Police Renew Investigation Into 1980 Binghamton Homicide

New York State Police are asking the public to help identify a person of interest in the unsolved murder of Barry G. Marquart.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a tarnished metal object, possibly a watch or jewelry, dramatically lit by a harsh flash against a dark background, conceptually representing the physical evidence from the unsolved 1980 Binghamton homicide.Renewed investigation into a decades-old cold case homicide uncovers new clues and a plea for public assistance.Binghamton Today

New York State Police are renewing their investigation into the 1980 homicide of Barry G. Marquart, a 30-year-old man from Oneonta who was found dead in the Chenango River. Investigators have continued to review evidence and pursue leads, and are now asking the public to take a closer look at a composite sketch of a person of interest who may have critical information about the case.

Why it matters

This unsolved homicide case from over 45 years ago has remained a mystery, leaving Marquart's family without closure. The renewed investigation and public appeal for information could potentially uncover new leads and help bring justice to the victim and his loved ones.

The details

Barry Marquart was reported missing on November 9, 1980 by his father. At the time, Marquart was living in Binghamton with a roommate who said he had not seen Marquart for two days. Marquart's vehicle was later found at a rest area off Interstate 81, and his body was discovered in the Chenango River nearby. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be drowning, but also indicated he had sustained injuries consistent with blunt force trauma to his head and face. Marquart's wallet was later located in Otsiningo Park, and his watch was missing when his body was found.

  • Barry Marquart was reported missing on November 9, 1980.
  • Marquart's body was discovered in the Chenango River in November 1980.

The players

Barry G. Marquart

A 30-year-old man from Oneonta, New York who was the victim of an unsolved homicide in 1980.

New York State Police

The law enforcement agency investigating the 1980 homicide of Barry Marquart and renewing efforts to solve the case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Investigators are urging anyone who may recognize the individual depicted in the 1980 composite sketch, or who may have information regarding the death of Barry Marquart, to contact New York State Police at (607) 561-7400.

The takeaway

This unsolved homicide case from over four decades ago remains a priority for New York State Police, who are hopeful that renewed public attention and appeals for information could help uncover new leads and bring closure to Barry Marquart's family.