Who was arrested in the Wisconsin murder and arson case?

Matthew R. Sierra, a college professor, was arrested in connection with the murder of Alexis Pickett.

What charges does the Wisconsin professor face?

He faces charges including first-degree intentional homicide, homicide of an unborn child, arson, and animal mistreatment.

What evidence links Matthew Sierra to the crime scene?

Surveillance video and cellphone data reportedly placed Sierra at the victim's home around the time of the fire.

Home / Crime and Justice / Professor Arrested in Pregnant Girlfriend's Murder, Arson

Professor Arrested in Pregnant Girlfriend's Murder, Arson

19 Dec

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Summary

Professor allegedly murdered pregnant girlfriend and her dog.
He is accused of setting her house on fire to destroy evidence.
Cell phone data placed him at the scene during the fire.

Professor Arrested in Pregnant Girlfriend's Murder, Arson

A devastating incident has led to the arrest of Matthew R. Sierra, a college professor in Wisconsin, for the alleged murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Alexis Pickett, and her dog. The 27-year-old victim was found deceased in her home after firefighters responded to a blaze on November 13. Evidence suggests Pickett was killed before the fire, which was apparently set to conceal the crime.

Investigators have linked Sierra, 38, to the crime scene through surveillance and cellphone data. He was reportedly seen leaving Pickett's residence shortly before smoke alarms activated. Authorities believe Sierra may have pressured Pickett to have an abortion, threatening to seek custody of their other child if she refused.

Sierra was arrested on December 16 and is currently held on a $1 million bond. He has been placed on administrative leave from his position as a mechanical design professor at Western Technical College. The La Crosse Police Chief commended the collaborative investigation.