UPDATE: A series of alarming incidents unfolded in Great Bend over the weekend, leading to multiple arrests and emergency responses. Firefighters responded to an unauthorized burn at 10:06 a.m. Friday, in the 900 block of Jefferson St., marking the start of a chaotic few days.

Authorities report that the Great Bend Police Department received a call about a domestic battery incident involving Lauren Vancura at 1:35 a.m. Friday, resulting in her arrest for domestic battery and criminal damage. This was just one of several troubling events, as the Emergency Medical Service logged one call on Friday, five on Saturday, and four on Sunday, highlighting an uptick in emergency situations.

At 6:31 p.m. Friday, police were alerted to a man with a knife causing disturbances near 3rd and Hubbard St.. The suspect fled before officers could arrive, intensifying community concerns. Later, a chase involving the Barton County Sheriff’s Office was reported at 9:54 p.m. Friday, near 3rd and Kiowa Road, with the Great Bend Police Department assisting.

The situation escalated further with a domestic incident reported at 2:31 p.m. Sunday on Rosewood Dr., resulting in the arrest of Jessica Rodriguez for criminal threat and domestic violence battery. Rodriguez was later released after posting bond.

In a notable development, police responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle in the 2800 block of 24th St. at 3:56 p.m. Sunday. Blaine Reeder was arrested for an outstanding municipal warrant, although the vehicle in question was not stolen, adding to the confusion of the weekend’s events.

Throughout the weekend, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office was involved in various operations, including a traffic stop on North U.S. 281 and a narcotics violation investigation. The heightened law enforcement presence reflects ongoing concerns about public safety in the area.

In total, several individuals were booked over the weekend, including:

Lauren Vancura — Domestic battery, criminal damage
Cristian Rivera — Felony flee and elude, possession of marijuana
Daisy Cordova — Aggravated robbery
Jessica Rodriguez — Domestic battery, criminal threat

The arrests underscore a pressing issue of crime in Great Bend, prompting community discussions about safety and law enforcement efforts. The public is urged to report any suspicious activity as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

As of now, residents are left questioning the safety of their neighborhoods. With multiple arrests and incidents reported, the Great Bend community is on high alert. Stay tuned for further updates as law enforcement continues to address these issues.