hcj

Top 5 Kansas news stories

September 15, 2025

Teri Hansen

15 Sep 2025 • 4 min read

Worlds Fun Chaos
Poll Workers Needed
Tire Slashings Investigation
FBI Tracking Lawsuit
Chiefs Start 0-2

Worlds Fun Visitors Describe Chaos During False Shooting Scare

Visitors to Worlds of Fun's Halloween Haunt opening night Saturday recounted a terrifying experience as reports of possible gunshots sent thousands of people fleeing the Kansas City amusement park. While Kansas City police found no evidence of gunfire, the panic was real as guests barricaded in stores, children cried, and families were separated during the mass evacuation. Two Kansas visitors said they saw officers with guns drawn running through the park and witnessed hundreds of police cars responding to the scene. The incident began when an off-duty officer working at the park received reports of possible gunshots, prompting park-wide evacuations and security protocols. Several guests were treated for minor injuries sustained while exiting, according to Six Flags, which owns the park. Visitors are calling for enhanced security measures, including stricter bag checks and increased police presence at the popular attraction.

KWCH

Sedgwick County Seeks Election Workers For November Vote

Sedgwick County's Election Office is recruiting election workers for upcoming elections, offering $8.50 per hour for training and requiring availability from 4:45 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Election Day. Workers must be registered voters in Sedgwick County or 16-17 year-olds eligible to register, and must attend mandatory training. The county is training 300 to 400 poll workers for the November 5 elections, with officials noting that some current workers are getting older and encouraging new volunteers.

KAKE

Junction City Police Investigate String Of Tire Slashings

Junction City police are investigating multiple reports of tire slashing that occurred between September 7-13, primarily in the 200 to 400 blocks of West 5th and West 6th Streets. Several vehicles were damaged, and investigators are gathering evidence while urging residents to check their cars, review security footage, and report suspicious activity. Tips can be called in to Junction City Police at 785-762-5912 or submitted anonymously through Geary County Crime Stoppers at 785-762-8477.

KSN

NY Times Reporter Sues FBI Over Secret Tracking Device Found In Lawrence

The New York Times is suing the Federal Bureau of Investigation for allegedly withholding information about a tracking device that reporter Kevin Draper found on his car in Lawrence in October 2021. Draper, who was an agricultural reporter covering sports business at the time, was told by law enforcement that the device was likely planted by parties concerned about his reporting. The FBI launched an investigation but closed the case in June 2024 without providing details to Draper despite multiple public records requests.

KMUW

Chiefs Start 0-2 For First Time In Mahomes Era After Eagles Loss

The Kansas City Chiefs fell to 0-2 for the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era after losing 20-17 to the Philadelphia Eagles in a Super Bowl rematch. The turning point came on a second-and-goal play when Mahomes' pass glanced off Travis Kelce's hands and was intercepted by Andrew Mukuba, who returned it 41 yards. The last time the Chiefs started 0-2 was in 2014, when they finished 9-7 and missed the playoffs.

NFL

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