In a recent development, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has charged two men with felony offenses following a series of events that included a burglary, a high-speed chase, and a deadly wrong-way collision.
The Incident
On March 19th, at approximately 4:30 am, a stolen pickup truck driven by 35-year-old Oakland resident Patrick Owens Sheckells was involved in a head-on collision on Interstate 580 in Oakland. The crash resulted in the death of Lee David Weiner and serious injuries to Jerry Brunson, another driver involved in the accident.
The Burglary
Prior to the collision, Sheckells and 56-year-old Andre Lamar Alberty of Stockton were allegedly involved in the burglary of a tobacco store in El Cerrito. The store owner reported the crime after his security camera captured footage of two individuals driving a truck through the storefront and stealing large amounts of tobacco products.
The Pursuit
El Cerrito Police Department officers responded to the burglary call and pursued the truck on Interstate 80. However, the pursuit was terminated due to the danger it posed to the public. Shortly after, the fatal collision occurred in the Bay Bridge Maze.
The Charges
Patrick Owens Sheckells faces six felony charges, including murder, wrong-way driving causing injury or death, driving under the influence causing injury, vehicle theft, burglary, and grand theft of personal property. Andre Lamar Alberty has been charged with second-degree burglary and grand theft, along with seven prior “strike” convictions.
Legal Proceedings
Sheckells was arraigned via video call from his hospital bed on April 12th, while Alberty was arraigned in Martinez and is currently held at the Martinez Detention Facility with bail set at $140,000. A preliminary hearing for Alberty is scheduled for April 24th.
Community Impact
This tragic incident has raised concerns about public safety and the consequences of high-speed pursuits. The District Attorney’s Office is working closely with law enforcement to address these issues and prevent future occurrences.
Conclusion
The case, filed under numbers 02-24-00376 and 02-24-00377, highlights the serious nature of the crimes and the commitment of the District Attorney’s Office to seek justice for the victims and their families.
