NSP: Standoff of more than 4 hours ends with arrest

MCCOOK, Neb. (KLKN) — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP), along with local authorities, arrested a suspect following a more than four and a half-hour long standoff just south of McCook.

The incident began on Monday, around 8:30 p.m. when McCook Police pursued a Jaguar twice on Highway 93. What initiated the initial pursuit is unclear at this time.

During the second pursuit, the Jaguar drove into a ditch, where the driver left the car and began fleeing on foot towards nearby trailer homes.

After a witness identified which home the suspect entered, NSP worked with local authorities to surround it.

According to NSP, the suspect was identified as 36-year-old Merrill Johnston III of North Platte.

Johnston was wanted on a warrant from the U.S. Marshals Service and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for drug and weapon charges.

At this time, NSP SWAT also responded to the scene.

Authorities say they commanded Johnston to come out multiple times but he refused.

Around 2:15 a.m., Johnston did exit the home and was taken into custody.

In addition to the active warrant, Johnston may face additional charges concerning incidents prior to the standoff.