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East Orange Today
By the People, for the People
Man Convicted of Killing Ex-Girlfriend in Front of Police Officer
Andre Higgs sentenced to life in prison for 2015 murder of Latrena May in East Orange, New Jersey
Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:36pm
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A New Jersey man, Andre Higgs, has been convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the 2015 murder of his ex-girlfriend, Latrena May, outside her home in East Orange. The shooting occurred after May ran from her home to escape an attack by Higgs and flagged down a police officer, at which point Higgs fired multiple shots at May, leading to a confrontation with the officer.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the tragic consequences that can occur when victims attempt to seek help. It also raises questions about police response and accountability in such situations, as the initial conviction was overturned due to issues with the officer's internal affairs file.
The details
On the night of May 1, 2015, Higgs and May were involved in an argument outside May's home on Tremont Avenue in East Orange. May ran from her home to escape the attack and flagged down East Orange Detective Kemon Lee, who was in the area. As Lee approached, Higgs fired multiple shots at May, fatally wounding her. Lee returned fire, hitting Higgs in the legs, before Higgs retreated back into May's home, where her 4-year-old daughter was sleeping. Higgs was eventually arrested after barricading himself inside the home.
- The incident occurred on the night of May 1, 2015.
- Higgs was originally sentenced to life in prison in 2017 following his trial and conviction.
- In 2023, the New Jersey Supreme Court overturned Higgs' original sentence and granted him a new trial.
- In late December 2025, Higgs was convicted by a jury and sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 20 years for related weapons charges.
- Under a recently passed New Jersey law, Higgs must serve 85% of his sentence, which equates to just shy of 64 years on the murder conviction alone.
The players
Andre Higgs
A 53-year-old New Jersey man who was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Latrena May, in 2015.
Latrena May
A 27-year-old teacher at Pride Academy Charter School in East Orange, New Jersey, who was killed by her ex-boyfriend, Andre Higgs, in 2015.
Detective Kemon Lee
An East Orange police officer who responded to the scene and exchanged gunfire with Higgs after Higgs shot and killed May.
What they’re saying
“Detective Kemon Lee was a hero that day for responding to Latrena May and attempting to save her from the grip of her abuser.”
— Justin Edwab, Prosecutor
“While no sentence can bring back Latrena May, we hope that knowing Higgs will spend the rest of his life in prison provides the May family with some measure of peace and serves as a solemn acknowledgment of their profound loss.”
— Justin Edwab, Prosecutor
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Higgs out on bail during the appeals process.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing domestic violence and the need for stronger protections and support for victims seeking help. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and accountability for law enforcement in such sensitive situations.
