4 Dead Following Explosion, Fires In Tiny Nebraska Town

LAUREL, NE — Death and destruction shook the tiny rural community of Laurel, Nebraska, on Thursday, when four people died in connection with two residential fires believed to be the result of criminal activity, according to police.

“In total, we have four individuals deceased at two different crime scenes about three blocks apart,” Col. John Bolduc, of the Nebraska State Patrol, said during a press conference Thursday afternoon that was streamed on Facebook by KCAU 9 News. “Foul play is suspected in these deaths.”

Emergency crews received a 911 call about an explosion shortly after 3 a.m. at a home in the 200 block of Elm Street, according to Bolduc, who said a body was found inside the structure, which had been set on fire. While first responders were at the scene, they learned of a second fire in the 500 block of Elm Street and discovered another three bodies at that home, he said. Following the second fire, police received a report of a silver sedan leaving Laurel, heading west on Highway 20, according to Bolduc, who noted the car might have picked up a passenger.

Accelerants may have been used in both fires, so it’s possible whoever started them suffered burn injuries, Bolduc said, adding police would not immediately be identifying the victims.

“Our most important partner in this case right now remains the public,” he said.

Located about 40 miles west of Sioux City, Iowa, Laurel has a population of around 1,000. Cedar County Sheriff Larry Koranda described the community as “tight-knit” and “safe.”

“I think people just need to be diligent,” Koranda said at the press conference. “If you see something out of the ordinary, please call.”

Anyone with information or security camera footage related to the incidents is asked to contact the state patrol at 402-479-4921.