Albany Man Arraigned in Sister’s Death After Standoff with Police

An Albany man was arraigned today following his arrest yesterday in connection with the death of his sister.

Alphonso Lester, 60, is accused of striking 61-year-old Angela Helms with a blunt object at a residence on Hudson Avenue around 7:10 a.m. Wednesday. Police responded to the scene and identified Lester as the suspect, leading to a standoff at his home on Western Avenue. After deploying tear gas, officers took Lester into custody. He also had an outstanding parole warrant, according to authorities.

Lester has been charged with second-degree burglary and burglary. This incident highlights the tragic consequences of domestic disputes and the strain they place on communities. He was arraigned this morning in Albany City Criminal Court and remanded to Albany County Jail. Further details about the investigation can be found on the Albany County website.

Lester is scheduled to reappear in court on Tuesday, October 21. The Albany Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Helms’ death, and information regarding victim support services is available through the Office for Victims of Crime.