Trooper Michael D. Farber

Trooper Michael D. Farber | Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska
Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska
Trooper Michael D. Farber

Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska

End of Watch Sunday, August 24, 1980

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Michael D. Farber

Trooper Michael Farber was killed after being intentionally struck by a teenager fleeing other officers for stealing gas.

After not paying $13.43 for gasoline at a station near Pleasant Dale exit on Interstate 80, the juvenile led officers on a high-speed pursuit for over 50 miles, driving at speeds of more than 100 mph. While traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes, the juvenile drove the vehicle into the median of I-80, west of the Hampton Interchange, near Aurora, Nebraska, and struck Trooper Farber.

The 15-year-old suspect fled on foot after crashing his vehicle, but was apprehended an hour later. He was tried as an adult, convicted of manslaughter, and sentenced to 10 years. He was released in January of 1986.

Trooper Farber had been with the Nebraska State Patrol for two years. He was survived by his wife, Colleen, and his unborn son.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge 427

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Released in 1986

juvenile offender, vehicle pursuit

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My name is Bob Dangler. During this period of time I was part owner in a Dodge dealership in Aurora, Nebraska. One of the NHP officers who brought his Patrol vehicle for service was a young Patrolman named Mike Farber.
Mike was a wonderful and serious young man. I believe it was Ron Rife (another Patrol Officer) who was following the perp when he crossed the median from east bound, came under the overpass, and deliberately ran Mike over as he was standing on the west side of his vehicle. Mike's body was thrown into the air. Used to making out reports, the following Patrolman noted "Dead at (appropriate time)".
I will never forget that statement. I went to Mike's funeral in Northern Nebraska. I will also never forget that.
Bob Dangler

Private citizen, Robert Dangler
Part owner of Dodge Dealership where service was performed on Mike

February 10, 2026

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