Pleasanton Double Homicide: San Jose Man Allen Swadley Charged with Murder of Ex-Girlfriend’s Mother and Brother
Allen Swadley, 32, of San Jose, has been charged with two counts of murder with special circumstances in the Pleasanton killings of his ex-girlfriend’
The Pleasanton community is grappling with a shocking double homicide after Allen Swadley, 32, of San Jose, was charged with killing his ex-girlfriend’s mother and brother. Alameda County prosecutors announced that Swadley faces two counts of murder with special circumstances for the February 18 fatal shootings of 67-year-old Lori Simonds and her 28-year-old son, Evan Simonds, at their home on Joanne Circle near Ken Mercer Sports Park. Authorities say Swadley previously dated Lori’s daughter, 26-year-old Melissa Simonds, and knew where the family hid their house key from prior visits, giving him access following a breakup in December.
Special allegations in the case include felony murder during a burglary, firearm use, planning, breach of trust, and violent conduct, which under California law could make Swadley ineligible for parole if convicted. Swadley is currently being held without bail at Santa Rita Jail. Investigators described a chilling scene: a backyard pool cleaner called 911 around 10 a.m., reporting hearing four gunshots, a woman’s scream, and two additional shots. Officers arriving at the home found both victims dead from multiple gunshot wounds, and no firearm was recovered at the scene.
Evidence collected by law enforcement includes license plate reader data capturing Swadley’s 2025 Toyota Camry near the home an hour before the killings, and surveillance video showing the car approaching the residence. Swadley was arrested the following day in San Jose during a traffic stop. A detective’s affidavit states that he admitted to being at the home during the murders, and reportedly used a false excuse about his mother being ill to skip work shifts the day of the incident. Authorities note that he has no prior criminal record.
Evan Simonds, known in wrestling circles as Lars Luger, trained at an Oakland wrestling school and was remembered by friends and teammates as dedicated and disciplined in both sport and life. Lori Simonds, a beloved mother, is mourned for her kindness, warmth, and the close bond she shared with her family. For Melissa, the loss is compounded by a previous family tragedy: her father died in a boating accident, making the current loss devastating on multiple levels.
The community has rallied around Melissa Simonds, establishing a GoFundMe to assist with immediate expenses and support. As of Thursday, the fundraiser had raised more than $80,000, reflecting the outpouring of grief and solidarity from neighbors, friends, and well-wishers. Social media tributes honor Evan’s athletic achievements, Lori’s warmth, and the close-knit nature of the family, highlighting the deep impact of their sudden deaths.
Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the murders, including forensic analysis and interviews with neighbors and witnesses. The case has sent shockwaves through Pleasanton and surrounding communities, underscoring the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into lethal violence. While law enforcement works to ensure accountability, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and remembering the lives of Lori and Evan Simonds — a mother and son whose lives were tragically cut short.