A man accused of killing his stepfather is now in police custody after a multi-day manhunt, authorities confirmed Tuesday. The suspect, whose identity was released by local law enforcement, was apprehended without incident and is expected to face multiple charges, including homicide.
According to a statement from the local police department, officers responded to reports of a disturbance at a residence in the early hours of Friday morning. Upon arrival, they discovered the body of a 53-year-old man who had sustained multiple injuries. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Investigators later identified the victim as the stepfather of the prime suspect. Based on preliminary evidence and witness statements, detectives quickly named the stepson as a person of interest in what they described as a domestic-related homicide. A warrant for his arrest was issued later that day.
**Timeline of the Incident**
Police say the incident began just after 1:00 AM on Friday when neighbours in the quiet suburban area reported loud noises and a possible altercation at the property. Within minutes, officers were on scene to find signs of forced entry and serious trauma to the victim, who appeared to have suffered fatal injuries in what authorities called a “targeted, personal attack.”
After gathering initial on-site evidence and interviewing individuals connected to the victim and the suspect, police circulated a photograph of the suspect and issued a region-wide alert. The public was advised not to approach the suspect and to notify police with any information regarding his whereabouts.
Law enforcement agencies, including the county sheriff’s department and the state police, joined the investigation. Over the weekend, tips from residents led officials to several locations across the city and neighbouring counties, but the suspect remained at large until early Tuesday morning.
Arrest Details
According to the police department’s update, the 26-year-old male suspect was captured at approximately 4:30 AM on Tuesday without resistance. He was located at a relative’s home in a nearby jurisdiction, where police believe he had been hiding since fleeing the scene of the crime.
“He is now in custody and being held at the county detention center pending arraignment,” Police Chief Angela Donnelly said at a press briefing. “We’re grateful for the assistance of the public and our law enforcement partners in helping bring this case to a close with minimal risk to the community.”
Authorities confirmed that the suspect has a prior criminal history, including arrests for assault and violating restraining orders, but would not disclose additional details due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Family and Community Reaction
The murder has left the neighborhood shaken, as community members come to grips with the violent death of someone many described as a “quiet and caring” man. Family members released a statement on Monday requesting privacy and thanking the public for their support.
“He was a father, a friend, and a person who loved his family,” said the statement. “We are heartbroken by this senseless act of violence.”
Neighbors placed flowers and candles outside the home where the homicide took place, and a candlelight vigil is scheduled for this weekend.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
The suspect is expected to be formally charged with second-degree murder, among other potential counts, including unlawful flight from prosecution. Prosecutors say they will also examine whether to add weapons charges, pending forensic analysis of the crime scene.
The arraignment is scheduled to take place this Thursday morning at the. If convicted on all charges, the suspect could face up to life in prison.
Defense counsel has not yet been appointed, but the county public defender’s office is expected to represent the accused if private representation is not arranged.
Police Praise Cooperation
Officials credited the quick resolution of the case to joint efforts between multiple agencies and the active involvement of the public.
“In cases like this, time is critical,” said County Sheriff Daniel Morales. “Thanks to the vigilance of the community and ongoing collaboration between departments, we were able to swiftly locate and detain a violent suspect.”
The investigation remains open, and police are continuing to collect evidence and interview additional witnesses. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to contact the police tip line or submit anonymous tips via the city crime reporting portal.
Support Services Available
City officials reminded residents that counseling and victim support services are available for those affected by the incident. The local victim advocacy center is currently offering crisis response counseling and resources to the community.
As authorities continue to piece together the circumstances that led to the tragic killing, the community is left to mourn the loss of a family member, friend, and neighbor, hoping justice and healing will follow in the days to come.
