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Glendale named safest city in Missouri for 2025

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Glendale has been ranked the safest city in Missouri, according to a new report published by community research organization SafeWise. The 2025 list is based on the latest FBI crime statistics, combined with resident perceptions of safety collected through a national survey.

The city, located in St. Louis County, moved up two places from last year to claim the top spot, reporting zero incidents of murder, rape, or robbery. Glendale also had no recorded motor vehicle thefts – one of only three cities on the list to achieve that. [Read more…] about Glendale named safest city in Missouri for 2025

Lexington gas explosion kills young boy and injures two family members

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A five-year-old boy has died and two members of his family remain in critical condition following a devastating gas explosion at a home in Lexington, Missouri.

The incident occurred shortly before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, at a residence near 18th Street between Franklin and South streets. According to authorities, a subcontractor had struck a gas line several hours earlier while installing fiber-optic cable.

Utility crews and emergency responders were on the scene working to address the leak when the explosion occurred. [Read more…] about Lexington gas explosion kills young boy and injures two family members

Timber work to temporarily close part of shooting range

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Timber improvement work underway at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Flag Spring Conservation Area (CA) in Barry County will cause a temporary closure of a portion of the unstaffed shooting range at this area.

Beginning Monday, April 14, the rifle/pistol portion of the range will be closed. This closure will continue until April 24, at which time the range will resume regular hours.

The shotgun range, which is located on another part of the area, will remain open. The shotgun portion of the Flag Spring unstaffed range is designed for shooting sporting clays and is not designed for patterning shotguns for turkey hunting. [Read more…] about Timber work to temporarily close part of shooting range

Columbia Police arrest man after standoff for making threats with weapon

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At about 8:30 a.m. April 11, Columbia Police responded to calls that a man was threatening people with a weapon in the 100 block of North Stadium Boulevard.

Through their investigation, police officers identified the man as Michael Whited, 59, of Columbia. A standoff with Whited ensued for several hours at his residence.

Due to the potential risk to public safety, the Columbia Police Department prioritized the safety of all involved and deployed its Crisis Negotiation Team and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team to the scene. Whited was taken into custody without injury, injury to officers or injury to the public. [Read more…] about Columbia Police arrest man after standoff for making threats with weapon

Independence voters make history with passage of first-ever ‘General Obligation’ bond

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Voters in the city of Independence, Missouri have “handpicked” projects proposed in the City of Independence’s first-ever general obligation (G.O.) bond, paving the way for targeted investments while leaving some projects unfunded – for now.

On Tuesday, voters approved select portions of the $197 million bond package – demonstrating residents’ desire for investment in infrastructure and a call for continued conversations about other critical needs.

“This is a historic moment for Independence – and we know history,” City Manager Zach Walker said. “This is the first time we’ve ever considered a general obligation bond, and this is a true victory. Make no mistake: this is a major step forward and we’re going to make the most of it.” [Read more…] about Independence voters make history with passage of first-ever ‘General Obligation’ bond

Independence invests in historic Fairmount Neighborhood with major infrastructure and pedestrian improvements

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The City of Independence is making a significant investment in the historic Fairmount neighborhood to enhance community connectivity, improve pedestrian safety, and modernize infrastructure. This transformative project will restore and revitalize the area, ensuring long-term benefits for residents and visitors alike.

With a focus on accessibility and sustainability, the project includes sidewalk repairs, the addition of a new bicycle boulevard, a multi-purpose trail, and the resurfacing of the Fairmount Trail. Key intersections will be upgraded, and drainage infrastructure along Kentucky Road will be improved to support the neighborhood’s evolving needs.

Designed for seamless connectivity, the project will link to a planned pedestrian improvement initiative along US-24 Highway, further enhancing walkability and multimodal access. [Read more…] about Independence invests in historic Fairmount Neighborhood with major infrastructure and pedestrian improvements