Independence Kansas Police Department

05/28/2026

⚠️ City of Independence Weather Update ⚠️
Thursday, May 28, 2026

Scattered thunderstorms are moving through the area this evening and will continue at times overnight. While these storms are not expected to become severe, we still encourage everyone to stay weather aware. The severe weather threat is low, but not zero.

Storm chances will continue through the weekend, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Some storms could become stronger and may produce:
🌧️ Brief heavy rainfall
⚡ Frequent lightning
💨 Gusty winds

An isolated severe storm or even a brief funnel cloud cannot be completely ruled out.

Please continue to monitor weather conditions and make sure you have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and warnings.

Stay safe, Independence!

05/20/2026

UPDATE: LOCATED SAFE! Thank you everyone for all the shares and your efforts in helping us locate this missing person.

MISSING PERSON:

ADEN MICHAEL MEFFERD-LEDDINGTON

Missing From: Independence, Kansas Height: 6’0”
Last Seen: May 11th, 2026 Weight: 135 lbs
Race/Sex: White Male Hair: Dyed Black
Clothing: Black hoodie with white lettering, black sweatpants or ripped skinny jeans, brown sandals Eyes: Blue

Aden Michael Mefferd-Leddington has been reported missing and has not been heard from or seen by family or friends since May 11th. It has also been reported that he has not used social media or his cell phone since that time.

Aden is known to frequent areas around Independence including parks, outbuildings and playgrounds. Aden may be riding a green mountain bike.

If you see Aden or have any information regarding his whereabouts, do not contact him directly please contact local law enforcement, or IPD at 620-332-1700.

05/19/2026

05/18/2026

Be weather aware tonight and secure lighter yard objects to prevent loss.

05/18/2026

Be weather aware today. Risk of storms this afternoon into tonight.

05/13/2026

The Independence Police Department is investigating a reported felony theft case.

IPD is asking for your help identifying the individual below. If you have any information, you may message us, or call 620-332-1700 to report it.

Please reference case 26-00759

05/13/2026

📢PSA📢

SKOL Railroad has put the crossings at 8th street and W Laurel back in service.

05/12/2026

📢PSA📢

SKOL Railroad is temporarily disabling the railroad crossings at Laurel/27th, Parkhurst/8th, and CR 4500/14th. Please go a different route to lower the risk of traffic hazards or accidents in the area. We will update as soon as we are updated.

05/12/2026

Six years later, we are still seeking answers in the homicide investigation of Detreck Foster. If you have any information, no matter how small, please contact IPD or the KBI Tip Line.

05/11/2026

Buckle up, Independence!

The Independence Police Department will be participating in the nationwide Click It or Ticket campaign beginning May 17th. Increased traffic enforcement will be focused on seat belt compliance to help keep everyone safe on our roadways.

For more information about seat belt safety, go to www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/seat-belt-safety