Marina
Tuesday, May 27, 2025, brought a range of significant headlines across Kansas and Missouri — from emotional tributes and public safety developments to major infrastructure projects, legislative actions, and community milestones that reflect the region’s evolving social and political climate.
1. Funeral Held for Sarah Milgrim, Kansas Native Killed in D.C. Shooting
A private funeral was held at Congregation Beth Torah in Overland Park, Kansas, for Sarah Milgrim, a 26-year-old Israeli Embassy staffer from Prairie Village, who was fatally shot in Washington, D.C., on May 21. Milgrim and her colleague, Yaron Lischinsky, were attacked after attending a diplomatic event.
The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, cited political motivations during his arrest. Milgrim was remembered for her dedication to peacebuilding and interfaith dialogue.
2. Emporia Man Arrested in Weekend Homicide
Alexei Perez-Ricardo, 36, was arrested in Emporia, Kansas, following the death of 62-year-old Raul Rosado Reyes.
The incident occurred on May 25, with authorities responding to reports of an unconscious person. Perez-Ricardo faces charges including second-degree murder, aggravated battery, and aggravated robbery. His first court appearance is scheduled for May 28.
3. Kansas Establishes Water Program Task Force
The Kansas legislature has formed the Kansas Water Program Task Force to address the state’s water challenges.
Comprising experts and lawmakers, the task force will evaluate risks to water quality and quantity, assess infrastructure needs, and develop policy recommendations. A preliminary report is expected by January 2026.
4. Patriot Front Marches in Kansas City; U-Haul Responds
Members of the white nationalist group Patriot Front marched through downtown Kansas City, Missouri, on May 24, emerging from U-Haul trucks near the Liberty Memorial. U-Haul disavowed any association with the group and revoked the rental privileges of those involved. No arrests were made during the event.
5. Wyandotte County Considers $12.6 Billion Data Center Proposal
The Unified Government of Wyandotte County is reviewing a proposal by Red Wolf DCD Properties to build a $12.6 billion data center campus near the Kansas Speedway.
The project includes six buildings totaling 1.8 million square feet and aims to enhance the region’s digital infrastructure.
6. KU Cancer Center Breaks Ground on New Complex
The University of Kansas Cancer Center has commenced construction on a new facility in Kansas City, Kansas.
The complex will integrate research and patient care, aiming to accelerate personalized treatments. The project received a $100 million lead gift from the Sunderland Foundation.
7. Missouri Supreme Court Reinstates Abortion Ban
The Missouri Supreme Court has reinstated the state’s near-total abortion ban, overturning lower court rulings that had paused enforcement.
The decision requires Circuit Judge Jerri Zhang to reassess her previous injunctions. Planned Parenthood has canceled abortion appointments in response.
8. Missouri Lakes Experience Low Memorial Day Traffic
Cool and wet weather led to decreased activity on Missouri lakes during Memorial Day weekend. The reduced traffic resulted in fewer boating accidents and injuries compared to previous years.
9. Kansas Railroad Named Among America’s Most Scenic
The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad in Kansas has been recognized as one of America’s top scenic train rides.
The route offers picturesque views of Kansas farmland and the Smoky Hill River Valley, providing a unique experience compared to mountainous or desert terrains.
10. KU and K-State Qualify for NCAA Baseball Tournament
Both the University of Kansas and Kansas State University baseball teams have secured spots in the NCAA tournament. KU will face Creighton, marking its first appearance since 2014, while K-State will play against the University of Texas at San Antonio, making consecutive tournament appearances.
Summary
| Headline | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Funeral for Sarah Milgrim | Kansas native killed in D.C. shooting; remembered for peace advocacy. |
| Emporia Homicide Arrest | 36-year-old man charged in weekend death of 62-year-old resident. |
| Kansas Water Task Force Established | New task force to address water quality, quantity, and infrastructure. |
| Patriot Front March in Kansas City | White nationalist group marched; U-Haul disavowed involvement. |
| Wyandotte County Data Center Proposal | $12.6B project near Kansas Speedway under consideration. |
| KU Cancer Center Construction Begins | New facility to integrate research and patient care; $100M lead gift received. |
| Missouri Abortion Ban Reinstated | State Supreme Court reinstates near-total ban; Planned Parenthood cancels appointments. |
| Low Memorial Day Lake Traffic in Missouri | Cool, wet weather leads to decreased lake activity and fewer accidents. |
| Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad Recognized | Named among America’s most scenic train rides for its picturesque Kansas route. |
| KU and K-State Baseball Teams in NCAA Tournament | Both universities qualify; KU faces Creighton, K-State faces UTSA. |
The events of May 27, 2025, highlight significant developments in Kansas and Missouri, ranging from community responses to tragedy, legislative actions on water and abortion policies, to advancements in healthcare infrastructure.
These stories reflect the dynamic nature of the region’s social, political, and environmental landscape.