48 Hours: The Unusual Shooting of Alex Pennig
Episode Release Date: August 11, 2025
Host/Producer: CBS News
Introduction
In this gripping episode of 48 Hours, CBS News delves into the mysterious and emotionally charged case of Alex Pennig's unusual shooting. The narrative unfolds the complex interplay between personal relationships, conflicting testimonies, and intricate evidence that ultimately led to a controversial second-degree murder conviction.
The Tragic Night: December 16, 2022
On December 16, 2022, at approximately 2:50 AM, St. Paul Police Officers Ching Vang and Justina Ser responded to a distressing 911 call reporting a female with a gunshot wound to her head. Upon arrival at a residential apartment building, they were directed by Matthew Ecker, a nurse practitioner and close friend of Alex Pennig, to the scene.
Alex's Father, Jim Pennig: "It's the most devastating knock on my door I've ever had in my life."
(Timestamp: 05:30)
Inside the apartment, officers found 32-year-old Alex Pennig lying face-up with a gunshot wound to her left temple. A handgun was discovered on her left shoulder, with her hand resting on it. Matthew Ecker was the sole individual present, claiming he had rushed to Alex's aid after receiving a frantic call from her.
Matthew Ecker's Testimony and Initial Defense
Matthew Ecker, portrayed as a compassionate and well-educated nurse, asserted that his sole intention was to protect Alex from her then-boyfriend, Shane Anderson, whom he believed was abusive.
Matthew Ecker: "I'm coming to protect you."
(Timestamp: 12:45)
He detailed how he arrived at Alex's apartment, finding her distraught and fearing for her safety after a domestic dispute. Ecker claimed he brought a gun for protection, believing Shane might pose a threat.
However, inconsistencies began to surface during the investigation:
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Position of the Body: Alex was found with her left hand on the gun, yet she was right-handed. The DUI detection team noted that Alex's body's position did not align with Ecker's account of breaking down the bathroom door after hearing a gunshot.
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Dry Sink and Handwashing: Ecker stated he washed his hands after aiding Alex, yet the sink was dry with no traces of water or blood.
Detective Abby DeSanto: "There should be blood on the sink if he truly washed his hands immediately after helping her."
(Timestamp: 20:15)
Conflicting Accounts: Matthew vs. Shane
Shane Anderson, Alex's boyfriend, provided a contrasting narrative. He depicted a loving relationship with no signs of abuse, contradicting Ecker's claims of Shane's violent tendencies.
Shane Anderson: "We weren't arguing or anything. It was just about why I hadn't moved in yet."
(Timestamp: 25:40)
Shane admitted to an earlier altercation at Camp Bar where he punched Ecker during an argument involving Alex. Security footage from Camp Bar showed Ecker attempting to intervene and subsequently being assaulted by Shane, before both he and Alex left the bar together, appearing amicable.
Unraveling Evidence
Detectives uncovered several pieces of pivotal evidence:
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Prescription Medications: Alex had six bottles of prescription medications, including antidepressants and amphetamines, all prescribed by Matthew Ecker. This raised ethical concerns, though not illegal.
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Security Footage Analysis: Detailed review of the apartment's lobby footage revealed tense body language between Ecker and Alex, suggesting a possible argument prior to the shooting.
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Gunshot Residue and DNA: Forensic tests showed gunshot residue on Alex's left hand and her DNA on the handgun. Notably, Ecker's DNA was absent, despite his handling of the weapon.
Detective Jennifer O'Donnell: "The absence of Ecker's DNA on the gun is highly suspicious."
(Timestamp: 45:50)
- Metal Piece from Door Lock: A round metal piece from the bathroom door lock was found beneath Alex's head, indicating force was used to open the door before the shooting.
Trial and Conviction
In February 2024, Matthew Ecker's trial commenced amidst intense public scrutiny and emotional testimonies from both families.
Defense Attorney, Bruce Rivers: "There is reasonable doubt that this was a homicide. The evidence strongly suggests suicide."
(Timestamp: 60:30)
Despite Rivers' arguments highlighting the possibility of suicide, the prosecution emphasized the inconsistencies in Ecker's statements and the forensic evidence pointing towards foul play.
After nine hours of deliberation, the jury found Matthew Ecker guilty of second-degree murder.
Sentencing and Aftermath
On April 3, 2024, Ecker was sentenced to 30 years in prison. The verdict elicited profound grief and anger from Alex's family, while Ecker's family struggled to comprehend the decision, citing his past as a caring nurse and his untarnished character beyond this incident.
Alex's Sister, Gillian Kubitschek: "We still have questions that may never be answered. Why did you do it?"
(Timestamp: 75:20)
Ecker's family faced their own challenges, including divorce and losing contact with their four children, deepening the tragedy on both sides.
Lingering Questions and Appeals
Matthew Ecker has chosen to appeal his conviction, maintaining his innocence and asserting that Alex acted alone. His defense continues to question the forensic interpretations and the lack of direct evidence placing him at the scene during the shooting.
Alex's family remains steadfast in seeking closure, honoring her memory through communal gatherings and preserving her love for animals in "Alex's Coop," a testament to her compassionate nature.
Conclusion
"The Unusual Shooting of Alex Pennig" serves as a poignant exploration of the complexities surrounding crime, justice, and personal relationships. The episode meticulously presents the conflicting narratives, dissecting the evidence that led to a controversial conviction while leaving room for viewers to ponder the enduring mysteries of Alex's tragic death.
For an in-depth timeline of the case and further insights, visit 48hours.com.
This summary omits commercial breaks and non-content segments to focus solely on the narrative and investigative elements of the episode.