Update: Late Thursday reports indicated that the suspect in a series of car thefts in Ellis and Trego County identified as 34-year-old Eugene Bartley was in the Denver, Colorado area, according to the Gove County Sheriff. The sheriff indicated they had not confirmed the reports.
The sheriff cautioned, if you see Bartley, do not approach and dial 911 immediately.
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TREGO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of vehicle thefts in northwest Kansas and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.
The suspect identified as 34-year-old Eugene Bartley allegedly stole a white 2013 Ford Edge from the parking lot of Rich's IGA in Ellis on Thursday afternoon, according to the Trego County Sheriff.
An attempted theft and battered individual was also reported at 230th and M Road in Trego County. The incidents may be related. The suspect in this incident was last seen headed northbound on 230th Avenue.
The Gove County Sheriff reported Thursday afternoon there had been a number of vehicle thefts from the Ellis and WaKeeney areas. Also during this period, an individual was held up for money at a farm residence SW of WaKeeney.
The victim identified the suspect as Eugene Bartley. Bartley was recently released from the Ellis County jail on similar charges.
The sheriff cautioned, if you see Bartley, do not approach and dial 911 immediately.