SOUTH ST. PAUL, Minn. — Authorities have identified the victim of Friday morning’s fatal shooting in South St. Paul as 20-year-old Matt Lee, a junior at St. Olaf College and member of the Oles football program.
According to officials, the shooting occurred in the early hours of September 12, leaving Lee fatally injured. Investigators have not yet released details surrounding the circumstances of the incident, and no arrests have been announced as of Friday evening. The case remains under active investigation.
Lee, an economics major at St. Olaf, was widely known on campus for his dedication both in the classroom and on the football field. A linebacker for the Oles, he had earned respect from teammates and coaches alike for his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to the program.
In a public statement, St. Olaf Athletics expressed the profound grief being felt across the college community: “The entire St. Olaf community is grieving the death of student-athlete Matt Lee, who passed away early Friday morning. Our hearts are with his family, teammates, and friends during this difficult time.”
Teammates and classmates remembered Lee as more than just an athlete—he was described as a dependable friend and an uplifting presence whose energy extended far beyond the gridiron. Many have taken to social media to share tributes, recalling his kindness, determination, and ability to inspire those around him.
As word of his passing spread, students and faculty began gathering informally on campus to support one another. Counselors and chaplains have been made available to provide grief resources to students in need. Plans for a formal memorial service are expected to be announced by the college in the coming days.
The loss has deeply shaken both the St. Olaf and South St. Paul communities, highlighting once again the devastating impact of gun violence. For those who knew Matt Lee, his legacy will endure in the lessons he modeled: resilience, compassion, and an unyielding drive to better himself and those around him.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the South St. Paul Police Department as the investigation continues.
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