Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 was in Hays

HAYS—As part of its historic cross-country tour, one of the most famous locomotives in America stopped in Hays the weekend of July 24th as part of the coast-to-coast tour celebrating America's 250th anniversary. The Hays stop was one of more than 50 whistle-stop and public-display events across 10 states during the eastern portion of the locomotive's 2026 tour. Built in 1941 by the American Locomotive Company (ALC)), Big Boy No. 4014 is one of just 25 Big Boy steam locomotives constructed for Union Pacific (Hays Post)

Pratt hospital planning 'workforce reductions' amid significant financial challenges

PRATT—Addressing financial challenges it describes as 'significant,' Pratt Regional Medical Center (PRMC) confirmed the board of directors' plan that includes organizational restructuring, staff reductions, and operational changes to meet the hospital's current patient volumes. Pratt Regional Medical Center cited rising costs, workforce shortages, changing reimbursement models, and healthcare needs among reasons for the financial struggles. (KWCH)

Hays Police Department set to move into new Law Enforcement Center

HAYS—The Hays Police Department is preparing to move into a new Law Enforcement Center this fall, marking the end of almost 50 years in its current building, which it shares with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office. (Hays Post)

Three in custody after suspects ran from northwest Kansas traffic stop

SHERMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement is investigating three suspects after a manhunt in northwest Kansas. On Tuesday, July 21st, the Sherman County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to assist the Kansas Highway Patrol in the search for multiple individuals who fled a routine traffic stop, according to a media release from the sheriff's office. Multiple sheriff's office personnel and surrounding agencies responded. Thanks to the efforts of all involved, three individuals were detained for questioning. At 11:00 p.m., at the direction of the Kansas Highway Patrol, the search for the remaining individuals was discontinued. Sherman County Sheriff's Office personnel continued to monitor the area throughout the night. The remaining individuals are not believed to pose any threat to the public and have likely left the area. The sheriff's office asked the public to report any suspicious vehicles or individuals to Sherman County Dispatch. (Hays Post)