Holly MatkinScottsbluff, NE – Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Trooper Nicholas Goodwin was found dead inside his patrol car from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound on Aug. 5.
The 37-year-old trooper’s body was discovered inside his patrol vehicle parked outside the NSP office in Scottsbluff, KODY reported.
The Scottsbluff County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation into Trooper Goodwin’s death.
“Our entire Nebraska State Patrol family is grieving today,” NSP Superintendent Colonel John Bolduc told KCAU. “Trooper Goodwin was a dedicated public servant and a close friend to many of our teammates. Notably, Nick was a rock for our agency, as well as the family of Trooper Jerry Smith, upon Trooper Smith’s passing in 2019.”
NSP Trooper Smith, 51, was killed in the line of duty when an oncoming pickup crossed the center line and slammed into his patrol car.
“Nick’s family, as well as Jerry’s family, are in our hearts at this sad time,” Col Bolduc said.
Trooper Goodwin served the NSP for 14 years and was assigned to the Carrier Enforcement Division in Scottsbluff at the time of his death, KCAU reported.
He leaves behind his parents, Lyle and Janice, and his brother, Matthew, according to his obituary.
Trooper Goodwin is also survived by his aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Law enforcement officers lined the highway on Aug. 9 as Trooper Goodwin’s body was escorted to Iowa for his memorial service, News Channel Nebraska reported.
He was laid to rest on Aug. 12, according to his obituary.
Today, Troopers from across the state escorted Trooper Nick Goodwin's remains through Nebraska to be received by his family in Iowa.
Please continue to keep his family, friends, and colleagues in @NSP_TroopE and across Nebraska in your thoughts. pic.twitter.com/Hdyc91L0kD
— Nebraska State Patrol (@NEStatePatrol) August 9, 2021
It’s been a tough week with the loss of Trooper Goodwin (#73) and the days, weeks, and years to come will each present their own struggles as we remember him. We thank you all for your thoughts and support this past week and as we go forward from here. #RIP73 #NeverForget pic.twitter.com/G8jvC1yCy8
— NSP Troop E (@NSP_TroopE) August 10, 2021
We'd also like to thank our brothers and sisters with @iowastatepatrol for joining us today to pay their respects to Trooper Goodwin.
It was heartwarming to have several Iowa Troopers, as well as local law enforcement officers at the funeral today. pic.twitter.com/0micpjvV4c
— Nebraska State Patrol (@NEStatePatrol) August 12, 2021
Today, we remember Trooper Nick Goodwin #73 by serving his family, comforting his friends, and honoring his service to Nebraska.
Please keep his family in your thoughts today as he is laid to rest. pic.twitter.com/ysjWYZy5Iy
— Nebraska State Patrol (@NEStatePatrol) August 12, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) Trooper Nicholas Goodwin, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
