A tragic and violent incident unfolded at a family hog farm in Nebraska, resulting in the murder of a 44-year-old farmer by an attacker who was searching for his estranged wife. Brian Gabel was shot and killed at his business, Happy Hogs LLC, located in Osceola, on April 6, according to official reports from the Nebraska State Patrol.
Details of the Fatal Attack
Investigators have identified the gunman as Wesley Absher, aged 40. It is believed that Absher drove to Gabel's hog farm because his wife was present at the business at the time. The exact reason why Absher's wife was at the farm remains unclear and is part of the ongoing investigation.
After shooting and killing Gabel, Absher proceeded to kidnap his wife and transport her to another location on the farm grounds. At this second site, police reports indicate that he assaulted her. Following the assault, investigators believe that Absher shot himself. The woman managed to drive herself to a police station to seek help.
Outcome and Previous Legal History
Brian Gabel was pronounced deceased at the scene. Wesley Absher was rushed to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries and succumbed to those injuries the following day, as confirmed by local news outlet KOLN.
Further investigation revealed that Absher and his wife were in the process of going through a divorce. Court records show that Absher had a prior criminal history involving his wife. He had been found guilty of second-degree assault and terroristic threats in a separate case earlier in the year.
In that previous incident, which occurred on February 8, Absher was accused of threatening his wife and assaulting her with a weapon. She reported to police that Absher had threatened to kill himself, but she was able to disarm him. Both went to the hospital, where she received treatment for a head injury, and Absher was arrested.
On April 1, Absher entered a plea deal, agreeing to plead no contest to the charges in exchange for prosecutors dropping two counts of use of a firearm to commit a felony. He was released from jail on April 3, with his sentencing scheduled for June 10. Tragically, just three days after his release, he carried out the attack that resulted in Gabel's death and the assault on his wife.
Remembering Brian Gabel
A funeral was held for Brian Gabel on Friday. He shared three children with his former wife and was fondly remembered by loved ones as a devoted father and passionate farmer. His obituary highlighted his unwavering love for his children, describing how he was always present with hugs, smiles, and encouraging words.
Gabel was also noted for his community involvement, being a member of the Evangelical Free Church in Stromsburg where he shared his musical talents by playing drums for various services and events. Farming was a central part of his life, which he enjoyed sharing with his children, along with hobbies like creating metal art, welding projects, and tinkering on various items.
The investigation into this harrowing event continues, with authorities working to piece together all aspects of the case. The Nebraska State Patrol has been contacted for additional information as the community mourns the loss of a beloved father and farmer.
