COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The mother of a man killed in a road rage incident last week in Eastern Colorado Springs is urging the community to think twice before reacting in anger on the road.
“When you go to get in your car, just step back and take a breath,” said Alisha Helberg. “Just stop it. Let Matthew’s memory be the one that takes you there, that gives you peace before you get in that vehicle.”
Her son, 39-year-old Matthew Helberg, was fatally shot Thursday night after a confrontation with another driver while returning home from a date with his fiancée.
The Colorado Springs Police Department has charged Howard Heyliger with second-degree murder in connection to the shooting. According to a police affidavit, the altercation began when a friend of Heyliger’s made a comment about the loud exhaust on Matthew’s car.
Witnesses say Matthew and a friend pulled over, with Heyliger following behind in a separate vehicle. An argument broke out after both Matthew and his friend exited their car, which escalated into a fistfight. That’s when Heyliger allegedly got out of his car and shot Matthew multiple times.
Heyliger told police he believed his friend’s life was at risk. However, the friend said he never felt threatened and didn’t understand why Heyliger opened fire.
“I love my baby, and I can’t bring him back. None of us can,” Alisha said tearfully, sitting beside Matthew’s fiancée, Sirena, and their young child.
Matthew is survived by five children, three stepchildren, and Sirena. A funeral service is scheduled for July 18 at 2 p.m. at the Colorado Springs Hub. Alisha has also launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Sirena and the children.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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