Young Family Left Heartbroken After Tioga County Investigator’s Death

On March 4, 2026, Tioga County lost Ryan Bunce, a husband, father, and investigator with the Sheriff’s Office who put his life on the line every day. His sudden passing has left his young family and the community in shock, struggling to make sense of such a devastating loss.

As much as Ryan gave to his work and community, he saved the best of himself for his wife, Cassidy, and their children, Everleigh and Colter. He was happiest in the quiet, ordinary moments with them or spending time outdoors, finding peace in nature.

The Heart of Ryan’s World: His Family

Ryan always put his family first, no matter how demanding his work became. Cassidy was his partner in everything. Everleigh, their three-year-old daughter, and Colter, their newborn son, were his pride and joy. The time he spent with them was what truly made him happiest.

READ MORE: New York’s Good Samaritan Law: What It Means if You Step In To Help

The simple, everyday joys, like watching his kids play or sharing laughs with Cassidy, were the memories he held closest. Those regular days at home were what he cherished most.

Now Cassidy is left grappling with the unimaginable loss of her best friend and partner. She faces each day with a toddler and a newborn in her arms, trying to imagine how to move forward without him.

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Ryan spent his career looking out for others and protecting our community. He answered the call every day to make Tioga County safer, always putting service above self.

Outside of work, Ryan found joy in the woods and quiet moments with loved ones. These were the places and times that brought him peace, far from the demands and dangers of his job.

Standing With Cassidy, Everleigh, and Colter

Right now, Cassidy isn't just dealing with heartbreak. She's also facing the everyday challenges of raising two little ones and figuring out how to manage without Ryan’s support.

To help lighten this load, friends and neighbors have started a GoFundMe fundraiser. The hope is to give Cassidy and the kids a little breathing room as they figure out what comes next.

For a lot of people, pitching in for Ryan’s family just feels right. He spent his life looking out for others, and now it’s our turn to look out for the people he loved most.

Get our free mobile app

How You Can Bring Comfort to Cassidy, Everleigh, and Colter

If you want to help, even a small donation or sharing the fundraiser for Cassidy, Everleigh, and Colter can make a big difference as they try to adjust to this new chapter without Ryan.