Vigil, Fundraiser Organized as Firefighter’s Murder Remains Unsolved

Over a hundred people attended a New Year's party in which Justin Speights was fatally stabbed. Nearly two weeks later, the investigation has been stymied by a lack of witnesses willing to provide information in the case.

Town of Crawford Police Chief Dominick Blasko voiced frustration at the lack of people coming forward with information about the murder of the 20-year-old firefighter early New Year's Day at a Paddock Drive home.

"I am saddened each time by the loss but this is the first time in my 24 year career that I am frustrated by the actions of not only the killer but that of others," Blasko said in a posting on the police department's Facebook page. "There are too many people worried about themselves and not caring about bringing justice to Justin and his family."

This week, two community events aim to keep the search for justice alive.

On Wednesday, a candlelight vigil will be held in the parking lot behind the Middletown Friendly's on Route 211 from 7PM to 9PM. Coffee will be provided at the vigil and friends and family members will share their memories of Justin, said Fauve Korn, who is helping organize the event.

On Thursday, the Silver Lake Fire District will hold a fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse on Route 211 in Middletown, with 10 percent of the evening's food purchases going toward the fundraiser. Justin, a Wallkill resident who graduated from Pine Bush High School in 2014, was a four-year member of the department. The Silver Lake Fire District has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Justin's killer or killers.

The New York State Police has requested anyone with information about the murder contact them at 845-344-5300.