Man Arrested After Three-Day Manhunt in Alleged Killing and Arson of His 70-Year-Old Father

A New York man has been arrested after a multi-day manhunt following an alleged homicide and arson that left his 70-year-old father dead.

New York State Police responded to a structure fire at a Greenville residence at about 7:30 p.m. local time on Thursday, Aug. 6. Once firefighters extinguished the blaze, they discovered the body of a deceased male inside the home. A preliminary investigation concluded the fire was deliberately set, and investigators later determined the death to be a homicide.

Suspect Identified And Sought

Authorities identified the suspect as Thomas Ryan and issued a public alert after learning he had fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing Ryan in the area of the Greenville Turnpike wearing black sweatpants and a black T-shirt before leaving in a gray 2016 Toyota Prius. Police warned the public that "Thomas Ryan should be considered armed and dangerous" and asked anyone who spotted him or the vehicle to contact law enforcement immediately.

"My dad was a pillar in our family and every community he was a part of," Stephanie Coiro, the victim's daughter, told ABC News. "He made you feel welcome, he helped when you needed, and then some. He had more character in his pinky than most in their whole bodies. He did not deserve this."

Investigation Details And Arrest

Law enforcement sources told ABC News that Coiro said her brother had long struggled with mental health issues and had stopped taking prescribed medication. Video obtained by the outlet from a Ring camera appears to show a man identified as Thomas Ryan running away from the burning house.

The New York State Police noted that Ryan was not living with his father at the time of the incident and had no other known recent ties to the Greenville community. Investigators also said he had led a transient lifestyle, staying at multiple shelters across New York State.

After a three-day manhunt, authorities took Thomas Ryan into custody in the early hours of Sunday, Aug. 9 in the Gilboa area of Schoharie County. Police announced the active search had concluded and thanked the public and their law enforcement partners for assistance. It was not immediately clear whether Ryan has been formally charged or if he has retained legal representation.

Victim: Identified as Robert Ryan, age 70. Suspect: Thomas Ryan (taken into custody Aug. 9). Vehicle of Interest: Gray 2016 Toyota Prius.