Former pro runner charged with first-degree murder
Matthew Molinaro, the 2018 NCAA DIII 800m champion, was arrested for the premeditated murder of his ex's boyfriend on New Year's Eve
Kevin Morris
A Sterling Heights, Mich., man has been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly stabbing his ex-girlfriend’s boyfriend to death on New Year’s Eve. Per FloTrack, the suspect, Matthew Molinaro, a former pro runner for HOKA, won the 2018 NCAA DIII Indoor Track & Field Championships in the 800m.
The victim was 26-year-old Milford, Mich., resident Peyton Bilbia.
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According to media reports, Milford police began the investigation on the afternoon of Dec. 31 while conducting a welfare check at Bilbia’s home on the request of his girlfriend, who had not been able to get in contact with him. The police and fire department forced entry into the man’s apartment, where he was found dead with multiple stab wounds.
Detectives gathered evidence that pointed to Molinaro, 29, as a suspect; he was arrested that evening at a Royal Oak, Mich., club. On Monday, the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office revealed the alleged attacker had previously been in a relationship with Bilbia’s girlfriend, who, earlier that month, had obtained a personal protection order against Molinaro.
“[Peyton Bilibia’s] life was cut short because of what appears to be a domestic dispute,” Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said in a statement. “This case is a tragic reminder that the danger from domestic violence doesn’t end when a relationship ends.”
Molinaro is currently being held without bond at Oakland County Jail; if convicted, he could serve life in prison without the possibility of parole. His probable-cause hearing is scheduled for Jan. 19.
