GARFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio — Matthew Nicholson has been identified as the private security officer charged in the death of a pair of teenagers following a fight over a text message Thursday, Garfield Heights police said.
Nicholson, 29, formally contracted by the United States Department of Homeland Security, has been is charged with murder and domestic violence in the shooting death of Manuel Lopez Jr., 17, and Giselle Lopez, 19, Garfield Heights police Robert Byrne announced during a Thursday afternoon press conference.
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Nicholson and his girlfriend, America Polanco, got into a fight over text messages she received from an ex-boyfriend, police said. Manuel Lopez heard the two fighting and tried to protect his mother, police said. Nicholson shot both siblings several times with a .45 caliber handgun, police said. They were both found in the driveway of the home with multiple gunshot wounds, police said. source
Police recovered what was described as a “numerous handguns” from the first floor of the home, and an AK-47 from the basement, according to a police report.
Nicholson was also wearing body armor when police took him into custody after a prolonged standoff with authorities.
Manuel Lopez was taken to Marymount Hospital, where he died of his wounds.
Giselle Lopez was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center where she died while undergoing surgery, police said.
Their mother was treated at MetroHealth for minor injuries.
Anyone with information on the deadly incident should contact police at 911.