Crime and Coffee Couple - Ep 238: The Murder of Mandy Matula

Release Date: March 29, 2026
Hosts: Allison and Mike

Episode Overview

This episode centers on the tragic 2013 murder of 24-year-old Mandy Matula in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Allison recounts Mandy's life, the events surrounding her disappearance, and the subsequent investigation—while Mike offers unscripted reactions and questions throughout. The hosts also explore the broader context of intimate partner violence, community response, and the emotional aftermath for loved ones.

Key Discussion Points & Timeline

Mandy Matula: Early Life & Background

(07:14-10:41)

• Mandy was born January 14, 1989, to Wayne and Lisa Matula and had a younger brother, Stephen.
• She was an accomplished softball player (pitcher and team captain at Eden Prairie High and UMD), loved coaching young athletes, and was active in the community as a Parks Department worker, bowling alley employee, and Herbalife coach.
• Mandy was known for her kindness, competitiveness, and fearlessness.
  • Quote (Allison, 09:35): "She realized at a young age that pitcher was truly where she was meant to be. That was like her home."

The Night Mandy Disappeared

(10:41-13:25)

• On May 1, 2013, Mandy left home at night to talk with her ex-boyfriend David Roe, sitting in his car on the family driveway.
• She left her phone and purse behind, indicating she intended a brief conversation.
• Mandy's father Wayne checked on them from the house, noting they sat outside at least 20-25 minutes before he retired for the night.
• When Wayne awoke in the early hours, Mandy was gone.
  • Quote (Allison, 11:51): “Her cell phone and purse were sitting there on her bed...it just didn’t look like she was planning on being gone long.”

The Relationship with David Roe

(13:25-14:43)

• Mandy and David dated for eight months, breaking up in September 2012. David remained fixated on Mandy, reportedly becoming verbally abusive after their breakup and following her persistently.

• Despite warnings from friends and family, Mandy chose to remain kind and empathetic towards him.

• Quote (Allison, 14:26): “He was trying everything in his power to win her back...she had zero intentions of becoming romantically involved with him again, but she was just a very kind, empathetic person.”

Discovery of Disappearance & Initial Investigation

(14:43-24:45)

• The following morning, Mandy’s no-show at work triggered concern; her parents swiftly involved police.
• David's story: They argued in his car, drove to Miller Park, she stormed out, and he claimed to have last seen her walking home. This conflicted with witness timelines.
• During a recorded phone call with police, David was emotional, claimed to search for her, and agreed to a station interview.
• Notable audio (21:25-22:30): Detective questions David about his search efforts for Mandy; David becomes tearful.

Red Flags & Mike's Commentary

• Mike points out David’s inconsistent details and suspicious tone during the call.
  • Quote (Mike, 22:30): “You were always listening for, like, little things…it was kind of like he was caught off guard about where he was looking.”

David Roe’s Suicide and Evidence

(24:45-27:07)

• Instead of a scheduled interview, David died by suicide (gunshot) in his car outside the police station, leaving behind a note and a video.

• Blood evidence and a .40 caliber bullet linked both the car and the scene near Mandy’s home to David.

  • Quote (Mike, 25:07): “With him died any information as to what happened to Mandy and where she could possibly be.”

• Neighbors later reported hearing possible gunfire and screams near a local church that night, but no one called police.

David’s Pre-Meditation and the Search for Mandy

(27:56-34:25)

• David had purchased a handgun and ammunition the week prior, raising suspicions about premeditation.
• Friends noted he’d previously made suicidal statements tied to his relationship with Mandy.
• Massive search efforts ensued, led by Mandy’s brother Stephen and an ever-growing community response; their efforts also expanded to help other local missing women.
• Quote (Allison, 30:46): "That's always such a nice part of these devastating cases is how people come together to help one another."

The Discovery of Mandy’s Body

(34:25-36:13)

• 177 days after her disappearance, a Boy Scout leader found Mandy’s remains wrapped in a blanket with a plastic bag over her head in a shallow grave over an hour from Eden Prairie.
• Identification was confirmed by dental records and personal items.
• Autopsy: died by single gunshot wound to the head.

David Roe’s Timeline and Digital Footprint

(34:59-36:13)

• Cell phone and bank records revealed David lied about his whereabouts. He traveled from Eden Prairie to the dump site and returned, turning his phone off for much of this period.
• The police concluded that David killed Mandy soon after picking her up and disposed of her body far from the crime scene.

Alcohol & David Roe’s Profile

(37:44-39:23)

• David was intoxicated during critical events; he’d attended AA meetings and had “problems with alcohol” per his family.
• Scratches on his hands showed Mandy had fought for her life.

Patterns of Domestic Violence

(39:23-41:26)

• After Mandy’s death, letters were found where David pleaded for another chance, reflecting obsession and control.
• The hosts reflect on warning signs of abuse and the importance of removing oneself from toxic relationships.
• Quote (Allison, 39:02): "At 24 years old, he's going to AA meetings and people are saying, oh, he gets mean and nasty... that's a problem."

Other Related Minnesota Tragedies

(41:26-44:48)

• Mandy’s family, while searching, learned of two other missing women: Kira Steger and Danielle Jelinek.

  • Both were later found dead, victims of domestic violence or exposure after drug use.
  • Their cases highlight the dangers many women face and the slow, agonizing process for families.

• The Matulas’ grief inspired the creation of Minnesota United, a support network for families of the missing.

Reflections on Grief, Loss, and "Closure"

(45:05-47:11)

• The hosts and victim families discuss the impossible idea of closure.
  • Quote (Mike, 46:18): “I would never have my heart closed... my heart is basically wide open and bleeding for the rest of my life now.”
• Mandy’s legacy includes celebrations and memorials: a retired softball number, an annual tournament, and a park bench.

Domestic Violence Resources

(47:41-48:22)

• Allison shares hotline information:

  • National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 800-799-7233 or text BEGIN to 88788
  • Crisis hotline: Dial or text 988

• Quote (Allison, 48:22): “You just can't take someone out of this world because they don't want to be your girlfriend.”

Notable Quotes & Powerful Moments

• On toxic persistence:
  “He was basically just following her around like this lost puppy wherever she went.” – Allison (13:29)

• On domestic violence:
  “That is not love. That is sick.” – Allison (49:44)

• On community support:
  “That’s always such a nice part of these devastating cases is how people come together to help one another.” – Allison (30:46)

• On grief and closure:
  “Closure is like, Done. You know it's done. You're never done. Not until you're. You're done with the world.” – Mike & Allison (46:37)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• Mandy's early life and softball: 07:14–10:41
• Timeline of Mandy’s disappearance: 10:41–14:43
• Investigation and David Roe’s conflicting statements: 14:43–22:49
• Detective call (David emotional): 21:25–22:30
• David’s suicide and forensic breakthrough: 24:45–27:07
• Community search efforts: 29:14–34:25
• Discovery of remains and autopsy: 34:25–36:13
• David’s digital movements and further evidence: 34:59–36:13
• Broader domestic violence context and support group formation: 39:23–41:26, 30:39
• Discussion about related Minnesota cases: 41:26–44:48
• Final reflections, grief, and Mandy’s memorial: 45:05–48:22

Tone & Dynamic

Allison’s delivery is empathetic and thorough, balanced by Mike’s spontaneous reactions, questions, and occasional dark humor (“What a cowardly scumbag,” 25:00). Throughout, the couple’s banter and transparent discussion around marriage, loss, and communication add a personal, conversational touch, helping listeners connect more deeply with difficult subject matter.

Resources Mentioned

• Domestic Violence Hotlines:
  • National Domestic Abuse Hotline (800-799-7233, text BEGIN to 88788)
  • Crisis Line (988)

Final Thoughts

The murder of Mandy Matula is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of intimate partner violence and the far-reaching impact on families and communities. The episode balances detailed case breakdown, personal stories, and advocacy for awareness and support—delivering information with warmth and respect for victims. The hosts urge listeners to care for one another and seek help when needed, reinforcing that Mandy’s life—and the lives of others lost—are remembered and honored.