Native New Havener Dennis Atkinson Was Murdered Last August, Cops Charge His Killer: NHPD

NEW HAVEN, CT—Dennis Atkinson was a native New Havener, born and raised; he "spent his life deeply rooted in the community that shaped him," his family shared in his obituary.

Atkinson was shot and killed Aug. 18, 2025. Police said at the time it appeared that an "argument preceded the shooting and was not a random event."

It was just before 5 a.m. that mid-August morning when New Haven police officers were dispatched to the area of Ferry Street and River Street following a ShotSpotter alert and found Atkinson lying on the sidewalk suffering from several gunshot wounds. Rushed to Yale-New Haven Hospital, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

The case was assigned to Detective Michael Haines, of the Major Crimes Unit, working under the supervision of Sergeant Joshua Kyle. Haines was able to develop probable cause to arrest Vincent Watts, 26, of New Haven. Taken into custody on April 3, Watts was charged with the murder of the then 40-year-old Atkinson. Watts, who also faces several firearm charges, is being held on a $2.5 million bond.

Mayor Justin Elicker, New Haven Police Chief David Zannelli, and command staff held a media briefing Wednesday. Members of his family thanked investigators and shared their grief over their loss.

In his obituary, Atkinson's family said their loved one was "known for being family-oriented and down to earth, with a natural gift for humor that made him unforgettable."

"Howard had an uncanny ability to turn any moment into a funny one," they wrote.

The family shared that Atkinson worked for the city of New Haven as a Downtown Ambassador, a "role that perfectly suited his outgoing personality and love for connecting with people."

The Town Green District's Ambassador program has ambassadors working to "keep downtown New Haven clean, safe and thriving for those who wish to live, work, and play here." They greet visitors, water flowers and plants, sweep streets, provide directions and information, and maintain seven Town Green District seating areas.

"His presence was a familiar and welcome one throughout the city," his family wrote. "His laughter echoing down sidewalks and his energy lighting up every corner he touched."