Good morning, Topeka.

On Wednesday afternoon, an 18-year-old teen, Bradynn W.

Taylor of Meriden, was taken to Stormont Vail Hospital after his 2015 Ford Fusion left the roadway and struck the median near the junction of K-4 and US-40—he was wearing his seatbelt and sustained minor injuries.

BNSF and CSX announced a new coast-to-coast transportation partnership that will offer direct services from Southern California to Charlotte and Jacksonville and include a service converting over-the-road freight to rail between Phoenix and Atlanta—these options aim to speed shipments nationwide. BNSF also noted local investments such as 50 miles of new double track and expanded parking at Logistics Park KC to boost efficiency.

Authorities identified Topeka residents Erica E.

Bevitt, 42, and Brian M. Bevitt, 45, as fatally shot in the Montara area on SW Briarmeade Lane Wednesday morning—investigators noted the victims had been in a domestic relationship while two juveniles at the scene remain safe with family members.

On August 28, 2025, a Topeka man was sentenced to life in prison for the February 2020 murder of Emerson Downing—he must serve 618 months before parole and will be transferred to the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections, according to Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay.

Real Cowboy Association will hold its first annual Black Rodeo in Topeka at 7:30 p.m. on Oct.

11 at the Stormont Vail Events Center—tickets will be available at the Cable Dahmer Box Office and online starting at 10 a.m. today.

Constitution Hall in downtown Topeka, built in 1855 and restored over 25 years with $3.75 million in grant funding, will reopen on Saturday, Sept.

27 with a free program on the Underground Railroad’s western routes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Shawnee County Historical Society will host the event—letting visitors tour the historic building and view a special exhibit.

Best-selling author Lisa Wingate will speak at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct.

14, at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library located at 1515 S.W. 10th Ave. in Topeka. She will lead a one-hour moderated talk and sign books after the discussion—doors will open at 6 p.m. for free, registered guests.

WIBW partnered with the Greater Topeka Chamber to host candidate forums that let voters hear from people running for city leadership—yesterday a forum on District 7 and District 9 took place while another on September 4 will cover the mayor's race and District 1 and District 3.

KU football team started the season with a 31 to 7 win over Fresno State at their home opener in the newly revamped David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium—nicknamed The Booth—last Saturday.

The Jayhawks will play Wagner today at 6:30 p.m. with play-by-play coverage from Brian Hanni on the Jayhawk Radio Network.

TRAPT Live in Topeka

7-8 p.m. — Jessie's Bar Outdoor Stage — General Admission $20 ($25 at the door) — Rock out with TRAPT as they perform hits from their new album!

Holy Smokin' Jamboree 2025

8 a.m. - 10 p.m. — 2014 NW 46th St, Topeka, KS — $2 wristband for kid games — Enjoy BBQ, live music, and family-friendly activities at this annual jamboree.

Tim Hawkins Comedy Show

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — $65-$86 — Enjoy a night of laughter with renowned comedian Tim Hawkins.

Highland Park vs. Sumner Academy Varsity Football

2-4 a.m. — Highland Park High School — Free entry — Catch the exciting matchup between Highland Park and Sumner Academy's varsity football teams.

12th Annual Dueling Pianos Fundraiser

6-10 p.m. — The Townsite Avenue Ballroom — Various ticket prices — Enjoy a night filled with music, laughter, and support for kids in need.

Sumner Academy Boys Varsity Soccer Match

2:00 – 3:45 AM — Highland Park High School — Free entry — Watch the competitive showdown as Highland Park faces Sumner Academy in this conference soccer match.

Tap That Topeka Beer Festival

5:30-11:30 p.m. — The Celtic Fox — Tickets starting at $50 — Experience over 400 craft beers, delicious food trucks, and live music in downtown Topeka.

Highland Park vs. Sumner Academy Girls Varsity Volleyball Match

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Highland Park High School — Check local listings — Come cheer for the Highland Park and Sumner Academy volleyball teams in a thrilling conference match.

Highland Park vs. East Football Game

7-9 p.m. — Highland Park High School — Admission Fee Required — Cheer on the Highland Park varsity football team as they take on East from Wichita in this exciting non-conference matchup.

Yachtley Crew Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Last-minute concert tickets available — Experience the Yachtley Crew live in Topeka for an entertaining evening.