Authorities in Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania are searching for a man who they believe killed a stranger and acquaintance last week before abducting the acquaintance’s girlfriend.
WPVI reported that University of Connecticut student Peter Manfredonia, 23, is suspected of killing Theodore Demers, 62, in an attack Friday morning in Willington that left another man injured. Manfredonia allegedly attacked the men after they offered him a ride back to his motorcycle.
Police believe Manfredonia also held a Willington homeowner captive Sunday before stealing their truck and firearms. WPVI reported that the homeowner wasn’t injured.
Police reportedly located the stolen truck in Osbornedale State Park in Derby. While searching the park, authorities learned that Nicholas Eisele, 23, an acquaintance of Manfredonia, lived nearby. Officers ultimately found Eisele dead in his home.
Manfredonia allegedly fled the scene in Eisele’s Volkswagen. During their investigation, authorities learned Manfredonia also abducted Eisele’s girlfriend. However, by Sunday afternoon, Eisele’s girlfriend was found safe in Paterson, New Jersey, according to the Hartford Courant.
Eisele’s vehicle was reportedly discovered in New Jersey near the Pennsylvania border.
Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Anthony Petroski said Manfredonia was last seen Sunday afternoon in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. The Connecticut Post reported that the FBI has joined the ongoing search.
Manfredonia was described as being 6 feet, 3-inches tall, weighing 240 pounds, with black “disheveled hair.” He was reportedly was last seen wearing dark-colored shorts and a white t-shirt.
Manfredonia is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who spots him or knows of his whereabouts should call 911.
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[Featured image: Peter Manfredonia/Connecticut State Police, Newtown Police Department]
