ERIE COUNTY, NY – Matthew R. Gerwitz, a 31-year-old from the City of Tonawanda, was sentenced to 65 years to life in prison on Monday, by Erie County Court Judge Sheila A. DiTullio.
The sentencing follows Gerwitz’s conviction for the murder of Joseph Marasco, 32, and the attempted murder of four police officers.
On May 26, 2020, Gerwitz shot Marasco on the corner of Morgan Street and Clinton Street in Tonawanda. The victim, who was playing a cell phone game at the time, succumbed to his injuries at ECMC. Hours later, Gerwitz fired multiple shots at police officers from his apartment, injuring one.
A high-speed chase ensued, leading to his arrest. Three additional illegal handguns were found in his residence.
Gerwitz was found guilty of one count of Murder in the Second Degree, six counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree, and five counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, following an 8-day trial and 5 hours of jury deliberation.
