Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Killing Brother in 2022

Jerome Cole faces 25 years to life in prison for manslaughter conviction.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:51am

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Jerome Cole, a 28-year-old Buffalo resident, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the first degree for the 2022 shooting death of his brother, Marcus Cole. The incident occurred in July 2022 when Jerome Cole used an illegal weapon to shoot and kill his 35-year-old brother.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence and domestic disputes leading to tragic outcomes in the city of Buffalo. The guilty plea avoids a lengthy trial and brings some closure to the Cole family, though the loss of life is still deeply felt.

The details

According to the Erie County District Attorney's Office, Jerome Cole pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the first degree while jury selection was underway for his trial. The original incident occurred in July 2022, when Cole shot his brother Marcus Cole with an illegal firearm, leading to Marcus' death from his injuries.

  • The incident occurred in July 2022.
  • Jerome Cole pleaded guilty in March 2026 as jury selection was underway for his trial.

The players

Jerome Cole

A 28-year-old Buffalo resident who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the first degree for killing his brother in 2022.

Marcus Cole

The 35-year-old brother of Jerome Cole who was killed in the 2022 shooting incident.

Michael Keane

The Erie County District Attorney who announced Jerome Cole's guilty plea.

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What’s next

Jerome Cole faces a sentence of 25 years to life in prison for his manslaughter conviction.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and domestic disputes in the city of Buffalo, where the loss of life has had a profound impact on the local community.