ST. LOUIS, MO (March 25, 2025) — Dontae Mentria, 33, was sentenced Tuesday to 18 years in prison after pleading guilty Monday to voluntary manslaughter, armed criminal action (ACA), and unlawful possession of a firearm for the fatal shooting of 42-year-old Martin Rybialek on January 12, 2022, at a residence in the 2700 block of Dalton Avenue in the city’s Southwest Garden neighborhood. He received 15 years for voluntary manslaughter, to be served consecutively with 3 years for ACA, and 7 years concurrently for unlawful possession of a firearm.

The charges stem from a report of shots fired at the residence, where police found Rybialek dead in the basement. An investigation revealed the residence was being used for methamphetamine distribution. The case against Mentria required piecing together crucial evidence from the scene and months of detailed investigation, ultimately leading to his conviction.

Violent Crime Unit Supervisor Adam Field and Assistant Circuit Attorney Dominic Cusumano prosecuted the case.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore stated, "Adam Field and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are to be commended for their tireless efforts in investigating this case. Their dedication has been essential in holding Dontae Mentria accountable for the death of Martin Rybialek, ensuring that justice is served, and helping keep our community safe."



Mentria’s case number is 2322-CR01892-01.