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Released on Bond, Man Kills Boyfriend, Abducts Wife, Dies by Suicide
9 Apr
Summary
- Man died by suicide after allegedly killing his wife's boyfriend.
- He was released on bond just days before the violent incidents occurred.
- The estranged wife reported the shooting and subsequent assault.
Wesley Absher, 40, died by suicide on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 8, 2026, following a violent incident that began just days after his release on bond. Nebraska State Patrol identified Absher as the suspect in the murder of Brian Gabel, 44, and the kidnapping of his estranged wife.
Investigators believe Absher traveled to a hog farm and fatally shot Gabel. His estranged wife was present and was subsequently kidnapped by Absher. He then took her to another farm three miles away, where he allegedly assaulted her before attempting suicide.
The woman escaped and reported the events to the Polk County Sheriff's Office early on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. She was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Absher was found with life-threatening injuries and taken to Bryan Health West Campus, where he died.
Court records revealed Absher had prior convictions for assault and terroristic threats against the same woman. He was released from jail on April 3, 2026, after posting a $250,000 bond.
