by Danbury, CT / Putnam County, NY – A 66-year-old Connecticut taxi driver, Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez, was found dead in upstate New York, prompting a massive police investigation to locate the person responsible. Zhunio-Orbez was reported missing to the Danbury Police Department on Dec. 1, 2025, and his body was discovered on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, floating in the Croton Falls Reservoir in Putnam County, NY.
Homicide Confirmed
The Putnam County Coroner conducted a post-mortem examination and determined that Zhunio-Orbez’s death was a homicide. Authorities confirmed that a criminal investigation is underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrator.
Police also issued an alert for Zhunio-Orbez’s stolen black Toyota Sienna taxi, which was taken by the suspected killer. The vehicle has ORBESTAXI.COM on the rear, “V89” marked on the back left side, and a white taxi sign on the roof, according to ABC7 Eyewitness News.
Last Known Whereabouts
Danbury police reported that Zhunio-Orbez was last seen around 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2025, at the Brewster, New York, Metro-North station, where he was working as a livery driver. Following his disappearance, local authorities coordinated with New York law enforcement in a search that ultimately led to the discovery of his body.
The Connecticut police department referred inquiries about the case to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the ongoing investigation.
Family Remembers Dedicated Father and Community Member
Zhunio-Orbez’s niece, Isabel Alvarado, shared her grief in a GoFundMe post to raise funds for the family. She described her uncle as a dedicated father, brother, uncle, and friend, who was loved in the community and had built strong connections with his passengers through his work as a taxi driver.
“Sadly, there are individuals in this world who take advantage of those who are most vulnerable, and now our family is facing an irreparable loss,” Alvarado wrote. The fundraising page set a goal of $7,000 and had raised just over $3,000 by Wednesday evening, Dec. 10, 2025.
Authorities Seek Public Assistance
Law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding Zhunio-Orbez’s disappearance or the stolen taxi to come forward. Residents are asked to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to local authorities, as the investigation continues to develop.
This tragic incident highlights the risks faced by individuals in public service roles, including taxi drivers, and underscores the importance of community awareness and support in preventing and responding to violent crimes.
Have You Seen This Taxi?
If you have information about Aurelio Zhunio-Orbez’s black Toyota Sienna or his disappearance, please contact Putnam County authorities immediately. Share tips, condolences, or community safety ideas in the comments below.
