GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — A tragic incident unfolded at a highway rest stop in Nebraska on Wednesday morning, resulting in the death of an elderly man and leaving his wife in critical condition. According to a press release from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Gary Weaver, 72, and his wife Mary, 71, were the victims of an attempted robbery that turned violent.
The suspect, identified as James Thompson Jr., 22, allegedly approached the couple around 7 a.m. at an Interstate 80 rest area. Witnesses reported that Thompson demanded the keys to their Jeep before attacking the pair. An affidavit obtained by KSNB revealed that Thompson went into the couple’s RV and made a stabbing motion before assaulting Mary outside the vehicle.
Law enforcement deputies from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and found the Weavers suffering from knife wounds. Both victims were immediately transported to Grand Island Hospital, but tragically, Gary was pronounced dead upon arrival. Mary remains in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
The Weavers, originally from Eureka, Missouri, were traveling through Nebraska in their mobile home when the incident occurred. Before authorities arrived, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle. However, thanks to an accurate description provided by witnesses, Nebraska State Patrol officers pursued Thompson, who eventually drove his vehicle into the Platte River. After a 30-minute search, Thompson was apprehended with the aid of a police dog.
James Thompson Jr. is now in custody at the Hall County jail, facing multiple charges including felony murder, attempted murder, and robbery. Additional charges include assault, use of a deadly weapon, theft, fleeing to avoid arrest, and various traffic violations. On Thursday, a judge ordered Thompson to be held without bond and set a probable cause hearing for July 9.
The Hall County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are working diligently to gather more information surrounding the case and provide justice for the victims. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.