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Onondaga County Authorities Arrest two Suspects in the Homicide of a Syracuse University Student

John Smith, WAER News

Onondaga County Authorities say it appears that a drug deal gone bad resulted in the homicide of a former Syracuse University Student in DeWitt in September.  Cameron Isaac of North Syracuse and Ninimbe Mitchell from Syracuse are charged with 2nd degree murder and first degree robbery.  County District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick promised there could be additional arrests and made a plea for the return of the murder weapon.

“…Someone out there in this community has knowledge of where that weapon is. For the immediate future, I am willing to be tolerant regarding the confiscation of that weapon. In other words, if you have it or your know where it is, you better tell us within the next 48 hours. Otherwise, you’re going to face the serious consequences in mandatory state prison.”

In September, Syracuse University student Xiaopeng Yuan and his vehicle were found at an apartment complex near LeMoyne College.  Detectives say the victim knew one of the suspects through previous contact.  Sheriff Gene Conway describes how the last meeting unfolded.

Credit John Smith, WAER News
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John Smith, WAER News
Onondaga County District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick.

“We have determined and believe that these two men made arrangements to meet with the victim at the Springfield Garden Apartments on Caton Drive for what is believed to be a drug transaction. And during that transaction, acting together with one another, they robbed the victim and then shot and ultimately killed him behind 16 Caton drive.”

The suspects left the victims’ car behind and police also found drugs in the car.  That’s why lead detectives believe there was indeed a drug transaction that ultimately went bad.  The suspects have had prior brushes with the law.  Search warrants were executed at the homes of both of the suspects and cars were impounded, as well.  Anyone with information about the murder weapon may use the Tips 411 app or contact authorities directly.

Credit John Smith, WAER News
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John Smith, WAER News

    
 

John Smith has been waking up WAER listeners for a long time as our Local Co-Host of Morning Edition with timely news and information, working alongside student Sportscasters from the Newhouse School.