🎙️ Public Affairs: Ryan Kern with Washington Co. Economic Development – 2/15/2025

A massive search for a missing two-year-old boy in Beloit, Kansas, ended tragically when he was found unresponsive in a creek early Friday morning. The search began late Thursday night after reports of his disappearance. The Mitchell County Sheriff's Office expressed grief and an investigation is currently underway.

HERKIMER, KS — A tragic collision between a farm vehicle and a freight train in northwest Marshall County on Monday afternoon has claimed the life of a local farmer and left two train conductors hospitalized with serious injuries, authorities report.

The National Weather Service has issued Flood and Flash Flood Watches for parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri due to expected heavy thunderstorms. Significant rainfall could exceed three inches in some areas, prompting warnings across major cities like Omaha and Manhattan. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for possible flooding.

Heavy runoff has caused Tuttle Creek Reservoir to exceed its conservation limits, rising 2.69 feet within 24 hours. Inflows from the Big Blue River surged dramatically, prompting officials to limit outflows to manage potential flooding. Nearby rivers are also under flood warnings, with emergency management monitoring conditions closely, urging residents to stay cautious.

SEDGWICK COUNTY, Kan. — The Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office Major Crash Team is investigating a violent three-vehicle collision east of Derby on Tuesday evening that left three people hospitalized, two in critical condition. Authorities are looking into whether a mobile device played a role in the accident.