KC’s violent image on world stage, high Fan Fest prices & bus fare ‘chaos’: Top stories
From World Cup security concerns to a former Leawood priest facing felony theft charges, here’s a roundup of what’s making news in the Kansas City region. These are the top stories from The Kansas City Star.
Here are key takeaways:
- As global soccer fans arrive for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Kansas City is grappling with its summer violence problem, having averaged 30 homicides each June and July over the past five years. The city received $59.5 million in federal funds for World Cup security, including $17 million for police overtime and drone detection technology, as Kansas City prepares to host international visitors amid ongoing gun violence concerns.
- Kansas City’s FIFA Fan Fest is drawing criticism for its concession prices, which include $18-$19 beers, $7 bottled sodas and $28 double shots — and those prices don’t include tax. A Reddit post highlighting the “hilarious” prices sparked widespread complaints, though some noted the 25-ounce beers are slightly larger than typical festival pours.
- The Rev. Richard Storey, former pastor of Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, was charged with felony theft on May 13 for allegedly stealing $159,326.92 from the church between 2021 and 2025. The alleged spending included $77,025 on cruises, nearly $24,000 in casino cash withdrawals and $27,079 on international travel to destinations including London, Paris and Dublin.
- The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority reintroduced bus fares on June 1 with a cashless-only requirement, creating hardship for unbanked residents and those without smartphones. The Ivanhoe Neighborhood Council stepped in to host information sessions after community leaders said KCATA’s public outreach fell short.
- The Dutch national team purchased 17 bikes from Midwest Cyclery in Westport ahead of the World Cup, reflecting cycling’s deep cultural significance in the Netherlands, which boasts nearly 20,000 miles of cycling paths. Shop owner Christina Baanders-Decker prepared bright orange bikes for the team after a staffer called requesting them.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.