The New York State Police have initiated a manhunt for 32-year-old Thomas David Ryan, in connection with the death of his 70-year-old father and a deliberately set house fire in Hudson Valley. The authorities caution the public against approaching Ryan, as he is considered armed and dangerous.
On August 6, around 7:30 p.m., troopers responded to a house fire on Greenville Turnpike in Greenville. Firefighters discovered the body of Robert Ryan, aged 70, within the remnants of the blaze. Investigators determined the fire was set intentionally to cover up a crime. Consequently, a homicide investigation was launched.
Greenville, a rural area about 65 miles northwest of New York City, has seen an increased law enforcement presence. Patrols have extended to neighboring counties such as Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster.
Authorities are urging residents and business owners to examine surveillance footage from 6 p.m. on August 6 through the following night. “The community’s assistance is critical,” read a police statement, emphasizing the potential value of even minor details in locating Thomas Ryan and resolving the case.
Who Is Thomas David Ryan?
State police described Ryan as being 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing approximately 200 pounds. He was last spotted wearing a black T-shirt and black sweatpants. Ryan, who did not reside with his father, lived a transient lifestyle, frequenting state shelters and having ties to the Plattsburgh area near the Canadian border.
Reportedly, Ryan has a criminal history with seven prior arrests in New York City. He remains on probation until April 2028. His sister, Stephanie Coiro, disclosed that Ryan has grappled with severe mental health issues for years. Their father recently picked him up after a call for help, bringing him to the Greenville home just hours before the incident.
“He had his first break at 16, hospitalization programs are only covered so long, medications can only be encouraged until 18, and then you can make your own decisions, and if you know anything about schizophrenia, schizophrenia will tell you you’re fine,” Coiro explained about her brother’s condition.
Authorities indicated that Ryan might be driving a gray 2016 Toyota Prius, with New York license plate HNH-7671. He is also known to travel by train, prompting coordination with rail transportation entities.
Police urge anyone who spots Ryan to call 911 immediately or to reach the State Police Middletown Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 845-344-5300.