Columbus man sentenced to 85 years to life in prison for 2022 murder

On the evening of January 16, 2022, Houdek was found dead in his Columbus residence by the Columbus Police Department. An autopsy revealed that Houdek's death was the result of multiple stab wounds.

A good Samaritan contacted police to report concerns about injuries he saw on Keener. After being contacted by law enforcement, Keener told a Columbus police officer that he had just killed a man.

After being treated for minor injuries, Keener led officers to the residence where Houdek's body was located. At the time of his arrest, Keener was found in possession of various items belonging to Houdek.

In February 2024, Keener pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and use of a deadly weapon after prosecutors agreed to reduce the charge from first-degree murder to second-degree murder and dismiss a third charge of possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person.

Keener was sentenced to 65 years to life for murder and an additional 20 to 25 years for using a deadly weapon, to be served consecutively.

The Columbus Police Department, Platte County Sheriff's Department, Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab, Platte County Prosecutor's Office and Nebraska Attorney General's Office assisted in the investigation, arrest and prosecution of this case.