Anthony T. Beecham Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Cortland County have identified the man who tragically lost his life following an early morning incident on Grove Street in the Village of Homer on Wednesday, October 8. According to the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office, the victim was 53-year-old Anthony T. Beecham, a resident of Homer. Preliminary reports indicate that Beecham sustained multiple injuries resulting from gunfire.
Just before 3:30 a.m., emergency dispatchers received a report of a person experiencing cardiac arrest outside a residence located at 40 Grove Street. Responding officers from both the Homer Police Department and the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office arrived shortly after and found Beecham lying in the driveway.
Law enforcement and emergency responders immediately began performing life-saving procedures at the scene. Members of TLC Ambulance and Homer Rescue then arrived to assist and transported Beecham to Guthrie Cortland Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Authorities say that early findings suggest the situation was an isolated event, meaning there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public. As part of their initial investigation, detectives noted that a dark-colored vehicle was reportedly seen leaving the area at a high rate of speed around the time of the incident. Officials are working to determine whether that vehicle or its occupants may be connected to what took place.
Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division continue to collect evidence and conduct interviews as they work to establish a clearer understanding of the events leading up to Beecham’s passing. Officers have been reviewing nearby security and doorbell camera footage, as well as canvassing the neighborhood to locate potential witnesses who might have seen or heard anything unusual early that morning.
The Sheriff’s Office has emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with several agencies cooperating in the effort, including the Homer Police Department, New York State Police Forensic Unit, and Cortland County District Attorney’s Office. Authorities have also stated that out of respect for the family and the integrity of the investigation, specific details about possible motives or suspects have not been released at this time.
In an official statement, the Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Beecham’s family and loved ones, acknowledging the impact of the tragedy on the Homer community. Officers also thanked residents who have already come forward with tips and encouraged anyone with additional information—no matter how small it may seem—to reach out to investigators.
Community members are being asked to contact the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division at (607) 758-6151 if they have any information that could assist the investigation. Police assure the public that all credible leads are being followed up promptly and that updates will be provided as new details emerge.
Authorities also reminded residents to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. Law enforcement agencies in the region continue to work together to ensure community safety and bring clarity and justice to this case.
As of now, investigators are waiting for additional forensic reports and witness statements to confirm the timeline and circumstances of the incident. While the investigation progresses, officials continue to stress that this appears to have been an isolated occurrence, with no current threat to the general public.
This tragic event has left many in Homer shaken, as Beecham was known within the small community. The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that every effort is being made to uncover the truth about what happened that morning and to bring closure to the family and community affected by the loss.
