Montana Deputy Killed in Line of Duty Laid to Rest in Washington Hometown - KIRO 7

Montana Deputy Killed in Line of Duty Laid to Rest in Washington Hometown – KIRO 7

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Bellingham gathered to remember a hometown officer lost in the line of duty.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Ryan Terpsma was laid to rest in Bellingham on Saturday, according to KIRO 7. Officers from around the country traveled to Christ the King Community Church to mourn the 28-year-old deputy.

Terpsma was shot and killed in Eureka, Montana, on October 30, which marked his 28th birthday. Officials reported that the man accused of shooting Terpsma had already killed a woman, was accompanied by a seven-year-old girl, and died in custody days later. Another officer sustained injuries during the incident, while the young girl survived.

“Losing him is the hardest thing. The absolute hardest thing,” Kylie Terpsma told KIRO 7. “But I also know he would tell people to put a smile on their face and be strong.”

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Kylie said that her brother always wanted a career in law enforcement and embraced the landscape when an opportunity arose in Montana. “He loved the mountains, he loved the rivers and the lakes,” she told KIRO 7. “He loved the Montana life.”

Despite the distance, Kylie spoke with her brother daily and reflected on his commitment to others outside of his official duties.

“His only day off that week, he went and volunteered his time at a fishing derby with kids,” Kylie told KIRO 7. “That’s my brother. That’s who we are.”

“He’s a hero,” Kylie said. “My brother is a real hero.” A memorial fund has been established to support Terpsma’s family.

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