Matthew Sierra, a married college professor in Wisconsin, faces homicide charges after his affair partner, Alexis Pickett, 27, was found dead in a fire at her La Crosse apartment on November 13, 2025.
Victim’s Death
Pickett was killed before the fire started, as confirmed by autopsy showing no soot in her lungs or carbon monoxide in her blood. She was pregnant with Sierra’s second child, and their young son was at the home that night but survived. A dog also died in the incident.
Relationship Motive
A friend reported Sierra was unhappy about the pregnancy, pressured Pickett for an abortion, and threatened custody of their son if she refused. Pickett had publicly announced the pregnancy on Facebook despite the tension.
Evidence Against Sierra
Surveillance showed Sierra at Pickett’s residence that night, leaving as the fire began; he parked nearby until alarms sounded. His phone and wife placed him home, but video contradicted this. His wife knew of the affair and sought therapy over it.
Charges and Status
Sierra is charged with first-degree intentional homicide (of Pickett and unborn child), arson, and animal mistreatment. Arrested December 17, he appeared in court December 23; a dismissal motion was denied, and no plea entered yet.
