Matthew Gerald

On Sunday morning, July 17, 2016, Officer Matthew Gerald was shot and killed by a gunman, along with two other officers, Corporal Montrell Jackson, and Deputy Sheriff Brad Garafola. They died at the scene. Sergeant Nick Tullier was wounded but succumbed to his injuries in 2022. Two other officers were injured that morning. The officers responded to a call of a subject walking along the roadway carrying a rifle. As they arrived, they were ambushed by the subject. The subject was shot and killed by other responding officers. Officer Gerald was a member of the Baton Rouge Police Department in Louisiana for nine months and was 41 years old. He was also a veteran of the United States Army and Marine Corps. 

Gerald graduated from Central High School and pursued a career in the military. He joined the United State Army and achieved the rank of Specialist, earning four air medals. In addition, he was a Black Hawk Crew Chief, a Longknife Squadron Member and a Stetson Troop 4/3 ACR member. He was a member of the United States Marine Corps and completed three tours of duty in Iraq. He was the epitome of a proud American. He made lifelong friendships with his fellow soldiers, and their love for each other never wavered. Gerald’s desire to protect and serve continued as he began his law enforcement journey. He graduated from the Baton Rouge Police Academy in March of 2016, just four months before his death. He was proud to be an officer and formed a bond with his Field Training Officer. They shared the same work ethic, morals, and values. He had a love and passion for “wearing the blue” and was respected by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His ultimate sacrifice took place as he valiantly protected and served his community. He truly lived a life of service to his country, his community and his fellow man. 

Gerald was married for four years to his loving wife, Dechia. They had three children: Dawclyn, Fynleigh, and Falyn – who was born after his father’s death. His family meant everything to him. He was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and had an amazing smile. He loved living life with fun and happiness, always in good spirits, always the guy you wanted to spend time with. He will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to be a part of his life. 

Police Officer Matthew Gerald is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Dechia, their children, Dawclyn, Fynleigh and Falyn, his parents, his brother, Marc, his military family, his law enforcement family, and many other cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Gerald family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.