Missing Farmington Man Found Dead in Geneva Motel Room

Authorities investigating the case as a suspicious death.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a motel room key card or other physical evidence related to the crime scene, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The investigation into a suspicious death at a Geneva motel exposes the grim realities of crime in this small community.Geneva Today

A 37-year-old Farmington man who was reported missing was found dead inside a Geneva motel room, and authorities are investigating the case as a suspicious death, the Ontario County Sheriff's Office said. Deputies located the victim's phone on the motel property and a K9 unit led them to the victim's room, where they found the deceased man with significant trauma.

Why it matters

Suspicious deaths are rare in the small town of Geneva, raising concerns about public safety and the circumstances surrounding this incident. The victim's family had reported him missing, indicating a potential foul play scenario.

The details

Using a phone app, the victim's family member tracked his phone to the America's Best Value Inn in Geneva. Deputies searched the area with a drone and bloodhound, and the K9 unit led them to the victim's room, where they found his body. Investigators said the victim, identified as Emmanuel Richelieu, had suffered significant trauma. The room was registered to Julius Ware, who authorities have been unable to locate and wish to interview.

  • The Ontario County Sheriff's 911 Center received a missing person report around 11 p.m. on April 17.
  • Deputies located the victim's phone on the motel property early Saturday morning and searched the area throughout the day.

The players

Emmanuel Richelieu

A 37-year-old Farmington man who was found dead in a Geneva motel room.

Julius Ware

The individual who registered the motel room where the victim's body was found.

Ontario County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the suspicious death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The victim's body has been transported to the Monroe County Medical Examiner's Office, where an autopsy is pending to determine the cause of death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has raised concerns about public safety in the Geneva community and the need for a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the victim's suspicious death.