Newburgh man charged with murder, accused of stabbing 76-year-old in head

James Rich was taken into custody overnight, several hours after authorities say he fatally stabbed 76-year-old George Harding in the head.

Blaise Gomez

Mar 17, 2023, 9:37 PM

Updated 577 days ago

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A Newburgh man has been charged with murder in a stabbing at the Varick Homes apartment complex.
James Rich, a 35-year-old from Newburgh, arrived at the City of Newburgh courthouse wearing a white jumpsuit and in handcuffs and shackles Friday afternoon. He’s charged with second-degree murder in the death of a man inside a Newburgh apartment last night. 
Rich was taken into custody overnight, several hours after authorities say he fatally stabbed 76-year-old George Harding in the head. 
The incident unfolded around 10:20 p.m.
Authorities say they received a 911 call and that the victim was found inside an apartment with obvious trauma. 
The defendant’s relationship to the victim has not been disclosed, but a restraining order was granted on behalf of his cousin in court.
Rich’s case will now go to a grand jury for review. 
He’s being held without bail at Orange County Jail.