Zach v. Nebraska State Patrol

The issue presented in this appeal is whether a work-related injury caused by a mental stimulus is compensable under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 48-101 to 48-1,117 (Reissue 1998 & Cum. Supp. 2002). Based upon long-established precedent, we conclude that it is not.

BACKGROUND

Trooper Mark Zach of the Nebraska State Patrol died on September 27, 2002, as the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His surviving spouse and children, whom we shall refer to as “claimants,” brought this action for death benefits under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act. Claimants…