Iowa Man Receives Life Sentence for Fatal Shooting of Former Partner's Mother
An Iowa resident, Hamza Smajlovic, has been given a life sentence one year after killing his former partner's mother, Ruth Robison, and seriously injuring her father, Tony Robison. The sentencing took place on Friday, November 21, 2025, following his earlier guilty plea to charges of murder and attempted murder, according to Polk County prosecutors.
Prosecutors stated that in October 2024, Smajlovic assaulted his ex-girlfriend, Jasmyn Robison, at their shared residence in Des Moines by choking her. She ended their relationship, describing the incident as the final breaking point after nearly a decade of distress.
When Jasmyn's parents arrived on November 1, 2024, to help her move out, Smajlovic opened fire. Ruth died at the scene, while Tony sustained life-threatening injuries. In court, Smajlovic admitted to the shootings, telling the judge that he retrieved a handgun and first shot Ruth in the head before turning the weapon on Tony.
During the sentencing hearing, Jasmyn addressed Smajlovic directly, expressing sorrow for the time stolen from her and her mother. Her sister, Chayse Robison, also spoke, emphasizing that their mother's legacy would be remembered with dignity, in contrast to the shame brought by Smajlovic's actions.
