Thursday, Oct. 20 shortly after 1 p.m., Garland Police Department Officers responded to a suspicious circumstance call in the 600 block of Echo Drive. The female caller told police dispatch that her in-home monitoring system had been activated and no one was supposed to be at the residence.
When GPD officers arrived on the scene and started to investigate, they discovered an open rear door to the residence. The officers encountered a male, identified as 43-year-old Matthew Waldrop, inside the residence. During the investigation, it was revealed that Waldrop had an active Protective Order that was issued to protect the caller. The order stated that Waldrop was not to be at the location.
The officers spoke to Waldrop and attempted to determine why he was at the location. Waldrop became increasingly agitated and threatened to kill the officers. Officers made attempts to de-escalate the situation. However, despite their efforts, Waldrop produced a handgun and shot at officers multiple times. Two police officers discharged their weapons, striking Waldrop. No officers were injured during the incident.
Officers rendered medical aid to Waldrop and he was then transported to a hospital by Garland Fire Department paramedics. Waldrop is listed in stable condition. He is being charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault Against a Public Servant and for Violation of a Protective Order.
Garland police detectives, along with members of the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Unit responded to the scene to investigate according to standard procedures.
The two officers will be placed on administrative leave in accordance with departmental policy.
This is an ongoing investigation.
A current photo of Waldrop is unavailable. The attached photo is from an arrest earlier this year for Violation of a Protective Order.