Details Emerge in Livermore Double Homicide

Images above include the crime scene, suspect James Wears and a map of the location where the homicides took place. The photos were release via the Livermore Police Dept., Map via Google

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Autopsies were performed today on two Livermore homicide victims who died Sunday evening, according to a sergeant at the Coroner’s Office. Results of the autopsies have not been released to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation. Once the investigation is closed, the results will become a matter of public record.

The victims were identified today as Ryan Rossknect, 22, of Livermore and Brandon Lowell, 29, of Manteca. Lowell was a former Livermore resident. Livermore resident James Wears, 28, was arrested shortly after the deaths. Police recovered a gun discarded near the scene.

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Livermore Police report that the men met up for an exchange of “contraband” and something went wrong. Police declined to disclose the nature of the contraband.

Community Reaction

Officer Traci Rebiejo told Patch Tuesday, “We believe this is an isolated incident.” That’s a theme emphasized by police since the homicides and apparently the community agrees.

Patch contacted several coffee and tea shops Tuesday to gauge public reaction. Just one employee reports that a customer was talking about the crime, and that person lived near the homicide and witnessed police activity.

However, immediately following the deaths Sunday, a few residents expressed shock that such a crime could take place in their quiet neighborhood. Gillie Perkins summed up their feelings on Facebook when she posted, “That is way too close to my house.”

What Happens Next?

Police investigators continue to collect evidence and prepare reports in the case. When completed, they will meet with representatives from the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. The D.A. will determine what charges to file. Depending upon evidence, charges can range from homicide to first degree murder with special circumstances.