Photo: Peter Dazeley / Photodisc / Getty Images
A man from Coeymans is facing charges after a deadly stabbing incident in Rensselaer. Michael A. Bermudez-Gagnon, 34, has been charged with second-degree murder following the death of 32-year-old Brent A. Reed. The incident occurred late Saturday night (September 20) at a residence on John Street, where Reed was found with stab wounds to the chest and neck. Despite efforts by emergency responders, Reed was pronounced dead at Albany Medical Center.
Bermudez-Gagnon was arrested after fleeing the scene and was arraigned on Sunday (September 21) in Rensselaer City Court, where he pleaded not guilty. He is currently held without bail at the Rensselaer County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court again on Friday (September 26).
According to WNYT, the police have stated that this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Rensselaer Police, with assistance from the New York State Police and other local law enforcement agencies, are continuing their investigation.
In memory of Reed, a candlelight vigil is planned for 7 p.m. tonight at Riverfront Park in Rensselaer. Reed's uncle expressed his grief on social media, describing Reed as living an "authentic life" and being a person of "integrity, grit, and strong character."
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Rensselaer Police Department’s Detective Division.