The forthcoming episode of CBS’s 48 Hours will delve into the shocking homicide of Alexandra Pennig, a case for which her boyfriend and co-worker, Matthew Ecker, was convicted two years later.
According to correctional records, Matthew Ecker is currently imprisoned at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Saint Cloud, where he is serving a 30-year sentence.
This tragic incident was initially considered a suicide based on eyewitness accounts, but forensic evidence played a pivotal role in unraveling this complex murder case. Audiences can catch this intriguing story on CBS’s True Crime series, titled “The Strange Shooting of Alex Pennig,”airing on October 26, 2024, at 10 PM ET.
Matthew Ecker was convicted in the murder of Alexandra Pennig.
According to CBS News, Alexandra Pennig’s lifeless body was discovered on December 16, 2022, in her Minnesota home’s bathroom. Upon arriving at the scene, homicide investigators found her with a gunshot wound to the head.
Matthew Ecker, the only person present at the time of her death, claimed that Alexandra had shot herself in the bathroom with his firearm. He reported that he broke down the door, found her unresponsive with the gun placed on her chest, cleaned his hands, and called 911. However, when investigators arrived, they noted that the sink he claimed to have used was dry, raising suspicions.
Further analysis revealed that prescription medications, including antidepressants and alcohol, were present in the home. Although Alexandra had a history of depression and substance use, she had recently completed a rehabilitation program, according to her parents, who insisted that her life was on track and suicidal actions were unlikely.
During questioning by detectives about any disagreements with Alexandra the previous night, Ecker denied any altercations, asserting they had enjoyed a night out together before returning home.
In the course of the investigation, forensic experts discovered a round metal piece beneath Alexandra’s body, identified as part of the damaged door lock.
This evidence led investigators to theorize that Matthew Ecker may have forcibly entered the bathroom and shot her rather than breaking in afterward, suggesting that Alexandra was likely trying to escape from him.
Matthew Ecker received a 30-year prison sentence.
Despite maintaining his innocence, Matthew Ecker was convicted of second-degree murder after an eight-day trial in 2024, resulting in a 30-year sentence. He is currently serving his time at the Minnesota Correctional Facility and is reportedly working on appealing his conviction, as noted by CBS News.
Viewers interested in learning more about this gripping case should tune into the upcoming episode of 48 Hours on CBS, featuring “The Strange Shooting of Alex Pennig.”
The episode synopsis reads:
“A nurse is found dead in her apartment. A surveillance video captures her last moments coming home. Will investigators be able to uncover what transpired next?”
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