Bio

David J. Renz was born in 1983. He grew up in Cicero, New York, and faced many challenges from an early age. Renz was born with a congenital facial deformity. This condition caused him to be without the lower half of his left jaw and part of his cheekbone. Because of this, he had serious breathing and feeding problems as a baby. He required a tracheotomy and feeding tubes. As a child, he underwent multiple surgeries to try to improve his condition. These medical issues greatly impacted his life and his family's resources.

Renz's mother provided most of his care, helping him with physical therapy exercises that were painful. He often experienced bullying and social isolation at school. Many kids stared at him or made fun of him because of his appearance. He was usually the last one picked for teams or group assignments. Despite these struggles, Renz was described as a bright student who enjoyed subjects like math and science.

At home, Renz's situation was difficult. His mother was known to be a hoarder, which created a chaotic living environment. The clutter in their home made it hard for him to invite friends over, leaving him feeling isolated. As he grew older, Renz continued to face challenges related to his deformity and the home life he had. These experiences would shape his life significantly as he moved into adulthood.

Murder Story

On March 14, 2013, David Renz committed a violent crime in Syracuse, New York. On that day, Renz, who was under federal monitoring for child pornography charges, cut off his electronic ankle bracelet. He then drove to the Great Northern Mall in Clay, New York.

At the mall, Renz found his victims, Lori Ann Bresnahan, a 47-year-old librarian, and her 10-year-old daughter. He used an air pistol to threaten them and forced them into their car. Renz ordered Lori to drive to a more secluded area of the parking lot. There, he bound both victims with cable ties.

Renz then attempted to assault the young girl. During this struggle, Lori fought back and encouraged her daughter to escape. The girl managed to flee and was later rescued by a passing motorist. However, while she escaped, Renz stabbed her mother, Lori, multiple times in the head and chest. Lori sustained fatal injuries.

After the attack, Renz was captured by the police shortly afterwards. The details of the crime highlighted the tragic circumstances surrounding the event. Renz was found guilty of first-degree murder and predatory sexual assault against a child. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on May 16, 2014. Prior to this, he was also sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for possessing child pornography.