West Conshohocken, PA – A 26-year-old Pennsylvania man is on trial for allegedly shooting and killing his ex-girlfriend just 25 minutes after she broke up with him, using that time to search online for how to fire a revolver, prosecutors revealed this week. Michael Dutkiewicz faces charges of first-degree murder, third-degree murder, and possession of an instrument of crime in the death of 25-year-old Alyssa Wiest.
The Incident: Breakup Turned Deadly
According to prosecutors, Dutkiewicz and Wiest had been dating for two years before the fatal night of May 17, 2024. The couple had gone out drinking at a local bar before returning home, where Wiest told him she was ending their relationship.
Wiest’s sister later testified that Alyssa had been considering the breakup since March but waited until after a planned trip with Dutkiewicz’s family before making her final decision.
After Wiest ended the relationship, prosecutors allege that Dutkiewicz used his phone to look up how to load and shoot a revolver. Within 25 minutes, he allegedly put that knowledge into practice — with devastating results.
“He spent those minutes learning how to fire the gun that would end her life,” prosecutors told the jury.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
At 12:25 a.m. on May 18, West Conshohocken Police responded to the 200 block of Moorehead Avenue after reports of gunshots. When officers arrived, they found Alyssa Wiest lying face down on the sidewalk, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to her torso, according to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office.
She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
Detectives discovered blood inside Wiest’s home and along the sidewalk, as well as five bullet projectiles near the scene. The front door of her home was left ajar, indicating a violent struggle before the shooting.
Investigators later determined that Dutkiewicz had used Wiest’s own revolver to shoot her.
Court Proceedings and Prosecution Case
During the ongoing trial, Montgomery County prosecutors presented evidence showing that Dutkiewicz searched for information on how to use a revolver moments before the killing.
Neighbors described hearing gunshots and Wiest’s screams as she tried to flee her attacker. Witnesses said they saw Dutkiewicz standing next to his silver Ford F-150 shortly after the shooting, before driving away from the scene.
License plate readers later captured the truck traveling from West Conshohocken through Conshohocken at 12:25 a.m., confirming his movements immediately after the crime.
A warrant was issued for his arrest, and Dutkiewicz turned himself in to authorities. He has since been held in the Montgomery County Correctional Facility.
Defense Argument and Upcoming Deliberation
Dutkiewicz’s defense attorneys are not disputing that he pulled the trigger but argue that the attack was not premeditated. They claim that the shooting occurred during a sudden emotional outburst following the breakup, rather than a calculated act of murder.
Prosecutors, however, maintain that the online search for how to fire a revolver proves clear intent and premeditation.
The jury is expected to begin deliberations later this week, and video evidence of Dutkiewicz’s actions that night is anticipated to play a key role in the prosecution’s case.
Statements and Reactions
The courtroom was filled with friends and family of the victim as prosecutors recounted the final moments of Wiest’s life.
Her family described her as a bright and loving young woman whose life was cut short by senseless violence.
“Alyssa was our beloved shining star—radiant, vibrant, and full of light,” her family wrote in her obituary. “Her absence leaves a deep ache in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.”
The case has sparked outrage and grief in the community, highlighting once again the deadly consequences of domestic violence and impulsive rage.
Background and Legal Context
Under Pennsylvania law, first-degree murder carries a potential life sentence without parole, while third-degree murder may result in a lesser penalty if jurors determine the act lacked premeditation.
Prosecutors argue that Dutkiewicz’s deliberate online research, use of the victim’s firearm, and calculated timing all demonstrate intentional murder rather than a crime of passion.
The trial is being held at the Montgomery County Courthouse, where witnesses, police officers, and forensic experts have testified over several days.
Ongoing Developments and What’s Next
As the trial nears its conclusion, jurors will weigh whether the evidence proves premeditation beyond a reasonable doubt. Prosecutors are expected to present closing arguments this week, followed by the defense’s final statements.
If convicted of first-degree murder, Michael Dutkiewicz could spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Community members continue to mourn Alyssa Wiest, remembering her as a woman full of kindness, laughter, and light — a life taken in a moment of irreversible violence.
What are your thoughts on this case and the ongoing trial? Share your opinions in the comments below.
