Monte Rio man now faces 30-to-life for Guerneville murder

<p>A Monte Rio man convicted of second-degree murder in the January death of his partner faces a sentence of 30 years to life in prison after a judge agreed to consider a prior arson conviction as a strike.</p><p>Jurors convicted Bret Matz, 47, of the murder charge despite his testimony that he killed Robert Guess, 46, in self-defense during a three-hour, drunken fight inside their home on Jan. 1.</p><p>A second-degree murder charge carries a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. But prosecutors also alleged that a 1996 arson conviction should count as a strike, which would double Matz’ sentence. </p><p>Judge Julie Conger confirmed the conviction and strike at a hearing last week. Details of the arson weren’t available.</p><p>Conger scheduled a sentencing hearing for Aug. 14.</p><p>Matz admitted striking Guess three times in the head with the 4 1/2-pound metal lamp the night of Jan. 1, causing Guess to fall on their bed with lethal injuries.</p><p>Guess’ body was discovered on the morning of Jan. 2, after a drunken Matz walked into town and told a shopkeeper he’d killed his partner. Several witnesses testified that Matz appeared inconsolable and suicidal.</p><p>The couple’s eight-month relationship was marked by several instances of domestic violence from both men, according to court records and testimony.</p>