Sheriff James M. Nelson

Sheriff James M. Nelson | Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska
Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska
Sheriff James M. Nelson

Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska

End of Watch Saturday, February 22, 1930

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James M. Nelson

Sheriff James Nelson was shot and killed while looking for a state mental hospital escapee who had just forced his father at gunpoint to withdraw $600 from a bank in Sidney.

Sheriff Nelson and his deputy stopped the subject in Sidney. As Sheriff Nelson exited the patrol car he was shot in the head. The man then shot and wounded the deputy before fleeing. The man was shot and killed after being located by a posse several hours later.

Sheriff Nelson was survived by his wife and six children.

Bio

  • Age 54
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Thursday, February 20, 1930
  • Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
  • Offender Shot and killed

EDP, escapee

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I've read about you, mr sheriff Nelson this last week. I also thank you for your service and am sorry to read about your ultimate sacrifice. I believe you must have been an incredibly respected man and loved by many according to over 3000 to 3500 people to attend your funeral service. Your legacy is real and lives on to this day.

Steve Mika
Cheyenne County Historical Association Board member

July 2, 2018

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