The ‘Evil Intent’ episode of Dateline shines a light on the tragic demise of Jessica Nelson, revealing distressing information about her murder infused with violence and treachery. A native of Omaha, Nebraska, 28-year-old Jessica Nelson was found lifeless in her apartment on June 25, 2015. This marked the dawn of a grim revelation of attack and plotted death that led to the prosecution of Matthew Kidder, a dear friend. Initially considered a drug overdose, upon deeper investigatory practices, it became apparent that Jessica’s death was far from accidental.
The incidents preceding Jessica’s final evening and the subsequent uncovering of her remains were brought to the fore. Jessica’s lifeless body was found immersed in the bathtub of her Omaha home located on 83rd and Miami Street, on that ill-fated day of June 2015. It initially looked like a case of overdose but as more hours passed, the case transformed into a murder inquiry as mounting evidence pointed towards a sinister twist.
Over time, it came to light that Jessica had met her untimely death through strangulation, the murder weapon surprisingly being a cell phone cord. Fingerprints collected from beneath Jessica’s nails and from the cord itself pointed towards Matthew Kidder, an individual she knew since childhood and considered a trusted friend.
At the outset, overdose seemed like the likely cause of her death, but a deeper evaluation of the crime scene and injuries on her person led to the unveiling of a more malevolent reality. Detectives identified that Jessica didn’t just succumb to asphyxiation but was also victimized by physical abuse. This fact alone significantly altered the trajectory of the investigation, which subsequently implicated Matthew Kidder’s involvement.
Matthew Kidder had a long standing connection with Jessica’s family, having been acquainted with her for many years. Finding his DNA linked to the crime scene led to his arrest. Investigators deduced that the DNA samples found beneath Jessica’s nails aligned with Kidder’s genetic material, and his DNA was present on the cord that was used to strangle Jessica.
In addition to the physical evidence, Kidder confessed to being responsible for the crime. His confession, although tainted with conflicting information, was supported by other circumstantial evidence. Collating the DNA information, Kidder’s confession, and the crime scene data revealed a horrifying visualization of premeditated brutality.
The realization that Jessica and Kidder had been intimately close friends for years made the act of violence even more horrifying. This betrayal, committed by a person who was once deeply trusted by Jessica, sent shockwaves through her family and the wider community.
Matthew Kidder found himself facing charges of first-degree murder and weapon usage in the trial concerning Jessica’s death. His prosecution was supported by the presentation of DNA evidence, his personal admission of guilt, and corroborating circumstantial evidence that authenticated the allegations.
The repugnant details of the crime, the appalling nature of the victim-perpetrator relationship, and the strong evidence base underpinned Kidder’s conviction. In 2016, he was found guilty of first-degree murder and illicit use of a weapon. He was eventually sentenced to a lifetime behind bars, devoid of parole opportunities.
However, an appeal was lodged and resulted in the overruling of the initial sentence. A stricter disciplinary decision was put forth, regarding the weapons charge, while the life sentence for the murder charge was sustained.
Despite Kidder’s conviction, Jessica’s family and the surrounding community were left with a deep emotional wound that lingered long after the trial had come to an end. The minimal consolation was that justice had been served in the shape of Kidder’s punishment.
A retrospective view of Jessica Nelson’s murder case indicates a meticulous investigation that inevitably led to Matthew Kidder’s conviction. However, her close ones continue to grieve, and the case serves as a stark reminder of the devastation caused when violent acts are perpetrated within familiar circles.
Kidder’s conviction for first-degree murder and the subsequent life sentence might have served justice to some extent. Yet, it is undeniable that the catastrophic event of Jessica’s murder left behind a lasting emotional void in the hearts of those who loved her and the society at large.