Quick Thinking Shields Family as Police Close In on Fleeing Suspect

A rapid, coordinated response between the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Fort Walton Beach Police Department led to the arrest of a Fort Walton Beach man following a dangerous series of crimes that included an attempted carjacking, a stolen vehicle, and a residential burglary.

According to authorities, Fort Walton Beach Police officers were actively searching for a reported stolen vehicle late last night when Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office deputies spotted the car near the intersection of Kenneth Drive and Bob Sikes Boulevard. Deputies were able to quickly locate the suspect after he entered a nearby home while attempting to evade law enforcement.

The suspect was identified as 30-year-old Matthew Teems of Fort Walton Beach.

Investigators say the incident began earlier when Teems allegedly attempted to forcibly enter a running vehicle at a Fort Walton Beach-area residence. The vehicle was occupied by a woman and her two small children. Fearing for their safety, the woman was able to escape the vehicle and call 911.

Authorities say Teems fled the scene in a stolen vehicle, prompting a coordinated search by local law enforcement agencies. His attempt to avoid capture ended when deputies located him after he unlawfully entered a nearby residence.

Teems now faces multiple felony charges, including attempted carjacking, burglary of an occupied dwelling, and fleeing to elude law enforcement.

“We commend the vigilance of the victims and residents involved and the professionalism of the deputies and officers who brought this to a safe conclusion,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden.

No injuries were reported in the incident.