UPDATE: Opening statements in Vanbergen murder trial given Wednesday in Lewis County Court

LOWVILLE- Wednesday was the day for opening statements in the Jacob Vanbergen murder trial, the man accused of strangling his own friend and employer, Brandon Shepker, in early January, 2024.

In the latest updates courtesy of WWNY-TV, the prosecution told jury members that Vanbergen initially confessed to police that the two had gotten into an altercation, which resulted in Shepker being pushed, causing his face to hit a sink.

Remember, the incident in question allegedly occurred at the Ridge View Lodge during the early morning hours of January 7, 2024.

Furthermore, the prosecution told jurors that Vanbergen used Shepker’s own sweatshirt to strangle him before he went limp.

Prosecutors told the court that Vanbergen thought that Shepker was simply unconscious and went to a bar following the fight.

On the other hand, defense attorneys countered with an argument suggesting that Vanbergen’s actions will show he had no reason to kill Shepker.

The defense also went as far to say that Shepker started the altercation between the two and that Vanbergen was performing CPR until paramedics arrived.

A total of five witnesses, including a 9-1-1 dispatcher, paramedics and Sheriff’s Deputies took the stand.

The trial continues Thursday at Lewis County Court.

Lewis County Courthouse image.