State Police have charged a 17-year-old with murdering his adopted father in Holland Patent.

Austin Parker is accused of second degree murder after the body of Steven Parker, 52, was found Wednesday afternoon in the backyard of a home on State Route 365. Police believe Steven Parker was killed approximately one month ago.

Upon discovering the body, a bulletin was dispatched to local law enforcement for a vehicle believed to be related to the crime, police said. That vehicle was stopped by West Carthage Police Officer David Pustizzi on Wednesday and the younger Parker was then taken into custody.

An autopsy is pending. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police Oneida at 315-366-6000. The State Police were assisted by Holland Patent Fire Department and Prospect Ambulance Squad.

***This story originally identified Austin Parker as the son of the victim, based on information provided by police. However, police have since clarified the he was the adopted son of the Steven Parker.

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