New Haven Man, 28, Pleads Guilty to Felony Murder, Gun Charge in 2023 Fatal Shooting: State's Attorney

NEW HAVEN, CT — A 28-year-old New Haven man pleaded guilty in the 2023 shooting death of Tyrese Blue, Jr., 26, during an illegal sale of a firearm, according to State’s Attorney John P. Doyle, Jr.

Lewis Santiago, who had previously pleaded not guilty, changed his plea on felony murder and firearm possession on what would have been the first day of jury selection for his criminal trial, Doyle said.

Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 16 in New Haven Superior Court. Doyle said that pursuant to the plea agreement, the court is expected to impose a prison sentence of 35 years to serve.

The case was prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Adrienne Russo and Deputy Assistant State's Attorney Dean Hanafin, who were assisted by Inspector Michael Mastropetre. In a news release, Doyle thanked lead detective Gregory Dash of the New Haven Police Department and many of his fellow law enforcement officers who investigated the case.