Deputy Sheriff Richard Anthony Herzog, aged 46, tragically lost his life on June 22, 2002, in Newcastle, Washington. Deputy Herzog, a veteran of the King County Sheriff's Office, responded to a call about a naked man causing a disturbance on Coal Creek Parkway. Upon arrival, Herzog attempted to subdue the man using pepper spray, but the spray had no effect. The suspect, later identified as Ronald Keith Matthews, attacked Herzog, knocking his service weapon, a. 40 caliber Glock, to the ground.
Matthews picked up the weapon, reinserted the magazine, and shot Herzog once, causing him to fall. Matthews then stood over Herzog and shot him ten more times before fleeing to a nearby apartment.
The suspect, Ronald Keith Matthews, had a history of felony convictions, including assault, check fraud, weapons violations, malicious mischief, and drug offenses. He had been released from jail just 11 days prior to the incident, after serving several months for assaulting a police officer. Matthews was apprehended approximately 45 minutes after the shooting. He was charged with aggravated first-degree murder and was convicted on August 19, 2004. On September 23, 2004, Matthews was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Deputy Herzog's death was a significant loss to the community and the King County Sheriff's Office. He was a dedicated officer who had served for seven years and was known for his commitment to public service. Herzog was also a United States Army veteran, having served 20 years in the Army Special Forces. He was survived by his wife and two teenage daughters.
The incident highlighted the dangers law enforcement officers face and led to an outpouring of support and respect for Herzog's service and sacrifice. The community of Newcastle and the broader law enforcement community mourned his loss and honored his memory through various memorials and reflections.
