Jury convicts Matthew Rickner of murder and other felonies

A Del Norte jury of 12 has convicted Matthew Earl Rickner of Murder in the shooting death of his mother in late December. Rickner entered a Not Guilt plea at his January arraignment.

Rickner was convicted on seven felony including PC187 (a) 189(b) and felony counts including Drug Possession and two misdemeanors involving Resisting Arrest. Rickner was also convicted of Aggravating Factors, allowing for sentence enhancement.

The victim, Phyllis Rickner was found deceased on her living room floor, late Friday evening, December 29, after calling 9-1-1 and reporting a gun was missing from her bedroom and the belief her son had taken it. Upon arrival of Sheriff deputies and observing the body of Rickner ‘s mother, Phyllis’ husband reported that Matthew Rickner shot his wife and fled the Berstch Ave family home.

Patrolling CHP officers apprehended and arrested the suspect, who was in possession of the weapon along with methamphetamine and smoking pipe.

Sentencing is scheduled for Monday, July 15, 2024 at 2pm, in Superior Court Judge Darren McElfresh Dept. 1 Chambers.