In a tragic case that has sparked a bitter feud between two women, the murder of 28-year-old Matt Odum has raised serious questions about love, betrayal, and custody battles. The Bakersfield, California father of four was found stabbed to death outside the home he shared with his fiancée, Erica Lingal, leaving a complex web of accusations and emotional turmoil in its wake.
Matt Odum’s life was marked by a tumultuous relationship with his estranged wife, Summers Canada. Once high school sweethearts, the couple’s marriage began to unravel after Summers became pregnant with another man’s child, leading to a contentious divorce. Amid their custody battle over their four children, Matt rekindled a romance with Erica, his first crush from middle school. This led to a love triangle that would ultimately spiral into tragedy.
Just months before his death, a shocking video surfaced showing a heated confrontation between Matt and Summers in which she accused him of provoking her. “You’re going to get my kids taken away from me,” she warned, a threat that, in hindsight, seems eerily prescient. The video was used in court, resulting in Summers losing some custody rights, further fueling tensions between the two women.
On the morning of his murder, Matt was found by Erica’s mother, Monica, lying in a pool of blood outside their home. He had been stabbed multiple times in what authorities believe was a targeted attack. Investigators quickly ruled out robbery as a motive, as Matt’s belongings were untouched. Erica was initially a person of interest due to her proximity at the time of the murder, but she vehemently denies any involvement, claiming she had no reason to harm him.
A narrative emerged that placed Summers and her new fiancé, Garrett Holden, at the center of the speculation. Both accused Erica of orchestrating the murder, claiming she had a motive stemming from jealousy over Matt’s new relationship. Meanwhile, Erica suggested that Summers was behind the attack, emphasizing the animosity between the two women.
As the investigation unfolded, both sides exchanged accusations through social media and text messages, each claiming the other was responsible for Matt’s death. While police have not officially charged anyone, they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder. The lack of physical evidence tying either party to the crime has left the case open and unresolved.
Matt’s family is devastated, focusing their efforts on seeking justice while grappling with their loss. His brother, Chris, has voiced suspicions about Summers and Garrett’s potential involvement, suggesting they may have conspired together. The animosity has escalated to the point where both families have faced harassment, with Chris asserting that he will not rest until his brother’s story is heard.
In the aftermath of this tragic event, the lives of those involved have been irrevocably changed. Erica, who is pregnant, now looks forward to building a future away from the turmoil, while Summers has regained custody of her children. The community remains on edge as the investigation continues, with many unanswered questions lingering in the air.
As this story develops, the complexities of love, betrayal, and responsibility continue to unfold, leaving a haunting reminder of how quickly relationships can turn deadly. If anyone has information regarding Matt Odum’s unsolved murder, they are encouraged to contact the Bakersfield Police Department.
