New prosecutor gives new hope for answers in teen worker’s mysterious death at Pillen Family Farms

In a reversal, the new Boone County attorney agreed to allow independent lab tests that could help explain what killed Zach Panther at a Nebraska hog farm.

January 30, 2026Updated: January 30, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

New prosecutor gives new hope for answers in teen worker’s mysterious death at Pillen Family Farms

Norfolk to require Actus to install odor controls or face severe permit restrictions

Resolution to address Actus plant’s odor problems included on Norfolk council agenda

Norfolk man arrested on strangulation, domestic assault charges

Investigation into Norfolk wastewater problems underway, industrial plants examined

Norfolk leaders discuss wastewater treatment problems at emergency meeting

Norfolk issues warnings, calls emergency meeting after ‘substantial reduction’ at wastewater treatment plant

State

Vanderbeek charged with killing cellmate

New prosecutor gives new hope for answers in teen worker’s mysterious death at Pillen Family Farms

Norfolk to require Actus to install odor controls or face severe permit restrictions

Resolution to address Actus plant’s odor problems included on Norfolk council agenda

Norfolk man arrested on strangulation, domestic assault charges

Investigation into Norfolk wastewater problems underway, industrial plants examined

Norfolk leaders discuss wastewater treatment problems at emergency meeting

Norfolk issues warnings, calls emergency meeting after ‘substantial reduction’ at wastewater treatment plant

State

Vanderbeek charged with killing cellmate

Milling work to begin Wednesday on three Norfolk streets

Charges dismissed against second woman in Kearney YRTC sexual assault case

Juniata teen sentenced to six months in jail in deadly Hastings crash case

Nebraska regulators dismiss grain payment complaint against Ohio-based agribusiness

Annual Kearney memorial honors Nebraska fire, EMS members who died

Sports

Blackshirts looking to force more turnovers in Big Ten play

Nebraska to open 2027 season at Arrowhead

Nebraska Basketball begins practice, with Sweet 16 season in rear view

Huskers turn to Michigan State after successful non-conference play

Huskers utilize strong run game, improves pass rush in win over UND

Nebraska rolls by North Dakota 34-7, heads into conference play 3-0

Ag & Outdoor

Nebraska's congressional delegation critical of Trump plan to lower beef prices

Outdoor notes: Birding Bowl inspires generous next step

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April