Man Wanted for Hamden Murder Arrested in Stratford

Police have taken a man wanted for the murder of Hamden resident Larry Dildy into custody.

Nicholas Papantoniou, 38, who had addresses in Hamden and New Haven was wanted since October, according to police.

Police and U.S. Marshals found Papantoniou at 371 Stonybrook Road in Stratford early Tuesday morning, said Capt. Ronald Smith, Hamden Police spokesman.

Papantoniou is a popular hip-hop artist in the area’s music scene. He goes by the stage name of “Nickel P,” according to NBC Connecticut.

Police had already arrested William Coutermash, 33, of East Haven and charged him with felony murder, conspiracy to commit home invasion and other charges.

Papantoniou is believed to be the shooter, according to police. He was taken to Hamden Police headquarters and detained in lieu of a court-ordered $1 million bond.

He was charged with felony murder, home invasion, related conspiracy charges and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and removing identification marks from a firearm.

Larry Dildy was shot and killed Oct. 19 in Hamden on Circular Avenue. A dispute occurred and Dildy was shot, police said.