Raymond C. Cornelius, 82, was found dead in his Ward, Allegany County, New York, home on the morning of July 3, 2017. Family members, unable to reach him since the evening of July 1, checked on him and discovered his body on Wadsworth Hill Road. Investigators determined he died of a single gunshot wound to the torso, fired from outside the residence; a broken window was noted at the scene.

Those who knew Mr. Cornelius reported he had no known enemies, and investigators have said the motive remains unclear. The New York State Police have treated the case as an active priority, pursued leads and executed search warrants in the years since the slaying. CrimeStoppers of Western New York has offered up to $12,500 for information leading to an arrest and indictment.

No arrests or publicly identified suspects have been announced as of late 2025. If anyone knew Raymond, saw activity near Wadsworth Hill Road around July 1–3, 2017, or has information, contact the New York State Police or CrimeStoppers.