Deadly 35-hour standoff in Trenton ends in surrender

TRENTON — A deadly standoff that lasted more than two days at a city home ended late Thursday afternoon with the suspect surrendering about 5 p.m.

Tyleeb Reese, 35, came out of the home shirtless and with his hands on his head nearly 35 hours after he first opened fire on police, killing an innocent bystander and leaving three Mercer County Sheriff's officers with injuries

The incident began before 6:30 a.m. Wednesday on Centre Street when the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force attempted to arrest Reese on an outstanding warrant.

Reese barricaded himself and a standoff ensued with state troopers.

A neighbor, Robert Powell, 56, was caught in the crossfire and died after being hit by a bullet from Reese's gun, officials said.

Reese was not holding hostages. Some nearby residents were forced to leave their homes for both days.

Police avoided storming the home, hoping Reese would surrender.

Officers used a bullhorn on Thursday to plead with Reese and offer him medical help for a leg injury he appeared to have sustained.

Reese was a convicted sex offender who had been accused of raping a teenager between the ages of 13 and 16. He also was convicted for failing to register as a sex offender after his release from jail. His criminal record includes past arrests on charges of eluding police.

Powell, the victim who died Wednesday, lived with his wife of 30 years. They were expecting their first grandchild.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-359-5348 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.