SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — The Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office has ruled that the use of deadly force by Spokane County Sheriff’s deputies was justified in the shooting that resulted in the death of Matthew Teears.
Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney Larry Haskell announced that no criminal charges will be filed in connection with the deputy-involved shooting on Nov. 15, 2022.
According to the county office, on the afternoon of Nov. 14, 2022, police received a report from 1036 South Jessica Lane in Greenacres about a loud noise and bullet holes in a home. Initial investigations did not yield sufficient details for immediate action.
Later that evening, around 11 p.m., another call was received from 18609 East Lindsay Lane. Deputies said they determined that the shots likely originated from the house where Teears lived. Known for firearm possession, meth use and mental health issues, Teears did not respond when deputies attempted contact.
Deputies said they retreated and requested a SWAT team. A search warrant was obtained for charges including reckless endangerment and malicious mischief. SWAT arrived around 2:50 a.m., initiating a standoff. Teears was informed of the warrant and was told he would not be harmed if he surrendered.
During the standoff, deputies employed various non-lethal methods and negotiations to persuade Teears to surrender. Despite these efforts, Teears continued to fire at deputies. Chemical agents were used, but Teears responded by wearing a gas mask.
At around 11 a.m. on Nov. 15, a fire broke out on the upper floor of the house. After a brief attempt to extinguish the blaze, Teears exited the house and tried to flee. Deputies used lethal force to prevent his escape.
The investigation revealed that Teears was armed with a loaded 9mm pistol when he attempted to flee. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
