Brian J. Lovgren officer-involved shooting Manhattan, Kansas
KBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Manhattan, Kansas
On January 3, 2026, at approximately 3:50 p.m., Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agents were called in to assist the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office following an officer-involved shooting in Manhattan, Kansas. The KBI agents, along with the Crime Scene Response Team, responded to the scene to conduct an independent investigation.
Preliminary details indicate that earlier that afternoon, two deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office had responded to a call from a homeowner who reported damage to their shed and garage, allegedly caused by gunfire. While taking the report, the deputies heard additional gunshots in the area. As they approached the address 8655 Josie Lane, they heard further gunshots, which they believed were coming from inside the residence. The deputies identified themselves as law enforcement officers and began issuing commands to the shooter.
A man, later identified as 38-year-old Brian J. Lovgren of Manhattan, came out of a door of the house armed with a handgun. In response, one of the deputies fired multiple shots, striking Lovgren. Deputies provided life-saving measures at the scene, and Lovgren was transported by EMS to a Kansas City hospital.
Lovgren underwent surgery and is currently in critical condition. Fortunately, no law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.
The KBI is conducting an independent investigation to determine the full set of events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. As with all police use of force cases, KBI is committed to releasing details to the public as soon as possible. However, this information is preliminary and based on the evidence collected, early statements from involved parties, witnesses, and medical personnel. It does not yet represent the final conclusions, which may take several weeks to complete.
Once the investigation concludes, all findings will be submitted to the Pottawatomie County Attorney for review and determination of any potential charges. The investigation remains ongoing.