Update: 

On February 27, 2026, at approximately 9:00 a.m., an autopsy was completed at Glens Falls Hospital, by Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Sikirica. The deceased male was positively identified as Philip A. Knickerbocker, age 63, of Hermon, St. Lawrence County. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxia due to strangulation. The manner of death was ruled a homicide.

On February 25, 2026, at approximately 7:49 p.m., members of the New York State Police responded to a report of a deceased male inside a residence on Pyrites-Russell Road in the town of Russell.

As the investigation progressed, State Police determined that signs of foul play were present. The investigation established that Philip Knickerbocker and his son, Hans Knickerbocker, age 40, of Hermon, were involved in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation. During the incident, Hans allegedly struck his father in the head and strangled him.

Hans Knickerbocker was detained and transported to SP Canton for further questioning on February 25, 2026.

On February 25, 2026, Hans Knickerbocker was charged with Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation. He was arraigned in the Town of Hermon Court and remanded to the St. Lawrence County Correctional Facility in lieu of $5,000 cash bail, $10,000 bond, or $20,000 secured bond.

Due to additional evidence obtained and the results of the autopsy, further charges against Hans Knickerbocker are pending.

This is an ongoing investigation.

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 On February 25, 2026, at approximately 7:49 p.m., New York State Police responded to Pyrites-Russell Road in the town of Russell for a report of a deceased individual.

A preliminary investigation determined a deceased male was located on a couch inside of the residence.

Further investigation revealed that a domestic dispute had occurred earlier at the home. All parties involved were interviewed. State Police executed multiple search warrants, and the Forensic Investigation Unit processed the scene.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation.