By Allison Peck
LINCOLN, Neb. — Law enforcement officials have confirmed that human remains were discovered during the investigation into the disappearance of a Stromsburg couple who had been missing since mid-January.
According to the Lincoln Police Department, investigators located the remains while executing a search related to the case. Authorities said forensic testing, including DNA analysis, is underway to formally identify the remains.
Police have stated they now believe Hannah Neville and Roberto “Robbie” Tanner are deceased. Neville was pregnant at the time of her disappearance.
The couple was reported missing after Neville failed to return home and could not be contacted. Investigators later located Neville’s vehicle, which had been intentionally set on fire in Lincoln, according to police.
Based on evidence gathered during the investigation, law enforcement identified Sterling James, Tanner’s half-brother, as a suspect. Court records indicate James is charged with:
- Two counts of first-degree murder
- One count of first-degree murder of an unborn child
- Tampering with physical evidence
James is being held without bond.
Authorities also arrested Sayde Titus, who is charged with accessory to murder, accessory to murder of an unborn child, and tampering with evidence, according to court filings.
Law enforcement officials have stated that digital evidence, witness statements, and information obtained through search warrants placed the victims at a residence connected to the suspects on the day they were last seen. Investigators allege evidence was later concealed in an effort to obstruct the investigation.
The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, and state and federal partners. Officials emphasized that the case remains active as forensic testing continues and additional evidence is processed.
Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Lincoln Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.