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Cohoes Mayor Bill Keeler reassured residents of the city's safety following the first homicide in two years. On Sunday (September 14), 41-year-old Amanda Rodriguez was found dead in her home on Earl Lynn Court. Police have identified her boyfriend, 53-year-old Anthony Bechand, as a person of interest.
Authorities believe Rodriguez was killed on Saturday, and an autopsy revealed she died from a ruptured aorta and massive hemorrhage due to multiple stab wounds. Bechand's vehicle, a white 2024 Chevrolet Silverado, was found in Brighton, New York, over 150 miles from Cohoes. Police consider Bechand armed and dangerous and urge the public not to approach him but to contact state police if seen.
Mayor Keeler emphasized that Cohoes remains a safe community, noting that homicides are rare in the city. "Cohoes has a homicide about every 18 months. Our last one was two years ago. So, it’s a very safe city," he stated. Despite the ongoing manhunt, Keeler assured residents that the incident appears to be isolated and domestic in nature.
Multiple agencies, including New York State Police and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, are involved in the search for Bechand, utilizing K9 units, drones, and other resources. As the investigation continues, Mayor Keeler and police officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any information to New York State Police at (518) 897-2000.