(WNY News Now) – A four-year search for answers takes a step forward as a Buffalo man faces murder charges in the death of a woman whose body was discovered along a Chautauqua County trail.
Buffalo resident Richard J. Fox, 61, was arraigned today in Buffalo City Court on charges of Murder in the Second Degree, a Class “A-I” felony, following his arrest on Wednesday. Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced the charges, stemming from the 2021 disappearance and death of 50-year-old Marquita Mull.
Mull was reported missing in late June 2021. Her remains were discovered three months later near a hiking trail in the Town of Portland, Chautauqua County. Authorities allege that Fox intentionally caused her death at a location in Buffalo.
In addition to the murder charge, Fox faces four felony counts under New York State Correction Law for failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements. The charges include failing to report a change of address, verify his address every 90 days, provide a photo, and mail verification forms.
If convicted of murder, Fox could face a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The additional charges could result in up to seven years of incarceration.
Fox remains held without bail and is scheduled for a felony hearing on Monday, January 13, 2025.
“As a result of the diligent and collaborative work of this multi-agency investigation, I am pleased to announce the arrest of this defendant. While this remains an active case and we continue to seek more information, I want to applaud the many dedicated members of law enforcement who never let this case go cold. The family of Marquita Mull has waited more than four years for answers, and we are committed to obtaining justice for the victim and her family,” said District Attorney Mike Keane.
The investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Buffalo Police Department, Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, and the Applied Forensic Science Department at Mercyhurst University.
The case is being prosecuted by Chief Eugene T. Partridge, III, of the Homicide Bureau.
Fox is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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