Thomas D. Ryan, 32, was taken into custody at about 12:10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, following a coordinated search in Schoharie County, State Police said. Ryan was wanted in connection with the Thursday, Aug. 6 homicide of his father, Robert Ryan, at his home at 512 Greenville Turnpike in the Town of Greenville, police said.
Robert "Bob" Ryan was born May 14, 1956, to Catherine and David Ryan of Kings Park, NY, according to his obituary on the Clayton Funeral Home website. He was remembered for his generosity, warmth, and ability to make those around him feel comfortable. His grandchildren especially treasured the peace they found at his home and affectionately knew him as "G-Man," his obituary said.
Troopers were called to the home at about 7:30 p.m. that day for a reported structure fire, authorities said. After firefighters extinguished the blaze, Robert Ryan was found dead inside, according to State Police. Investigators determined the fire had been deliberately set and began investigating the death as a homicide, police said. Ryan fled the area in his father's gray 2016 Toyota Prius, investigators said. Police warned during the search that Ryan should be considered armed and dangerous.
The break in the case came Saturday evening, Aug. 8, when State Police Troop G received a tip that the Prius had been found unoccupied in a parking lot at 199 State Route 990V in the Town of Gilboa, authorities said. Troopers from Troops G and F joined New York City Department of Environmental Protection Police and the Schoharie County Sheriff's Office in searching the surrounding area, police said. Another tip from a community member ultimately led the State Police Special Operations Response Team to Ryan shortly after midnight, authorities said.
Ryan received medical treatment at the scene for injuries sustained before his apprehension and was taken to a hospital, where he remained in stable condition Sunday, police said. He remained in State Police custody and will be charged and arraigned when his medical condition permits, authorities said.
Investigators said Ryan did not live with his father and had no other known current ties to the Greenville community. Police said he had lived a transient lifestyle and previously stayed at shelters throughout New York City, Long Island, and northern New York.
"This investigation demonstrates what can be accomplished when the community and law enforcement work together toward a common goal," State Police Troop F Bureau of Criminal Investigation Capt. Brad Natalizio said.
The investigation remained ongoing Sunday, State Police said. Additional information about Ryan's apprehension and criminal charges will be released when appropriate.
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
