Authorities believe that the incident was drug related, specifically to marijuana.

"Thank God we have someone custody right now; that can put a little peace in the mind of the community," Sheriff Baxter told News10NBC. "But [to] the families, we'll never be able to say anything that brings peace to them, except that we're going to pursue all other leads, put people in handcuffs and bring them before the court system."

Earle was arraigned in Hamlin Town Court Thursday night. He is scheduled to reappear in court Wednesday, Oct. 3. at 8 a.m.

If convicted, Earle faces 25 years to life behind bars.