Crime
32-year-old Jessie Grahnert killed in Topeka shooting
Topeka, KS — Authorities have identified 32-year-old Jessie L. Grahnert of Topeka as the woman who was fatally shot Sunday evening in the 2000 block of North Kansas Avenue.
Officers responded to the scene just after 8:30 p.m. following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, they found Grahnert, who was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Rosie Nichols, public safety communications specialist for the City of Topeka.
No arrests have been made in connection with Grahnert’s death, and police have yet to release details about potential suspects or motives. The investigation is ongoing, said Nichols.
Topeka Police Lt. Donna Eubanks emphasized the importance of public cooperation in solving the case. “If you have any information about this tragic incident, we urge you to come forward,” she said.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Topeka Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Bureau at 785-368-9400 or email telltpd@topeka.org. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or via their online platform.
Grahnert’s death marks the 19th homicide in Topeka this year, highlighting an ongoing issue of violence in the city. Community leaders are calling for heightened vigilance and cooperation to address the rising crime rate.
As the investigation continues, friends and family of Jessie Grahnert mourn her untimely death, remembering her as part of the Topeka community whose life was tragically cut short. Police are determined to bring closure to her loved ones by identifying those responsible.
Residents are urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity as authorities work to ensure justice is served.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.