Wichita News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Another water test in the Yoder area hit a dangerous nitrate level of 13 mg/L—above the EPA’s safe limit of 10 mg/L. This can seriously impact oxygen delivery in the blood, especially for babies, nursing moms, and pregnant women. A new water line connecting Hutchinson and Rural Water District 101 is supposed to fix it by blending systems, but the deadline has slipped. County officials blame fertil...

Kansas wheat harvest wraps up amid mixed results—early maturity helped, but storms and floods derailed progress, with one farmer hit by 12 inches of rain. Earlier planting challenges and winter drownouts also hurt yields. And looming over next season? Fertilizer costs have skyrocketed to $850 a ton, threatening already razor-thin margins. Farmers brace for a tougher year ahead. Listen in comfort:...

Three Republican candidates battle it out in Kansas’ high-stakes governor’s debate, with property tax relief, rural healthcare, data centers, solar farms, and marijuana legalization dominating the stage—just as the primary looms and some hopefuls skipped the event after paying to participate. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:...

Spangles in Wichita just got a new owner—the Hamideh family—but their management company, AJTX, is now embroiled in serious legal trouble, facing lawsuits over unpaid wages and alleged fraud across multiple states. Workers at an IHOP in Kansas City, also owned by AJTX, reported missing paychecks for over a month, sparking civil cases in Missouri and Kansas. The Kansas suit also targets a past cont...

Teachers are getting a much-needed makeover thanks to the Design Besties, a creative nonprofit turning faculty lounges into restorative havens across the nation. Their next stop? Colvin Elementary in Wichita, where they’ll revamp the space between late 2026 and early 2027 — funded by local partners and open to community sponsorships. This isn’t just paint and furniture; it’s a movement to combat b...

Meet Baby Doggy, an 11-month-old, 45-pound sweetie who’s already leash-trained, car-friendly, and knows how to sit—perfect for a loving home! Adopt her at the Kansas Humane Society (3313 N Hillside St, or call 316-524-9196). Plus, adult cats (1+ year) are available for just $25 this Thursday and Friday. And if you love reading, join the “Read to Rover” event this Saturday from 10 AM–11:30 AM (thre...

Wichita is officially stepping into the March Madness spotlight, set to host the opening rounds of the NCAA tournament in 2027 and 2028 — just like Dayton has done since 2001. With the field expanding from 68 to 76 teams, the city’s Intrust Bank Arena — packed with 15,000 fans — is primed for the action, right after Selection Sunday. Praised as a basketball-crazed hub with a central Midwestern loc...

Shepherds Way in Wichita is transforming lives by empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently—through mentorship, life skills training, and a path toward purpose. David Watts, a resident since last fall, went from struggling with self-discipline and money management to confidently stepping into his own home, thanks to the program’s hands-on support. Wit...

Wichita PD warns renters about a slick online scam where fake listings lure victims into sending cash for deposits or rent before ever seeing the property—never pay upfront, always meet landlords in person, trust your gut, and call 911 if scammed. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high...

Step into Wichita’s timeless Ty’s Diner, a 60-year-old institution where classic burgers, loyal patrons, and that unmistakable diner charm keep the magic alive. Kristen Knebel, who took the reins in 2012, says it’s the people — friendships forged over fries and booth signs — that make it special. They stick to the winning formula: simple, satisfying food like patty melts and BLTs. Closed for their...

A historic Kansas bridge, built in 1958, is shut down out of caution after inspectors spotted riverbank slumping—possibly triggered by June floods—despite a recent report saying the bridge’s main structure was in good shape. Authorities urge locals to find alternate routes as they prioritize safety with aging infrastructure under Mother Nature’s pressure. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Sol...

Kansas State Board of Healing Arts revokes license of convicted chiropractor Clark Petersen, who was sentenced to 27.5 years for 46 felonies and 5 misdemeanors committed in his Manhattan office between 2017 and 2022 — a move sealing his fate after 39 years in practice. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This...

Six kids, ages 7 months to 13, were left alone in a sweltering car in Salina, Kansas — temperatures near 100 degrees, AC off, only one window cracked — for 20 to 30 minutes before police intervened. The parents, Michael and Tiffany Krueger, are now facing six counts of child endangerment. All children were safely removed and placed in protective custody. Authorities are investigating — but the imm...

A massive semi crash on I-135 near McPherson sent a big rig flipping after slamming into a bridge pillar, leaving the driver hospitalized in serious condition—and permanently shutting down the Northview Avenue (Moccasin) Bridge. With no repair timeline yet, drivers must brace for detours while local businesses remain accessible. This closure could last weeks or months, disrupting travel for everyo...

A woman accused of causing a deadly August crash that killed LaShea Bell and her daughter A’Niah has been ruled mentally fit to stand trial. The ruling, issued in Sedgwick County District Court, follows a COMCARE evaluation prompted by her legal team’s concerns in April. Security footage reportedly showed her balance issues before driving, and she now faces two counts of involuntary manslaughter w...

An 81-year-old Augusta woman, Clowie McLaughlin, has been declared competent to stand trial nearly a year after a deadly crash that killed LaShea Bell and her daughter A’Niah. McLaughlin, visibly impaired, ran a red light and struck their vehicle; she now faces two counts of involuntary manslaughter and was initially charged with second-degree murder. Her trial is set to begin August 24. Listen in...

Salina Art Center just landed a major win: a multi-year grant from the legendary Andy Warhol Foundation, fueling their mission to bring bold, cutting-edge contemporary art to everyone—free of charge. This validation from a powerhouse arts funder confirms their impact in a city that’s not traditionally known for big art scenes. With the cash, they’ll keep rolling out fresh exhibitions and expand ed...

SWAT Responds to Early Morning Wichita Shooting | Wichita News

Shots fired early this morning in south Wichita near Lulu and Boston left one person in critical condition, prompting a heavy police response including SWAT. No arrests yet as officers work to secure the scene and gather details. Residents are on edge as sirens and tactical units disrupt the morning calm — we’re waiting for official updates. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http...

The historic 94-year-old Minisa Bridge in Wichita is getting a major makeover—with repairs set to reopen it for walkers by school start and cars by September. Beyond just fixing the brick road and graffiti, the project preserves iconic artwork celebrating local heritage. Residents like Margaret Shabazz see it as more than infrastructure—it’s a neighborhood landmark. While detours via McLean Blvd,...

Jackson County’s voters face a historic choice as six Democrats battle for the top executive spot—no incumbent in sight for the first time in two decades. With property tax reform at the forefront, candidates are pushing for independent audits and caps on assessments to restore taxpayer trust. Public safety, crumbling infrastructure, and the future of beloved local sports teams like the Chiefs and...

From weather balloons in Vietnam to flag ceremonies in Argonia, Gary Parks turned his meteorology passion into a lifelong mission of service—helping artillery hit their mark in war, then honoring fallen heroes in his quiet hometown, one flag at a time. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated,...

Movement Musick is set to revolutionize downtown Wichita by building a grocery store right in the heart of the city — just two miles from the nearest option — while partnering with the Queen family to bring Price Chopper expertise to the project. This move aims to support local residents and make downtown more livable, especially for newcomers like Seth Williams who prioritize walkable essentials....

The feds just launched “Trump Accounts” — a new savings program for kids born between 2025 and 2028, kicking off with a $1,000 government boost. Modeled after IRAs, it’s designed to help young families build lifelong financial security, with early contributions already pouring in from parents. Despite the name sparking debate, the program’s practical design and bipartisan appeal are quietly winnin...

Firefighters in Hutchinson, Kansas, pulled off a heartwarming rescue when three baby ducklings tumbled into a storm drain—prompting a daring dive, a soap bath, and even nicknames like Mo, Curly, and Larry. After a successful reunion with their mama by Lake Talbott, the crew issued a PSA: stay away from storm drains, folks—those little webbed feet belong on solid ground. Listen in comfort: Get a di...