KBI arrests Wichita men connected to December 2025 assault

In a release from the KBI, two men have been arrested following an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Edwards County Sheriff’s Office connected to a violent assault in December 2025.

On December 8, 2025, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office requested the KBI assist with a sexual assault and battery investigation that occurred December 6 and 7, at a residence in Belpre, Kansas. Following the investigation, the Wichita Police Department assisted by arresting the suspects on Monday, April 20.

Just before 11 a.m., 31-year-old Colin M. Welch of Wichita was arrested for attempted first-degree murder, rape, aggravated battery and criminal threat. Also arrested was 54-year-old Jeffrey T. Diederich of Wichita, for one count of attempted first-degree murder.

The investigation indicated Welch strangled and raped one adult victim. Diederich is alleged to have been present during the incidents. Both suspects were booked into the Sedgwick County Detention Facility. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Anyone with information related to this case is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.kbi.ks.gov/sar.

The investigation is ongoing.