Man Charged in Follow-Home Slayings

Murder charges were filed Friday against an Arleta man who allegedly shot and killed two men after a fight in a Northridge restaurant.

Edward Blakeslee, 35, is being held without bail pending a Sept. 3 arraignment on two counts of murder with a special circumstance allegation of multiple murder. If convicted, he could be sentenced to death, although prosecutors have not decided whether to seek the death penalty.

Philip Gearhart, 24, and John Shellabarger, 26, were found shot to death shortly after dawn April 6 in front of their home in the 8700 block of Wakefield Avenue in Panorama City. Authorities said Blakeslee had followed them home from the restaurant and opened fire as they got out of their car.

Blakeslee was arrested Wednesday. Authorities have not determined a motive.