Aspiring Pastor Charged With Killing Wife Was Obsessed With 'American Psycho'

Matthew Phelps — the aspiring pastor accused of stabbing his wife to death in his sleep — had an obsession with American Psycho, investigators have revealed. According to a report, the 29-year-old frequently spoke to friends about his obsession with the serial killer in the film and fantasized about what it would be like to kill someone. His Instagram account — which is now private — shows evidence of his dark fascination.

"This Instagram account shows numerous photographs of scenes from the movie and Phelps dressed as the main character," a detective wrote in a statement obtained by The Charlotte Observer. "The movie is about a serial killer, and Phelps expressed interest to a friend regarding what it would be like to kill someone."

As RadarOnline.com previously reported, the bible studies graduate called 911 on himself after allegedly taking too much cough medicine and waking up to find his wife, Lauren Ashley-Nicole Phelps, dead. He told cops he had blood all over him and was holding a knife when he regained consciousness.

"I think I did it," he told the 911 dispatcher between tears at the time. "I can't believe I did this… she didn't deserve this."

Lauren was stabbed 123 times. She was found dead, in a fetal position on the bed she shared with Matthew.

According to a recent report, friends of the former couple told investigators that the two "argued frequently" and Lauren wanted to end their marriage.

As RadarOnline.com readers know, Matthew Phelps committed his crime on September 1, 2017 in North Carolina. Following his September 5 court hearing, his lawyer told reporters the young killer was emotional and traumatized by his actions, and still mourning the death of his wife.

While he blamed his deadly frenzy on taking too much of the cold medicine, Coricidin HBP, a spokesperson for the pharmaceuticals company assured the media that the medication is not known to cause violent outbursts.

Matthew Phelps has been charged with first-degree murder.

Stay with RadarOnline.com for updates.

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