Tragic Double Stabbing at Nebraska Rest Stop: Missouri Man Killed, Wife Critically Injured

Grand Island, NE – A peaceful morning journey turned into a nightmare for an elderly couple from Missouri, who were victims of a brutal stabbing at a rest stop near Grand Island, Nebraska. The incident occurred shortly after 7:00 AM on Wednesday, leaving 72-year-old Gary Weaver dead and his 71-year-old wife, Mary Weaver, critically injured.

The Hall County Sheriff’s Department has identified the victims as Gary and Mary Weaver, a married couple traveling through Nebraska in their mobile home. Both were transported to a nearby hospital due to the severity of their stab wounds. Tragically, Gary Weaver did not survive, passing away shortly after arrival. Mary Weaver remains in critical condition, fighting for her life as medical staff work tirelessly to save her.

The only suspect in this horrific attack, 22-year-old James Thompson Jr. from Elyria, Ohio, fled the scene immediately after the assault. However, the Nebraska State Patrol swiftly apprehended him, preventing any further potential harm. According to investigators, the stabbing appears to have begun as an attempted robbery, during which Thompson attacked the Weavers with a knife.

This tragic incident has left the community in shock, raising concerns about the safety of rest stops and the vulnerability of travelers. The Weavers, who were simply passing through Nebraska on what should have been a peaceful trip, became the victims of a senseless act of violence. Friends and family of the couple are devastated, struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could occur.

James Thompson Jr. is currently detained at the Hall County Jail, facing a multitude of charges. These charges include Murder in the First Degree, Attempted Murder in the First Degree, 1st-degree Assault, Robbery, two counts of Using a Deadly Weapon to Commit a Felony, Attempted Theft by Unlawful Taking over $5,000.00, Fleeing in a Motor Vehicle to Avoid Arrest, Willful Reckless Driving, Stop Sign Violation, and Failure to Signal. The legal process will determine the full extent of Thompson’s punishment for these heinous crimes.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working diligently to piece together the full circumstances of this brutal attack. The tragic loss of Gary Weaver and the critical condition of Mary Weaver underscore the unexpected dangers that can arise during travel. The community mourns the loss and hopes for justice to be served swiftly, bringing some measure of closure to this heartbreaking event.