Suspect faces upgraded charges in wappinger double homicide and arson
Fire Truck

Suspect faces upgraded charges in Wappinger double homicide and arson

by
February 1, 2025

WAPPINGER, N.Y. — Authorities have identified the victims of a fatal house fire in Wappinger and announced additional charges against the suspect, who is accused of killing them before setting their home ablaze.

The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Paul and Jo-Ann Hait, ages 63 and 65, were the victims of the January 26 fire at 78 Marlorville Road. Investigators allege that the suspect, identified as Mr. Buda, killed the couple and their dog before starting the fire. Officials stated that the victims were known to Buda but did not provide further details.

Following an investigation, Buda was arrested again on January 31 and now faces upgraded charges, including first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, aggravated cruelty to animals, and first-degree arson.

He was arraigned in the Town of Wappinger Court and remanded to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center without bail.

Authorities are asking anyone with information or who was in the Marlorville Road area on the evening of January 26 to contact investigators.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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