HAMDEN, Conn. — An 18-year-old man who was shot and killed in January was attempting to sell his car when a planned robbery turned deadly, according to investigators. Authorities have now arrested three juvenile suspects in connection with the fatal shooting.
The victim, identified as Keyvon Washington Archibald, was killed on Jan. 17 in Hamden. Police said he had arranged to meet individuals who expressed interest in purchasing his vehicle. What was expected to be a routine transaction quickly escalated into violence.
According to the Hamden Police Department, the suspects attempted to rob Washington Archibald during the meeting. At some point, gunfire erupted, and the teen was shot. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Following weeks of investigation, detectives announced Friday that three minors had been taken into custody in connection with the case. Due to their ages, authorities have not released their identities.
The juveniles are facing multiple serious charges, including felony murder, murder, first-degree attempted robbery, and criminal possession of a firearm. Under Connecticut law, felony murder applies when a death occurs during the commission of certain violent crimes, such as robbery.
Investigators said the case required extensive coordination among multiple law enforcement agencies. In addition to Hamden police, the investigation involved assistance from the New Haven Police Department, West Haven Police Department, and Meriden Police Department. Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration, also provided support.
Authorities did not disclose specific details about how the suspects were identified but said investigators were able to develop evidence linking the three minors to the robbery and shooting. Police have not stated whether the firearm used in the incident has been recovered.
The fatal shooting has left the local community shaken, as residents grapple with the violence involving young individuals on both sides of the incident. Law enforcement officials reiterated the dangers associated with private sales arranged through online marketplaces or informal contacts.
Police encourage individuals selling vehicles or other high-value items to take precautionary measures, such as meeting in well-lit public areas, bringing another person along, and notifying someone about the meeting location and time. Some departments also offer designated safe exchange zones monitored by cameras.
The suspects remain in custody as the case moves through the juvenile justice system. Prosecutors will determine whether the minors will continue to be tried in juvenile court or if efforts will be made to transfer the case to adult court given the severity of the charges.
Authorities said the investigation remains active, and additional details may be released as court proceedings continue.
