“He was 24 years old at the time of the murder,” Donnelly said. “He lived with his grandparents just a mile from Hot Skates.”
Bilodeau has pleaded not guilty, and his defense attorney Daniel Russo insists his client is innocent.
A Family’s Emotional Relief
Outside the courthouse, Thomas Fusco embraced relatives and reflected on the long journey for justice.
“Now you go home and enjoy the rest of your life. Enjoy your daughter,” he whispered to a family member.
“She lives in my heart,” he added. “I only loved her and miss her.”
For the Fusco family — and the community that never forgot — this long-awaited arrest is a reminder that even after 40 years, DNA can rewrite history and restore faith in justice.
Related Links:
- Newsday: Theresa Fusco Cold Case
- Breakthrough in Long Island cold case as cops arrest alleged killer of 16-year-old girl after 40 years