The Waterbury Times|Published Dec 29, 2025

WATERBURY, CT — The arrest of Kendren Barnes, 47, of Waterbury, on a murder charge marks the latest chapter in a criminal history that spans nearly three decades across multiple Connecticut jurisdictions.

Waterbury Man Charged With Murder Following Fatal Grove Street Stabbing

Barnes, whose date of birth is April 10, 1978, was taken into custody on December 29, 2025, and charged with Murderin connection with a fatal stabbing that occurred on December 27, 2025, at 144 Grove Street. He is currently being held on a $2.5 million bond. The case remains pending in court.

Long Criminal Record

Court records show Barnes has an extensive criminal history in the State of Connecticut dating back to 1995, with more than seven prior cases and repeated periods of incarceration, probation, and violations of court supervision.

His record reflects a pattern of offenses beginning with larcenies, later escalating to robbery, weapons-related charges, assaults, escape, and multiple probation and bond violations. Barnes has been arrested in numerous cities, including Waterbury, Torrington, Hartford, New Britain, New Haven, Manchester, Middletown, Windsor, Wethersfield, Berlin, Montville, and West Hartford.

Charges over the years have included:

• Larceny (various degrees)
• Robbery (third degree)
• Assault
• Carrying a dangerous weapon
• Weapons possession while incarcerated
• Escape
• Interfering with an officer
• Drug-related offenses
• Violations of protective orders
• Failure to appear
• Repeated probation and bond violations

Records also show Barnes has been arrested within the past two years and has served multiple jail sentences ranging from short terms to multi-year incarcerations.

Waterbury Stabbing Leaves One Dead at Grove Street Apartment Building

Current Case

The current murder charge stems from a physical disturbance at a Grove Street apartment building that left one man dead and another injured. Police have stated the incident appears to be isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Barnes is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Investigation Ongoing

The Waterbury Police Department continues to investigate the case. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Waterbury Police Detective Bureau at (203) 574-6941 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at (203) 755-1234.

The Waterbury Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the court system.

Stay link with The Waterbury Times for

Waterbury CT Local News