Honoree Fleming murder 6 months later: Son reacts
CASTELTON, VT (NEWS10) — Six months ago an elderly woman was murdered along a rail trail in Rutland County, Vermont. While the suspect is still at large, the victim’s son spoke one-on-one with NEWS 10's Zion Decoteau, urging the public for help amid a lack of leads on this case.
Look to the mountains of Castleton, Vermont. Picturesque and Peaceful. So, Dean Powers says it was out of character for the area when his mother, 77-year-old Honoree Fleming was fatally shot during her regular walk along the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail on October 5th, 2023.
“The coroner said she died instantly, [gunshot] impact impact to the one side of her head,” said Powers.
It’s coming up on Mother’s Day and Powers hasn’t been down to the trail since his mom’s murder in broad daylight. Today there are no signs of the horrible thing that happened here.
“Somebody said they were talking to her after she was killed,” said Powers. “I appreciate them calling the police and staying with Mom and talking to her even though she was dead” he added.
The suspect is still at large. Police said the person of interest is a red-haired white man in his twenties standing at 5 foot 10. A composite sketch was released based on testimony from multiple witnesses. Police have offered a $25,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect or suspects in this case.
“I wish it were a trillion dollars” Powers expressed.
An accomplished woman, Fleming was a retired dean of what was then Castleton State College. She was also the primary caretaker of Dean and his father.
“She kept making dinner for Dad. She kept living humbly within our means. she never took from the system. She learned, she got an education" said Powers.
Powers remains frustrated by the lack of leads in this case.
“I believe in the State Police” Powers said. “I think their hearts are in the right place. I don't know what's taking so long” he questioned. “I was looking forward to another 20 years with her she was in good health she ate well she got her exercise it shouldn't have happened” Powers continued.
Anyone with any information on this case can provide an anonymous tip— Via phone or online to the Vermont State Police.