Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the southwest corner of West Avenue A and South Madison.

As Hutchinson was growing rapidly in the late 1880s, so was its school system.

Allen Grade School at 10th Avenue and Monroe was for children living on the west side of town. Fourth Avenue School at 4th and Pershing was for those on the east side, and Avenue A Grade School at Avenue A and Madison was for those on the southwest side. The first photo shows the Avenue A Grade School at completion in 1889.

This school was closed and razed in 1939. That year, the first units of the modern buildings of Allen and Avenue A were completed for $300,000 each. The second photo shows the Avenue A school when it was being converted away from an all-elementary school format.

The third photo shows the school today at 111 S. Madison, now home to U.S.D. 308's Salthawk Pre-K and Academy with Mrs. Melissa Evans as its principal.

To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/anchorinnhutch">Anchor Inn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Anchorawayhutch/">Anchor Away</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: Avenue A Grade School - Vol. 164

ingman Begins Major Stormwater Culvert Replacement Project

KINGMAN, Kan. — The City of Kingman has begun a major infrastructure project to replace an aging underground stormwater culvert running through the central part of the city.

According to city officials, the B Avenue Culvert Project will replace the existing stormwater system that begins along Avenue A near the courthouse, runs north along Spruce Street to Avenue B, and then continues west along Avenue B to Broadway.

The project is designed to improve stormwater drainage and replace aging infrastructure beneath the roadway.

City leaders say the construction will require periodic street closures along the project route while work is underway. Drivers and residents in the area should expect temporary traffic disruptions as crews replace sections of the underground culvert.

Construction is expected to continue through July, although officials note that the timeline could be extended if weather conditions delay work.

The city encourages residents to plan for possible detours and remain aware of construction activity in the affected areas during the duration of the project.

City of Kingman begins major stormwater culvert replacement project

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cooler, wetter weather this week has provided a welcome break for the Hutchinson Fire Department after crews responded to two grass fires that threatened property in the area.

In a statement released Wednesday, Battalion Chief Justin Holzrichter said firefighters were busy last week battling two separate fires that could have caused significant damage.

The first fire occurred near 56th Avenue and Halstead Road. Holzrichter said the fire had the potential to spread due to numerous downed cedar trees in the area, which made it more difficult for crews to operate.

Hutchinson Public Works assisted firefighters during the incident by providing equipment and expertise to help crews manage the situation and contain the blaze.

A second grass fire was reported near 43rd Avenue and Lucille Road. Firefighters responded quickly and were able to stop the fire before it could threaten nearby homes and other property.

Holzrichter noted that neither of the days when the fires occurred was classified as a high fire danger day, underscoring the importance of caution when burning outdoors.

The department is reminding residents to obtain a burn permit and to closely monitor weather conditions before, during and after conducting any open burning.

Fire officials also urge residents to contact the fire department immediately if a burn gets out of control.

Cooler, wetter weather brings relief after HFD battles grass fires

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. ——————————————

Alexander	Milton	Gilkey		3/4/2026 2:45&nbsp;PM	Violation of Offender Registration Act; 1st Conv; Person,					Direct Contempt

Joshua	Dale	McCurdy		3/4/2026 2:52&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Marty	Lew	Debold		3/4/2026 4:46&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Irene	Anita	DeBold		3/4/2026 7:45&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Richard	Andrew	Petty		3/4/2026 7:18&nbsp;PM	Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)

Tyler	James	Trostle		3/4/2026 8:48&nbsp;PM	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Poss of marijuana,					Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misdemeanor; unknown conviction

Trenton	Daniel	Holzrichter		3/5/2026 1:19&nbsp;AM	Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction,					Poss of marijuana; 1 prior conviction,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

Daily Bookings

Uptown Hutch Mall is asking visitors to use specific entrances and follow updated walking guidelines as construction continues in the mall’s food court area.

Mall management announced that due to heavy construction activity in the food court, customers should enter the mall through the south entrance near ESSDACK or through the entrances located at TJ Maxx and Dunham’s Sports.

The change is intended to maintain safe access for shoppers while work is underway in the central portion of the mall.

In addition, mall officials are reminding residents who use the mall for walking exercise that walking will only be allowed during regular mall business hours. Those hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

Management is also encouraging walkers to consider other free indoor walking options in the community while construction continues. Suggested locations include the walking paths at the Hutchinson Sports Arena and the underground tunnel at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

Uptown Hutch Mall asks for walkers to avoid food court area

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

Three-day Outlook

KIOWA COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office detention officer Monday afternoon for child sex crimes.

On Monday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m., KBI agents arrested Dustin Dean Chartier, 36, of Greensburg, at the Kiowa County Courthouse, according to a media release from the KBI.

 Chartier was arrested on requested charges of rape, aggravated sexual battery, indecent liberties with a child, lewd and lascivious behavior, and two counts of indecent solicitation of a child.

In December 2025, the Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office requested the KBI investigate allegations of sex abuse of a minor by a detention officer in 2021. Chartier was placed on administrative leave during the KBI investigation. While investigating the initial allegation, a second victim disclosed another sex abuse incident, prompting the KBI to open an additional investigation. The Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office was fully cooperative with the investigation.

Following his arrest Chartier was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility.

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.kbi.ks.gov/sar.

KBI: Two child victims report sex abuse involving Kan. jail deputy 

JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

Every year since 1948, FFA members, agriculture teachers, alumni and supporters have come together to celebrate National FFA Week. The tradition is held during the week of Feb. 22, in honor of George Washington’s birthday — a fitting tribute to a leader who valued agriculture and innovation.

For many local chapters, FFA Week carries the same excitement as homecoming. There are dress-up days, special events like donkey basketball or Drive Your Tractor to School Day, and plenty of friendly competition. More than 20 years later, I still smile when I think about organizing “FFA Olympics,” visiting elementary classrooms in my blue corduroy jacket and the countless hours we poured into making the week memorable at my high school.

For state and national officers, however, FFA Week looks a little different. Their schedules are typically packed with chapter visits, media interviews, workshops and trips to state capitols or meetings with supporters. During my year as a national officer, most of my teammates were dispatched across the country with back-to-back appearances, inspiring members and celebrating alongside local chapters.

One teammate, Emily, and I had a very different experience.

We began the week helping with an appreciation breakfast for National FFA staff hosted by local chapters. Then we flew to Washington, D.C., for legislative and agency visits to promote FFA. What we didn’t anticipate was a snowstorm — every single night.

Each day, we navigated nearly a foot of fresh snow in high heels, making our way to meetings on Capitol Hill and at federal agencies. The snow didn’t stop business hours, so we were still able to meet with staff and share FFA’s story. But once evening arrived, the city shut down. Instead of attending chapter banquets or community events, we found ourselves ordering pizza from the same delivery place each night. While our teammates were spending 16-hour days energizing FFA members across the country, Emily and I were curled up in our hotel room voting for Carrie Underwood on “American Idol.” It wasn’t the FFA Week we expected — but it was certainly one we’ll never forget.

In recent years, social media has added a new dimension to FFA Week. Alumni and supporters update profile photos with pictures from their own FFA days, sharing how the organization shaped their leadership, confidence and career skills. A few years ago, Give FFA Day was established on the Thursday of FFA Week, providing a focused opportunity to give back.

That spirit of generosity is part of why I said yes when asked to join the Kansas FFA Foundation Board of Directors last year. My own FFA experience — and the impact I continue to see in students across our communities — made it an easy decision. What I’ve witnessed in my short time on the board has exceeded expectations. Dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to elevate opportunities for students and support agriculture teachers in meaningful ways.

This year’s Give FFA Day momentum was impossible to miss. Media partnerships, coordinated social media campaigns and a live event at headquarters helped build excitement around Kansas’s goal of raising $50,000. The response was extraordinary.

By the end of the day, more than $106,000 had been raised, with donations coming from all 50 states and every one of Kansas’ 105 counties. The outpouring of support demonstrated just how deeply FFA resonates — not only with current members but with generations who understand its lasting influence.

FFA Week is about celebration, yes. But it is also about investment — in students, in teachers and in the future of agriculture. Watching that support materialize in such a tangible way was both humbling and inspiring.

For me, FFA Week will always carry memories of blue jackets, spirited competitions and even a snowy Washington, D.C., adventure. More importantly, it represents a community committed to developing the next generation of agricultural and community leaders — and that is something worth celebrating every year.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Insight on Agriculture: Celebrating FFA Week

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries">Click&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners</a>.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/35522b08-cd30-49e1-93e0-85962282628b">PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEW OBITUARY POLICY.</a> Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://hutchpost@eaglemedia.com">hutchpost@eaglemedia.com&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> </a>

Recent obituaries and service times

The Kansas Department of Corrections and the Bureau of Land Management have agreed to extend the Wild Horse and Burro Program at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, keeping the long-running initiative in operation through May 31, 2026.

The agreement prevents the immediate closure of the program, which has operated at the facility for more than 25 years. State and federal officials said the extension will allow both agencies additional time to negotiate a long-term contract aimed at securing the program’s future.

Under the extension, approximately 300 wild horses and burros will remain at the Hutchinson facility rather than being relocated to long-term holding facilities. The animals will continue to be cared for by trained handlers participating in the program.

Officials said the decision also preserves the specialized roles of resident horse handlers at the correctional facility. Participants gain vocational training in horse care, handling and training, skills that can help support employment opportunities after release.

The program’s continuation also ensures ongoing training for the animals as part of the Bureau of Land Management’s national Wild Horse and Burro adoption efforts. Horses trained at the Hutchinson facility receive halter and saddle training, making them more suitable for adoption by private owners.

Since its launch in 2001 at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, the program has served both animal welfare and rehabilitation goals. In addition to preparing wild horses for adoption, the program provides incarcerated participants with opportunities for personal development, responsibility and job-related skills aimed at supporting successful reentry into society.

Officials from both agencies said the extension provides time to work toward a sustainable funding and operational model that would allow the program to continue long term.

KDOC, BLM extend Wild Horse Program at HCF

Students at Prairie Hills Middle School are gaining early workplace experience through a unique in-school jobs program that has grown rapidly over the past three years.

District leaders recently highlighted the program during a community conversation about activities and initiatives in the Buhler USD 313 school district.

Prairie Hills Principal Abby Thompson said the program, coordinated by teacher Ashley Bunting, allows students to apply for and work in various roles throughout the school building.

“It’s preparing them for their next step as they become teenagers and apply for real jobs,” Thompson said. “They learn that you have to communicate, be on time, and let your supervisor know if you can’t make it because other people are depending on you.”

The program began three years ago with about 30 students participating. This year, it has expanded to more than 200 students — roughly 40 percent of the school’s 550-student population.

Bunting said the idea was originally launched by educator Courtney Clawson and has continued to grow as students and staff embraced the concept.

“It’s a unique opportunity for every kid in the building to get involved, regardless of their athletic ability or skill set,” Bunting said. “They can apply for a variety of jobs in the building, and then we train them to do real jobs.”

Student positions include math tutors, teacher aides, lunchroom cleanup crews, hallway maintenance helpers and teams that prepare the gym for physical education classes and after-school activities. Other students assist with setting up traffic cones for parent pickup or serve as guides who give visitors tours of the building.

Teachers supervise each job group, creating what Bunting described as a school-wide effort involving nearly every staff member.

“We have 15 or 16 teachers who supervise jobs, but even the teachers who don’t supervise play a role by allowing students to go to their jobs during champion time or lunch,” she said. “Every adult in the building has had a part in making it work.”

Thompson said the program has also helped foster school pride among students.

“When you see kids investing in their school — whether it’s cleaning up, helping teachers or greeting visitors — they really take ownership in the building,” she said.

Superintendent Cindy Couchman said the initiative reflects the district’s goal of preparing students with life skills long before they graduate.

“Sometimes we say we all teach seniors,” Couchman said. “Programs like this help build the DNA of a Buhler graduate — respectful, responsible and ready for the workforce.”

District officials say participation levels show the program is resonating with students and giving them valuable lessons in responsibility, teamwork and work ethic before they enter high school and eventually the workforce.

PHMS program gives students real-world job experience

By:&nbsp;NICOLAS FIERRO Salina Post

Students of Central High School conducted and participated in an anti-ICE walkout during school hours on Wednesday.

This walkout was organized by the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1cad3a04-b1e7-47af-a682-06ef517b2333">local&nbsp;Youth Protection Alliance</a>&nbsp;(YPA), which is the Salina chapter of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/youthprotectionalliance/">Global Youth Protection Alliance</a>.&nbsp;

The head organizer was a male Central student and told Salina Post, he and others students put this together because they are wanting to spread the message that what "ICE is doing is wrong."

"They are not on the right side of things," he said. "We hope to gain the attention from the school and those who are pro-ICE, by showing them we are not afraid in fighting for justice and against racism and discrimination."

According to the student, YPA protects the youth of Kansas by informing them of their rights.&nbsp;

"We inform them to fight for what they can have and what they do not have at the moment," he said."

He said the group received pushback from the community after word spread about the walkout and his response to those people is "they are on the wrong side of history."

A mother of one of the students participating was present during the walkout.&nbsp;

"I am here supporting my child and I want them to exercise their constitutional rights," she said.&nbsp;

She added she does not agree with how ICE is managing immigration, by saying they are "too violent."

"I know countries need to protect borders, but not in this way."

Other parents and adults were protesting alongside the students as well.

Jerry Hinrikus, host of&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?CFID=553a2d35-1eff-4d36-a710-8060bc8d8a0f&amp;CFTOKEN=0&amp;stationCallSign=KINA&amp;onDemandAutoStart=true&amp;p60579132=true&amp;relocateURL=true">KINA Coffee Talk</a>&nbsp;on 910 AM/107.5 FM was across the street during the walkout. He said the students should be in school and if they wanted to protest, that they should have done it after school hours.

"We pay taxpayer dollars and student's grades are not that high," he said. "They should be in class studying."

Many students during the protest were holding up signs that stated "defund, abolish and prosecute ICE."

"You need to ask them, how many illegals have killed and sexually assaulted people? The numbers are staggering and these students don't even know that, which is the sad part."

Johnnie Keller who ran for City Commission during the 2025 general election, watched from across the street as well.

"To hear people say get rid of their organization, because they are enforcing the rule of law and then we have adults in this holding up the American flag upside down really frustrates me," said Keller. "We have kids waving a Mexican flag, so which country are you loyal to?"

Keller stated he is a retired teacher and thinks students are not being taught well, with teachers "indoctrinating" them.

"I think teaching should be about civics, math, english, history and even showing kids how to read and write in cursive," he said. "I would have never allowed my kids to participate in this."

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/1cad3a04-b1e7-47af-a682-06ef517b2333">Salina USD 305 released a statement before the walkout happened:</a>

Salina Public Schools is aware of recent social media posts and emails circulating regarding a potential student walkout.

These messages did not originate from official district communications channels and were not approved by the district. Salina Public Schools is not sponsoring, organizing or endorsing any walkout activities.

Salina Public Schools values and respects student perspectives and recognizes students’ constitutional right to express their views in a lawful and peaceful manner. However, walkouts are not sponsored, organized or endorsed by any member of the staff, school or district. Our staff’s role remains neutral, with a focus on supporting student safety and maintaining a quality educational environment.

Salina Public Schools will continue to abide by all state and federal laws and Board of Education policies. Ensuring the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority as we maintain a safe, quality learning environment and protect instructional time. The school day will proceed as usual and SPS expects all students to attend class, adhering to our attendance policy.

We encourage families to have thoughtful, open conversations with their students about civic engagement and expectations surrounding school attendance. We thank our parents, guardians and community for their partnership in maintaining a safe, conducive learning environment that supports student success.

Salina high school students hold walkout to protest ICE

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran launched a new wave of attacks against Israel, American bases and countries around the region Thursday, while warning the U.S. would “bitterly regret”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sri-lanka-iran-middle-east-ship-sinking-69191dde43154c5176a8aeacc9128748">torpedoing an Iranian warship</a>&nbsp;and calling for “Trump’s blood.” Tehran’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-war-israel-strait-or-hormuz-deaths-f1619c6bfbbd5fe10857ff0af073aa0e">expanding retaliatory strikes</a>&nbsp;and increasing shows of defiance came even as Israel hammered it for a sixth day.

The war has escalated each day, expanding well beyond the Gulf. On Thursday, Azerbaijan accused Iran of attacking it with drones — though Tehran denied launching them. A day earlier, the U.S. said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sri-lanka-iran-middle-east-ship-sinking-69191dde43154c5176a8aeacc9128748">it sank an Iranian frigate</a>&nbsp;in the waters off Sri Lanka.

All the while, Israel and the U.S. have battered Iran with nationwide strikes,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-march-04-2026-e1c316da4ce809407122590a6872aa85">targeting their military capabilities and security forces</a>. Iran’s attacks have targeted their Arab neighbors, disrupted oil supplies and snarled global air travel.

In launching the war Saturday, the U.S. and Israel targeted Iran’s leadership, missile arsenal and nuclear program. Leaders have also suggested that toppling the government is a goal — and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed on the first day of strikes. But the exact aims and timelines have repeatedly shifted, and the conflict increasingly appeared to be open-ended.

The war has killed more than 1,200 people in Iran, more than 70 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials in those countries. It has disrupted the supply of the world’s oil and gas, snarled international shipping and stranded hundreds of thousands of travelers in the Middle East.

Israel announced multiple incoming missile attacks and air sirens sounded in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and Gulf countries also reported coming under fire.

In Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, a drone was shot down near the Al Dhafra Air Base, which hosts U.S. forces, and shrapnel fell to the ground, authorities said. Six people were wounded.

Qatar evacuated residents near the U.S. Embassy in Doha as a temporary precaution and later reported a missile attack on the city. Saudi Arabia said it destroyed a drone in its province bordering Jordan.

The Israeli military said it launched attacks in Lebanon on the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group — which attacked Israel in the opening days of the war — and that a wave of strikes on Iran had hit long-range ballistic missile launch sites and other targets.

A drone crashed Thursday near the airport in Nakhchivan, a region of Azerbaijan bordering the north of Iran that is separated from the rest of the country by Armenia. Another drone fell near a school and two civilians were injured, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry said.

Azerbaijan called it an attack, but Iran’s general staff of the armed forces denied it had launched a drone toward the country. The denial comes as Iran has repeatedly denied targeting oil infrastructure and other civilian targets during the war, despite its drone and missile fire hitting those sites.

A tanker apparently came under attack off the coast of Kuwait early Thursday, expanding the area where commercial shipping was in danger, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Center run by the British military. It said there was an explosion but did not offer a cause.

Since the war began Saturday, ships have been attacked in the Gulf of Oman and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/strait-hormuz-iran-energy-war-5b60e82ef2fc68e2b43aa570a32404dd">Strait of Hormuz</a>, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil is shipped. That&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-supply-chain-disruption-8f262bb210710b7509221a3dccf787c9">has caused oil prices to soar</a>&nbsp;— though they briefly came down Wednesday, before resuming their climb Thursday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the U.S. Navy of committing an “an atrocity at sea” for sinking the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean, killing at least 87 Iranian sailors.

“Mark my words: The U.S. will come to bitterly regret (the) precedent it has set,” he said on social media.

Ayatollah Abdollah Javadi Amoli later called on state television for the shedding of both Israeli and “Trump’s blood.”

The statement represented a rare call for violence by an ayatollah, which is one of the highest ranks within the clergy of Shiite Islam. There are dozens in Iran.

Iranian warship was sunk on way home from multinational exercises

The Iranian ship sunk by the U.S. Navy was returning from participating in an exercise hosted by the Indian navy that the U.S. also participated in.

Sri Lankan authorities said 32 crew members were rescued, while its navy recovered at least 87 bodies.

Araghchi said it had been carrying “almost 130” crew.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed Wednesday that an American submarine had sunk the ship with a torpedo.

Sri Lanka’s media minister and government spokesman, Nalinda Jayatissa, told parliament Thursday that another Iranian ship had arrived in its waters. Jayatissa did not provide further details about the ship or the number of people on board.

Israel says it hits more Hezbollah targets in Lebanon

Among the 80 targets in Lebanon that the Israel military said it hit over the past 24 hours were “several command centers” used by Hezbollah in Beirut. It showed video footage of a building being hit, but provided no further details.

Another eight people were killed in Lebanon, including two in a building struck by the Israeli military in the Beddawi refugee camp in the coastal city of Tripoli on Thursday and three on a coastal highway, authorities said. The Israeli military did not immediately say who it targeted in the strikes.

U.S. and Israeli military officials say launches from Iran have declined as their attacks have taken out ballistic missiles, launchers and drones. Israel’s Homefront Command announced it was easing restrictions that closed workplaces nationwide, which could reopen Thursday if there is a shelter nearby. Schools would remain closed.

At least 1,230 people have been killed in Iran, the country’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs said Thursday. Eleven people have died in Israel.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-soldiers-who-died-iran-war-46f54df716fe1c5290363da0a15f99f3">Six U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;have been killed, including a major whose identity was released Wednesday.

Rising reported from Bangkok, Becatoros from Athens, Greece, and Magdy from Cairo. Associated Press writers Sally Abou AlJoud in Beirut, Lebanon, Elaine Kurtenbach in Bangkok, Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel, Julia Frankel in Jerusalem, Aida Sultanova in Baku, Azerbaijan, Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, and Giovanna Dell’Orto in Miami contributed to this report.

Iran launches new attacks and calls for ‘Trump's blood’

SHAWNEE COUNTY– One person died in an apartment fire in&nbsp; Topeka.

Just after 9p.m. Wednesday, crews&nbsp;responded to an apartment fire located at 715 SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to a media release.&nbsp;

 Crews reported on arrival that there was heavy smoke coming from the multi-family apartment complex. Firefighters began an aggressive interior attack on the fire from within the structure. Firefighters rescued several residents from the structure. Four people were transported to the hospital, one with life-threatening injuries.

One individual was pronounced deceased at the scene. 9 apartment units are displaced by the fire.

&nbsp;The preliminary cause of the fire was determined to be an accidental electrical fire.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Thursday.

One dead, 4 hospitalized after Kansas apartment fire

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Textron Aviation team is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Russell W. “Russ” Meyer Jr., the longtime chairman and CEO, and Chairman Emeritus, of Cessna Aircraft Company.

Mr. Meyer was an aviation legend, leading Cessna for nearly 30 years and overseeing the development and launch of Citation business jets. He played a key role in stabilizing the industry through the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, and earned top aviation awards including two Collier Trophies, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

He believed in using aviation to help others, founding the&nbsp;<a href="https://airlift.txtav.com/">Special Olympics Airlift</a>&nbsp;— which has transported athletes to the Games for forty years — and supporting workforce development by starting Wichita's 21st Street Training Program to create career opportunities for underserved residents. His passion for youth development extended to many important charitable organizations and causes.

“Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known. I held Russ in the highest regard, not only for his extraordinary business acumen, but for the integrity, humility and genuine care he showed for people at every stage of his life. He led with conviction, compassion and an unwavering belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve something greater than oneself,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of the entire Textron Aviation team, I extend my deepest condolences to Russ’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I was truly privileged to know Russ as a colleague, a mentor and a friend.”

Russ leaves an enduring legacy of innovation, advocacy and service. He shaped our company, our industry and the Wichita, Kansas, community in ways that will be felt for generations to come.&nbsp; For more on the li

Aviation legend, former Cessna CEO has died

SEDGWICK COUNTY -&nbsp;A 33-year-old man died after a shooting Tuesday afternoon at an apartment building in Wichita.

Just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a reported shooting at 916 N. Broadway. Officers arrived and found 33-year-old Lee Banks inside the apartment building with gunshot wounds to his upper and lower body. 

Officers performed life-saving measures until EMS arrived. EMS transported Banks to a local hospital in serious condition.

Officers detained a 37-year-old man at the scene.

Preliminary investigation indicates the men got into a physical altercation prior to the shooting. Banks later died from his injuries.

Investigators interviewed the 37-year-old man and later released him. Investigators will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration.

Police release Kansas suspect after deadly fight at apartment 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matthew-lee">MATTHEW LEE</a> Associated Press

The State Department says that charter flights for American citizens stranded in the Middle East since the start of military operations against Iran have begun.

The department said Wednesday that one plane has left the Middle East to bring Americans home.

It did not say where the flight originated from or where it was going, although the department has said it is arranging charter aircraft from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.

It has said Americans wanting to leave those countries should register online at mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake or contact the State Department’s 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

US begins charter flights for stranded Americans wanting to leave the Middle East

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hannah-fingerhut">HANNAH FINGERHUT</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/konstantin-toropin">KONSTANTIN TOROPIN</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/rebecca-boone">REBECCA BOONE</a>

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The last two names of the six U.S. soldiers killed in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-soldiers-who-died-iran-war-46f54df716fe1c5290363da0a15f99f3">Kuwait attack</a>&nbsp;were released Wednesday by the Pentagon, and they are from California and Iowa.

The soldiers identified Wednesday were Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan, 54, of Sacramento and Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa.

The Pentagon said Marzan was at the scene when a drone strike hit the command center in Kuwait and is “believed to be the individual who perished at the scene,” according to the statement. A medical examiner will confirm identification, the Pentagon said.

Four soldiers were previously identified by the Pentagon on Tuesday.

They died Sunday when a drone hit a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, just a day after the U.S. and Israel launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-march-04-2026-e1c316da4ce809407122590a6872aa85">military campaign against Iran</a>. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones against Israel and several Gulf Arab states that host U.S. armed forces.

O’Brien was promoted to major in August 2024, according to a Facebook post, which shows him alongside two young children.

The signal officer and information systems engineer in the Army Reserve was a manager of defensive cyber operations at an Iowa-based cybersecurity company, according to his LinkedIn. He had a career spanning two decades in information and cybersecurity.

The other four soldiers identified were: Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa,; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida; and Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska.

“Sadly, there will likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is,” President Donald Trump said of the deaths. Trump will attend the dignified transfers of the soldiers when they arrive in the U.S., the White House said Wednesday. The ritual honors service members killed in action.

Coady had been checking in with his family from Kuwait every hour or two after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-explosion-tehran-c2f11247d8a66e36929266f2c557a54c">U.S. and Israel launched</a>&nbsp;their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">military campaign against Iran</a>, even as Iran launched&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">retaliatory strikes</a>.

When he didn’t respond to messages Sunday, “most of us started to wonder,” Coady’s father, Andrew, told The Associated Press. “Your gut starts to get a feeling.”

Amor was just days away from returning to her husband and children.

“She was almost home,” her husband, Joey Amor, said Tuesday. “You don’t go to Kuwait thinking something’s going to happen, and for her to be one of the first — it hurts.”

Amor was an avid gardener who enjoyed making salsa from the peppers and tomatoes she grew with her son, a high school senior. She enjoyed rollerblading and bicycling with her fourth-grade daughter.

A week before the drone attack, Amor was moved off-base to a shipping container-style building that had no defenses, her husband said.

“They were in fear that the base they were on was going to get attacked and they felt it was safer in smaller groups in separate places,” he said.

Childhood friend Natalie Caruso wrote on Facebook that she was “absolutely heartbroken” about Amor’s death.

“Nicole was always up for an adventure and she had such a contagious laugh!” Caruso wrote Wednesday.

Coady recently told his father he had been recommended for a promotion from specialist to sergeant, a rank he received posthumously.

He was among the youngest people in his class, trained to troubleshoot military computer systems, but he impressed his instructors, Andrew Coady said Tuesday.

“He trained hard, he worked hard, his physical fitness was important to him. He loved being a soldier,” Coady said. “He was also one of the most kindest people you would ever meet, and he would do anything and everything for anyone.”

Coady, an Eagle Scout, was close to his family and often called, even if for only a few minutes. He was studying cybersecurity at Drake University in Des Moines, and he wanted to become an officer.

“I still don’t fully think it’s real,” his sister Keira Coady said. “I just remember all of our conversations about what he was going to do when he came back.”

Local

Region

Sports