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New information has been released regarding a tragic double homicide that occurred earlier this week in Syracuse. David Huff, 43, has been charged with the murders of his girlfriend, 32-year-old Yeraldith Tschudy, and his 11-year-old son, Jeremiah Huff. The incident took place on Monday night (March 17) at a residence on Roney Road.
According to the Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, Huff used a shotgun to kill both victims. The criminal complaint states that Huff fired multiple rounds into Tschudy before turning the weapon on his son. Huff also attempted to shoot his stepfather, who was present at the scene, but ran out of ammunition.
After a 16-hour manhunt, New York State Police apprehended Huff. He was arraigned on Wednesday (March 19) and faces charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Prosecutors are considering adding an attempted murder charge for his actions against his stepfather. Huff remains in custody without bail, and the District Attorney anticipates that Huff may use an insanity defense.
The community is mourning the loss of Jeremiah, a sixth-grader at Gillette Road Middle School, who was remembered by his mother, Samantha Gallup-Peltier, as a friend to all who "loved his father." She described Jeremiah as a boy who loved skateboarding, fishing, and spending time outdoors. In the wake of the tragedy, the North Syracuse Central School District expressed its sorrow and emphasized the importance of community support during this difficult time.
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh has urged the community to provide strength and support to those affected by the tragedy. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shootings. Huff's defense attorney, Shaun Chase, will represent him in court as the case progresses.