Minneapolis, Minn. — In a whirlwind of alleged violence that began in a Minneapolis apartment and ended miles away in Kandiyohi County, a 25-year-old man now faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder. Ameer Musa Matariyeh is accused of a rampaging crime spree that left one dead and another injured across a wide swath of Minnesota.
On a fateful Tuesday, the drama unfolded as Matariyeh reportedly discharged a firearm from the balcony of his rented Minneapolis apartment, thrusting the community into fear. Not long after, his ex-girlfriend, a resident of the apartment with their shared child, described a volatile confrontation that escalated when Matariyeh allegedly aimed a gun at her and another man during an argument, igniting a terrifying chase both inside and outside their home.
In the ensuing moments, violence spiraled as Matariyeh is accused of striking one man with his gun, then fleeing the scene in a stolen vehicle – a White Chevy Malibu. His path of mayhem continued to Kandiyohi County, some 100 miles west, where the situation intensified.
Upon reaching a home in Lake Lillian, voices raised in an alleged altercation culminated in gunshots, striking Peter Mayerchak, 25, of Lake Lillian, who suffered injuries to his upper shoulder but is currently in satisfactory condition. Tragically, 55-year-old Jerome Skluzacek of New London was fatally shot.
Authorities relayed that during Matariyeh’s Minnesota racing escape, velocities surging over 100 miles per hour created hazardous conditions for law enforcement pursuing him. The chase, enveloping several towns, finally concluded in Willmar after tactical communications with OnStar enabled police to remotely disable the Malibu.
The violent outbreak reached a climax when Matariyeh allegedly approached a green pickup truck, opened the driver’s door, and appeared to discharge his weapon before fleeing on foot. Officers ultimately apprehended him in a median nearby and recovered the firearm involved.
During his first courtroom appearance in Kandiyohi County, Judge Jennifer Fischer set Matariyeh’s bail at $3.5 million, and he was appointed a public defender. In addition to the charges in Kandiyohi County, Matariyeh faces multiple counts in Hennepin County, including three counts of second-degree assault and one count of domestic assault, further complicating his legal battles.
As the community grapples with the horrific events, law enforcement and legal proceedings continue to uncover the depth of this crime spree that has scarred the lives of many, particularly the families directly impacted by the violence.
Amidst this criminal investigation, authorities and community leaders reiterate the importance of vigilance and community support in preventing such tragic incidents. Organizations dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence and abuse emphasize the availability of resources and assistance, urging anyone in precarious domestic situations to seek help immediately.
Matariyeh is scheduled to reappear in court in late November, where further details of these harrowing events will be scrutinized, as the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families perseveres amidst community mourning and unrest. The repercussions of this spree highlight ongoing concerns around domestic violence and public safety, sparking dialogues on how such dire situations can be diffused or prevented in the future.