SUMMARY: The Missouri State Highway Patrol has stopped releasing names of individuals involved in traffic incidents due to safety concerns following scams where fraudsters impersonated state troopers. This change raises questions about public records as the Missouri Sunshine Act mandates that law enforcement records, including crash reports, are public. Legal experts note a Supreme Court ruling indicates names should remain accessible. Concerns from the Missouri Broadcasters Association and Missouri Press Association highlight potential violations of transparency laws and the implications for public safety. Additionally, a new fee structure for accessing reports may further limit public information access.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol recently stopped releasing the names of crash victims. In our Legal Lens, Brown & Crouppen attorney Andrea McNairy explains why the change was made and where those names are considered a matter of public record.

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SUMMARY: 2024 is predicted to be Kansas City’s 16th warmest and 58th driest year on record, with 34.63 inches of moisture. The past year experienced significant severe weather, including a 10-day cold snap. A major winter storm is expected this weekend, potentially causing near blizzard conditions with 30 mph winds. Forecasts suggest heavy snowfall, potentially exceeding 6 inches, with the risk of mixed precipitation complicating accumulations. Meanwhile, the weather will be mild today, with clouds and possible flurries tomorrow. Model predictions show varying results, but confidence is high for impactful weather this weekend, including rare scenarios like thunder snow.

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The post Joe's Blog: Major winter storm potential increases (WED-2025) appeared first on fox4kc.com

SUMMARY: A vehicle struck a crowd in New Orleans’ French Quarter early on New Year’s Day, resulting in 10 deaths and 35 injuries. The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism. Following the attack, the driver opened fire on police, who returned fire and killed him. Two officers were injured and are stable. Police described the driver’s actions as intentional. An improvised explosive device may have been found at the scene. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled the incident a terrorist attack, and security measures will be enhanced for the upcoming Sugar Bowl football game.

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The post Vehicle rams New Year's revelers in New Orleans, killing 10; FBI investing as 'an act of terrorism' appeared first on fox2now.com