Man arrested in 2023 New Haven homicide

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — A New Haven man faces multiple charges, including murder, in the 2023 shooting death of another man, police announced Wednesday.

New Haven police said their investigation into the death of 26-year-old Tyrese Blue, Jr. remains open and active after the arrest of Lewis Santiago.

Officers were called to Cedar and Cassius streets on Oct. 14, 2023, and found Blue suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was pronounced dead on scene.

Police said an argument took place before the shooting .

Sharon Blue, his mother, pleaded for justice on Wednesday.

“This is my son, Tyrese Blue,” she said. “Twenty-six years old. Football player. Wonderful son. I can’t get my son back. I can’t see him. His baby can’t play with him. Justice is not on earth for me. However, the person who took the gun and shot my son – God will have his day with him.”

Santiago, 26, faces several charges, including felony murder and criminal possession of a firearm.

“Santiago and another individual arranged to meet with Blue, Jr. on Cedar Street,” New Haven Police Lt. Pedro Colon. “Once Blue, Jr. arrived, an altercation ensued… and was shot to death.

Because it is an ongoing investigation, police said they couldn’t share what specifically the altercation was about and that additional arrests are possible.

“We’re not going to stop until everybody responsible is brought to justice,” New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson said.

New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said they’re doing what they can to confront violence in the city.

“We have a lot more work to do,” the mayor said. “But I’d like to think we’re making a lot of progress here.”

Blue Jr.’s mother shared this message Wednesday with the community.

“I stand here today to say, protect your children,” she said. “Love your children. These streets are disrespectful. At the end of the day, I will not stop until I get the justice I deserve for Tyrese.”

Santiago is being held on a $3 million bond. He’s due in court on May 8.

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