DA: New York Man In Fiery Car On Palisades Parkway Was Murdered

A New York man accused of killing a Hudson Valley man, then lighting the body and his car on fire three years ago, is finally behind bars.

On Tuesday, Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II announced today the arraignment of Robert Rodriguez, 36 of Stony Point, New York

Stony Point, New York Man Arraigned on Murder Charges, More

Rodriguez was arraigned Tuesday for murder, two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, arson, concealment of a corpse and tampering with physical evidence.

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“Today’s arraignment is a crucial step in our pursuit of justice for the victim," District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II said. "As alleged, the defendant’s actions on that day resulted in the tragic death of the victim. This case shows any individual who commits a heinous crime that you will be held fully accountable under the law.”

Police allege Rodriguez fatally shot Ronald Mann in February 2021, drove Mann's body in his car to a spot along the Palisades Parkway, then lit it on fire and walked off.

Car Fully Engulfed In Flames On Palisades Parkway In Stony Point

On February 16, 2021, at approximately 2 a.m., Troopers responded to find a 2021 Hyundai Sonata fully engulfed in flames southbound on the Palisades Parkway near exit 16 in the town of Stony Point.

The investigation revealed that Ronald Mann, from Bronx, NY was deceased inside the vehicle, according to New York State Police.

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Soon, the Rockland County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Mann had suffered from a gunshot wound and his death was ruled a homicide, officials say.

Bronx Man Found Dead In Car From Gunshot Wound

Police allege Rodriguez shot Mann at Rodriguez’s Rockland County home. He then then drove Mann's car with the deceased inside to Exit 16 on the Palisades Interstate Parkway.

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After parking the car in a snowbank off the side of the road near Exit 16, in the early morning hours of February 16, 2021, the Rodriguez doused the victim’s car in gasoline and set the car ablaze, with the victim still inside the vehicle, according to the Rockland County DA's office.

Arrested Following Extensive Investigation

Rodriguez was charged following what's described as an "extensive investigation," led by the New York State Police.

Rodriguez was arrested earlier this month.