Riley County police report theft, DUI arrest following hit-and-run crash

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Riley County police investigated a construction equipment theft and arrested a woman on suspicion of driving under the influence after a hit-and-run crash during the past week.

Officers filed a theft report Oct. 7 after an unknown suspect stole construction equipment and tools from the 100 block of Deep Creek Road in Manhattan. The stolen items included a wheelbarrow, truck toolbox and copper cables and wires. Police estimated the total loss at $8,000 to $10,000. A 40-year-old man was listed as the victim. Anyone with information can contact Riley County police or Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers, which offers cash rewards up to $1,000 for anonymous tips.

Officers responded to an injury crash Oct. 8 at the intersection of Tuttle Creek Boulevard and Casement Road in Manhattan. A 2011 Dodge Caliber driven by David Fliter, 27, of Manhattan, was hit by a 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix that left the scene. Police identified the driver as Kimberly Blasing, 60, of Manhattan. Fliter declined transport to Via Christi Hospital.

Blasing was arrested in the 400 block of Watters Drive on suspicion of aggravated battery, driving under the influence, operating a motor vehicle without a valid license and duty of driver to give information. She was issued a total bond of $8,000 and remained confined in the Riley County Jail.

Police made five additional arrests Oct. 7:

Stephanie Amanda Keller, 36, of Ogden, was arrested at 10:35 p.m. on a warrant for theft of property or services. Bond: $500.

Jessica Rojas Urbina, 21, of Manhattan, was arrested at 6:56 p.m. on a warrant for failure to appear. Bond: $5,000.

Chris Erin Simnitt, 47, of Leonardville, was arrested at 5:43 p.m. on a warrant for failure to appear. Bond: $500.

Richard Arlen Taylor Jr., 38, of Manhattan, was arrested at 1:30 p.m. on a warrant for failure to appear. Bond: $4,000.

Megan Brittany Fikes, 33, of St. George, was arrested at 10:40 a.m. on suspicion of driving under the influence. Bond: $750.

Riley County police issued 22 traffic citations during the reporting period for violations including speeding, inattentive driving, driving without a license and failure to yield right of way.