A fugitive described as "armed and dangerous," Thomas David Ryan, 32, was arrested Sunday in Schoharie County, New York, following a manhunt for his alleged role in the killing of his father and the arson of his father's home.
New York State Police took Ryan into custody in the Gilboa area. Authorities had been searching for him since his father, 70-year-old Robert Ryan, was found dead inside his burning Greenville home on Thursday evening. Investigators determined the fire had been deliberately set and subsequently classified Robert Ryan's death as a homicide.
Manhunt and Investigation
The incident began around 7:30 p.m. Thursday when state troopers responded to a house fire on Greenville Turnpike in Orange County. After the blaze was extinguished, Robert Ryan's body was discovered inside.
Investigators determined the fire was intentional and began treating the death as a homicide. Thomas David Ryan, who did not live with his father and had no known ties to Greenville, was identified as the suspect. Police believed he fled in his father's gray 2016 Toyota Prius.
Throughout the search, law enforcement agencies repeatedly warned the public that Ryan was "armed and dangerous" and advised against approaching him. Surveillance footage from homes and businesses was reviewed to trace Ryan's movements after the incident. Residents in Greenville and surrounding areas were asked to check their recordings from Thursday evening through the night.
Authorities noted that Ryan was known to frequent the Plattsburgh area and had previously stayed at shelters across New York. Investigators explored locations where he had lived and worked, and also collaborated with rail operators due to his known use of trains for travel.
Broad Law Enforcement Involvement
The manhunt involved a wide array of agencies, including the FBI, the New York City Police Department, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments from Middletown and Port Jervis. Several New York State Police investigative units and other state and county agencies also participated in the operation.
Details regarding the specific cause of Robert Ryan's death, the motive behind the alleged crimes, and the charges Thomas David Ryan will face have not yet been disclosed by authorities. Further information is expected to be released at a later time.