A 25-year-old man from Iowa, Hamza Smajlovic, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for murdering his ex-girlfriend’s mother and attempting to kill her father. The incident occurred in Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, where Smajlovic had previously assaulted his ex-girlfriend, Jasmyn Robison.
Following the assault, Jasmyn decided to end the relationship, prompting her parents, Tony and Ruth Robison, to assist her in moving out of the residence. Tragically, Smajlovic shot both parents on November 1, 2024. Ruth Robison, aged 45, lost her life in the attack, while Tony Robison sustained critical injuries after being shot in the head.
During the court proceedings, Smajlovic admitted to shooting Ruth and then targeting Tony. Jasmyn, along with other members of the Robison family, expressed their grief and memories of Ruth at the sentencing. Jasmyn condemned Smajlovic for his actions and lamented the time lost with her mother due to the tragic events.
In court, Smajlovic acknowledged the devastation caused by his actions, apologizing to the family and expressing remorse for the ruined lives. The sentencing included life imprisonment without parole for Smajlovic, along with an additional 25 years for the shooting. District Judge Joseph Seidlin emphasized the severity of the crimes, highlighting the separate attempts to take the lives of the Robison couple and the profound impact on their family.
The judge’s decision to impose consecutive sentences underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the tragic loss of Ruth and the severe injuries suffered by Tony. The Robison family, devastated by the events, paid tribute to Ruth’s memory and the enduring love she demonstrated in protecting her daughter.