HARTINGTON, Neb. — A decision in a case that shocked a northeast Nebraska community is now in.

Jason Jones has been sentenced to death in the 2022 killings of four people in Laurel. Jones would become the 12th person on death row in Nebraska.

Jones was convicted in September 2024 of first-degree murder in the deaths of Gene and Janet Twiford, their daughter Dana Twiford, and neighbor Michele Ebeling. He was also found guilty of two counts of second-degree arson and four counts of use of a weapon to commit a felony.

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers says the three-judge panel carefully laid out the details of the case and determined the death penalty is appropriate under Nebraska law and past cases.

Prosecutors say that on Aug. 4, 2022, Jones shot and killed Michele Ebeling in her home before setting it on fire. That same day, he shot and killed Gene, Janet and Dana Twiford in their home, then set that house on fire as well.

Jones’ wife, Carrie Jones, was also convicted in the case. Prosecutors say she aided in the murder of Gene Twiford and was sentenced to life in prison.

This is a developing story. More details to come.

Previous coverage:

Laurel, Nebraska couple to face sentencing in quadruple homicide

Nebraska man ordered to attend sentencing in Laurel quadruple homicide case

An Iowa woman pleads not guilty in the 2011 killing of real estate agent

Pittsburgh 2, Chicago Cubs 0

Central Elementary music class wins $500 through Stretch Across Nebraska contest

Photos from Tehran as a fragile ceasefire is marked by mourning and a quiet weekend