Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks announces that David Abara (dob 7/16/69) has been sentenced to life in prison, without the possibility of parole.

Abara was arrested by Sparks Police detectives and Nevada State Police Parole and Probation (P&P), in connection with the murder of Randal Lowery. Abara had stabbed the victim repeatedly in the face, neck, and arms before leaving him to die at Fisherman’s Park on June 7, 2023. SPD was called to part of the Tahoe Pyramid Bikeway Path, after someone reported a man was lying in the dirt, surrounded by blood.

Law enforcement worked with Truckee Meadows Water Authority to review video surveillance in the area, which showed a man, later identified as Abara, yelling at the victim and then striking him. It appeared that the victim tried to defend himself, but after being hit several times, he collapsed on the ground, bleeding.

Officers from the Homeless Outreach Proactive Engagement (HOPE) team connected with Abara in the area and detained him for questioning as a person of interest. He denied any involvement, but further investigation by Sparks Police uncovered new evidence. That evidence ultimately confirmed that Abara was the man seen on surveillance footage attacking the victim, leading to his arrest.

The prosecutor, Chief Deputy District Attorney Luke Prengaman, applauded the hard work of the Sparks Police Department.

“This is a good example of patient and diligent police work paying off. SPD did not rush to judgment, but took the time to develop a solid case, which ultimately resulted in justice for the victim’s family and the just sentence imposed.”

The Honorable Kathleen Sigurdson presided and imposed the life sentence, as well as an additional 8-20 years for a Deadly Weapons Enhancement.

Audio of David Abara press release