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Former Seward County deputy accused of manslaughter returns to court
Anthony Gann pleads not guilty in 2023 killing of Jorge Luis Santana-Ramirez during high-speed pursuit
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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The former Seward County deputy accused of manslaughter in the 2023 killing of 43-year-old Jorge Luis Santana-Ramirez of Hastings was in court on Monday for opening statements. Anthony Gann had previously entered a plea of not guilty, with prosecutors alleging he unlawfully killed Santana-Ramirez following a high-speed pursuit. The defense argues Gann acted in self-defense after Santana-Ramirez fled a police stop and was spotted with a knife.
Why it matters
This case highlights the complex and often controversial issues surrounding police use of force, particularly in high-stress situations involving suspects with criminal histories and potential mental health or substance abuse issues. It also raises questions about police pursuit policies and the balance between public safety and the rights of suspects.
The details
On Oct. 23, 2023, Santana-Ramirez fled a police stop going the wrong-way down I-80 at over 100 mph. During the pursuit, Sheriff Michael Vance advised Gann to stop if the chase entered Lincoln. When it did, a deputy reportedly spotted a knife in Santana-Ramirez's hand, and Gann opened fire, killing him. Prosecutors allege Gann unlawfully killed Santana-Ramirez, while the defense argues it was self-defense. Santana-Ramirez had a warrant for first-degree sexual assault of a child in Missouri and may have attempted "suicide by cop".
- On Oct. 23, 2023, Santana-Ramirez fled a police stop.
- Gann was indicted and surrendered to authorities later that day.
- Gann's trial was originally set for last year but was pushed back to 2026.
The players
Anthony Gann
A former Seward County deputy accused of manslaughter in the 2023 killing of Jorge Luis Santana-Ramirez.
Jorge Luis Santana-Ramirez
A 43-year-old man from Hastings, Nebraska who was killed by Gann during a high-speed pursuit in 2023.
Sheriff Michael Vance
The Seward County Sheriff who advised Gann to stop the pursuit if it entered Lincoln.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
