Sheriff’s Office Launches Take Me Home Program

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office has implemented a program for people with cognitive or communication disabilities who may need special assistance in times of emergency.

The Take Me Home Program, originally developed by the Pensacola, Fla., Police Department, gathers information that could be of assistance if a person is unable to speak or properly identify themselves, or if they become disoriented or act in a manner that could be misinterpreted by first responders.

The program is entirely voluntary. Loved ones of Clay County residents with cognitive or communication disabilities can sign them up online by submitting identifying information – including a photo – condition or illness, and care-giver contacts.

This information is available in a database that can only be accessed by law enforcement agencies in Clay County. Deputies or officers can query the database or see nearby program participants on a map.

Take Me Home was originally designed for those with conditions that can involve elopement, like dementia or autism. But it can also serve as a way to notify law enforcement of sensory or communication issues should an individual with those conditions come into contact with police.

KPGZ News – Sarah Boyd contributed to this story.

Explosives Discovered After Police Stop Erratic Driver

Just before midnight on Sunday, July 27, Kearney Police Officers responded to reports of a reckless driver on Highway 92. Concerned witnesses described the vehicle's alarming behavior, stating it was swerving erratically and nearly causing several head-on collisions, prompting urgent calls to law enforcement.

Responding officers quickly located the suspect vehicle and observed firsthand the dangerous driving and initiated the traffic stop. During the investigation, officers found probable cause to search the vehicle, leading to a startling discovery: a bag filled with what appeared to be multiple homemade explosive devices. The devices varied in size, measuring between 3 and 10 inches, and each was equipped with a distinctive green fuse extending from its center.

Officers noticed a thin wire or string emerging from the bottom corner of the rear passenger door and trailing underneath the truck, raising the possibility of a trip wire mechanism.

Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Kearney Police quickly coordinated with a range of partner agencies, including their own detectives, the Kearney Fire & Rescue Protection District, the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, the Kansas City Missouri Police Department Bomb Squad, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). These agencies responded on scene to assist in evaluating and safely neutralizing the suspicious devices.

Kearney Police expressed gratitude to local residents and motorists for their cooperation, “Thank you all for cooperating with our efforts last night to keep the area safe and for following up on our officer's advice to leave the area for a safe location for a short time.”

The suspect, a male individual whose identity has not been released, remains in police custody as the investigation continues. Criminal charges are pending with the Clay County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

At this time, officials stress that there is no ongoing danger to the public. The vehicle and the scene have been rendered safe.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kansas City, Kansas Man Drowns in Smithville Lake

A 23-year-old man from Kansas City, Kansas, drowned Saturday, July 26, while swimming in Smithville Lake, authorities confirmed Sunday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the man was swimming near the Route W Bridge around 9:15 pm, Saturday when he went underwater and did not resurface. Rescue crews responded to the scene and began a search effort.

The search continued through the night. At approximately 11:30 am, Sunday, the Water Patrol recovered the victim near the location where he was last seen. Officials reported that the man was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have notified next of kin.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story

Kearney Woman Arrested After Pursuit Ends Safely

A Kearney woman is in custody following an early-morning incident on Sunday, July 20, that began with a suspicious traffic stop and ended with a safe resolution thanks to quick action by local police.

Around 3:15 am, a Kearney patrol officer observed a vehicle stopped for an unusually long period—more than 30 seconds—at a stop sign. When the vehicle finally moved, it entered the wrong lane of traffic, prompting the officer to attempt a traffic stop.

The driver did not pull over and continued to drive, prompting additional officers to respond. Law enforcement utilized a pursuit prevention strategy to bring the vehicle to a controlled and safe stop.

The 39-year-old female driver from Kearney, initially refused to exit the vehicle but was ultimately removed and taken into custody without further incident. She later admitted to officers that she had consumed alcohol and used methamphetamine prior to driving.

She now faces several charges, including driving while intoxicated, providing false information to law enforcement, and reckless driving, among others.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Parks and Rec Offers Exciting Fall Youth Sports

Kearney Parks and Recreation is ready to bring another exciting season of youth sports to the community this fall, with programs designed to teach fundamental skills, promote active lifestyles, and build friendships for kids of all abilities. Registration is now open for four youth leagues: NFL Flag Football, Youth Soccer, Youth Volleyball, and Fall T-Ball.

NFL Flag Football - Ages 5–12

In partnership with NFL Flag, this non-contact league gives kids a safe and engaging way to learn football fundamentals and develop coordination. Divisions are split by grade levels: K–1st, 2nd–3rd, 4th–5th, and 6th–7th. Games begin Saturday, September 27 at Jesse James Park, with practices starting the week of August 24. Each player receives an official NFL Flag reversible jersey, flag belt, and mouth guard.

6-game season, played Saturdays (no scores or standings)

$120 registration fee

Registration deadline: August 10 (No late entries accepted)

Season runs August 25 – November 1

Youth Soccer League - Ages 4–12

KPR’s soccer league offers kids a fun, skill-building introduction to the sport, with age-based divisions determined by your child’s age on August 1. Games kick off September 27 at Jesse James Park, following 1–2 weekly practices starting in late August.

6 Saturday games, starting Sept 27

KPR provides jerseys; families supply remaining gear

Volunteer coaches receive free future registration credit

Regular Registration: $100 (thru Aug 17) | Late: $120 (Aug 17–21)

Season runs August 18 – November 1

Youth Volleyball - Grades 3–7 (Ages approx. 8–13)

Youth volleyball is back and bigger than ever! This fall, Kearney teams will face off against squads from Smithville and Platte City, giving players a diverse and competitive experience. The season includes at least six games starting mid-September, with practice times set by volunteer coaches.

Jerseys provided; families supply knee pads and gear

Volunteer coaches needed (free future registration credit)

Regular Registration: $95 (thru Aug 3) | Late: $110 (Aug 3–10)

Season runs August 18 – November 1

Fall T-Ball - Ages 4–6

Perfect for beginners, this co-ed T-Ball league teaches baseball basics in a low-pressure environment. Practices start August 18, with games held Tuesday evenings at Mack Porter Park beginning September 16.

KPR provides jersey, hat, and medal; glove and helmet recommended

Teams created via computer draw

Regular Registration: $75 (thru Aug 11) | Late: $95 (Aug 11–15)

Season runs August 18 – November 11

Volunteer Coaches & Scholarships

All leagues depend on volunteer coaches, and KPR offers free future registration for your child in return. Coaching allows you to choose your team’s practice schedule. Scholarships are available for families in need—confidentiality is strictly maintained.

For more information or to register, visit the Kearney Parks and Recreation website or call 816-903-4730.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.