Tag: De Soto

Panasonic Plant in De Soto Evacuated Following “Thermal Event”

A thermal event at the Panasonic energy plant in De Soto, KS, led to a large emergency response and evacuation on May 5. Fire officials defined it as a thermal runaway within a battery, causing significant smoke. All employees are accounted for, and investigations into the cause are ongoing, with no reported injuries.

Suspect Identified in Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting at De Soto Panasonic Plant

DE SOTO, Kan. — Authorities have identified the man killed in an officer-involved shooting Friday morning at the Panasonic battery facility as Jonathan Lunceford, 55, of Blue Springs, Missouri. The incident, which began as a reported stabbing, left one victim in critical condition and a heavy law enforcement presence at the newly opened plant.

Governor Kelly Celebrates Grand Opening of Panasonic EV Battery Manufacturing Facility in De Soto

Governor Laura Kelly and others celebrated the grand opening of Panasonic’s $4 billion EV battery plant in De Soto, Kansas, the largest of its kind in the U.S. The facility is expected to create 4,000 jobs, significantly boost the economy, and solidify Kansas as a leader in battery production and innovation.

Governor Kelly Announces H&T Recharge Investing $110M, Creating 180 Jobs as New Panasonic Supplier

Governor Laura Kelly announced H&T Recharge's $110 million investment and 180 new jobs in De Soto. The company, selected by Panasonic Energy for its new EV battery facility, is known for precision cylindrical battery components. H&T's decision underscores Kansas' appeal to global companies. The state's skilled workforce and central location were key factors in H&T's choice.

U.S. transportation secretary visits Kansas, gives speech at future Panasonic plant site

by Rachel Mipro, Kansas Reflector February 27, 2023 DE SOTO — Surrounded by local and national leaders, U.S. transportation secretary...

U.S. Army outlines progress of environmental remediation at Kansas explosives plant

by Tim Carpenter, Kansas Reflector July 21, 2022 DE SOTO — U.S. Army base closure personnel responsible for the former...

Kansas Lands $4B, 4,000-Job Panasonic Energy Electric Vehicle Battery Plant In De Soto

TOPEKA – Today, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced that Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., plans to build one of the largest...