Nebraska authorities have released information about the death of an Emporia native in Nebraska’s capital city last month during an alleged struggle with law enforcement.
The Lancaster County, Nebraska, Sheriff’s Office investigated after a shooting Nov. 24 involving German Pedraza, 27, and a Nebraska State Patrol officer. Sheriff Terry Wagner says law enforcement observed a car mentioned in previous drug enforcement investigations. Investigators with Lincoln Police and the State Patrol began talking with a female passenger, but as they approached Pedraza, investigators saw him allegedly trying to pull out a pistol. A State Patrol officer fired one round, hitting Pedraza in the neck as other officers told Pedraza to drop the gun while a struggle developed to get Pedraza to not use the gun.
Pedraza died Sunday.
Pedraza was born in Emporia in July 1994 and subsequently moved to Columbus, Nebraska. He was listed as living in Lincoln at the time of his death.
The trooper who allegedly shot Pedraza has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an agency investigation. An investigation is underway to ensure proper use of policies and procedures. The NSP has not said whether these are part of the same investigation or are separate inquests. A grand jury will decide whether charges will be filed.
