05/23/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2026
Thomas County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Multiple Vehicle Burglaries and Attempted Vehicle Theft in Colby
On May 22, 2026, at approximately 12:45 a.m., a Deputy with the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office observed suspicious activity in the south parking lot of Great Western Tire located in the 1100 block of South Country Club Drive in Colby, Kansas.
As the Deputy approached to investigate, a truck fled the area. The vehicle was later located abandoned in the 1100 block of Golden Avenue. Investigators determined the suspect fled the scene on foot in an unknown direction.
A second vehicle, a 2011 Mazda sedan, was discovered parked approximately 30 yards north of the abandoned truck on Golden Avenue. The Mazda displayed a false license plate and was also found abandoned.
The Sheriff's Office have determined that between approximately 10:30 p.m. on May 21, 2026, and 12:45 a.m. on May 22, 2026, the suspect entered Colby from East College Drive while driving the Mazda sedan. During that time, the suspect allegedly burglarized several vehicles and properties in the area before being interrupted while attempting to steal a truck from the Great Western Tire parking lot.
At this time, the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office has identified:
• Eight vehicles that were burglarized
• One building that was the target of an attempted burglary
The Thomas County Sheriff’s Office is asking residents and business owners in the affected area to:
• Check security camera footage
• Inspect vehicles and property for signs of burglary or tampering
The area of interest extends:
• South from Pine Street and Country Club Drive to the 1200 block of South Country Club
• West to the intersection of Pine Street and South Franklin Avenue
• South to the intersection of Franklin Avenue and College Drive
The Sheriff's have identified Leonard Malcolm Ramsey as a potential suspect who is wanted for questioning in connection with this investigation. Photos of the suspect and vehicle are included below.
Anyone with information, surveillance footage, or related tips is encouraged to contact the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office at 785-460-4570.
As of May 22, 2026, the Sheriff's Office have recovered numerous items of stolen property and have contacted the owners. At this time, authorities do not believe the suspect successfully left the area with stolen property. The suspect is also believed to have left Thomas County.
The Thomas County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the continued support and assistance of the public during this investigation.
