Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 27-year-old Nakeem D. Haynes of Buffalo was arraigned this morning before Supreme Court Justice Debra Givens on one count of Murder in the Second Degree (Class “A-I” felony), two counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree (Class “A-I” felony), and one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class “C” violent felony).

It is alleged that on Friday, June 17, 2022, at approximately 7:18 p.m., in the vicinity of Broadway Avenue and Sears Street, the defendant fatally shot 63-year-old Atlas Johnson as Buffalo Police officers were on routine patrol in the area.

During the officer’s pursuit, the defendant is accused of intentionally firing a single shot into the windshield of the patrol vehicle, striking one of the officer’s gun holster, as well as continuing to fire at them as they pursued him on foot. The officers were able to detain the defendant on Playter Street after shooting him. The officers provided first aid until the defendant was transported to ECMC.

Haynes is scheduled to return on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. for a pre-trial conference. He continues to be held without bail.

If convicted of the charges, Haynes faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison. 

DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department for their work in this investigation.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Gary Hackbush of the Homicide Bureau and Assistant District Attorney John Feroleto of the Major Crimes Unit.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.