News

The Chemung County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into a fire that occurred at 2131 McDowell Rd. in the Town of Chemung. The investigation is being handled as a murder/suicide. The initial stage of the investigation has determined that Mary E. Vinson, age 47, was killed by her estranged boyfriend, Dennis J. Perry, age 56, of 2131 McDowell Rd., Lockwood, NY. The exact cause of death for both Ms. Vinson and Mr. Perry is still under investigation and is pending results of the autopsies. A firearm, as well as other crucial evidence, was collected at the scene. The investigation is continuing at this time.

The Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by the Chemung County Office of Emergency Management and the New York State Office of Fire Prevention, who are still at the scene. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted last night by the Chemung Fire Department, the Baldwin Fire Department and the Van Etten Fire Department.