A tragic act of violence has left the Clifton Park community in shock following the death of 20-year-old Simon Brault, who was fatally stabbed on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
The incident occurred on Beresford Road, a typically quiet residential area, where deputies from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office responded to a distress call involving a stabbing.
Upon arrival, emergency responders found Simon Brault suffering from multiple stab wounds. He was rushed to Albany Medical Center, where doctors attempted life-saving surgery.
Despite their efforts, Brault succumbed to his injuries. The news of his passing quickly spread throughout the Saratoga County community, leaving family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken.
Sheriff’s deputies launched an immediate investigation, which quickly led to the arrest of 18-year-old Jaiden A. Ildefonso. Authorities confirmed that Ildefonso was a relative of Brault’s, though the exact nature of their relationship has not been made public.
On Sunday, Ildefonso was formally charged with murder and arraigned before Judge Robert Rybak at the Clifton Park Town Court. He has since been remanded to the Saratoga County Jail, where he awaits further legal proceedings.
Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo issued a heartfelt statement following the arrest, expressing condolences to the Brault family. “My heart is heavy for the Brault family, and they are in my thoughts and prayers,” Sheriff Zurlo said.
“I hope that they can find some comfort in the quick apprehension of the defendant through the tireless efforts of our road patrol and Criminal Investigations Unit.” The murder has sent ripples through the Clifton Park community, where residents are grappling with the shocking loss of a young man whose life was just beginning.
Simon Brault was described by those who knew him as a kind-hearted, thoughtful, and intelligent individual. Friends have taken to social media to share memories and express their grief. “He was always someone you could count on,” one post read. “Simon was a good soul with a bright future. This just doesn’t make sense.”
Neighbors on Beresford Road, stunned by the violence, left flowers and candles at the scene in a growing makeshift memorial. One resident shared, “This is a peaceful neighborhood, and something like this shakes you to your core. We are devastated for the Brault family.”
While the investigation into the motive and circumstances surrounding the stabbing continues, the loss of Simon Brault has sparked broader conversations about youth violence and mental health. Community leaders have called for compassion, unity, and support as the town copes with the devastating news.
Clifton Park town officials and school counselors have offered support services for those affected by the tragedy. Counselors will be made available for local students and residents who need help processing the incident and coping with grief.
In the days to come, the Brault family is expected to announce arrangements to honor Simon’s life. In the meantime, the community continues to mourn and reflect on the senseless nature of his death. His memory lives on through the many people who knew him as a loyal friend, a loving family member, and a young man with dreams and promise.
As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on honoring Simon’s life and supporting his grieving loved ones. The tragedy has served as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change—and the importance of holding one another close during times of loss.
