New York State Trooper Christopher Skinner murdered by driver on I-81

Almond Upton of Melrose, Fla., who police say intentionally targeted and murdered New York State Trooper Christopher Skinner.

06/04/2014  — A Florida man is charged with one count of Murder 1st degree after intentionally striking a New York State Trooper along I-81 in Broome County.

Almond Upton, 60, Melrose, Florida was arraigned in Town of Chenango Court on one count of Murder 1st degree after he intentionally struck Trooper Christopher G. Skinner along I-81 in Broome County.

Just after 12:00 p.m. on May 29, 2014, Upton was traveling on I-81 when he intentionally hit two cars driving north. One driver suffered minor injuries and was treated at Wilson Hospital.

After traveling approximately one mile, just north of exit 6, between Chenango Bridge and Castle Creek, Upton spotted Trooper Skinner conducting a traffic stop, traveled from the passing to driving lane intentionally striking Trooper Skinner and sideswiped the car he stopped.

Trooper Skinner was killed instantly.

Upton’s vehicle continued on a short distance before stopping and he ran into nearby woods.

He was taken into custody approximately an hour later.

Upton was sent to the Broome County Jail with no bail.

The investigation into the death of Trooper Skinner continues.

State Police would like to thank the Broome County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshal Service, Castle Creek Fire Department, and other federal and local first responders for their assistance.