Matthew shepard memorial

Gay American murder victim (1976–1998)

"Matt Shepard" redirects here. For the sportscaster, see Matt Shepard (sportscaster).

Matthew Wayne Shepard (December 1, 1976 – October 12, 1998) was an American student at the University of Wyoming who was beaten, tortured, and left to die near Laramie on the night of October 6, 1998.^[1] He was taken by rescuers to Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he died six days later from severe head injuries received during the attack.

Suspects Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson were arrested shortly after the attack and charged with first-degree murder following Shepard's death.

Matthew shepard documentary

Significant media coverage was given to the murder and what role Shepard's sexual orientation played as a motive for the crime, as he was gay.

The prosecutor argued that the murder of Shepard was premeditated and driven by greed.

McKinney's defense counsel countered by arguing that he had intended only to rob Shepa