Robert Buda Jr., 35, pleaded guilty to two counts of murder and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in connection with the January 26, 2025 killings of his in-laws, Paul and Jo-Ann Hait, in their Wappinger home.
During the investigation, Flock Safety technology played a key role. Investigators were able to locate the vehicle Buda was driving, which directly supported his identification and led to his arrest later that evening in Hyde Park. Beyond the arrest, Flock data provided law enforcement and prosecutors with a clear timeline of Buda's movements to and from the scene, helping establish key details of the crime and strengthen the case.
Buda admitted to fatally shooting both victims and their family dog, attempting to conceal evidence, and setting the home on fire. Responding firefighters discovered the victims while battling the blaze, prompting an immediate multi-agency investigation. Upon his arrest, detectives recovered critical evidence from Buda's vehicle, including blood-stained clothing, a 9mm Sig Sauer, shell casings, and other items tied to the crime.
As part of a plea agreement, Buda faces consecutive sentences of 20 years to life for each murder, along with a concurrent 15-year sentence on the weapons charge. Sentencing is scheduled for June 10, 2026 in Dutchess County Court.