(Scypre.com) – The disappearance of Thomas Rath, a 33-year-old man who vanished from a homeless encampment known as “The Jungle” behind Lowe’s in Ithaca, New York, on May 20, escalated into a complex investigation involving kidnapping and murder. Rath was forcibly abducted by a group of individuals, prompting an extensive, multi-jurisdictional search involving numerous law enforcement officers.
Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement conducted numerous interviews within “The Jungle” and executed more than 40 search warrants. Tragically, Rath’s remains were discovered in a shallow grave in a neighboring county on August 3. Major Jeffrey VanAuken, Commander of New York State Police Troop C, revealed during a press conference that the missing person case had unveiled disturbing and heinous events, ultimately leading to the revelation of Rath’s kidnapping and murder.
The 100th day since Rath’s abduction was marked on Monday, and ten individuals have been taken into custody in connection with his kidnapping and death, with additional arrests pending, according to NYSP Captain Lucas Anthony. Angelo Baez, 48, and Jonathan Glennon, 31, are facing the most severe charges of second-degree murder, with Glennon already incarcerated in Auburn, Maine.
The other suspects, aged 27 to 52, are each charged with first-degree kidnapping, including Baez. Authorities have indicated that Rath was acquainted with at least some of his abductors, and they plan to address the motive during court proceedings. While it is not considered a random act, authorities refrain from characterizing it as a meticulously planned event, but rather an ongoing situation from start to finish.
Due to the location of the alleged murder in Tioga County, New York, the case will be prosecuted there. Law enforcement officers have refrained from disclosing further details, citing the ongoing investigation and pending arrests.
Captain Anthony emphasized Rath’s status as a victim in the eyes of law enforcement, while acknowledging that to his family, he was a father, brother, and son. Although the manner of Rath’s death was not disclosed, it is clear that this tragic event has had a profound impact on his loved ones.