Robbery motive questioned in double murder

Wednesday, May 28, 1997 | 10:49 a.m.

Elko Police Lt. Roy Ladd said the gunman fled with four $100 bills, but could have taken $1,000 or more. Much of the money was scattered about when police arrived early Saturday.

Shift Manager Gerald Spaeth, 35, and co-worker Elza Raymand Wire, 24, were shot several times at close range with what police believe was a semiautomatic handgun. Spaeth was shot in a rear office. Wire was gunned down in a hallway.

While the store had been closed for more than an hour, the front door was unlocked, Ladd said.

A third employee who was cleaning an oven in the kitchen went unnoticed by the gunman.

Ladd said the worker did not see the gunman enter the building, but did see him leave and provided a description. The employee's name has not been released, but Ladd said he was not considered a suspect.

As they continue to pursue leads, investigators said they were not ruling out the possibility that the gunman and his victims may have known each other.

Along with people who were acquainted with the two men, police were seeking out customers who ordered pizzas Friday.

Domino's and the local managers are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the killer.

Police Chief Bill Bogue said officers were providing extra patrols at convenience stores and fast-food restaurants.