FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (26-03)
CONTACT Dayne Urbanovsky, Director of Strategic Communications
OFFICE 402-479-5799 | dayne.urbanovsky@nebraska.gov
Inmate deaths
January 20, 2026 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Bryan Johnson #220385, age 37, died January 16, 2026, at a local hospital. Johnson’s sentence began on May 22, 2025, and he was incarcerated at the Community Corrections Center-Lincoln. He was serving a sentence of 25 months to four years and 24 months out of Lancaster County for refusal of a chemical test, driving during revocation and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.
Manny Escobar de Bermudez #217987, age 67, died January 17, 2026, at a local hospital. Escobar de Bermudez’s sentence began February 7, 2024, and he was serving 21 to 23 years out of Saline County for first degree sexual assault and child abuse. Escobar de Bermudez was being treated for a medical condition.
As is the case whenever an inmate dies in the custody of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), a grand jury will conduct an investigation.
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