Investigation underway after homicide, fatal trooper-involved shooting in Nebraska
Nebraska State Patrol says a homicide suspect is dead after firing at authorities in eastern Nebraska
BUTLER COUNTY, Neb. (KOLN) - A homicide suspect is dead after a pursuit and trooper-involved shooting northeast of David City Friday, according to the Nebraska State Patrol.
According to NSP Lt. Col. James Scott, the incident began Friday morning when law enforcement received a 911 call reporting a shooting at a residence in rural Polk County near Duncan. Responding authorities arrived at the scene and located an adult male who was deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.
Scott said authorities then identified a suspect and his vehicle. Shortly after, law enforcement located the vehicle unoccupied. While at the scene, a sheriff heard gunshots and retreated to safety. The suspect then returned to the vehicle and fled.
Troopers joined the pursuit as the suspect fled toward Butler County, Scott said. The suspect eventually turned into the driveway of a residence northeast of David City near 37 and O roads.
According to Scott, the suspect continued firing shots, prompting two state troopers to return fire. The suspect was struck and pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities recovered a rifle at the scene. No law enforcement officers were injured during the response, and officials reiterated there is no ongoing danger to the public.
Scott said both incidents are in very early stages and are being investigated separately:
- The Duncan Homicide: The Nebraska State Patrol’s Criminal Investigation Unit is leading the investigation into the fatal shooting in rural Polk County.
- The Trooper-Involved Shooting: At the request of the county attorney, the Nebraska State Patrol’s Special Investigations Unit, along with the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, will conduct an independent investigation into the shooting near David City.
In accordance with Nebraska State Patrol policy, the two troopers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave, and their identities are not being released at this time, Scott said.
NSP is asking the public to avoid both areas while investigators process the scenes, noting that rural road closures remain in place.
The identities of the victim and shooter have also yet to be released.
Scott extended condolences on behalf of the Nebraska State Patrol to the victims and loved ones of Friday morning’s homicide, highlighting the commitment to public safety demonstrated by law enforcement officers each day, even when faced with deadly threats.
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