Tragedy Strikes St. Olaf College Community: Football Player Killed in South St. Paul Shooting
A devastating incident has shaken the St. Olaf College community, as a football player was fatally shot in a South St. Paul home early Friday morning. Matthew Lee, a 20-year-old junior linebacker, lost his life in the tragic event, which also left another man critically injured. According to authorities, the shooting occurred around 3:45 a.m. in the 300 block of Second Avenue South.
Lee, a 2023 South St. Paul High School graduate, was described as a bright and kind-hearted individual with a passion for football. His life was “tragically cut short due to gun violence — an unimaginable loss for all who knew and loved him,” as stated on a GoFundMe page. St. Olaf football coach James Kilian remembered Lee as a great teammate and leader, saying, “Matthew was one of those guys you want on your team… Bright kid, leader. And, fortunately for us, he decided to join us.”
Matthew Lee (Courtesy of St. Olaf College)
Investigation and Arrest
A 19-year-old St. Paul man was arrested about three blocks away from the crime scene and is currently being held on suspicion of second-degree murder, first-degree assault causing great bodily harm, and illegal possession of a firearm by a felon. Charges are pending, and the suspect’s name has not been released. South St. Paul police have not disclosed the events leading up to the shooting, but court records show the suspect was convicted of felony threats of violence in January.
The investigation is ongoing, with police working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. A gun was recovered from the scene, and agents with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension are assisting in the investigation. South St. Paul Police Chief Brian Wicke stated, “Anytime a life is lost in our community, especially a young life, it is tragic, and the impact reaches far beyond the individual’s family; it impacts our entire community.”
Investigators on the scene Friday after an early morning shooting in South St. Paul. (Nick Ferraro / Pioneer Press)
Community Reaction
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents expressing concern and sadness. A campus vigil was planned for Friday night at Boe Memorial Chapel to honor Lee’s memory. St. Olaf Pastor Matt Marohl notified the campus community of the tragedy, offering support and assistance to those affected. The incident serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the importance of community support during difficult times.
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