The Chilling Tale of Tyree Smith: Connecticut's Notorious Case

In a shocking true crime story, Tyree Smith, dubbed the 'Connecticut Cannibal,' committed a gruesome murder in 2011. After killing homeless man Angel Gonzalez with an axe, Smith engaged in cannibalistic acts, leading to his arrest. Declared insane, he was institutionalized for 60 years but was recently granted conditional release. Concerns remain about his potential threat to society, as he had a history of violent behavior even while incarcerated. This chilling tale raises questions about mental health and public safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 25, 2026, 14:45 IST

A Gruesome Incident in Connecticut

In 2011, a horrifying incident in Connecticut shocked both law enforcement and medical professionals. The murder of a homeless man, followed by cannibalistic acts, culminated in the arrest of Tyree Smith, who became infamously known as the 'Connecticut Cannibal.' This story is as chilling as it sounds.

Brutal Murder and Cannibalism
Tyree Smith brutally murdered a homeless individual named Angel Gonzalez in Bridgeport using an axe. Following the crime, he was discovered sitting in a cemetery, having consumed a portion of Gonzalez's brain and one of his eyes. The day before the murder, he had visited his cousin, Nicole Rabb, where he rambled about Greek gods and expressed a desire to 'stain his hands with blood.' The next day, he arrived at her home covered in blood, recounting how he killed Angel and ate parts of him.

He even described the taste of the eye as 'similar to an oyster,' claiming he was under the influence of Japanese sake during the act. Days later, Gonzalez's decomposed body was found in an abandoned apartment.

Institutionalized for 60 Years
In 2013, the court determined that Tyree Smith was suffering from severe schizophrenia at the time of the incident. He was declared not guilty by reason of insanity and was committed to Whiting Forensic Hospital for 60 years. According to doctors, his mental condition has significantly improved with medication and ongoing treatment. A forensic psychiatrist noted that he now assists in maintaining calm among other patients and no longer exhibits his previous tendencies.

Tyree's Conditional Release
At the beginning of 2025, the psychological security review board granted Tyree conditional release. He now lives among the public under strict supervision, with regular medication and therapy. However, documents from his time in prison reveal that he had several altercations with other inmates, and at one point, he had to be isolated due to reported misconduct against him.

Angel Gonzalez's sister-in-law, Talitha Frazier, expressed concerns that Tyree still poses a threat to society. She stated, 'If he continued to exhibit violent behavior while incarcerated, how can he be safe outside?' Nevertheless, before the court's decision, Tyree had apologized for Angel's death.