Tavontay Haygood, 32, of Rochester, New York, is now facing a second-degree murder indictment in connection with the fatal shooting of Derrick Ellis on September 19, 2023.

Ellis Shooting Investigation

The indictment, handed down this month, relates to the death of 48-year-old Derrick Ellis, who died two days after being shot on the porch of a Diringer Place residence. Law enforcement believe the shooting stemmed from an escalating dispute between Haygood and Ellis.

Existing Murder Charge

This new charge comes as Haygood is already awaiting trial for the murder of 46-year-old Karen Wargo. The Wargo case unfolded on July 9, 2025, on Pleasant Street in Rochester.

Evidence in Wargo Case

Investigators determined Wargo’s death resulted from blunt force trauma to the head and asphyxiation. Surveillance footage showed Haygood violently assaulting Wargo, repeatedly kicking her approximately thirty minutes before her body was discovered.

Prior Conviction and Mental Health

Haygood has a prior conviction from May 2024 for attempted arson and endangering the welfare of a child, admitting to attempting to set a house on fire with children inside. He is currently awaiting sentencing through the Monroe County Mental Health Court.

Ongoing Investigations

Haygood was arraigned on Wednesday regarding the Ellis killing and remains incarcerated at the Monroe County Jail. Rochester police are also responding to the discovery of bodies on Wednesday afternoon in the north side of the city and under a bridge in the High Falls neighborhood.

Separate Case: Hashini Herath

The case also comes as police investigate the death of Hashini Herath, a 29-year-old Sri Lankan immigrant who moved to the U.S. with her husband last year. These investigations highlight the challenges facing law enforcement in maintaining public safety within the Rochester community.