Families affected by gun violence have the opportunity to shop with first responders

The “Shop with a Hero” event, hosted by First Responder Support and Boone County Community Against Violence, helped 36 families impacted by gun violence this year, tripling last year’s reach.

Families, including that of Deshayda Bradford, who lost her fiancé to gun violence in late October, purchased essential goods and Christmas gifts from first responders, with donations going to each family.

Jefferson City Police Officers Purchase Washing Machine for Scammed Couple

Jefferson City police arrested Michael G. Gilley, 66, for allegedly scamming an elderly couple out of $310 for a washing machine he never delivered, leaving the couple, including a husband, disabled , unable to meet their basic needs.

Officers responded to give the couple a washing machine as a gift, while Gilley faces charges of financial exploitation of an elder and theft, with a $10,000 bond.

Flight delays disrupt Christmas Eve travel to EOC

A domestic layover of American Airlines flights along with bad weather in Dallas, Texas, delayed five out of six flights at Columbia Regional Airport on Tuesday, creating passenger frustration.

Travelers cited delays in receiving notifications from the airline and disruptions to their vacation plans, while EOC staff worked to change reservations and assist affected passengers.

Cole County Commission approves tax freeze for seniors

The Cole County Commission approved a tax freeze order for residents age 62 and older, effective with the 2025 tax assessment.

Seniors must meet specific eligibility requirements and apply annually for the freeze, which passed without a vote, saving the county about $2,500 in election costs. Critics of the ordinance say an update to the existing property tax credit for seniors would have been a better solution.

Mexican man arrested after being reported for domestic assault involving knife

Brett M. Bybee, 24, was arrested Monday in Mexico, Missouri, for allegedly assaulting and threatening his partner during a domestic dispute involving a knife.

Police said Bybee admitted to choking the victim, threatening her life and trying to break into a room where she and her children were hiding.

He faces multiple charges, including first-degree domestic violence and armed criminal action, and is being held without bail.