Search for Cohoes homicide suspect continues

RAY BROOK, N.Y. (NEWS10)– The search for the Cohoes homicide suspect Anthony Bechand remains ongoing, New York State Police said in a press conference Thursday morning.

Police believe Bechand killed his girlfriend, 41-year-old Amanda Rodriguez, in her home on Saturday, September 13. She was found the next day, but Bechand had already left the area.

Bechand reportedly fled the home around 8:30 a.m. in a white 2024 Chevrolet Silverado, which was later found unoccupied on County Route 60 at the intersection of County Route 86 in the town of Brighton in Franklin County.

Investigators have said they’re working with state police, U.S. Border and Customs, and the forest rangers to track the area. On Saturday, state police said the search for Bechand continued with additional help from the U.S. Marshals Task Force, Northern Regional Special Response Team.

Investigators said there have been no record of cell phone or credit card usage; the last record of his cell phone was in the location of where the truck was found.

Bechand is described as 5’11” and 180 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair. His clothing description is unknown. State Police said forensic evidence in the unoccupied truck leads them to believe Bechand is injured.

Police said he may be armed and dangerous, so the public is asked not to approach him. According to state police, a $7,500 reward has been issued for information leading to his whereabouts.

Troopers said they are searching camps, cabins and structures located in the woods in a half mile to a mile radius from where the truck was located.

The state police are asking people to check their camps, trail cameras, or security cameras for any suspicious activity. Troopers are also asking hunters to be cautious and to report anything they may see.

“We don’t have anything conclusive to suggest he is alive or deceased, but because of the amount of search in the area, we believe it is less likely that he is deceased and more likely that he is alive and still in the area,” Stu Smith, assistant chief inspector with the U.S. Marshal Service said.

The press conference can be watched below.