Burdick Nelson Seminole Sr., Murder, Wyoming 2024

A Riverton man has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in a deadly altercation on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Burdick Nelson Seminole Sr., 59, of Riverton, Wyoming, was sentenced to two life sentences plus an additional 10 years in prison for first-degree murder and related charges.

According to court documents, on August 8, 2023, Seminole drove to the victim's residence, entered the home without permission, and confronted the victim. An argument ensued, and Seminole left the residence to retrieve a pistol and reentered the home, where he continued to argue with the victim, who was sitting in his wheelchair. Seminole pistol-whipped the victim and shot him three times.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS, while Seminole suffered a minor flesh wound. He drove himself to the hospital and was later arrested and charged in connection with the crime.

Seminole was convicted of first-degree murder, causing death with a firearm during a crime of violence, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. He was sentenced to two life sentences, to run concurrently, and an additional 10 years in prison for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on February 27, 2024, in Casper. The court also ordered Seminole to pay $4,521.09 in restitution and a $300 special assessment.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Wind River Police Department and the FBI, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

Project Safe Neighborhoods is a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities. The program brings together all levels of law enforcement and community organizations to prevent violence and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wy/pr/riverton-man-sentenced-two-life-sentences-plus-additional-10-years-prison-first-degree