UPDATE: Out of state man accused in Lewis County murder investigation pleads not guilty

LOWVILLE- The man accused in a Lewis County murder investigation earlier this month appeared in court Monday and pleaded not guilty.

This development is according to the latest from WWNY-TV.

Jacob M. Vanbergen, 24, of Coudersport, PA was brought back to Lewis County on Monday to face the murder charge. He is charged with murdering Brandon J. Shepker, 39, also of Coudersport, PA.

Specifically, investigators have revealed that Shepker was strangled to death.

A criminal complaint reveals how Vanbergen reportedly admitted to police how he used a sweatshirt Shepker was wearing.

The incident occurred just before midnight on January 6 at the Ridge View Lodge, just north of the village of Lowville, NY.

It’s reported the two men were friends, as Vanbergen worked for Shepker’s business. 

Judge Daniel King ordered Vanbergen held on $2 million cash bail.

Lewis County.gov image.