A tense chapter has closed in New York with the apprehension of an “armed and dangerous” fugitive accused of a shocking family crime. Authorities captured the suspect, who had been on the run after allegedly murdering his 70-year-old father and setting their home ablaze, ending a statewide manhunt that mobilized the FBI and multiple law enforcement agencies.
Thomas David Ryan, aged 32, was arrested by New York State Police in the Gilboa area of Schoharie County. Investigators had been trailing Ryan since Thursday evening, following the discovery of his father, Robert Ryan, deceased in their burning Greenville residence. The blaze, according to authorities, was intentionally ignited.
Details concerning the specific circumstances of Ryan’s capture remain undisclosed by the police. However, they have assured the public that more information will be provided as the investigation continues.
Thomas David Ryan, 32, was taken into custody in the Gilboa area of Schoharie County, New York State Police said. (New York State Police)
The dramatic case unfolded at approximately 7:30 p.m. Thursday, when state troopers responded to an emergency call reporting a house fire on Greenville Turnpike in Orange County.
After firefighters put out the blaze, a man was found dead inside the home. Police later identified him as Robert Ryan, 70.
Investigators determined the fire had been set intentionally and began treating Robert Ryan’s death as a homicide. Police soon began searching for his son.
Firefighters battled a blaze at this home on Greenville Turnpike in Greenville, N.Y. on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026. (FOX5 New York)
Ryan did not live with his father and had no other known ties to the Greenville area at the time, according to State Police.
Investigators believed Ryan left in his father’s gray 2016 Toyota Prius. As the search widened, police repeatedly described him as “armed and dangerous” and urged anyone who spotted him to call 911 rather than approach him.
Police combed through surveillance video from homes and businesses, trying to trace Ryan’s movements after the killing. Residents in Greenville and nearby communities were asked to check footage recorded from about 6 p.m. Thursday through the overnight hours.
Police have not disclosed a possible motive or what charges Thomas Ryan faces. (New York State Police)
Police said Ryan had stayed at shelters across New York and was known to frequent the Plattsburgh area, more than 200 miles north of Greenville. Investigators checked places where he had previously stayed and worked with rail operators because Ryan was known to travel by train.
The investigation eventually involved the FBI, NYPD, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and police departments in Middletown and Port Jervis, along with several State Police investigative units and other state and county agencies.
Police have not disclosed a possible motive, how Robert Ryan died or what charges Thomas Ryan faces.