <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/dillon-lecture-series">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a> and will also be available beginning at 1:15 pm the day of the lecture at the Stringer Fine Arts Center.

2026 is the 45th season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. Since 1982, the Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College has brought distinguished and notable speakers to the Hutchinson community. Following the philosophy that "learning is the key to enlightenment," the series continues to provide audiences with access to world-class thinkers, leaders, and storytellers.

For more information on the Dillon Lecture Series or to become a patron, visit <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/dillon-lecture-series">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a> or call Becky Rogers at 620-665-3505.

Hatteberg to open 2026 Dillon Lecture Series

&nbsp;The Hutchinson City Council approved a new beverage sales and sponsorship agreement with PepsiCo Beverage Sales LLC that also includes Hutchinson Community College and USD 308, with city staff saying the joint contract will simplify concessions across shared venues such as Gowans Stadium and the sports arena.

Parks and Facilities Director Justin Combs said the agreement runs through June 2030 and includes minimum purchase thresholds, $1,500 in initial support funds for the city and $11,300 annually in support funds, plus 75 free cases of product. He said Pepsi provides and services equipment at no cost, with 104 total pieces of equipment citywide — including about 40 in city-owned facilities — such as coolers and vending machines. The contract caps per-unit price increases at no more than 5% annually, Combs said, and includes vending service language used by the college and school district, while the city self-services its machines.

Combs told council the city’s previous Pepsi agreement provided about $3,500 a year in benefits, making the new package “significantly more” valuable. Council members raised administrative cleanup issues, including correcting signatories listed on earlier versions of the document, before voting unanimously to approve the agreement and authorize the mayor to sign.

In a separate discussion, City Attorney Paul Brown told council an existing development agreement with Superior Holding — tied to the city’s job-creation incentive Policy 30 — already covers incentives through 2030 and requires a minimum of 10 new jobs paying at least $21 an hour with health insurance. Brown said the agreement contains no maximum number of jobs eligible for incentives, and he recommended no council action unless the company seeks amendments.

Council members and economic development representatives discussed whether the city should revisit its incentive policies to push higher wages, potential cost-of-living adjustments, “but-for” language, and additional accountability measures. Chamber officials said state incentive programs use wage thresholds tied to NAICS industry codes and noted Reno County’s median hourly wage is about $20.13 based on state assessments. A resident criticized the city’s use of incentives and wage floors, while council members defended incentives as voluntary conditions for eligibility rather than mandates.

Also during the meeting, Utilities Director David Guinn reported water system repairs and leak detection efforts reduced treated-water loss by about 117 million gallons compared with the prior year — roughly a 4% improvement — producing an estimated $166,000 in treatment cost savings and about $591,000 in potential future revenue if the saved water is sold, for total impacts nearing three-quarters of a million dollars. Guinn credited aggressive work on main breaks, leaks, hydrants and valves, and said the city plans to conduct systemwide leak detection every three years.

Strategic Growth Director Dave Sotelo also invited the public to the launch of “Build Hutch,” a yearlong, grant-funded small-scale development program designed to help residents move projects from concept to completion. The kickoff is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall, with optional registration available through the city’s website.

Council approves beverage contract, discusses development agreement

\Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————



Drew	David	Sims		2/17/2026 8:23&nbsp;AM	Forgery; Making, altering, endorsing,					Failure to Appear,					Worthless Checks; $1,000 to $24,999,					Failure to Appear

Taylor	Nichole	Ryan		2/17/2026 11:25&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Scott	Andrew	Cooley		2/17/2026 12:20&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Matthew	Adam	Collingwood		2/17/2026 2:50&nbsp;PM	In Transit From-To Other Agency

Thomas	Cody Dale	Hagan		2/17/2026 3:19&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv,					DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator,					Failure to Appear

Alyssa	Nicole	King		2/17/2026 3:42&nbsp;PM	Distr heroin/certain stim/fent;3.5 - &lt;100grams,					Possession of Parapernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance,					Failure to Appear

Marcus	Allen	Kilpatrick		2/18/2026 3:48&nbsp;AM	Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct,					Endangering a Child,					DUI; Misdemeanor,					Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm

Daily Bookings

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil rights leader, presidential candidate and founder of the organization Operation PUSH, leaves behind a legacy that supporters say reshaped American politics and expanded opportunities for marginalized communities.

Dr. Hence Parson and Darrell Pope of the "Parson and Pope" podcast reflected on Jackson’s place in history, describing him as a pivotal figure in the fight for equality, social justice and voting rights.

“He was a leader in the area of equality and social justice,” Darrell Pope said. “He did a lot to bring about change and to put it on the world’s conscience about equality and human dignity.”

Jackson rose to national prominence as a close associate of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. In the decades that followed, he founded Operation PUSH — later part of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition — advocating for economic empowerment, education access and expanded political participation.

Pope said Jackson consistently emphasized the importance of voting and civic engagement, urging Americans to take part in the democratic process even when progress seemed slow.

“His message was about equality of opportunity and justice,” Dr. Parson said. “No matter how many times you heard him, he always emphasized voting rights and making a difference in your life.”

Jackson twice sought the Democratic nomination for president, mounting historic campaigns in 1984 and 1988. Though unsuccessful, those bids are widely viewed as having broadened the political landscape and demonstrated the viability of a Black candidate competing seriously for the nation’s highest office.

Observers on the program said those campaigns helped lay the groundwork for the election of Barack Obama in 2008.

“People began recognizing that it was possible,” Dr. Parson said. “He tried to break that color barrier and laid the groundwork.”

Jackson also traveled extensively, including visits to Kansas communities such as Great Bend and Hutchinson, where residents recalled hearing him speak and attending receptions during his appearances in the state.

Those reflecting on his life said Jackson’s broader legacy lies in his insistence that diverse voices have a seat at the table.

“For too many years, that was not the case,” Dr. Parson said. “Give individuals who are different the opportunity to sit at the table and have discussions about their lives.”

Dr. Parson added that Jackson’s work underscored a belief that societies function best when inclusion is prioritized.

“It’s been proven that when everybody is included and allowed to participate, the country is better for it,” Pope added.

As communities look back on Jackson’s decades of activism, those who followed his work say the responsibility now falls on a new generation to continue advocating for fairness, opportunity and human dignity.

Parson and Pope remember Rev. Jesse Jackson

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

Firefighters across Kansas were very busy today. Many fires were suppressed without state assistance. KFS and partners assisted with the following fires. 

Burned from Texas Co Ok into Seward Co. Located southwest of Liberal, forward progress is stopped for now and crews are actively working to extinguish hot spots. 

Located southeast Liberal is actively burning. Johnson County Task Force and KFS DFMO Williams is engaged with the local fire departments. The head fire is approaching Meade Co. 

This fire continues to burn actively and Kansas Forest Service DFMO Brad Ilonummi and other state resources are working with local responders on this fire.

Continues to burn actively moving east and is located south of Protection, KS. 

The Sedgwick Co Task Force is engaged on this fire along with KFS Assistant Fire Management Officer Dennis Carlson. 

Aviation and additional Kansas Task Forces will be available tomorrow to assist the local fire departments. 

Please check local social media outlets for evacuation notifications. 

Kansas Forest Service provides wildfire update

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in Kansas City.

A silver Nissan Altima was eastbound on Interstate 70 approaching Stadium Drive in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The driver failed to stop for congested traffic ahead. The Nissan Altima rear-ended a black Nissan full-size van, resulting in a four-vehicle collision. 

Two individuals were transported to an area hospital with critical injuries. EMS pronounced one passenger deceased at the scene. This is fatality #9 in KCMO in 2026, according to Gonzalez.

Police released no additional details including the name of the victims.

KCPD: One dead after 4-vehicle I-70 crash

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/"></a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Cellphones are one step closer to disappearing from Kansas classrooms after the House passed a bill that would require a daytime device ban to public and private schools.

Social connection, phone addiction and parental choice came into play in an hours-long debate Monday that involved Republicans and Democrats crossing the aisle to ultimately support a bill that would apply to public and private schools.

The bipartisan ban proposes a bell-to-bell prohibition on cellphone use, requiring schools to craft detailed policies to ensure devices are turned off and stored away during the school day and to enact disciplinary measures for students who violate a ban.

A cascade of changes as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb281/" target="_blank">House Substitute for Senate Bill 281</a>&nbsp;made its way through committee resulted in a bill that only mandated a ban in public schools and merely suggested one for private schools.

Republican Rep. Jill Ward of Wichita added a provision Monday to apply the mandate to both public and nonpublic schools. The bill itself drew mixed reactions from each party, and so did Ward’s amendment.

​​“These kids’ lives are just as negatively impacted by phones as those that attend public schools,” Ward said.

Students wouldn’t be allowed under the bill to use cellphones or other electronic communication devices, smartwatches and earbuds during the school day, which includes passing period and lunch time, unless the student is allowed to leave school grounds during lunch.

Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, said private schools should receive the same funding as public schools if the same rules must apply. She said she agreed with the need to address devices and their connection to mental health issues in children, but she said the bill, with Ward’s amendment, would be equivalent to a de facto state operation of private, religious schools.

She said many parents choose private schools because they don’t want to deal with state mandates.

Ward’s amendment passed with 68 voting in favor and 55 against.

Some Democrats opposed the bill entirely, favoring phones in school in the event of emergencies such as natural disasters or school shootings. Others didn’t think a one-size-fits-all policy was appropriate for schools with unique needs.

Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, a Republican from Edwardsville, attempted to strip the bill, re-adding language to make bans optional for private schools.

Some, like Republican Rep. Sean Tarwater of Stilwell, were torn. He said Monday that he couldn’t support Caiharr’s amendment, arguing that all children matter.

“In my opinion, children are children, mental health is mental health and suicide is suicide, no matter what school you go to,” Tarwater said. “Are we trying to help some children or all children here?”

Caiharr said Kansas has a long tradition of respecting educational diversity and removing private schools from the bill maintains that tradition.

Sixty seven representatives opposed her amendment, and 54 voted in favor, retaining the inclusion of private and public schools. The House voted on the bill Tuesday with 76 in favor and 45 against, forwarding it to the Senate.

The Senate unanimously passed a previous version of the bill, which applied to both public and private schools, but it must vote again in the wake of House changes.

Rep. Angela Martinez, a Wichita Democrat, said Tuesday a phone-free school day restores focus and encourages relationship building. Rep. Steven Howe, a Salina Republican, said a cellphone ban restores human connection and slackens the grip big tech companies have exercised over kids’ attention.

Rep. Samantha Poetter Parshall, a Paola Republican, said the bill leaves students helpless, eliminating a tool used to document bullying and removing a piece of parents’ rights.

Williams said Tuesday decisions for private school students should be up to parents and individual schools, not the state.

“This bill opens a door we should keep closed,” she said.

Kansas cellphone ban applying to both public and private schools clears House 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —&nbsp;Zachary Ramirez, 22, was sentenced on Tuesday for the July 2023 shooting deaths of two people in an Old Town parking garage in Wichita, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

During a hearing before Chief Judge Jeffrey Goering, Ramirez was sentenced to two consecutive "hard 25" life sentences. He also received 61 months with the Kansas Department of Corrections and six months in jail for additional counts, to be served concurrently with the life sentences.

In Kansas, a "hard 25" sentence is a mandatory life term that requires a defendant to serve a minimum of 25 years in prison before becoming eligible for parole. Because the court ordered the sentences to be served consecutively, Ramirez must serve at least 50 years before he is eligible for release.

The sentencing follows an April 2024 trial in which a Sedgwick County jury convicted Ramirez of several charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, two alternative counts of second-degree murder, criminal discharge of a weapon, aggravated battery, and two counts of battery. The case had been pending sentencing while the court considered the outcome of several post-trial motions.

The charges stem from an incident on July 27, 2023. At approximately 4 a.m., Wichita police responded to a parking garage in the 300 block of North Moore after a street sweeper operator discovered two victims inside a vehicle. Josephina Lerma-Dominguez, 20, and Bryan Lara-Hernandez, 21, both of Wichita, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators used surveillance footage and the FLOCK license plate reader system to identify and apprehend Ramirez shortly after the shooting.

The case was prosecuted by Chief Assistant District Attorney Jason Roach and Senior Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Jameson.

"We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Wichita Police Department for their thorough and diligent work on this investigation," the District Attorney’s Office said in a statement. "Their commitment to the case ensured that justice could be served for the victims and their families."

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A man convicted&nbsp; of killing two people in a parking garage in&nbsp;Old Town in Wichita is scheduled to learn his fate Tuesday.

&nbsp;Zachary Ramirez, 21, will appear at a sentencing hearing in Judge Jeffry Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In April of 2024, a jury found him guilty on two counts of first-degree murder, two alternative counts of second-degree murder, criminal discharge of a weapon, aggravated battery and two counts of battery in the deaths of 20-year-old Josephina Lerma-Dominguez and 21-year-old Bryan Lara-Hernandez both of Wichita, according to the district attorney's office.

Just before&nbsp; 4a.m. July 27, 2023, police responded to the 300 block of North Moore after a a street sweeper operator saw two gunshot victims in a vehicle in a parking garage in Wichita's Old Town and called 911, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

EMS&nbsp; arrived on the scene and attempted life-saving measures Lerma-Dominguez and Lara-Hernandez died at the scene.&nbsp;

Maximum sentence for killing Kansas couple in parking garage

CLARK COUNTY— The wild fire in southwest Kansas is contained but not out, according to Clark County Attorney Clay Kuhns. Approximately 150,000 acres have burned and the fire continues along the state line in Clark County.&nbsp; Two injured firefighter were transported to Wichita for treatment, according to Kuhns.

Earlier Wednesday, evacuation orders for residents in Englewood and Ashland were lifted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Tuesday night, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and his team traveled to Ashland to deliver water and thank first responders for their work protecting homes, ranches, and livestock.

2 firefighters injured fighting southwest Kansas wildfire 

SEWARD COUNTY —Liberal, Kansas, took the gold medal. Hannah McCarter secured victory in the 2026 International Pancake Day Race

&nbsp;McCarter crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 1:03.78, according to a media release from the International Pancake Day social media page.

This year’s competition was a trans-Atlantic showdown between Liberal, Kansas, and Olney, England. While Olney’s top runner finished with a strong time of 1:05, it wasn’t enough to catch McCarter, who led Liberal to another historic victory.

With this latest win, Liberal continues to dominate the long-standing international rivalry:

🎥Kansas wins 77th International Pancake Day race

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</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 Senate overrode Gov Laura Kelly’s veto on Tuesday, putting the state one step closer to forcing people to use bathrooms in government buildings that match their biological sex at birth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">Senate Substitute for House Bill 244</a>&nbsp;was overturned by the Senate, with votes falling along party lines.&nbsp;

As the vote was finalized in the Senate, Rabbi Moti Rieber shouted in anger from the gallery.&nbsp;

“First they came for the trans people, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t trans,” he yelled.&nbsp;

Rieber was referring to a&nbsp;<a href="https://hmd.org.uk/resource/first-they-came-by-pastor-martin-niemoller/" target="_blank">well-known writing</a>&nbsp;by a German minister after the Holocaust.&nbsp;

As he was escorted out, Rieber continued to shout, telling the Senate, “Shame on you.”&nbsp;

Sen. Dinah Sykes, D-Lenexa, said the bill is the result of a “culture war” and does not serve Kansans well.&nbsp;

“Issues like this bill make us a less attractive place for businesses to relocate and start,” she said. “We are poised to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in just over 100 days. The World Cup is supposed to bring millions of dollars to our region, and we should not be putting that economic impact at risk by playing political games in fighting culture wars.”

Sykes yielded to Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overand Park, taking away the chance for Republicans to “call the question,” a term that would stop debate and put the bill directly to a vote.&nbsp;

Someone from the Republican side of the Senate called the question after Sykes began talking, but Senate President Ty Masterson said she could continue.&nbsp;

Holscher challenged the Republican-led majority to show evidence that sexual assaults occur in bathrooms by trans people. She quoted various studies to back up her calculations that Kansans have a .00083% chance of being assaulted by a trans person in a restroom.&nbsp;

“You are eight times more likely to get struck by lightning,” Holscher said. “You’re 50 times more likely to die in a car crash, you’re 100 times more likely to be killed by gun violence, and you are 3,500 times more likely to be sexually assaulted by a man.”

Sens. Pat Pettey, D-Kansas City, and David Haley, D-Kansas City, both Democrats from Wyandotte County that will host the World Cup, said they are concerned about economic development impacts.&nbsp;

“This body continues to debate and pass legislation that places a heavy financial burden on our communities without providing them with additional resources,” Pettey said. “We are hosting the World Cup this summer. We are being put in a global spotlight. The Kansas Legislature should be focused on job creation, strengthening our workforce and attracting and retaining top talent. Where one goes to the bathroom does not grow our economy.”

Sen. Kellie Warren, R-Leawood, closed the short debate expressing concerns about children seeing someone of the opposite sex in the bathroom or locker room.&nbsp;

“That’s what this bill is about. It’s not about economic impact,” she said.

In a statement, Senate President Ty Masterson said the Senate “restored sanity” in overturning Kelly’s veto.&nbsp;

“Kansas Democrats are for They/Them,” he said.&nbsp;

After the veto was overturned, Rieber expressed his frustration at the danger he believes the bill creates for trans people. He referred to a section of the bill that requires all gender markers on driver’s licenses and birth certificates to match a person’s biological sex at birth.

“This bill is gratuitous. This bill is absolutely unnecessary,” he said. “Think about when you take out your driver’s license — at the liquor store, when you’re cashing a check, voting, if a cop pulls you over. You’re outing yourself every time somebody sees your driver’s license. It’s very dangerous for trans people to be outed, and we’re putting them at risk.”

Kansas Senate overrides governor’s veto of anti-trans ‘bathroom bill’

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of homicides over the past week in Kansas City, Missouri

Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the VA hospital in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

Upon officers arrival, they contacted several individuals who had stated the shooting occurred in the 2900 block of Brighton Avenue. The victim, later identified as 46-year-old Richard Ennis was transported by private conveyance to the VA hospital for medical treatment. VA hospital staff advised officers he was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary information provided by a witness stated that she was inside of her residence when she heard several sounds of shots outside of her home. She exited the residence and located Ennis lying in the street suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. An adult male suspect was seen entering an unknown vehicle and left the area in an unknown direction.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies were in the area of 28th and Southwest Boulevard working off duty for a nightclub/bar business there when they heard the sound of gunfire inside the bar, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

At the same time 911 received calls for a shooting inside the business.&nbsp;On arrival officers were led inside the business where they located 3 adult female shooting victims.&nbsp;

Officers began rendering aid and called for EMS to come in.&nbsp;EMS declared one shooting victim deceased at the scene. EMS&nbsp; then transported the other two victims to the hospital for treatment. At the hospital one of the two victims was declared deceased, and the other victim has what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries, according to Becchina.&nbsp; The women who died have been identified as 29-year-old Eboni Silas and 24-year-old Tishauna Ballard, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

While officers were at the scene they were notified of a 4th shooting victim, an adult male, who arrived at the hospital by private vehicle. That victim was reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates the victims were inside the business when there was an interaction with one or more suspects that escalated and led to shots being fired which struck the victims.&nbsp; Police have not released any details on a possible suspect.

Just after 5:30p.m. Feb 12, police were dispatched to 20th and Monroe on a sound of shots call in the area. 911 received multiple additional calls of sound of shots and eventually one call reporting a shooting victim down in a wooded area of a series of vacant lots in the 2000 block of Monroe.

On arrival officers made their way into the vacant lots and located a male shooting victim later identified as 25-year-old Terrion M. Johnson. unresponsive there. Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS responded and took over aid. They eventually declared the victim deceased here at the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary indication indicates the shooting occurred on 20th street between Askew and Monroe and Johnson ran to the south where he was located.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just after 8p.m. Feb. 11, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in 1500 block of E 59th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.&nbsp; The caller advised there was a person outside that appeared to be injured and needed help.&nbsp;

On arrival officers located a victim later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet in front of a residence there. Norfleet told officers he had been shot at a nearby location near an apartment complex in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road.

The victim was unable to provide any additional information regarding suspects.&nbsp;Officers called for EMS who transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Additional officers responded to the area described by the victim in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road and located evidence of a crime scene at that location.&nbsp;

Detectives and Crime Scene investigators began conducing investigation and processing the scene for evidence.&nbsp;Later in the evening detectives were notified from the hospital that&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet had died.

At 9:30p.m. Feb. 10, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of E. Armour Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri, on a sound of shots call, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

Multiple callers reported the sound of gunfire from behind an apartment building there. On arrival officers were directed to a parking lot in the back of an apartment building where they located a vehicle with shooting victims identified as 26-year-old Brittnee McMillon and and 28-year-old Jerrell Westmoreland.unresponsive inside.&nbsp;

Officers called for EMS who declared both victims deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives responded to the scene to conduct their investigation along with crime scene investigators processed the scene for available evidence.&nbsp; Police have not released details on possible suspects.

KCPD: 7 dead after violent week in Kansas City

THOMAS COUNTY —One person died in a multi-vehicle accident during a dust storm just after 1p.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo semi driven by Ihor Batiuk, 53, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately four miles west of the U.S. 83 exit in the right lane. The driver entered a blowing dust storm crossing the interstate from south to north. This storm caused little to zero visibility across the roadway. Due to the low visibility, the driver slowed his speed down.

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