Matthew Pape Faces Murder Charge for Allegedly -- and Accidentally -- Killing His Close Friend

The Peoria PD arrested Matthew Pape two days ago after he allegedly -- and from what witnesses say and what's indicated in the police report, accidentally -- killed his friend while play-fighting at a bar, police say. About 10 p.m. Friday, Pape, 39, and his friend, David Witmer, 45, were...

By Weston Phippen

May 6, 2013

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The Peoria PD arrested Matthew Pape two days ago after he allegedly -- and from what witnesses say and what's indicated in the police report, accidentally -- killed his friend while play-fighting at a bar, police say.

About 10 p.m. Friday, Pape, 39, and his friend, David Witmer, 45, were at a bar near 6700 West Peoria Avenue having some fun, which turned into pretending to fight over a cell phone, says Peoria PD spokeswoman Amanda Jacinto.

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Pape allegedly put Witmer into a choke hold and Witmer fell down and hit his head against a bar stool.

Patrons at the bar called 911 and Witmer later died at the hospital from the head injury. Peoria PD has charged Pape with second-degree murder.

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