Man Sentenced to Prison for Murdering Girlfriend and Shooting at Officers
Natalie Thurber lost her life at the hands of her boyfriend while police were attempting to rescue her. Michael Tyson Nance, aged 34, has been sentenced to a minimum of 35 years in prison for this crime. The court found him guilty of multiple charges and imposed a range of prison terms, including at least five years for attempted aggravated murder and at least five years for felony discharge of a firearm with serious bodily injury.
When police arrived at the scene, they discovered Nance strangling Thurber. Although he released her upon officers’ commands, he proceeded to shoot her and also fired multiple shots at the officers present. This heartbreaking incident led to Thurber’s untimely death. The court has deemed this case particularly tragic and horrific.
Third District Court Judge Richard McKelvie, while addressing Nance, expressed his deep disappointment over Nance’s decision to fire a weapon despite knowing that police officers were present and ready to save both Thurber and him. The judge emphasized that the police officers’ intent was to safeguard lives, but Nance’s actions resulted in a grave tragedy. McKelvie sentenced Nance to a prison term ranging from 15 years to life for aggravated murder, reflecting the gravity of the crime.
The courtroom was filled with Thurber’s family and friends during the sentencing. Attendees wore black T-shirts in honor of Thurber, with messages against domestic violence. Many expressed their grief and trauma caused by the incident. Thurber’s family and friends have since come together to address domestic violence issues in her memory and support each other during this challenging time.