Police say thieves cost a south Wichita, Kan., pavement recycling center more than $100,000.
The Cornejo plant crushes old highway pavement into small rock for new pavement.
Plant supervisor Jon Lewman says the thieves cut through a lock, shut off the power to the plant and began stripping out copper wire. They also took tools, tanks for acetylene torches and other items.
Lewman said the thieves also ruined a motor valued at $60,000.
KAKE-TV reports the plant will be closed for up to two weeks.
Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Kansas
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
Tropical Storm Watches Posted Across Florida’s Panhandle Region 
Viewpoint: The AI Ransomware That Couldn’t Get Paid 
FDA Walks Back Positive Lab Test in Lettuce Cyclospora Outbreak 
Farmers Looks to Make it Easier for Consumers to Understand Insurance 
