May 20, 2020
Police responded to a report of a vehicle pedestrian auto accident in the area of Route 82 and Crestwood Court in the Town of Fishkill. Upon arrival of TFPD and NYSP it was determined that a pedestrian had been struck and was seriously injured. The vehicle involved became disabled after striking a curb and the operator fled the scene on foot. A search of the area by responding units located a suspect in the woods near the Fishkill Bowl just off Route 82. Subsequent investigation revealed Peter J. Churchill age 31 of Fishkill was involved in a violent domestic in which he stabbed his Mother numerous times at their residence in Fishkill. While fleeing the scene Churchill struck a 71 year old male who was walking on Crestwood Court. Churchills Mother was transported to Mid-Hudson regional Medical Center in Poughkeepsie by Mobile Life and was ultimately transferred to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla where she was listed in Critical Condition. The 71 year old pedestrian was transported to Vassar Brothers Hospital in Poughkeepsie where he underwent emergency surgery and died. Cahill is being held at the Town of Fishkill Police Department awaiting arraignment on the following charges.
-Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree
-Aggravated Criminal Contempt
-Assault 1st Degree
-Vehicular Manslaughter
-DWI
The investigation is continuing by the Town of Fishkill Police the New York State Police and the Dutchess County District Attorney’s office. They are being assisted by the Dutchess County Medical Examiners office. The Rombout Fire Department and Mobil Life assisted d at the scene.