NORWICH – New York State Police are investigating an apparent homicide reported Thursday afternoon at a residence in the Town of Norwich.

Troopers and Chenango County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call made at 1:51 p.m. regarding a deceased male.

“Because of the manner of the body and the circumstances of the incident, we believe this death to be suspicious,” said Lt. James E. Barnes.

According to 911 dispatch logs, the unidentified caller reported that the victim appeared to have a “penetrating injury,” saying it may be a stab or a gunshot wound.

Troopers arrived at the scene at 5220 on State Rt. 23 in the Town of Norwich and discovered the owner of the residence, William E. Lee, age 61, dead inside.

Police have been congregating at the Norwich City Police Station this morning and are using the emergency operations center on the second floor as the investigation’s command center.