Man charged with murder in brutal baseball bat attack on former mother-in-law — Police Handcuffs- File Photo - Arrest

Trumbull, CT – A Trumbull mother was attacked with a baseball bat the day after her 70th birthday. Ylli Shtopaku, 46, was charged with the murder of Lida Shape.

The incident took place at the Ten Trumbull apartment complex on April 28. Shape returned home with an acquaintance when she was approached and attacked by Shtopaku around noon.

Witnesses report the attack lasted 92 seconds. Shape lived in the complex with Shtopaku’s ex-wife and their two children.

It was determined the two were no longer related due to a family divorce several years earlier. Upon arrival at the scene, police found Shape lying on her back, beaten and gasping for air.

A neighbor identified Shtopaku to the police. He allegedly claimed Shape had “tried to kill me for all my life” and that he acted in retaliation.

Shtopaku stated he had seen Shape at a mall food court, followed her home, and confronted her before grabbing a bat from his car. He blamed her for his divorce, loss of his house in Monroe, and financial difficulties.

Local news reported prosecutors offered a plea deal to Shtopaku on Friday, though details remain undisclosed.

Shtopaku is being held on a $3 million bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on February 19, 2026.

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