In the quiet town of Richmondville, New York, the life of 21-year-old Connor E. Delaney was tragically cut short on the night of January 29, 2022. State Police were called to a residence on Hite Road for an unknown disturbance around 11:19 p.m. Upon their arrival, they discovered a grim scene: Connor Delaney was found deceased inside the home. An autopsy would later confirm that he had died from gunshot wounds, and his death was officially ruled a homicide.
Investigators also found Delaney's dog had been shot and killed inside the residence.
The investigation into the young man's death soon uncovered a narrative of a drug-related robbery gone horribly wrong. Authorities described the act as a 'very vicious, heinous and violent crime.' According to Connor's brother, Eoin Delaney, Connor had been involved in selling marijuana and was targeted by acquaintances who were aware of his activities. State Police confirmed that they believed the homicide was a targeted event and that there was no broader threat to the public.
Within a couple of months, the investigation led to the apprehension of three young men from Schenectady. Devon Hunter, 18, and a 17-year-old whose name was not publicly released due to his age, were the first to be taken into custody. Both faced charges of second-degree murder and first-degree robbery, with the 17-year-old also being charged with criminal possession of a weapon. The younger suspect was initially released on a $200,000 bail bond, while Hunter was held in the Schoharie County Jail. The Schoharie County District Attorney's office announced its intention to have the 17-year-old tried as an adult.
The third suspect, 18-year-old Jeffrey A. McGough, initially evaded capture and a warrant was issued for his arrest on a charge of second-degree murder. He eventually turned himself in to the authorities in May 2022 and was additionally charged with robbery and criminal possession of a weapon. As the legal process unfolded, both McGough and Hunter pleaded guilty to charges of manslaughter, robbery, and aggravated cruelty to animals. In November 2023, Jeffrey McGough was sentenced to 17 and a half years in prison. Devon Hunter was also scheduled for sentencing later that month. During his sentencing, McGough, who was denied youthful offender status, offered an apology to Connor Delaney's family.
