New York State Police are renewing efforts in the decades-old homicide investigation of Barry Marquart, a case that has remained unsolved for more than 45 years.
Investigators say they continue to review evidence and pursue new leads in an effort to bring justice to Marquart and his family.
As part of the renewed push, State Police are asking the public to review a composite sketch created in 1980 of a person of interest believed to be connected to the case. The individual is described as a white male who would have been in his 20s or 30s at the time, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing between 140 and 160 pounds. Authorities say the man would have been in the Binghamton area in November of 1980.
Police note the individual is not currently considered a suspect, but he has never been identified and may have critical information related to the investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone who recognizes the person in the sketch or who may have information about Marquart’s death to come forward, emphasizing that even minor details could prove important.
Anyone with information is asked to contact New York State Police at 607-561-7400 and leave a message with Major Crimes.
Marquart, an Oneonta native, was reported missing by his father on November 9, 1980. He was 30 years old at the time and living in Binghamton with a roommate, who told police he had not seen Marquart for two days.
His vehicle was later found at a rest area along Interstate 81 in the town of Dickinson. Marquart’s body was discovered in the Chenango River, about 500 feet behind the rest area.
An autopsy determined the cause of death to be drowning but also found injuries consistent with blunt force trauma to his head and face.
Investigators say Marquart’s wallet was later recovered in Otsiningo Park, while his watch was missing at the time his body was found.
State Police say the investigation remains active and encourage the public to assist as they continue working to solve the case.
