Ridiculous Argument Leads to Stabbing at Gas Station in Dutchess County

A Dutchess County gas station became the scene of a violent confrontation Wednesday morning after police say a cashier was stabbed following an argument over something as simple as rolling papers.

According to the Hyde Park Police Department, the incident began at approximately 6:08 a.m. on September 23rd, when officers were called to the Sunoco gas station at 4299 Albany Post Road in the Town of Hyde Park for a report of a stabbing.

Sunoco Gas Station Hyde Park, NY

Cashier Stabbed at Gas Station in Hyde Park, NY

When officers arrived, they learned that a cashier had been stabbed following a verbal and physical altercation involving tobacco rolling papers. Police say the suspect left the scene in a green Subaru.

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Investigators quickly began working to identify the person responsible and, following what police described as a thorough investigation, identified the suspect as Sydney E. Heidt. About six hours later, police were able to locate and arrest Heidt.

Sydney E. Heidt

Heidt was subsequently processed and arraigned before Judge McArthur before being sent to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center. Bail was set at $250,000 cash, $500,000 bond, or a $500,000 partially secured bond. Heidt is facing several charges in connection with the incident, including:

• Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D felony
• Robbery in the Third Degree, a Class D felony
• Menacing in the Second Degree, a Class A misdemeanor
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree, a Class A misdemeanor
• Petit Larceny, a Class A misdemeanor

Police did not release any additional information about the condition of the cashier who was stabbed. When that information is available, we will update this article.

The Hyde Park Police Department thanked the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office, Dutchess County District Attorney's Office, New York State Police – Wappingers, City of Poughkeepsie Police Department, Hyde Park Fire Department, Empress Ambulance Service and the Dutchess County Emergency Response Center for their assistance during the investigation.

As always, Heidt is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. If there has been a change to this information, such as charges being dropped or dismissed, please email me at CJ@HudsonValleyCountry.com to make the necessary change.