Upstate New York was rocked by the guilty plea of a 34-year-old man, Robert Fisher, for the devastating rape and murder of 3-year-old Josefina Cunningham. The Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office revealed on July 9 that Fisher pleaded guilty to first-degree rape and second-degree murder in connection with the tragic death of the young girl.

According to reports, the Rensselaer City Police Department received a distressing call about an unresponsive juvenile at a specific address on Broadway. Despite efforts to save her, the 3-year-old was pronounced deceased upon arrival at Albany Medical Center.

Fisher’s initial arrest on charges of obstructing governmental administration, resisting arrest, and criminal mischief was followed by additional charges of aggravated sexual abuse, assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. Subsequently, a grand jury indicted him on second-degree murder and first-degree rape.

During a press conference after Fisher’s arraignment in August 2023, Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly described the case as “absolutely heinous and horrific.” Fisher, who reportedly had prior criminal history and was acquainted with Cunningham’s family, is scheduled for sentencing on August 6.

The community awaits justice for young Josefina Cunningham as Fisher’s guilty plea and upcoming sentencing shed light on this tragic and harrowing case.