Waverly, Missouri Police Department

04/01/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: April 1, 2026
Contact: Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office

Waverly Community Mourns Following Tragic Incident

On March 31, 2026, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the Waverly Police Department received a report of a missing child who was last seen in the 100 block of Frances Avenue in Waverly.

Law enforcement officers and first responders from multiple area agencies responded immediately and worked together in an urgent and coordinated effort to locate the child.

Tragically, during the search, the child was found in a nearby pond. First responders began lifesaving measures at the scene and continued their efforts with great urgency and care. Despite these efforts, the child was later pronounced deceased.

This is a heartbreaking loss for the family and the entire Waverly community. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the child’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We also recognize the dedication and compassion shown by the first responders who worked tirelessly throughout the evening.

The incident remains under investigation. Any further information or media inquiries should be directed to the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office.

03/31/2026

Tomorrow just got bumped to a Level 3 across western Oklahoma, north Texas, and south-central Kansas. Supercells with 2+ inch hail are expected to fire along the dryline by late afternoon, then grow into a damaging wind and tornado threat as storms push east across I-35 overnight.

03/31/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Waverly Police Department Receives $1,200 Grant from MFA Oil Foundation to Support Emergency Preparedness

Waverly, MO — The Waverly Police Department is proud to announce it has been awarded a $1,200 grant from the MFA Oil Foundation to support the development of a local emergency disaster and mass casualty response trailer. The funding will be used to purchase critical supplies that will be housed within the trailer and deployed during large-scale emergencies.

The Waverly Police Department, which oversees local Emergency Management operations, was previously awarded grant funding late last year to acquire the response trailer itself. However, due to the recent temporary government shutdown affecting funding distribution through the Department of Homeland Security, those federal funds have not yet been released, delaying the department’s ability to purchase the trailer.

Despite this setback, the MFA Oil Foundation’s contribution allows the department to move forward by securing essential equipment that will be vital once the trailer is acquired. These supplies will enhance the community’s readiness to respond effectively to disasters and mass casualty incidents.

“As a small, rural agency, we rely heavily on grant funding to provide the level of emergency preparedness our community deserves,” said Waverly Police Chief Stephen Phillips. “Without assistance like this from partners such as the MFA Oil Foundation, obtaining the necessary equipment for disaster response would be extremely difficult, if not impossible.”

With limited local revenue sources, grants play a critical role in ensuring agencies like the Waverly Police Department can maintain and improve their emergency response capabilities. The department remains committed to pursuing funding opportunities and strengthening partnerships that enhance public safety and community resilience.

For more information, please contact:
Stephen Phillips
Chief of Police
Waverly Police Department

Pictured left to right Randall Bargfrede, MFA Oil and Stephen Phillips, Waverly Police Chief.

03/27/2026

City of Waverly Officially Receives Missouri Blue Shield Designation

Waverly – Today, the City of Waverly received official word from the Missouri Department of Public Safety that we have earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026. This honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate their commitment to enhancing public safety, investing in and supporting law enforcement and building partnerships between law enforcement and our community.

The Missouri Blue Shield Program was created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03. In 2025, 201 Missouri communities earned the Blue Shield designation, recognizing local governments’ significant efforts to reduce crime and foster law enforcement – community partnerships to strengethen public safety. The opportunity to earn the Blue Shield designation for 2026 opened on February 4, 2026. Communities that earned the Blue Shield designation in 2025 had to reapply this year to be approved once again.

“The Blue Shield program has shown what’s possible when communities commit to prioritizing law enforcement and public safety,” Governor Kehoe said. “After awarding $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities last year, we’re continuing that work by welcoming new communities and renewing Blue Shield designations for counties, towns, and cities that remain committed to the program.”

“Strengthening public safety and committing to joint law enforcement community – citizen safety efforts is what the Blue Shield Program is all about and the Department of Public Safety is honored to work with communities like City of Waverly, that have answered the Blue Shield challenge,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “Last year, the essential equipment provided by Blue Shield grants included 388 mobile data terminals, 351 body cameras, 151 license plate readers (LPR), 102 ballistic vests, 91 interoperable radios and 56 vehicles. We look forward to getting additional important equipment and training to our partners in local law enforcement.”
“Being designated a Blue Shield Community opens the door to more opportunites for our small rural community,” said Waverly Police Chief Stephen Phillips.

Eligibility and Program Details
Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety, and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment is reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals.

Participation Incentives
Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2027, provided the General Assembly approves the funding. The Governor’s FY 2027 budget appropriated $10 million to the program for equipment and training grants. Communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program. A map of 2025 Blue Shield communities is available here.

About City of Waverly
City of Waverly earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation because of its exceptional commitment to public safety. Through specific initiatives from application, such as officer recruitment efforts, major law enforcement funding, partnerships with community stakeholders, etc., the community has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to protecting its residents. This designation affirms City of Waverly’s effort to create a safer, more secure environment for all who live and work here.

03/15/2026

The Beat - Springtime Showers Brings May Flowers, and More

Spring is just a few days away and boy have we been spoiled with this weather. The winter woes that were predicted seemed to miss us. Winter is sure to return for that one last blast before “turning a new leaf”. One thing is for sure; spring weather has already had an impact on us and the region. One could only wonder if this is a sample of what is coming this spring season.

Springtime brings new life, blooming flowers, and an opportunity to rid those items we have been threatening to throw out since Thanksgiving. Spring also brings severe weather. Now is a good time to review your emergency storm plans. Severe spring weather can include tornadoes, thunderstorms, hail, flooding, and strong winds. Being prepared ahead of time can make a big difference in staying safe. Here are some important tips:

Stay Weather-Aware

Keeping track of weather conditions is one of the most important steps in staying safe. Monitor local forecasts regularly and enable weather alerts on your phone. Having a weather radio or weather app can ensure you receive warnings quickly, even during the night.

Know the Difference: Watch vs. Warning

Understanding weather alerts can help you respond appropriately.
• Watch: Conditions are favorable for severe weather. Stay alert and be prepared.
• Warning: Severe weather is occurring or expected soon. Take shelter immediately.

Have a Safe Shelter Plan

If severe storms or tornadoes threaten your area, know where to go. The safest places include:
• A basement or storm shelter
• An interior room on the lowest floor of your home
• Areas away from windows and exterior walls
Bathrooms, closets, and hallways often provide good protection.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit can help you manage through power outages or emergencies. Your kit should include:
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Bottled water
• Non-perishable food
• First aid kit
• Phone charger or power bank
• Weather radio
• Important documents stored in a waterproof container
Ideally, supplies should last at least three days.

Thunderstorm Safety

During severe thunderstorms:
• Stay indoors and away from windows.
• Unplug sensitive electronics if lightning is nearby.

Flood Safety

Flooding can occur quickly during heavy rain. Remember:
• Never drive through flooded roads.
• Even shallow water can disable vehicles.
• Move to higher ground if flooding begins.

After the Storm

Once severe weather has passed:
• Avoid downed power lines and damaged areas.
• Watch for debris and structural hazards.
• Check on neighbors, especially those who may need assistance.

Final Reminder

Spring storms can sometimes occur late at night, so it’s important to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts while you sleep. Preparation and awareness can make a major difference when severe weather strikes.

Stay safe and be prepared this spring!

03/05/2026

Teens aged 15-19 have the highest crash risk of any age group on the road. Teens are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash and the risk is highest during the first 30-90 days of independent driving. Parents with their teen drivers are welcome to participate in the “First Impact ....

03/05/2026

First Impact offers a FREE 90-minute evidence-based traffic safety program. Find a First Impact event near you.

02/24/2026

First Impact offers a FREE 90-minute evidence-based traffic safety program that educates parents about Missouri’s Graduated Driver License law.

Attendance is perfect for parents of teen drivers, ages 14 - 19 and new & soon to be drivers.

First Impact aims to eliminate motor vehicle fatalities and injuries among teens. It further attempts to reduce teen-involved crashes by increasing parental awareness and enforcement of Missouri's GDL law.

Objectives of the program are to increase:

Awareness of teen driving risks
Understanding of Missouri’s GDL law
GDL monitoring and enforcement at home
Importance of being a positive role model

The program is delivered by trained Facilitators and Law Enforcement Officers who coach parents by presenting key facts and proven strategies to help parents lower their teen's crash risk by utilizing the Missouri GDL law. The statewide program is available free of charge. Funding is provided by MoDOT’s Highway Safety & Traffic Division, Rusk Rehabilitation Hospital, and State Farm Insurance.

Please consider sharing these invitations with parents of teen drivers as well as agencies and safety partners who serve parents and their teens.

March 5, 2026
Waverly City Hall
6:00-7:30 PM
Speakers:
Allyn Workman, First Impact
Stephen Phillips, Waverly Chief of Police
Questions: Allyn 314-302-4542
Register

First Impact offers a FREE 90-minute evidence-based traffic safety program. Find a First Impact event near you.

02/24/2026

First Impact, a program offered by ThinkFirst Missouri, is a traffic safety program that educates parents about Missouri’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) law as well as provides them with the tools they need to monitor, coach and support their new teen driver.

Missouri GDL law is a three-step licensing system. The purpose is to ease teens into licensure so that they can build skill in an environment that minimizes those things that are shown to cause the greatest risk for new drivers.

Research confirms that GDL laws have been instrumental in reducing teen crashes by 20 percent to 40 percent.

First Impact offers a FREE 90-minute evidence-based traffic safety program that educates parents and teen drivers about Missouri’s GDL law. The goal of First Impact is to reduce the number of motor vehicle fatalities, injuries and crashes among teen drivers by increasing parental awareness and enforcement of Missouri’s GDL law.

Objectives of the program are to increase:

Awareness of teen driving risks
Understanding of Missouri’s GDL law
GDL monitoring and enforcement at home
Importance of being a positive role model
The program is delivered by trained Law Enforcement Officers and Facilitators who coach parents by presenting key facts and proven strategies to help parents lower their teens’ crash risk by utilizing the Missouri GDL law.

This program, hosted by the Waverly Police Department, will be presented on March 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Waverly City Hall, 111 E. Kelling Ave., Waverly, MO 64096.

Click on the attached link to register your attendance.

Teens aged 15-19 have the highest crash risk of any age group on the road. Teens are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash and the risk is highest during the first 30-90 days of independent driving. Parents with their teen drivers are welcome to participate in the “First Impact ....

02/17/2026

The Waverly Police Department will be hosting First Impact on March 5, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This event will be held at the Waverly City Hall, 111 E. Kelling Ave., Waverly, Missouri 64096.

This will be a great opportunity for young drivers and their parents as it will teach parents about Missouri's Graduated Driver License Law and provide them with the tools they need to monitor, coach and support their new teen driver.

There is a link to register to attend this course. This course is free and is open to the public.

Registration:

Teens aged 15-19 have the highest crash risk of any age group on the road. Teens are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash and the risk is highest during the first 30-90 days of independent driving. Parents with their teen drivers are welcome to participate in the “First Impact ....

02/03/2026

The Beat

The More You Know – The More You Grow

The month of January resulted in fewer calls for service, with a total of 40 calls. This seasonal slowdown is typical for this time of year. However, despite the reduced call volume, January was anything but slow.

Throughout the month, department personnel were engaged in a wide range of activities, including attending training courses, completing end-of-year reports, meeting with vendors to review proposals for future projects and products that will strengthen the City of Waverly, and hosting public relations events such as Coffee With a Cop. In addition, future training events were scheduled and promoted, leaving little downtime.

As a small police department serving a close-knit community, there are limited opportunities to distribute responsibilities among additional personnel. In small communities, it is common for individuals to wear many hats and manage multiple duties that would otherwise be shared among larger agencies. Because of this, building knowledge and expanding skill sets is not only essential but often challenging.

Taking time to enhance skills and broaden experience may briefly interrupt daily services, but it ultimately allows us to better serve and protect our community. Without continued education and learning, we risk falling short—both professionally and in our service to the public.

Strong leadership is rooted in an expanded knowledge base, which is often reflected in effective decision-making and successful outcomes. As society continues to evolve and technology advances, ongoing training and skill development remain critical.

To support both personnel and community growth, the Waverly Police Department will be hosting several training events over the coming months. Some of these events are limited to law enforcement personnel, while others are open to the public.

Upcoming Training Events:

• February 10, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
SFST Refresher (Law Enforcement Only)

• March 5, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
First Impact (Open to the Public)

• March 17, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Natural Gas Pipeline Safety (Open to the Public)

In addition, several CPR certification classes are currently being scheduled. Dates, times, and costs will be announced soon.

For more information on these training opportunities, please contact Chief Stephen Phillips at the Waverly Police Department. Additional details on these courses will be shared in the near future.

At the Waverly Police Department, our commitment to professionalism, education, and community partnership remains at the forefront of everything we do. Through continued learning and engagement, we strive to better serve and protect the residents of Waverly today and into the future.