A Rochester man has pleaded guilty in State Supreme Court to first degree manslaughter in connection with the death of his mother's ex-husband about two years ago, after a girl's basketball game in West Seneca. Andre Lewis, 41, became involved in an argument with Robert Echols, 54, of Rochester on April 29, 2017.
Authorities say Echols punched Lewis in the face, while Lewis was holding his 14-month-old daughter. Lewis then pulled out his licensed pistol and shot Echols twice. Echols died from his wounds.
Lewis was indicted on a count of second degree murder, but two trials last year ended in hung juries. A third trial was about to begin Monday morning, when the Erie County District Attorney's office offered a plea deal to first degree manslaughter.
Sentencing will be on June 6. Lewis remains free on $100,000 bail.
