St. Louis Major Case Squad Investigations

Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis
PRESS RELEASE

MCS 21-745
Press Conference

Good afternoon. My name is Brian Koberna, I am a Lieutenant with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Commander of the Major Case Squad activated in this case. I would first like to express my deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the victims in this case.

I would like to commend the tireless efforts of the talented members of the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis that worked this case. I would also like to recognize the Members of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office, Madison County Coroner’s Office, Illinois State Fire Marshal, United States Marshal’s Service, Illinois State Police Crime Scene and Illinois State Police Crime Laboratory. This case could not have been solved without their dedication.

On February 1st, 2021, at approximately 6:04 a.m., the Madison County Illinois Sheriff’s Office received a 9-1-1 call regarding a residential fire at 2301 Wedgewood Dr., Alton, Illinois. Fire units and deputies responded to the call. Two males were located at the scene and pronounced dead.

The Major Case Squad was subsequently activated at the request of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. Approximately 25 investigators responded to the call and worked until the case was resolved.

The victims were identified as:
Robert “Bob” Andrews M/W, 59 years of age
Leonard “Jim” Ebrey M/W, 67 years of age

After a thorough investigation a suspect was identified. The suspect, who was the adopted son of Robert Andrews, was identified as:
Bryce V. Andrews, M/B, 22 years of age

The investigation revealed that the victims died of what appeared to be a heinous attack and by homicidal means. After the homicide, Bryce set fire to the residence in an attempt to conceal the deaths of the victims. Bryce stole the victim’s vehicle, 2005 Pontiac Bonneville and took additional steps to conceal the crimes.

Investigators were able to locate the stolen Pontiac Bonneville in the area of North St. Louis and further obtained evidence in relation to the crime.

On February 3rd, 2021, the Madison County States Attorney’s Office charged Bryce V. Andrews with First Degree Murder and relating offenses.

The investigation has revealed the defendant acted alone. After reading the charging information, you can discern the defendant’s actions during this heinous crime.

This was a thorough and swift investigation with a quick resolution. We investigated over 50 leads and executed numerous search warrants with more likely forthcoming. This case was a good example of good old fashioned police work with persistency and dedication. I understand that we can’t undo a horrible act but I hope the victims’ family, friends, and associates find solace in the fact that the killer is caught. The case will now be turned over to the court system and we pray that fair justice is served.

The public is encouraged to contact the Major Case Squad with any additional information at 618-296-5544 or the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at 618-692-4433.

Detective Lieutenant Brian Koberna
Madison County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Commander Major Case Squad