Authorities have released the identity of a man fatally shot by Colorado Springs Police officers following a reported disturbance last week. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office disclosed that 41-year-old Matthew D. Kemper was the individual involved in an officer-involved shooting on Prairie Grass Lane, as reported by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.
On the night of October 7, CSPD officers responded to a call at around 11:56 pm about a suicidal man inside a home who had been involved in an altercation with his roommates and was harming himself with a knife. According to the sheriff's office, upon the officer’s arrival, Kemper confronted them with the knife, which led to one officer discharging their weapon. Following the shooting, officers provided medical aid until American Medical Response arrived and transported Kemper to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
No other civilians or police officers were reported injured during the incident. Details regarding the exact events that led to the shooting have not been fully disclosed as the investigation is ongoing. In line with standard procedure, three officers have been placed on administrative leave. This is in accordance with CSPD policy for such incidents.
Efforts to notify Kemper's next of kin have been unsuccessful. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is requesting assistance from the public, asking anyone with information regarding the family of Mr. Kemper to reach out to their non-emergency line at 719-390-5555. The cause and manner of Kemper's death will be determined by the El Paso County Coroner's Office in due course.
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the shooting, as mandated by Colorado Revised Statute 16-2.5-301. As the investigation unfolds, the Sheriff's Office has committed to releasing further information as it becomes appropriate.
