SHELBY, Neb. — The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) has released further information as the investigation continues into an apparent murder-attempted suicide in Polk County.
Authorities identified the suspect as 40-year-old Wesley Absher. Preliminary reports indicate Absher traveled to a business near County Road T and 127th Road, south of Shelby, where he fatally shot 44-year-old Brian Gabel, the owner of the business.
A female victim was also present at the business during the shooting. Investigators say Absher kidnapped her and transported her to a separate location on farm ground near County Road S and 129th Road, where she was assaulted. At that location, Absher reportedly shot himself.
The female victim was able to drive herself to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Osceola and report the incident shortly after 1:30 a.m. Tuesday. Deputies responded and requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol. Both scenes were secured. Absher was transported to Bryan Health West Campus in Lincoln with life-threatening injuries. The female victim was taken to Columbus Community Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities confirmed that Absher and the female victim were in the process of divorcing.
The Nebraska State Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, kidnapping, and attempted suicide. Officials have not released additional information at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.
