Story perspectives

U.S. Attorney Matthew Exton Convicted of Attempted Murder

9/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. attorney Matthew Exton was convicted of attempted murder after pointing a handgun at his ex-wife in Toledo.
Waiter Tracy Cole, Jr. tackled Exton and restrained him when he tried to fire the gun.
The handgun’s safety remained on, preventing the gun from firing when Exton first pulled the trigger.
A Lucas County jury found Exton guilty of attempted murder, two felonious assaults and several firearm specifications.
Exton faces up to 25 years in prison and will be sentenced on September 21, 2026.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. attorney Matthew Exton was convicted of attempted murder after pointing a handgun at his ex-wife in Toledo.
Waiter Tracy Cole, Jr. tackled Exton and restrained him when he tried to fire the gun.
The handgun’s safety remained on, preventing the gun from firing when Exton first pulled the trigger.
A Lucas County jury found Exton guilty of attempted murder, two felonious assaults and several firearm specifications.
Exton faces up to 25 years in prison and will be sentenced on September 21, 2026.