POLSON, MT — A second man has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of a 67-year-old Ronan man in September 2024. Jonathan Drennan-Beck, 30, was booked into the Lake County Jail on May 6, facing felony charges of conspiracy to commit deliberate homicide and tampering with evidence.
The charges stem from the death of Ed Loder, whose body was discovered on September 6, 2024, in the Twin Lakes area near St. Ignatius. Loder’s death has been ruled a homicide, and James Lawrence, who is already facing deliberate homicide charges in connection with the killing, remains a key figure in the investigation.
Authorities allege that Drennan-Beck assisted Lawrence in moving and concealing Loder’s body, as well as destroying phone and video records that could have been crucial to the case. Prosecutors say these actions were part of a broader effort to cover up the crime.
Drennan-Beck is scheduled to be arraigned on May 14, 2025, and his involvement in the case is expected to add further complexity to an already tragic and perplexing investigation.
The shooting death of Loder shocked the local community, and law enforcement officials are continuing to piece together the details of what led to his untimely demise. As the case progresses, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The arrest of Drennan-Beck marks another significant step in a case that has drawn widespread attention in Lake County and beyond. As the legal process unfolds, more information may come to light, providing greater clarity about the events surrounding Loder’s death.
Both Drennan-Beck and Lawrence remain in custody, awaiting their respective trials.
