New York State Police Renew Decades-Old Homicide Investigation

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New York State Police have renewed their investigation into the 45-year-old unsolved homicide of Barry G. Marquart, who was reported missing in November 1980 and later found dead in the Chenango River. Authorities have released a composite sketch of a person of interest who was in the Binghamton area at the time, though he is not currently considered a suspect. Police are asking the public to come forward with any information that could help solve this long-standing case.

Why it matters

This decades-old cold case has remained unsolved, leaving Marquart's family without closure. Renewing the investigation and releasing new evidence could potentially lead to a breakthrough and bring justice for the victim's loved ones. The case also highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in cracking old homicides and the importance of public engagement in helping to solve such crimes.

The details

Barry Marquart, a 30-year-old Oneonta native, was reported missing on November 9, 1980 by his father. His roommate in Binghamton said he had not seen Marquart for two days. Marquart's vehicle was later found at a rest area off Interstate 81 in the town of Dickinson, and his body was discovered in the nearby Chenango River. The cause of death was drowning, but Marquart also sustained injuries consistent with blunt force trauma to his head and face. His wallet was later located in Otsiningo Park.

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

What’s next

The New York State Police are asking the public to review the composite sketch of the person of interest and come forward with any information that could help solve this decades-old case.