Former lawyer who pulled gun on ex-wife in Ohio restaurant is convicted of attempted murder, tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/man-pulled-gun-ex-wife-ohio-restaurant-convicted-attempted-murder-rcna596907)
10-09-2026
Former Ohio attorney Matthew Exton, 43, was convicted by a Lucas County jury of attempted murder, two counts of felonious assault, and multiple firearm specifications after pulling a loaded gun on his ex-wife inside a crowded restaurant. International Business Times UKThe IncidentThe confrontation occurred on April 11, 2025, during the opening-night event of Sabira, an Italian restaurant in downtown Toledo, Ohio. Exton’s ex-wife was dining with her parents when Exton entered the restaurant, approached their table, pulled out a loaded Colt Defender handgun, and pointed it directly at her at close range. International Business Times UK+ 1Prosecutors stated that Exton attempted to fire the weapon, but it failed to discharge because the safety mechanism was engaged. A waiter, Tracy Cole Jr., acted immediately by tackling Exton, and other staff members and diners stepped in to restrain him and wrestle the weapon away until law enforcement arrived. International Business Times UK+ 1The Trial and Arguments
- Prosecution’s Case: Prosecutors described the act as an attempt at a “public execution” fueled by post-divorce animosity. They highlighted that Exton was carrying multiple rounds of ammunition, identifying documents from different states, cash, and handcuff keys. International Business Times UK+ 1
- Defense’s Position: Exton took the stand in his defense, admitting he pointed the gun at his ex-wife but claiming he never intended to pull the trigger or kill her. He claimed the act was meant to intimidate and pressure her into expediting the financial proceeds from the sale of their former marital residence. Court TV+ 1
- Courtroom Outbursts: Exton was removed from the courtroom prior to the verdict after repeatedly disrupting closing arguments, shouting at prosecutors, and mimicking pointing a gun at them with his hands. Court TV