Homicide Investigation Launched in Putnam County After Taxi Driver Found Deceased in Reservoir

Authorities in Putnam County, New York, have initiated a homicide investigation following the discovery of a deceased taxi driver in the Croton Falls Reservoir on Sunday. The body was identified as 66-year-old Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez, who had been the subject of a missing person report filed with the Danbury Police Department in Connecticut on December 1.

According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the discovery was made by a fisherman at the reservoir. Investigators report that the victim was last seen alive at the Brewster train station in New York. Following an examination, the Putnam County coroner has officially ruled the manner of death as a homicide, prompting a full criminal inquiry by local law enforcement.

Law enforcement officials state that the victim’s vehicle, a black Toyota Sienna livery cab, is believed to have been stolen after the murder and remains missing. Police have released a description of the vehicle, noting it displays “ORBESTAXI.COM” on the rear and bears the marking “V89” on the back left side. The vehicle is further distinguished by a white roof-mounted taxi sign.

Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance, specifically asking anyone who observed the vehicle or witnessed suspicious activity in the Brewster or Purdys areas on or around December 1 to contact the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigative Outlook

The coroner’s classification of the death as a homicide has escalated the case to a major criminal investigation. The primary operational objective for investigators is currently the location of the missing livery cab, which represents a critical chain of evidence. Recovering the vehicle could provide forensic data essential for reconstructing the timeline of events between the victim’s disappearance from the Brewster train station and the subsequent discovery of his body.