Suspect in BU Fatal Stabbing Identified, Charged With 2nd Degree Murder
Police have identified the suspect in the fatal stabbing of a 19-year-old Binghamton University freshman.
Michael Roque, 20, was arraigned at the Broome County Sheriff's Office just after 9:00 p.m. Monday.
Roque plead not guilty to the charge of second degree murder in the death of BU engineering student Joao Souza. He was remanded to Broome County Jail.
Earlier Monday evening, District Attorney Steve Cornwell confirmed Roque was in custody after a day of extensive searches across Binghamton University's campus. Roque was found inside his dormitory.
University Police responded to room G17 of Windham Hall at 10:23 p.m. Sunday after reports of an assault, and upon arrival found Souza in a suite with stab wounds. Souza was transported to Wilson Hospital and later died from his injuries.
"It's been a very difficult day for our community. The tragic loss of a young person from violence is one of the worst things that can happen in our lives." - Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger
Officials say Souza's parents are in Brazil and they were notified by a Dean of Students employee and members of university police.
Police searched the area around Windham Hall and areas like the Nature Preserve throughout the day.
Campus police, investigators from the District Attorney's office, and New York State Police worked on the case throughout the night, conducting interviews and property searches.
Police say this was not a random act, but additional police presence will remain on campus throughout the night and into tomorrow to ensure the safety of students.
The campus plans to resume classes on Tuesday.
.@DASteveCornwell confirms the suspect in the fatal stabbing of a 19-year-old @binghamtonu freshman is in custody. The suspect is a student who has not yet been named. @wicztv
— Amanda Pitts WICZ (@AmandaPittsTV) April 16, 2018
Police are investigating the deadly stabbing of 19-year-old @binghamtonu freshman Joao Souza, who was killed last night at Windham Hall on the Mountainview side of campus. @wicztv will be LIVE on Facebook at 11 with details from the press conference. pic.twitter.com/D2doCBgxgw
— Amanda Pitts WICZ (@AmandaPittsTV) April 16, 2018