Sheriff: Man on the run after fatal shooting at Sheyenne bar

SHEYENNE, N.D. (Valley News Live) - A man is on the run and law enforcement is asking for the public’s help to both find and apprehend him after a fatal shooting at a bar Sunday night.

The Eddy County Sheriff’s Department says it’s looking for 45-year-old Nicholas Poitra. Authorities say Poitra is a person of interest in a Feb. 19 homicide at Rindy’s Sheyenne Bar. Poitra is considered armed and extremely dangerous, and authorities urge you do not approach him. Instead call 911 with any information related to Poitra’s location.

Nicholas Poitra is described as Native American male, 6′3″, 260 lbs., brown eyes and black hair.

Family has identified the victim to Valley News Live as 30-year-old Troyal Thumb; a brother, son, uncle and most importantly a father. He’s being remembered as one of the last real cowboys in North Dakota. Many say he was a well-respected, hard-working man in their community who was known for his kindness, smile and love for driving truck.

Troyal’s best friend says he was a gentle giant, and this was the last thing Troyal ever deserved. The community says they are shocked such a senseless, violent crime found it’s way to their small town, and say they won’t feel safe in their homes until Poitra is found and in handcuffs.

The FBI as well as the North Dakota BCI are assisting in the investigation.

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