Medical examiner determines woman was stabbed to death in Van Buren condo, troopers say

Leora Chilson

Leora Chilson, 74, was found dead in her condo in the morning of Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. Provided by Melinda Chilson Hawley

Van Buren, N.Y. — A woman found dead in a Van Buren condo Tuesday was stabbed to death, troopers said.

An autopsy by the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office found that Leora A. Chilson, 74, died from multiple stab wounds to her neck, state police spokesman Trooper Jack Keller said Wednesday.

Chilson’s son, Daniel, was arraigned Wednesday morning in Syracuse on second-degree murder and evidence tampering charges.

Heather Vincent, an attorney representing Daniel Chilson for arraignment, pleaded not guilty on his behalf. Defendants are expected to plead not guilty before they are assigned an attorney to handle further proceedings.

Judge Shadia Tadros assigned attorney Ben Coffin to take over Daniel Chilson’s case.

Daniel Chilson, 43, is being held without bail until his next court appearance in Van Buren on Dec. 12.

Leora Chilson was found by her daughter and another son, who went to their mother’s condo at the Village Green Condos to check on her, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said. Leora Chilson had not shown up for work at a day care.

Daniel Chilson shared the condo with his mother, Keller said.

Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him: Email | Twitter or at 315-690-6950.

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