Police in Vermont have released a sketch of a person of interest in the murder of a retired college dean, Honoree Fleming, on the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail in Castleton. The body of the 77-year-old woman was discovered on October 5th, and an autopsy revealed she died from a gunshot wound to the head. The Vermont State Police have described the case as suspicious and are treating it as a homicide.

According to witnesses, the individual depicted in the sketch was seen on the trail around the same time as Fleming's body was found. Described as a white man in his 20s, approximately 5'10" tall, with short red hair, he was last seen wearing a dark gray T-shirt and carrying a black backpack. The sketch was created by Detective Sgt. Adam Temple, a composite police sketch artist from the Sagadahoc County Sheriff's Office, who interviewed witnesses and spent hours refining the sketch based on their descriptions and feedback.

Authorities are urging anyone who recognizes the person of interest to come forward with information or provide anonymous tips. The Vermont State Police have also warned the public that the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous. As the investigation into the killing continues, authorities are reviewing potential evidence. However, at present, there are no further details available.

The incident has sparked concern in the community, particularly in light of another unsolved murder that occurred on a popular hiking trail in Maryland two months prior. In that case, no arrests have been made, and a $30,000 reward has been offered. The similarities between the two cases have raised fears of a potential serial killer targeting outdoor recreational areas.

The Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail, where the murder took place, is a 19.8-mile-long stretch of former railroad that is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and horseback riders. As a result of the investigation, the nearby Vermont State University campus in Castleton has been closed as a precautionary measure, with a shelter-in-place order issued for students. The college has also urged local businesses and the public in the Castleton area to review any surveillance videos from October 5th that may capture someone matching the description of the person of interest.