Montana Mourns Deputy and Civilian After Deadly Weekend Shooting

The state of Montana is in mourning today after a tragic incident over the weekend that resulted in the deaths of two including a Lincoln County Sheriff's Deputy.

The incident has been acknowledged by Governor Gianforte and officials have announced plans for a public procession.

Lincoln County Sheriff's Deputy Killed in Officer-Involved Shooting

28-year-old Deputy Ryan Terpsma responded to a disturbance call in Eureka, Montana where he was shot killed on Saturday evening. A Eureka police officer was also reportedly hit by gun fire, but their injuries were not severe.

"The suspect, identified as 50-year-old Matthew David Dye, of Kalispell, fled the scene toward Kalispell with a 7-year-old girl," Lincoln County officials shared in a statement, "He was located by Flathead County Sheriff's Deputies and pursued."

ALSO READ: Next-Gen Power Source Coming to Malmstrom AFB in Great Falls

"During the pursuit the suspect fired at deputies disabling 2 patrol cars. On Highway 93, a roadblock was set up and the suspect stopped just prior and surrendered."

An injured juvenile was treated at the scene and 46-year-old Merissa Walker was found shot and killed at the scene.

The suspect is expected to have his hearing in court this afternoon (11/2).

Montana Mourns Deputy Terpsma, Walker

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office shared that following their examinations, the victims will be transported back to Libby from Missoula. They've invited the public to pay their respects.

"Following the examination Terpsma and Walker will return to Libby," Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said in a statement, "They will travel on highway 93 from Missoula through Kalispell and highway 2 to Libby. The public is welcome to show their respect by standing along the roadway."

Get our free mobile app

According to their Facebook page, the procession will begin approximately at 3:30 p.m. today(11/2) traveling "North on highway 93 to Kalispell, then Highway 2 West to Libby returning to the Schnackenberg & Riddle Funeral Home."

Governor Gianforte signed a proclamation ordering all flags in the state of Montana to be flown at half-staff this week.

Fundraiser for Deputy Terpsma

Law enforcement has rallied to raise money to support the family of Deputy Terpsma.

"The Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association is collecting donations to help support his family during this difficult time," Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said in a post.

"100% of all donations collected for the Deputy Ryan Terpsma Memorial Fund will be provided directly to Deputy Terpsma's family to assist with funeral expenses and other expenses resulting from this tragic loss."

ALSO READ: Nationwide Manhunt Underway for Fraudulent Signature Suspect

Officials say the MSPOA will not keep any portion of the donations and that "this fund is the official and only place for donations that the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the family are authorizing."

You can mail your donation to:

Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association
Deputy Ryan Terpsma Memorial Fund
P.O. Box 794
Helena, MT 59624

Or, you can donate by card HERE.

"Deputy Ryan Terpsma made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community," Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said.

"We ask Montanans to join us in honoring his life and supporting his family."