A 30-year-old Riverton man, Nicholas Joren Blackburn, pleaded not guilty to manslaughter during an emotional hearing on Thursday in Lander. The parents of the young man he is accused of killing, Pete Ouray, wept as they clutched a framed photograph of their son.
During the arraignment in Fremont County District Court, Blackburn sat beside his defense attorney, Valerie Schoneberger, wearing an ill-fitting orange jumpsuit, shackles, and black-rimmed glasses. “I plead not guilty, your honor,” he stated to Judge Jason Conder, who set the trial date for March 17.
Schoneberger requested that Blackburn’s bond be reduced from $50,000 cash-only to $10,000 cash or surety. However, Fremont County Attorney Patrick LeBrun opposed the request, citing the violent nature of the charges and Blackburn’s prior convictions for battery and domestic battery. The judge agreed to maintain the higher bond.
Tears in the Courtroom
In the courtroom, Pete Ouray’s mother, Alvina Ouray, and his stepfather, Rudy Apodaca, sat in the front row, holding a framed photo of Pete. As the proceedings unfolded, Alvina wept, and Rudy wrapped a comforting arm around her.
After the hearing, as Blackburn was escorted by Fremont County Sheriff’s deputies to the jail transport van, Alvina and Rudy spoke with Cowboy State Daily. Alvina, still overcome with grief, expressed her desire to seek justice. “When the trial starts, I wish to have support from all who’ve been victimized by Nicholas,” she said, referencing Blackburn’s history of violence, including domestic battery and assault on law enforcement officers. “I’ll be their voice for them,” she added before dissolving into tears again.
Friends and Family
According to the case affidavit, Blackburn and Pete Ouray were more than just cousins—they were friends. On the evening of March 14, Blackburn arrived at the Riverton home that Pete shared with his mother and stepfather. Family members confirmed to investigators that they had given Blackburn a ride to the house that night.
Alvina, who had gone to bed while the two men were talking, told investigators she woke up around midnight to hear them arguing, though this was not unusual. “Calm down and knock it off,” Pete had told Blackburn, according to her recollection.
Kelly Crean Death & Obituary: Selden, NY, reportedly died in car accident, loved ones mourns
The following morning, as Alvina prepared for work around 6:30 a.m. on March 15, she noticed Blackburn asleep on the couch, unaware of the tragedy that had unfolded during the night.
Johnny Knuckles Knock-out BBQ is a culinary haven for barbecue enthusiasts, offering a fusion of traditional BBQ and tantalizing street fare. Our secret to delivering mouthwatering dishes lies in our meticulous preparation process. Each cut of meat is lovingly hand-rubbed and slow-smoked over 100% hardwood, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether planning a special event or simply craving an unforgettable meal, Johnny Knuckles Knock-out BBQ is here to elevate your dining experience. Our catering services are designed to bring the sizzle and aroma of our delectable BBQ to your event, ensuring that every guest leaves with a full belly and a smile.