Man Charged With Murder Of Wappinger Couple & Their Dog
Police have identified the two victims, along with who they believe is responsible for their murder and setting their house on fire in the Town of Wappinger, New York.
Last we told you about a tragic house fire in the Town of Wappinger, NY where two deceased adults were discovered inside the charred remains of the home. The Dutchess County Sherriff's Office (DCSO) announced that after its preliminary investigation, they believed that a 34-year-old man was responsible for setting the fire intentionally on Sunday, January 26th, at a residence located at 78 Marlorville Rd in the Dutchess County town.
Robert J. Buda Charged
The DCSO quickly arrested Buda in connection to the fire and charged him with Arson in the 2nd degree, a felony. At the time of his arrest, many wondered if any other charges would be brought against him regarding the two bodies that were found inside the home.
Sherriff's Office Charges Man with Murder
According to a DCSO press release, Buda has been additionally charged in connection to the deaths of the two victims found inside the house as well as their dog. Buda was arrested again by the Sheriff’s Office on January 31st and additionally charged with 1st-degree Murder, two counts of 2nd-degree Murder, and aggravated cruelty to animals.
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Additionally, the DCSO announced they had upgraded his previous arson charge to 1st-degree Arson. Buda was arraigned before the Town of Wappinger Court and sent to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center without bail.
Wappinger Victims Identified
Sadly, the DCSO also identified the victims as 63-year-old Paul Hait and 65-year-old Jo-Ann Hait of Wappinger, NY. Authorities said that the couple were known to the suspect but didn't say in what manner.
Active Investigation
The press release didn't reveal any other details in order to protect the integrity of ongoing court proceedings but did ask that anyone who may have information regarding this case or may have been in the Marlorville Rd area during the evening of January 26th to please contact Detective Griffin at 845-486-3809 or jgriffin@dutchessny.gov.