Raymond Cornelius of Ward was murdered inside his home on Wadsworth
Hill Road in Allegany County last July. There have been no arrests yet, but
state police remain on the case…even as of today. Investigators were adamant this
afternoon, saying “this isn’t a cold case.”
The body of the 82-year-old man was discovered by family on
July 3rd. Lead state police
Investigator Jed Murphy admits this has been an intense investigation…involving
police resources from Amity to Albany. While interviewing Investigator Murphy,
he confirmed, “I’m filling out paperwork right now (as we speak) for another
lab analysis.” Despite prodding, Murphy declined to answer what he was looking for.
Wellsville Regional News (WRN) also learned today that search warrants have
been issued and subpoenas have been served…but “they haven’t been answered,”
Murphy said. WRN pressed Murphy for what businesses were involved and he
responded “I can’t comment right now.” WRN asked directly if police were
tracing cell phone records and Murphy said “I can’t say.”
State police did confirm to WRN that Cornelius died from a
single shot gun wound to the torsos. Murphy said that “if anyone heard a gunshot
last July…or knows of a missing gun…” to contact police.
Investigator Murphy also declined to say if police had a
potential motive. He would only say that the “community at-large” did not need
to be concerned about a “random act” (suggesting that the deceased knew the assailant).
“I’m concerned about the family ( that there is no closure yet) and I won’t say anything to cause them concern,”
he added.
Investigator Murphy said that “nearly every day” he is
making calls or sending emails in the course of the investigation. He said he
is assisted by the six member's of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation stationed
in Amity…as well as “the resources of Troop A and the Division of State Police.”
Investigator Murphy added that while “an arrest is not imminent…”
new leads bring police closer to a point to close the case.
