Lincoln County Sheriff Darren Short confirmed that Deputy Ryan Terpsma, 28, was killed after being shot while answering a disturbance call with an Eureka Police officer at 8:23 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026. The officer was also hit by gunfire but sustained non‑life‑threatening injuries.
Suspect and Pursuit
The suspect, Matthew David Dye, 50, of Kalispell, fled the scene with a 7‑year‑old girl. Flathead County Sheriff’s Deputies gave chase, during which Dye fired at deputies and disabled two patrol cars. Dye was eventually stopped and surrendered at a roadblock on Highway 93.
Additional Victims
Law enforcement later discovered that Merrisa Walker, 46, had also been shot and killed at the original call site. A juvenile girl was injured in the incident but was treated and released from the hospital.
Community Response
In a statement, Sheriff Short said, “It has been trying times in Lincoln County during the last year. We are all deeply affected by the loss of Deputy Terpsma but know we can count on our community to support the Sheriff’s Office and each other as we grieve the loss of this fine young man.” The sheriff’s office emphasized the community’s role in supporting law‑enforcement families during such tragedies.
Legal Proceedings
Matthew David Dye will be charged with the murder of Deputy Terpsma. An initial hearing is scheduled for next week in Lincoln County Justice Court.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, and authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Updates will be provided as new details emerge.
Original reporting: KTVQ Q2 Billings (local) — read the source article.
