by Dallas, Texas — The Dallas Police Department released new details Monday, including body camera footage, following a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred while authorities were serving a narcotics warrant in West Dallas.
According to the Dallas Police Department, the shooting happened on Feb. 19 in the 1000 block of Shaw Street.
Police Chief Daniel Comeaux said SWAT officers were approaching the second story of the residence when they announced their presence using flashbang devices and verbal commands.
Officials said a man opened the front door and pointed a firearm directly at an officer, prompting the officer to fire multiple shots.
Suspect Identified; No Officers Injured
The man was later identified as 26-year-old Matthew Leija. Authorities said a SWAT doctor on scene attempted lifesaving measures, but Leija was pronounced dead at the scene.
No officers were injured during the encounter. The officer who fired the shots has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure following an officer-involved shooting.
Children Located Unharmed
Police confirmed that two infant children were found unharmed inside the residence. Child Protective Services responded to the scene, and the children were later turned over to their mother.
Officials emphasized that the children were not injured during the incident.
Drugs and Firearms Recovered
According to Chief Comeaux, Leija was a known drug dealer in Dallas.
Investigators said they recovered:
- Multiple firearms
- Methamphetamine
- Marijuana
- Pills believed to be laced with fentanyl
The narcotics warrant was part of a joint investigation involving the Lewisville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
DEA task force members detained and interviewed family members present in the home during the operation.
Investigation Ongoing
The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office and the Dallas Police Special Investigations Unit are continuing to review the case.
This marks the fourth officer-involved shooting in Dallas in 2026.
Authorities noted that the investigation remains active and that information may change as forensic evidence, witness statements and additional video footage are analyzed.
What are your thoughts on how narcotics warrant operations are handled in residential neighborhoods? Share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
