Subject Shot, Killed by North Iowa Deputy Brandished Pellet Gun

State investigators say a man shot and killed by a north Iowa deputy earlier this week was brandishing what turned out to be a pellet gun.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety says the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic dispute at 1124 West Gilman Street in Sheffield shortly after 9:30 pm Tuesday night. Upon arrival, deputies encountered a male, later identified as 30-year-old Matt Davis of Hampton, brandishing a handgun. Davis was arguing with family members who had locked themselves inside the house and called 911.

Deputies ordered Davis to drop the gun, but he refused, and walked toward the deputies. Davis then pointed the gun at a passing vehicle and then deputies. Deputies shot at Davis, striking him once.   

Medical personnel responded to the scene and Davis died on site.  No officers were injured.

The Iowa DCI and Iowa State Patrol were requested to investigate the incident. The weapon Davis pointed at deputies was determined to be a pellet gun and the incident was captured on deputies’ body cameras.  

Upon completion of the investigation, all results will be forwarded to the Franklin County Attorney’s Office for review. 

Court records show that Davis was convicted of assault in 2019 after he was accused of hitting the driver of a another vehicle in the face. Davis claimed the man tailgating him with his semi.