A 72-year-old Missouri man is dead, and his wife was critically injured after a stabbing attack at an Interstate 80 rest area in Hall County, Nebraska.
The suspect, 22-year-old James Thompson Jr. of Elyria, Ohio, fled the scene but was apprehended following a high-speed chase with the Nebraska State Patrol.
The Hall County Sheriff’s Department received a disturbance call at the westbound I-80 rest area around 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the two victims, Gary and Mary Weaver of Eureka, Missouri, suffering from knife wounds.
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Gary Weaver tragically succumbed to his injuries at Grand Island Regional Hospital, while Mary Weaver remains in critical condition, according to NBC News.
Authorities believe the incident began as an attempted robbery. Thompson is currently facing charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault, operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest, two counts of attempted robbery, and five counts of use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Hall County Sheriff’s Department collaborating with the Nebraska State Patrol, Grand Island Police Department, and other agencies.
Investigators review surveillance footage and interview witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the attack and subsequent pursuit.
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This tragic incident has shocked the community and raised concerns about safety at rest areas. The Hall County Sheriff’s Department urges travelers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
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