Man Sentenced for Killing Childhood Friend in Hyde Park

Isaiah Smith pleaded guilty to manslaughter and unlawful firearm possession for the 2024 shooting death of Jose Feliz.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:55pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the tragic aftermath of a shooting between childhood friends.A single spent shell casing serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of gun violence, even among those with lifelong bonds.Boston Today

Isaiah Smith, 29, of Hyde Park, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 22 years in state prison for the 2024 shooting death of his childhood friend, Jose Feliz, 28, also of Hyde Park. Smith pleaded guilty to manslaughter and unlawful possession of a firearm charges.

Why it matters

The tragic case highlights the devastating impact of gun violence, even among those with close personal relationships. It also raises questions about the plea deal and whether the sentence fully holds Smith accountable for taking his friend's life.

The details

On November 8, 2024, Boston police responded to multiple calls about a shooting on Garfield Avenue in Hyde Park. They found Feliz unresponsive in the backyard and pronounced him dead. Smith was found near his home's front steps and told officers he had shot Feliz, with the weapon inside on the kitchen counter. Smith and Feliz had been lifelong friends.

  • On November 8, 2024, Boston police responded to the shooting.
  • On April 13, 2026, Smith was sentenced to 22 years in state prison.

The players

Isaiah Smith

A 29-year-old Hyde Park resident who pleaded guilty to manslaughter and unlawful firearm possession for killing his childhood friend Jose Feliz.

Jose Feliz

A 28-year-old Hyde Park resident who was killed by his childhood friend Isaiah Smith in November 2024.

Kevin Hayden

The Suffolk District Attorney whose office prosecuted the case against Isaiah Smith.

Juan Feliz

The brother of victim Jose Feliz, who described Jose as his 'best friend' and 'one of the most friendly, outgoing, and respectful people in the neighborhood.'

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What they’re saying

“They betrayed him. This was someone who knew him, someone who grew up around him, someone who was treated like family and should have respected him.”

— Juan Feliz, Brother of Victim

“He did not just kill someone, he killed an innocent, loving son, brother, and uncle. He also took the life of his own childhood friend. They were like brothers.”

— Feliz Family, Victim's Family

What’s next

The Feliz family has expressed disagreement with the plea deal, raising concerns that the sentence does not fully hold Smith accountable. It remains to be seen if they will pursue further legal action.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the devastating impact of gun violence, even among those with close personal relationships. It also highlights the complex issues surrounding plea deals and sentencing, and the need for a justice system that balances accountability, rehabilitation, and the concerns of victims' families.