ALBANY — Eric Chapman admitted just days before his trial was set to begin that he shot and killed Javone Sims, Jr., 18, on June 22, 2023.
Chapman, 20, abruptly pleaded guilty to murder in the second degree Friday afternoon before Albany County Court Judge Andra Ackerman. His trial on murder and possession of a weapon charges in connection with Sims Jr.’s death was scheduled for Monday. He faces 20 years to life in prison at sentencing.
Chapman fatally shot Sims Jr. in the backyard of a Third Street residence. A 17-year-old was critically wounded in the shooting, during which Chapman also was shot — marking at least his second time being wounded by gunfire…