PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — The Putnam County community is mourning the tragic loss of Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez, 66, whose life was brutally taken in a homicide that has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling.
On December 7, 2025, deputies from the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report from a fisherman who discovered a body in the waters of the Croton Falls Reservoir. First responders recovered the remains of Aurelio, who had been reported missing several days earlier on December 1, 2025, to the Danbury, Connecticut Police Department. The sudden disappearance and the grim discovery that followed brought shock and sorrow to his loved ones.
Following a post-mortem examination, the Putnam County Coroner officially ruled Aurelio’s death a homicide, prompting a thorough and ongoing criminal investigation to uncover the circumstances of his death and bring those responsible to justice.
Vehicle of Interest: Victim’s Stolen Taxi
Authorities have identified a black Toyota Sienna livery cab that belonged to Aurelio as a critical piece of the investigation. The vehicle was stolen following the homicide and is considered a vehicle of interest.
Vehicle Description:
- Black Toyota Sienna livery cab
- White roof-mounted “TAXI” sign
- “ORBESTAXI.COM” displayed on the rear
- Marked “V89” on the left rear
- New York registration visible
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who saw this vehicle or noticed any unusual activity in the Brewster or Purdys areas on or around December 1, 2025, to contact the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
Sheriff Brian Hess and Undersheriff James Menton stressed the urgency of the investigation, stating:
“This is now an active homicide investigation. Our detectives are working tirelessly to determine what happened, identify the perpetrator, and deliver justice for Mr. Zhunio-Orbez and his family. If you saw this vehicle or anything unusual, please contact us right away.”
The investigation is ongoing, and officials remind the public that information may change as new details emerge. Anyone with information is asked to call (845) 225-4300, Ext. 42252.
Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez is remembered not only for the life he led but for the family and community he touched. His loss is profound, and his memory will endure in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Rest in peace, Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez.
Your life mattered, and you will never be forgotten.
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