SHERIFF'S OFFICE: Murder charge expected for out of state fugitive in Lowville death investigation

LOWVILLE- A man from out of state is expected to face a murder charge here in the North Country.

This development blossoms as details regarding a death investigation near Lowville, NY came to light Thursday afternoon.

The incident reportedly occurred just before midnight on January 6 at the Ridge View Lodge, located on State Route 12, just north of downtown, according to a release from the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office.

So far, police investigation suggests there were two people involved. They have been officially identified as Brandon J. Shepker, 39, and Jacob M. Vanbergen, 24, both of Coudersport, PA.

At just before midnight, investigators say 9-1-1 dispatch received a call from the establishment, which was reportedly made by Vanbergen.

When authorities arrived, they found Shepker, deceased.

Shepker’s body was subsequently transported to the Broome County Coroner’s Office, where officials determined injuries were consistent with that of a physical altercation, along with strangulation, too.

Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police made a visit to Coudersport, where the Pennsylvania State Police assisted in the case.

As further information developed, authorities were able to issue an arrest warrant for Vanbergen for murder in the second-degree.

As of this report, police said Vanbergen was being held in the Potter County Jail as a fugitive from justice and is awaiting extradition to New York State.

Members from Lewis County Search & Rescue, Lewis County District Attorney’s Office and Potter County District Attorney’s Office all assisted.

Furthermore, the Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the numerous businesses nearby, who assisted with providing video surveillance footage.

LCSO image.