OMAHA, Neb. - Ed Poindexter, one of the two former Black Panthers who had always maintained their innocence in the 1970 bombing death of Omaha Police Officer Larry Minard, has died at the age of 79 in prison, according to a spokesman for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. Poindexter's death comes years after his co-accused, David Rice, passed away in prison in 2016.

Both Poindexter and Rice argued that they were targeted because of their affiliation with the Black Panthers and questioned the legitimacy of crucial testimony that led to their conviction. Their supporters considered them to be political prisoners, victims of an FBI program that undermined radical political groups.

A key witness testified that Poindexter and Rice instructed him to plant a suitcase filled with dynamite. However, both defendants cast doubt on the witness's account, noting that the recording of the police call used as evidence did not match the witness's voice. Despite their appeals and claims of innocence, judges consistently upheld their life sentences.

Advocates for Poindexter, including the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, Mindy Rush Chipman, called for a new trial citing "credible reports of significant misconduct in the prosecution" of the case. Chipman emphasized that one cannot separate this case from the ongoing issue of law enforcement agencies targeting individuals and groups advocating for racial justice.

Poindexter's death, which occurred after he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed medical condition, will be investigated by a grand jury as required by state law. His advocates had previously appealed to the newly elected governor, citing advanced kidney disease and a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.

The tragic death of Larry Minard continues to be recognized, but questions remain as to whether an innocent man spent his life behind bars. With Poindexter's passing, the debate surrounding this controversial case is expected to reignite, prompting further examination of the circumstances surrounding the wrongful conviction.