Late Friday night, the Omaha Police Department responded to a devastating scene in North Omaha. Around 10 p.m., officers were called to the intersection of North 39th Street and Ellison Circle, where they discovered 23-year-old Jordan Phillips suffering from gunshot wounds. First responders rushed him to the University of Nebraska Medical Center, but sadly, despite medical efforts, Phillips later died from his injuries.
The OPD Homicide Unit has since taken over the investigation, working to reconstruct the moments that led to this violent act and to hold those responsible to account. At this point, detectives haven’t released a motive, but they are urging anyone who may have witnessed anything to step forward.
In a swift turn of events, two people have already been arrested in connection with the shooting. According to KETV and other local outlets, Robert Henry, 38, was taken into custody on charges including first-degree murder, use of a firearm to commit a felony, and tampering with evidence. The second person arrested is Keisha Neal, 41, who is facing charges of being an accessory to a felony as well as a parole violation.
As the community reels, many residents are calling for answers, justice, and healing. Friends, family, and neighbors are mourning the loss of a young life with so much potential. Online, people are leaving messages of sympathy, demanding the investigation move quickly, and urging witnesses to speak up.
To aid in the investigation, the OPD has set up multiple ways for people to report what they know. You can call their Homicide Unit directly at 402-444-5656. For those who wish to stay anonymous, tips can be submitted through Omaha Crime Stoppers at 402-444-STOP, via their website, or through the P3 Tips mobile app. According to officials, anonymous tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a reward of up to $25,000.
This incident hits at a broader concern around gun violence in North Omaha, a neighborhood that has seen multiple shootings this year. Just a few months ago, another person was critically wounded near that same area — and prior shootings have left homes and vehicles damaged.
As the investigation continues, the family of Jordan Phillips, along with many in the community, are left waiting, hoping that justice will come swiftly. But more than that, they’re yearning for it to be more than an arrest — for it to be a step toward preventing another life from being lost in this neighborhood.
