The communities of Clarks, Duncan, and David City, Nebraska, have been affected by a series of violent events on October 23, 2026, involving a fatal homicide in Polk County and a subsequent fatal shooting involving Nebraska State Patrol troopers in Butler County. Authorities identified Nathan Dohmen, 45, of Clarks, as the homicide suspect who later died after exchanging gunfire with troopers. The incidents remain under investigation.
What Happened in Polk County?
According to the Nebraska State Patrol, Polk County emergency dispatchers received a 911 call on Friday morning reporting a shooting at a residence in a rural area near Duncan.
Responding officers found John James Cyza, 47, of rural Duncan, deceased inside his home with multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities subsequently identified Dohmen as the suspect and began searching for him.
The original report also indicated that a second individual might be targeted. Law enforcement located that person and confirmed they were safe, helping prevent further harm during the developing emergency.
Search and Pursuit Across County Lines
As officers searched for Dohmen, the Butler County sheriff located his vehicle on a rural road. According to investigators, Dohmen allegedly fired a rifle at the sheriff, who was not struck. Dohmen then fled in the vehicle.
Authorities later reported that Dohmen stopped at a store in Bellwood, where he allegedly stole a case of beer. State Patrol helicopter personnel and ground units subsequently located the vehicle, leading to a brief pursuit.
The pursuit ended at a farmhouse driveway northeast of David City, near 37 Road and O Road. Investigators said Dohmen fired at troopers, who returned fire. Dohmen was struck and pronounced dead at the scene. Neither the troopers nor the farmhouse resident was injured.
Understanding the Reported Cause of Death
Authorities reported that Dohmen died after being struck by gunfire during the encounter with state troopers. The precise medical findings have not been detailed in the available reports.
The circumstances surrounding the trooper-involved shooting are being investigated separately from the homicide. The Nebraska State Patrol's Special Investigations Unit, with assistance from the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office, is examining the law enforcement shooting. A separate State Patrol division is investigating Cyza's death.
Remembering Those Affected
The events have brought grief and concern to families and residents across the affected Nebraska communities. John Cyza's death represents a profound loss for his loved ones, while the circumstances surrounding Dohmen's death have also drawn public attention.
Cyza's funeral arrangements were announced through McKown Funeral Home, with visitation scheduled for November 1 and a funeral Mass on November 2.
Investigation Continues
As of October 27, 2026, both investigations remain ongoing. Officials have not released every detail surrounding the events, and additional findings may emerge as investigators review evidence and witness accounts.
Authorities encourage the public to rely on verified updates and avoid speculation while the investigations proceed.
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