The mysterious death of a teen at Pillen Family Farms

Investigations into the death of Zach Panther were hampered by limited information sharing by the agencies, missteps and missed opportunities.

December 19, 2025Updated: December 19, 2025

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Adams County Hosts Candidate Forum for Commissioner Race

Adams County Hosts Candidate Forum for Commissioner Race

New Family Health Center unveiled in Grand Island, opens April 6

St. Francis unveils new Family Health Center in Grand Island, opens April 6

Kearney fence drive aims to help families and ranchers rebuild after Cottonwood Fire

Kearney fence drive aims to help families and ranchers rebuild after Cottonwood Fire

Golf, games and pickleball: Drop Zone opens in Kearney

Golf, games and pickleball: Drop Zone opens in Kearney

Game and Parks talks turkey numbers, amidst spring season

Game and Parks talks turkey numbers, amidst spring season

Spring Expo returns to Sidney with big prizes, family fun and regional turnout

Spring Expo returns to Sidney with big prizes, family fun and regional turnout

State

Aid available for Nebraska veterans impacted by wildfires

Trump says Pam Bondi, a loyalist who oversaw Justice Department upheaval, is out as attorney general

Gov. Pillen rescinds statewide burn ban as wildfire risk eases

Fairbury couple accused of child sexual assault plead not guilty to all counts in district court

Minor Fire fully contained; Ashby Fire holds at 97% as conditions begin to dry

Sidney couple facing felony forgery charges

Sports

Colorado sports notes: Tyler Freeman drives in winning run in 10th as Rockies beat Blue Jays 2-1

WNCC’s Lashley ready to lead her Anguilla national team in CONCACAF qualifier

Eagles Sweep 5000 Meters at Central Nebraska Challenge

Johnston hits a 2-run homer as the Rockies rout the Blue Jays 14-5 for their 1st win of the season

Cougar notes: WNCC softball plays tough against No. 25 McCook despite falling

Sidney boys, Ogallala girls headline strong showings at Ganser Invite

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Work to begin soon on Smith Lake WMA Aquatic Habitat Project

Outdoor notes: Game and Parks urges caution when recreating outdoors due to wildfires

Outdoor notes: Temporary closure of Clear Creek WMA for safety

‘Worst-case scenario’: Fertilizer, fuel cost spikes hitting Nebraska farmers hard

Outdoor notes: Haag shares 100 years of Nebraskaland

Supplementing dryland wheat and irrigated corn with proso millet in drought years