Man found guilty of fatally stabbing stepfather at Lincoln home

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A man was convicted Tuesday of killing his stepfather during a gathering at a Lincoln home in 2023.

A jury found Joseph Kruger, 41, guilty of first-degree murder and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, according to court documents.

On May 7, 2023, Joseph stabbed his stepfather — 59-year-old Mark Kruger — at a home near 60th Street and Baldwin Avenue, the Lincoln Police Department said.

The stabbing happened after a fight broke out between Joseph and Mark at a family gathering at the home, according to an arrest affidavit.

Joseph was initially arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder, but the charge was later upgraded to first-degree murder.

Joseph’s sentencing is scheduled for July 16.  He could face up to life in prison.