NSP Investigating Washington County Officer-Involved Shooting

January 6, 2025 (Arlington, Neb.)  — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a shooting incident that involved deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

At approximately 2:07 p.m. Monday, a Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy performed a traffic stop on a Jeep Cherokee near 100 West Eagle Street in Arlington. During the traffic stop, the vehicle was occupied by a female driver, male passenger, and a 1-year-old child. The driver was arrested by deputies for driving under suspension and was transported to Washington County Jail. The male passenger was identified as David Boettcher, 48, of Omaha. Boettcher had an active felony warrant for assault.

Preliminary investigation shows that Boettcher refused to cooperate with deputies and deputies became aware that Boettcher was in possession of a firearm. After several minutes, Boettcher exited the passenger side of the vehicle and began firing shots toward the deputies. Multiple deputies returned fire, striking the suspect.

Deputies then attempted to render aid to Boettcher, who continued resisting. A trooper arrived on scene to assist, and Boettcher was taken into custody. He has been transported to UNMC in Omaha with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. No deputies were hurt during this incident. The handgun used by Boettcher was recovered from the scene.

The child was not injured and has been placed in protective care. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office requested the Nebraska State Patrol to investigate the incident. That investigation is ongoing.