Panhandle Post
Mar 21, 2025

Scottsbluff police investigate homicide, man set on fire

Posted Mar 21, 2025 3:52 PM

By Scottsbluff Police Department

On 03/20/25 (9:43PM), the Scottsbluff Police Department and Scottsbluff Fire Department, were dispatched to 1022 11th Ave. regarding a fire.

Upon arrival it was determined that an adult male, Anthony Cervantes (74), had been doused with an accelerant and set on fire.
Cervantes was found to be deceased at the scene.

The suspect was identified as Anthony’s son, Elijah Cervantes (44). Both men reside at the home at 1022 11th Ave.

Elijah Cervantes was located and subsequently arrested for 2nd Degree Murder and 1st Degree Arson.

The Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by the Scotts Bluff Sherrif’s Office, Gering Police Department, and the State of Nebraska Fire Marshal’s Office.