Lincoln, NE Daily Local Headlines — February 28, 2026

1) Police investigate officer-involved shooting at an east Lincoln business

Police say an officer responding to a burglary alarm near Office Depot at 333 N. 50th St. encountered a man in a small access door behind a dumpster just after 1:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25. Investigators say the suspect did not follow commands, threw a metal object, then fired at the officer. The officer returned fire, and a handgun was recovered at the scene.

The 49-year-old suspect was taken to a hospital with what police described as multiple non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and underwent surgery. Police said the officer was not injured. The case remains under investigation, with evidence collection, body-camera review, and witness interviews underway.

2) Lancaster County primary ballots to add color-coded party stripes

County election officials are preparing a new visual system for the May 2026 partisan primary: ballots will include a colored stripe at the top to indicate party. The reported goal is to streamline ballot handling and reduce mix-ups, while critics have raised concerns about voter privacy and perception at polling places.

If you vote in-person, expect poll workers and signage to emphasize that ballot color reflects party selection for the primary. Nonpartisan voters would receive a distinct color under the plan.

3) Crime Stoppers seeks tips in a hit-and-run case and a gas-station robbery

Investigators are asking for help identifying two suspects in separate cases: a hit-and-run crash in north Lincoln and a robbery reported at a gas station. Police say transit and business surveillance helped capture images, and they’re encouraging anyone who recognizes the vehicles or people involved to report tips through anonymous channels.

4) Weekend planner: a few easy picks around town (Feb. 27–March 1)

• Lincoln Coffee Month wraps up Saturday, Feb. 28, with participating shops offering specials.
• High school and youth sports events continue at major local venues through the weekend.
• Library and community calendars list multiple family-friendly events across the city.

As always, double-check times and ticket details before heading out, especially for multi-day events.

Sources

• https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/Police/About-LPD/News-Releases/Suspect-Arrested-After-Officer-Involved-Shooting-February-2026
• https://www.1011now.com/2026/02/26/new-color-coded-ballots-coming-lancaster-countys-primary-elections/
• https://klin.com/2026/02/25/585359/
• https://www.1011now.com/2026/02/26/star-city-buzz-events-happening-february-27-march-1/