In a tragic turn of events, an elderly couple was attacked at a Nebraska highway rest stop, resulting in the death of one and critical injuries to the other. This incident is a stark reminder of the potential dangers RVers may face while on the road.
According to a press release from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, the victims, Gary Weaver, 72, and his wife Mary Weaver, 71, were attacked during an attempted robbery on the morning of Wednesday, June 19, at an Interstate 80 rest area. The suspect, identified as James Thompson Jr., 22, allegedly demanded the keys to the couple’s Jeep before launching a brutal assault.
A witness, whose statement was included in the affidavit obtained by KSNB, reported that Thompson entered the RV and assaulted Mary Weaver outside the vehicle. Dashcam footage from a nearby semi-trailer captured the horrifying scene, showing Thompson making a stabbing motion inside the RV before attacking Mary Weaver outside.
Hall County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived to find the couple bleeding from knife wounds. They were immediately transported to Grand Island Hospital, where Gary Weaver was pronounced dead upon arrival. Mary Weaver remains in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. An autopsy for Gary Weaver has been ordered.
The Weavers, originally from Eureka, Missouri, were traveling across Nebraska in their mobile home, enjoying what should have been a peaceful journey. This senseless act of violence has shocked the RV community, raising concerns about the safety of interstate rest stops.
Before authorities arrived, Thompson fled the scene in a vehicle, but he was soon pursued by the Nebraska State Patrol. After driving his vehicle into the Platte River, Thompson was located and arrested with the help of a police dog. He now faces numerous charges, including felony murder, attempted murder, first-degree assault, and robbery, among others.
On Thursday, June 20, Judge Art Wetzel ordered Thompson to be held without bond, with a probable cause hearing scheduled for July 9. The investigation is ongoing.
As fellow RVers, this incident hits close to home. The open road offers freedom and adventure, but it also comes with risks that we must always be mindful of. Interstate rest stops, often seen as convenient and necessary breaks during long drives, can sometimes pose unforeseen dangers.
Here are a few safety tips to consider:
- Stay Vigilant: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when stopping at rest areas. Look for well-lit and busy areas whenever possible.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to move on to a safer location.
- Travel in Groups: Whenever possible, travel with others or stay near other RVers. There is safety in numbers.
- Keep Doors Locked: Always lock your vehicle and RV doors, even when inside. Upgrade to an RV Safe Lock.
- Have a Plan: Know your route and have a plan for where you will stop. Share your travel itinerary with family or friends.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder that while the RV lifestyle offers freedom and joy, it also requires caution and preparedness. Our deepest prayers go out to the Weaver family during this difficult time.