BOLZANO. «The assassination of Celine Frei Matzohl it was consumed in four minutes. Between 6.53pm, when she ended the phone call with her mother, and 6.58pm, when her ex-partner, Omer Cimis seen by video surveillance cameras in the driveway of his house, with his right hand hidden in a paper bag.” It’s one of the key passages from the deposition of Captain Ferdinando Nastacommander of the investigative unit of the provincial command of the Carabinieri of Bolzano, heard today in the courtroom of the Assize Court as a witness for the prosecution.
Nasta, «on the basis of what emerged from the investigative activities» of the months following the crime, committed on 12 August 2023 in Cim’s apartment in Silandro, reconstructed the «escalation» of violence of the previous month, when he was notified of the notice of the complaint that Frei Matzohl had filed against him for mistreatment.
Cim, Nasta explained, «had taken action insistent search for a pistol with silencer, and in an armory in Silandro, he had bought a hunting knife». Before the crime he had emptied the apartment, throwing “four plastic bags with clothes, personal objects and passport” into the neighbor’s bin. Sealed as police exhibits.”
In the house there were only the knife and three other cutting tools and 2,500 euros in cash “with which he wanted to organize a birthday party for Frei Matzohl”.
How does the emotional history between Celine and Omer influence the investigation into her murder?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Captain Ferdinando Nasta
Editor: Good afternoon, Captain Nasta. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the chilling case of Celine Frei Matzohl’s assassination. The details you’ve shared so far have certainly raised some eyebrows. Can you walk us through the timeline of events on that day?
Nasta: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The events unfolded very swiftly. Celine finished a phone call with her mother at 6:53 PM. Just five minutes later, her ex-partner, Omer Cim, was seen on surveillance footage arriving at his home, a crucial piece of evidence because he appeared to have something concealed in a paper bag.
Editor: It’s astonishing how quickly everything occurred. With just a four-minute window, what aspects of the crime scene were particularly telling to your investigative team?
Nasta: The rapid nature of the assassination suggests premeditation. Video surveillance not only captured Omer’s presence but also the timing aligns disturbingly close to the end of Celine’s call. This sequence may imply intent and pre-planning, and we are delving deeper into the motive and circumstances surrounding their relationship.
Editor: Speaking of their relationship, can you share how it has influenced the investigation? Has emotional turmoil been identified as a potential motive?
Nasta: Yes, our investigation uncovers a narrative marked by conflict and emotional distress. Omer had a history of volatile behavior towards Celine, and understanding the dynamics of their relationship has been a key focus. As we gather testimonies, the accounts from friends and family are aiding us in piecing together both the timeline and the underlying motives.
Editor: With the initial evidence pointing towards Omer as a suspect, what additional steps are being taken to ensure a thorough investigation?
Nasta: We are employing forensic analysis of collected evidence, including the contents of the bag Omer was carrying, and combing through digital footprints, such as text messages and social media interactions. Additionally, we are closely collaborating with legal experts to ensure that all evidence is gathered in accordance with due process.
Editor: Given the high-profile nature of this case, how do you handle the media scrutiny and public interest surrounding the events?
Nasta: It’s a delicate balance. We are committed to transparency while also ensuring that our investigation is not compromised by public speculation. Regular updates are essential, but we are also careful to withhold sensitive details until they can be definitively verified.
Editor: Thank you, Captain Nasta. Lastly, looking ahead, what do you think will be the biggest challenge in resolving this case?
Nasta: I believe the key challenge will be establishing a definitive motive and reconstructing the events of those four critical minutes. As we continue our investigation, we remain focused on gathering facts and seeking justice for Celine and her family. Each detail is significant, and we are committed to uncovering the truth.
Editor: We appreciate your insights, Captain Nasta. It’s crucial work that you and your team are undertaking, and we hope for a resolution that brings justice for Celine. Thank you once again for your time today.
Nasta: Thank you for having me. It’s important that we continue to discuss these issues openly.