New York Police Renew Decades-Old Homicide Investigation

Authorities seek public's help in identifying person of interest from 1980 composite sketch.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:36pm

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An extreme close-up of a weathered, cracked police evidence tag against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the urgency to solve a long-standing cold case.A stark, gritty close-up of a physical clue from a decades-old homicide investigation, underscoring the need for renewed public vigilance.NYC Today

New York State Police have renewed their investigation into the 45-year-old unsolved homicide of Barry G. Marquart, who went missing in Binghamton in 1980. Authorities have released a composite sketch from the time period and are asking the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the individual depicted or provide new leads in the case.

Why it matters

This decades-old cold case has remained an open wound for Marquart's family, and the renewed investigation represents an opportunity to finally bring closure and justice. The public's assistance could be crucial in cracking a mystery that has lingered for over four decades.

The details

Marquart, a 30-year-old Oneonta native, was reported missing on November 9, 1980 by his father. His body was later discovered in the Chenango River, with the cause of death determined to be drowning and blunt force trauma. Marquart's vehicle was found at a rest area off Interstate 81, and his wallet was located in a nearby park. Investigators have continued to pursue leads, and they believe the unidentified individual in the 1980 composite sketch may have critical information related to the case.

  • Marquart went missing on November 9, 1980.
  • His body was discovered in the Chenango River shortly after.
  • The composite sketch of the person of interest was developed in 1980.

The players

Barry G. Marquart

A 30-year-old Oneonta native who was the victim of the unsolved 1980 homicide.

New York State Police

The law enforcement agency leading the renewed investigation into Marquart's death.

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What’s next

The New York State Police are urging the public to contact the Major Crimes Department at (607)561-7400 with any information that could aid the investigation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of public engagement in solving long-standing mysteries, as even the smallest detail could prove crucial in finally bringing closure to Marquart's family after over four decades.