MANCHESTER, N.H. – More than 25 years ago, an unsolved road rage incident on a New York highway left a man fatally shot, and new evidence suggests that his killer might be from New Hampshire.
On the evening of Feb. 5, 1997, Richard Aderson, 47, was driving a gray 1995 four-door Volvo sedan on Interstate 84 in Fishkill, New York. He became involved in a crash with another vehicle, leading to a dispute with an unknown man. The situation escalated, and Aderson was shot in the chest before the shooter fled the scene heading eastbound on I-84.
Despite his injuries, Aderson managed to call 911 and provide a description of the car and the assailant before his passing. Authorities believe that the shooter was driving a green 1997 Jeep Cherokee, possibly with New Hampshire plates.
The suspect was described as a white man in his late 40s to around 50, standing about 6 feet tall with a very thin build, a thin nose, and a medium complexion. He was said to be balding or have a receding hairline, wore glasses, may have had a beard, and was described as unkempt and messy. If alive today, he would be in his 60s or 70s based on the 1997 suspect description.
New York State Police have collaborated with New Hampshire State Police in the investigation. In 2022, New York State Police stated that interviews conducted in the area of Amherst, New Hampshire, had led to new positive investigative leads.
Despite receiving thousands of tips over the years, the case remains unsolved. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward and provide a tip to New York State Police by calling 845-677-7300 or emailing nysvicap@troopers.ny.gov. The hope is that with the help of the public, this long-standing mystery can be solved and bring closure to the family and loved ones of Richard Aderson.