NEWS RELEASE Lt. Nathan ODell Blacksburg Police (540) 961-1165 nodell@blacksburg.gov www.blacksburg.

gov

**UPDATE**

Blacksburg Police Identify Homicide Victim

Blacksburg, Virginia, February 11, 2014 Blacksburg Police are confirming the identity of the victim as 21 year old Samanata Shrestha after receiving confirmation from the Medical Examiners Office and following notification of the family. The investigation began as a welfare check on an adult, and then evolved into a Missing Persons case, and quickly became a homicide investigation. Early on in the investigation, two suspects were developed, Ewing and Brown, who were subsequently arrested and charged in relation to the homicide. The victims vehicle, a black 2004 Mercedes C320, was determined to be connected to the homicide investigation. The public was asked for assistance in locating the vehicle and a citizens tip led Blacksburg Police in locating the vehicle in Montgomery County. Blacksburg Police are continuing to investigate this homicide. We are asking anyone with information regarding this homicide to contact Blacksburg Police. Information can be left by calling the TIP line at 540-961-1819 or by sending an email to CIU@blacksburg.gov.

Blacksburg Police conducting Homicide Investigation

Blacksburg, Virginia, February 10, 2014 On February 9, 2014 Blacksburg Police began conducting a Homicide investigation. The investigation is still on-going and the Blacksburg Police are asking for the publics assistance in locating a vehicle that may have been involved. The vehicle is described as a Black 2004 Mercedes, C320, 4 door Sedan, with Virginia registration of JJZ3731. The vehicle is believed to be unattended. If anyone locates or has information as to the location of this vehicle, please contact the Blacksburg Police immediately at 540-961-1150.

**UPDATE**
Blacksburg, Virginia, February 10, 2014 On February 10, 2014, Blacksburg Police obtained an arrest warrant for Murder and took Jessica Michelle Ewing, 22 year old resident of Blacksburg, into custody without incident. Blacksburg Police also charged Keifer Kyle Brown, 23 year old resident of Blacksburg, with Accessory after the Fact. Both are being held at Montgomery County Sheriffs Office Jail without bond.

**UDATE**
Blacksburg, Virginia, February 10, 2014 On February 10, 2014, at approximately 10am, Blacksburg Police located the Black 2004 Mercedes C 320 Sedan abandoned in Montgomery County, thanks to a call from a citizen. We greatly appreciate the publics assistance. The vehicle was sought in connection with the homicide and the arrest of Ewing and Brown. ###