Background: A Journalist's Life in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has long been a melting pot of stories, where glitz and glamour meet the gritty realities of everyday life. Matthew Kelemen, a seasoned journalist, immersed himself in this vibrant landscape. Since his arrival in 2003, Kelemen reported on everything from high-profile events to the underbelly of Sin City.

Kelemen's writing was marked by his keen eye for detail and a flair for storytelling. He contributed to popular local publications like 944, City Life, and Vegas Magazine. Whether chronicling the rise of a celebrity chef or exploring the city’s nightlife, his articles captivated readers with rich narratives that brought the essence of Las Vegas to life.

Despite the allure of the Strip, life in Vegas isn’t as glamorous for everyone. His family noted that Kelemen often felt unease in his living situation before his tragic end. The contrast between the bustling nightlife and personal turmoil illustrates that even in a city built on dreams, harsh realities linger.

Kelemen's final pieces—reflecting on Janet Jackson and previewing Memorial Day weekend celebrations—showcased his dedication until the end. His untimely demise has left a void in the local journalism community, one that echoes in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy as a storyteller and advocate for the overlooked will always remain a part of Las Vegas history.

The Discovery: Kelemen's Body and Roommate's Role

Tragedy struck in Las Vegas when journalist Matthew Kelemen, 56, was discovered dead, wrapped in tarp and concealed within a storage container. Authorities unearthed the grim scene near Fremont Street on May 20, after reports of a foul odor led them to the gruesome discovery.

Kelemen's sister revealed that he had expressed unease about his roommate, Joseph Del Rivo, calling him "a disgusting slob." In chilling detail, she explained that Kelemen had planned to confront Del Rivo but felt apprehensive about his volatile behavior.

Less than 24 hours after Kelemen's body was found, Del Rivo was killed in a high-speed chase in Utah. The police pursuit ended tragically when Del Rivo lost control of his vehicle, leaving perplexity and heartbreak in the wake of this shocking crime.

Kelemen was a respected writer for Las Vegas Magazine and had a history of freelance work in the local media scene. His passing marks a significant loss for the community, intertwining his legacy with the unsettling circumstances surrounding his death.

The Aftermath: A Deadly Chase and Family's Heartbreak

In a shocking turn of events following the tragic death of Las Vegas journalist Matthew Kelemen, his roommate Joseph Del Rivo became the subject of a high-speed chase that ended with his own demise. Del Rivo was killed in a police pursuit that reached speeds over 140 mph on I-70 in Utah, just days after Kelemen’s body was discovered wrapped in a tarp inside a storage container.

The revelation of Kelemen's murder hit his family hard. His sister, Mikki Zaferatos, described the ordeal as "horror movie stuff." Kelemen had shared his fears of his roommate with family, expressing discomfort and unease living with Del Rivo, whom he referred to as a "disgusting slob." Their plans for a confrontation were tragically cut short.

As police unraveled the gruesome details, they uncovered that Kelemen’s lifeless body had been stuffed into a box previously used for his guitar amplifiers. The shocking discovery left the family grappling with loss and disbelief. Zaferatos recalled her brother’s words, stating he was “worried about how [Del Rivo] was going to act,” foreshadowing the tragic events that unfolded.

Kelemen, a respected journalist, had penned articles for several prominent publications in Las Vegas. His sudden and violent death raised questions about safety and community awareness. As friends and colleagues mourn, questions linger over the devastating circumstances that led to this deadly chase and the heartbreak that followed.