On April 14, 2023, 33-year-old engineer and researcher, Dr. Nabaruna Karmakar, was found dead in her Morrisville, North Carolina home, having suffered two gunshot wounds. Her husband, 40-year-old Michael Aaron Matthews, called 911 that evening, initially reporting a "double suicide." However, upon arrival, police discovered only Karmakar had been shot, leading them to suspect foul play.
Karmakar was a distinguished professional, holding master's and doctorate degrees in industrial engineering from North Carolina State University. She had been employed at the SAS Institute in Cary for four years, contributing significantly to research and development. Colleagues and neighbors described her as a brilliant and friendly individual, expressing shock at her untimely death.
Following the incident, Matthews was arrested and charged with his wife's murder. During his initial court appearance on April 17, he waived his right to assigned counsel, indicating plans to hire a private attorney. The judge ordered him to be held without bond, and his next court date was scheduled for May 8. As he was escorted from the courtroom, Matthews exchanged a wave with his parents, and his mother blew him a kiss, highlighting the family's complex emotional dynamics amid the tragedy.
In the wake of Karmakar's death, her family initiated a fundraiser to combat gun violence, reflecting their commitment to preventing similar tragedies. The GoFundMe campaign aimed to support Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for gun violence prevention. The family's efforts underscore the broader societal implications of such personal losses.
As of now, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with police continuing their investigation. The case has drawn attention to issues of domestic violence and gun safety, prompting discussions within the community about preventive measures and support systems for individuals in similar situations.
