Iowa father strangles his 5-year-old son to death after contemplating the murder for a week

MARION, IA – A Marion father stands accused of the premeditated murder of his 5-year-old son, an act he allegedly planned for a week, authorities say.

Matthew Schleier, 45, has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently detained on a $1 million cash-only bond. His preliminary court hearing is scheduled for November 8.

Officers from the Marion Police Department responded early Tuesday morning to a residence on Willowbrook Drive after a distress call reported a young boy not breathing. Upon arrival, paramedics were informed by the child’s mother that the boy, referred to as “J.S.” in documents, had been strangled by his father.

When questioned at the scene, Schleier admitted to the authorities that he had strangled his son. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures before transporting the child to a local hospital, where he was declared deceased. Medical officials noted marks on the child’s neck consistent with strangulation.

In a subsequent interview following his Miranda rights advisement, Schleier confessed to the murder, revealing that he had contemplated various methods, including the use of knives, over the preceding week. He detailed having been up throughout the night deciding how to carry out the act.

As part of the investigation, Marion Police Department officers executed a search warrant at Schleier’s home and seized several items, including knives. This evidence suggested prior contemplation of the crime, aligning with Schleier’s admission during questioning.

The case has left the neighborhood in shock as residents grapple with the unsettling news. The tragic incident underscores concerns about mental health and familial disputes, though investigators have not disclosed a motive.

Preliminary hearings will further clarify the timeline and details of the events leading up to the boy’s death. Meanwhile, authorities urge anyone with further information to come forward as the investigation unfolds.