Man arrested for killing his mother's boyfriend in Stratford
Police say Robert Kopasz is charged in the fatal shooting earlier this month.
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Stratford police say 22-year-old Robert Kopasz turned himself into police headquarters Tuesday morning with his attorney present in connection with a homicide that occurred on April 4 on Woodstock Avenue.
Kopasz was arraigned in court in Bridgeport and is being held on a $1.5 million court‑set bond. His attorney argued for a reduced bond for his client, but the judge did not agree.
Earlier this month, officers responded to the home at 11:40 p.m. after receiving a report of a disturbance. Multiple gunshots could be heard on the surveillance video captured.
Police say Paul T. Balzarano died after suffering multiple gunshot wounds.
Kopasz was arrested and charged with murder by firearm, illegal possession of an assault weapon without a certificate, Illegal violation of fire rate enhancement, illegal possession of a high‑capacity magazine, and unlawful discharge of a firearm.
Police would not say a motive in this case, but neighbors told News 12 they believe it was about money. They say Balzarano and Kopasz's mother were living together but not married.
Stratford police worked this case for weeks to make sure they got it right.
"It's not a TV show. It's not the movies. It takes time to establish that probable cause," said officials.
Police seized an American Tactical Omni Hybrid semi‑automatic multi‑caliber rifle and a Glock 22 .40‑caliber pistol equipped with an illegal after‑market switch that allows the firearm to be fired fully automatic.
Police say Kopasz had registered firearms as well as two illegal firearms. They add he has no previous criminal record.
Kopasz's next court date is May 19.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Marc Halper at 203-385-4126.
