cover of episode The Strange Shooting of Alex Pennig

The Strange Shooting of Alex Pennig

2024/10/28
logo of podcast 48 Hours

48 Hours

Key Insights

Why did Matthew Ecker go to Alex Pennig's apartment?

He went to protect her from her boyfriend, Shane Anderson, after she called him in distress.

Why did investigators initially suspect Matthew Ecker's account of the events?

They found inconsistencies in his story, such as the position of Alex's body and the dry sink.

Why did Alex's parents find it hard to believe she committed suicide?

She had never shot a gun and didn't like them, making her alleged suicide unfathomable.

Why did detectives doubt Matthew Ecker's claim about the bathroom door?

The door lock piece was found under Alex's head, suggesting the door was forced open before she was shot.

Why was Matthew Ecker charged with second-degree murder?

He was found guilty of killing Alex, despite his claims of innocence and the lack of direct evidence.

Chapters

The investigation into the death of Alex Penning begins with conflicting accounts from Matthew Ecker and her boyfriend, Shane Anderson.
  • Alex was found dead with a gunshot wound to her head.
  • Matthew Ecker claims he arrived to protect Alex from a domestic dispute.
  • Shane Anderson denies any physical altercation with Alex.

Shownotes Transcript

A nurse is found dead in her apartment. Surveillance video captures her coming home for the last time. Can investigators piece together what happened next? Natalie Morales reports.

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