Crime & Safety
Montana Deputy Killed in Shooting; Suspect Arrested After Chase Oct 30
Eureka, MT – A 28 year old Lincoln County sheriff's deputy was shot and killed Friday night while responding to a disturbance near Eureka, Montana, triggering a pursuit that ended with a suspect surre
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-31T17:33:43.832Z
Eureka, MT – A 28 year old Lincoln County sheriff 's deputy was shot and killed Friday night while responding to a disturbance near Eureka, Montana, triggering a pursuit that ended with a suspect surrendering to authorities.
According to an Oct. 31 news release from Lincoln County Sheriff Darren Short, Deputy Ryan Terpsma responded to a disturbance call at approximately 8:23 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, at 118 Lone Pine Trail in Eureka, accompanied by a Eureka police officer.
Authorities said Terpsma was fatally shot at the scene. The accompanying Eureka police officer was also struck by gunfire but sustained injuries described as non life threatening.
The suspect, identified as 50 year old Matthew David Dye of Kalispell, allegedly fled toward Kalispell with a 7 year old girl.
Flathead County sheriff's deputies located the vehicle and initiated a pursuit.
According to the sheriff's office, Dye allegedly fired at pursuing deputies, disabling two patrol vehicles.
A roadblock was established along Highway 93, but the suspect stopped before reaching it and surrendered.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that 46 year old Merrisa Walker had also been shot and killed at the original disturbance location.
A juvenile female was also injured during the incident but received treatment at the scene and was released.
The sheriff's office said Dye is expected to face charges and make an initial appearance in Lincoln County Justice Court next week. Specific charges were not detailed in the release.
The Montana Department of Justice's Division of Criminal Investigation will lead the investigation at Sheriff Short's request.
The Montana Highway Patrol also issued a statement expressing condolences to Terpsma's family, friends and colleagues.
"Deputy Terpsma's service and sacrifice will never be forgotten," the agency stated.
Sheriff Short acknowledged the community's grief and called for support for the sheriff's office and one another following the deputy's death.
The investigation remains ongoing.