In the summer of 2020, a dispute between roommates in Westminster, Colorado, ended in the tragic death of 31-year-old Tyler Matus. A white male, Matus was a graduate of Pomona High School and Metro State University, holding a degree in Aviation Technology. He was known by friends and family for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and his caring nature, especially towards his two young nephews. He had a successful career, having worked his way up to a management position in the restaurant industry before moving to a role at Federated Insurance, where he achieved Chairman's Council status. Friends remembered him as a genuine and big-hearted person, always willing to lend a helping hand.
On the evening of June 26, 2020, an argument broke out between Matus and his 31-year-old roommate, Ikhide Ikhigbonoaremen, at their home in the 7900 block of West 90th Avenue. The disagreement, reportedly over ongoing roommate issues, escalated into a physical altercation. During the fight, Ikhigbonoaremen was knocked to the ground. According to the District Attorney's office, after getting back up, he fired two shots at Matus. Westminster Police were called to the residence and found Matus deceased from at least one gunshot wound.
Following the incident, Ikhide Ikhigbonoaremen was arrested and charged with first-degree murder after deliberation and two violent crime counts. He was held without bond at the Jefferson County Detention Center. The case went to a nine-day trial in Jefferson County District Court in December 2021. Ikhigbonoaremen's defense attorneys argued that the shooting was an act of self-defense. On December 9, 2021, the jury acquitted Ikhigbonoaremen of all charges. In a statement following the verdict, the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office expressed respect for the jury's decision and thanked the prosecution team and the Westminster Police Department for their work on the case.
