On November 25, 2020, Melissa Lamesch, a 27-year-old emergency medical technician, was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her baby. She was set to be induced in just two days and had moved into her father’s home to prepare for motherhood. “We made her room nice and cozy,” her father, Gus, shared, expressing excitement for the new addition to the family.
That day, Melissa spent over two hours chatting with her sister, Cassie, before their call was interrupted. Melissa said she would call Cassie back but never did, leading Cassie to worry. After several attempts to reach her, Cassie received a shocking phone call around 4:30 p.m. informing her that their family home was on fire.
Firefighters quickly responded to the scene and discovered Melissa’s body on the kitchen floor. This tragic event left authorities trying to determine if the fire was accidental or a result of foul play. They also needed to find out whether Melissa had died from smoke inhalation, a medical problem, or murder. Eventually, they concluded that the fire had been set intentionally and that Melissa had been strangled.
The news was devastating for Cassie, who could hardly believe it. As the investigation unfolded, attention turned to Matthew Plote, a firefighter and paramedic who had known Melissa since their college days. Their relationship shifted when she revealed her pregnancy; Melissa indicated that Plote was not interested in being a father and she planned to raise the baby on her own.
More than a year after Melissa’s death, in March 2022, Plote was arrested on serious charges, including murder and arson. During the trial in March 2024, prosecutors argued that Plote killed Melissa because he did not want to take on the responsibility of parenthood. Although he admitted to visiting her that day, he maintained his innocence regarding her death.
Ultimately, Plote was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. Gus reflected on Melissa’s caring nature, stating that she would do anything for anyone and always dreamed of a happy ending. She is deeply missed by her family.
A special episode of People Magazine Investigates, titled "Inferno of Lies," is set to air on December 30, providing further insights into this heartbreaking case.
