State/Federal Reaction to Death of Ceresco Police Officer

Gov. Pillen Reacts to Death of Officer, Orders Flags be Flown at Half-Staff
LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen offered his deepest condolences to the family, friends and co-workers of Officer Ross Bartlett, who died in the line of duty Friday night. Bartlett, a full-time investigator with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), also served as a police officer with the Ceresco Police Department. He died from injuries sustained in a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 77 just south of Ceresco. Investigators say his cruiser and a second vehicle were struck from behind by a truck during a traffic stop.

“This is a terrible loss for those who worked with Officer Bartlett through NDCS and those in the community who knew him through his law enforcement work. He was a dedicated public servant who answered the noble call to serve in various communities throughout his 30-year career,” said Gov. Pillen. “I am ordering that all flags be flown at half-staff starting immediately until 5 p.m. on the day of Officer Bartlett’s burial.”

Officer Bartlett was hired at NDCS in August 2017.  He was hired by the Ceresco Police Department in the same year. Officer Bartlett started his law enforcement career as a police officer with the Valentine Police Department and went on to serve in various positions with other agencies including the Boone County Sheriff’s Department, Madison Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Department and Newman Grove Police Department.

Ricketts Statement on Death of Officer Ross Bartlett
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement on the death of Ceresco Police Officer Ross Bartlett:

“Susanne and I were devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Officer Ross Bartlett. Our deepest condolences go to Officer Bartlett’s family and friends, and the entire Ceresco community. We will never forget his service and sacrifice, and we reaffirm our gratitude to the men and women who risk their lives each day to keep our communities safe.”