RIDGEFIELD, CONNECTICUT – A shocking crime has rocked the small town of Ridgefield, Connecticut, known for its low crime rate. Steven James Uricchio, 31, has been accused of murdering his father, Marc Uricchio, 83, and leaving his organs outside the body. This marks the town’s first murder in over 20 years.
Details of the Crime
On August 3, authorities responded to a call about an assault at a Ridgefield residence. Steven Uricchio was found outside the house, covered in blood and wearing only a dark blue shirt and boxer shorts. He immediately confessed to police that he had killed his father “really, really badly.”
Upon entering the home, investigators found blood spattered on the stairs and walls, and a bloody fillet knife at the top of the stairs. Marc Uricchio was discovered in his bedroom, where he was pronounced dead at the scene. His body had been severely mutilated, with some internal organs found outside his body.
Community Reaction
Police Captain Jeffrey Raines noted that the incident has deeply shaken Ridgefield, calling it a “very safe community.” This murder is the first reported in the town since 2003, and has left residents in shock.
Suspect’s Mental Health and Legal Proceedings
After his arrest, Steven Uricchio was taken to Danbury Hospital for evaluation, where he mentioned stomach issues and admitted to regular cannabis use. Following his hospital discharge, he was placed on suicide watch at Ridgefield police headquarters.
On August 5, Uricchio appeared in Danbury Superior Court, visibly distressed and almost catatonic. His defense attorney, Willie Dow, described the case as a “tragedy of Shakespearean dimensions,” highlighting Uricchio’s significant mental health issues. Dow supported the prosecution’s request for mental health treatment and a competency evaluation, which the judge approved.
Uricchio is being held on a $1.5 million bail and is scheduled to return to court on September 4.