‘Charismatic’ Man’s DNA Found in Townhome Where Church Worker Was Beaten to Death
An Arizona man described by police as “manipulative and charismatic” has been arrested in connection with the brutal killing of a 68-year-old church volunteer in Scottsdale.
Matthew Dieringer, 35, was charged with first-degree murder after investigators linked him to the death of Frank Quaranta, a man who dedicated much of his life to helping others through his church’s homeless outreach program.
A Relationship Built on Trust
According to a probable cause affidavit, Quaranta met Dieringer through a church cooling station outreach and allowed him to live in his townhome for the past three months. But coworkers said Quaranta had recently been looking for a way to ask Dieringer to move out.
On Sept. 1, Quaranta failed to show up for work, prompting colleagues to request a welfare check. Scottsdale police discovered blood on the front door handle and forced their way inside, where they found Quaranta beaten to death in a blood-splattered scene.
A Grisly Discovery
Investigators said Quaranta suffered “extensive trauma” to his head, including a broken jaw and multiple skull fractures, along with rib fractures and defensive wounds. Blood was spattered on the walls, and two metal sculptures appeared to have been used as weapons, with one covered in blood.
In a guest bedroom, officers discovered paperwork bearing Dieringer’s name, along with a bloody shirt, blood-soaked socks, and boots. DNA testing confirmed the presence of both the victim’s and Dieringer’s blood on the items.
A Violent Past
Rumors circulating in the community suggested Dieringer had fled Colorado after serving time for animal cruelty. Records confirmed that in 2023, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison for killing and dismembering his roommate’s dogs.
Despite this violent history, Dieringer reportedly continued to gain trust from others. Scottsdale police said he often used his charisma to manipulate people into offering him housing and support.
Arrest and Court Appearance
Authorities tracked Dieringer down on Sept. 6, after a Phoenix resident recognized him from social media posts and called police. Officers noted fresh injuries on his hands and ankles consistent with a violent struggle.
When brought into custody, Dieringer initially refused to comply with a DNA warrant and had to be restrained in a chair so his blood could be drawn.
In court, Dieringer denied the charges, telling the judge:
“I believe that you are being given wrong information about me entirely, and my name, and that these proceedings are illegal.”
He is currently being held on a $2 million cash bond and is scheduled for a status conference on Friday.
The case has shocked the Scottsdale community, where Quaranta was remembered as a kind man devoted to helping those in need. For many, the tragedy highlights the risks faced by people who open their homes and hearts to those struggling on society’s margins.
