David Huff, 43, of Syracuse, New York, has been indicted on an additional charge of attempted murder for allegedly trying to kill his stepfather the same night authorities say he murdered his 11-year-old son and girlfriend. The incident occurred on March 17, and Huff was formally charged Tuesday in Onondaga County Court, PEOPLE reported.
Huff is accused of pointing a firearm at Charles O’Donnell, his stepfather, and pulling the trigger. According to prosecutors, the weapon misfired, sparing O’Donnell’s life. Assistant District Attorney Rob Moran confirmed the attempted shooting during Huff’s court appearance.
Earlier that night, Huff allegedly shot his son, Jeremiah Huff, in the head at close range with a 12-gauge shotgun. Despite his injuries, the boy managed to call his mother before dying, Syracuse Police Chief Joseph Cecile shared during a press briefing covered by Syracuse.com.
Huff’s girlfriend, Yeraldith Tschudy, 32, was also killed. A mother of two and a social worker at Villa of Hope, she reportedly suffered multiple gunshot wounds. District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick said Tschudy had been dating Huff for about six months. He also described the horror of Jeremiah’s mother hearing the killing over the phone.
Following the shootings, Huff appeared at a local hospital. Suspicious behavior led a staff member to notify authorities. Huff was arrested by New York State Police the following day.
Huff remains in custody at the Onondaga County Justice Center and is scheduled to return to court on July 26. Trial proceedings are expected to begin next May.
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