The Chilling 23 Minutes After Murder

A sensational true crime case captured America’s focus following the fatal shooting of wealthy husband Donald “DJ” Melon by his stripper wife, Rebecca Melon, in their Phoenix home. The incident, compounded by Rebecca’s chilling post-murder composure—sitting beside his body for 23 minutes—was captured entirely on home surveillance. While police responded to 21 domestic disturbances at the residence prior to the tragedy, leaving a clear history of violence, the case remains unresolved as Rebecca claims self-defense against charges of first-degree murder.

Story Snapshot

  • Rebecca Melon, a stripper, shot her husband, Donald Melon, in their Phoenix home.
  • The incident was captured on home surveillance, showing post-murder behavior.
  • Police responded 21 times to domestic disturbances at the Melon residence before the murder.
  • Rebecca claims self-defense amid a documented history of domestic violence.

Security Footage Reveals Gruesome Details

On a fateful evening in Phoenix, Arizona, Rebecca Melon, known for her work at a local strip club, was caught on home security footage fatally shooting her wealthy husband, Donald “DJ” Melon. The footage, recorded at 9:44 p.m., shows Rebecca entering their living room and, without hesitation, shooting Donald as he left a voicemail for his daughter. This act was compounded by her subsequent actions: changing into a “Shooters World” shirt and returning to fire a second, fatal shot.

The footage, which authorities have described but not publicly released due to its gruesomeness, captures Rebecca’s chilling calm as she sat beside her husband’s body for 23 minutes, smoking a cigarette without calling for help. This behavior has drawn significant media attention, framing Rebecca as a “heartless” perpetrator.

Domestic Violence Preceded the Tragedy

Prior to the incident, the Phoenix police had been called to the Melon residence 21 times in the past year. These calls were for various issues, including welfare checks, domestic violence reports, and assault allegations. These frequent disturbances painted a picture of a tumultuous and dangerous domestic environment. Rebecca has claimed the shooting was an act of self-defense, alleging that she feared for her life after learning of Donald’s impending arrest for domestic violence.

Rebecca’s defense hinges on these previous incidents, her journal entries, and the narrative of relentless abuse she allegedly suffered. However, Donald’s family disputes this portrayal, describing him as a non-violent man who “never had a chance” against Rebecca’s actions.

Stripper Bride Caught on Home Security Cam Straight-Up MURDERING Her Brand New Husband 

No Developments, But Lasting Impact

The case, which gained significant attention following its coverage by Crime Watch Daily, has not seen recent developments in 2025. Rebecca remains in custody on a $1 million bail, charged with first-degree murder. The case’s lack of resolution has left questions surrounding the true nature of their relationship and whether Rebecca’s actions were justified or premeditated.

While the story predominantly remains an archival true crime narrative, it has broader implications for discussions around domestic violence and the use of security footage in legal contexts. The Melon case continues to resonate in public discourse, highlighting the complexities of abuse and self-defense claims.

Watch the report: Stripper caught murdering new husband on home security footage

Sources:

Crime Watch Daily Episode Summary

Arizona Woman Booked For Husband’s Murder – ABC News

Stripper caught murdering new husband on home security footage – Criminal Encounters