Douglas County Arrests Suspect in Series of Dealership Shootings

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 38 year old Matthew Schwettman of Westminster on December 15, following an investigation into multiple evening drive by shootings that damaged car dealership buildings across the county. The incidents took place after hours between November 7 and December 15, and investigators say no employees or customers were inside when rounds struck the properties.

Authorities identified the suspect after Special Investigations Section detectives combined footage from Flock Safety cameras with security video supplied by affected dealerships to trace the vehicle and obtain a license plate. A search warrant was executed and Schwettman was taken into custody without incident. Multiple firearms were recovered and the vehicle alleged to have been used in the shootings was impounded. The sheriff’s office thanked the Westminster Police Department and their SWAT team for assistance in the arrest.

He was booked on a felony count of criminal mischief for damages in the range of $20,000 to $99,999 and on seven counts of illegal discharge of a firearm, charged as felony five offenses. Investigators continue to review evidence to determine whether Schwettman may be linked to additional drive by shootings. The sheriff’s office described the investigation as active and limited comments to the information released so far. Note of presumption of innocence applies until legal proceedings are complete.

“This person was an absolute danger to our community. Regardless of whether the buildings were occupied, randomly firing into businesses is a recipe for tragedy. It was only a matter of time before a stray bullet seriously injured or killed someone. I am extremely proud of our investigations team, who worked multiple days to identify this suspect, build a solid case, and take him into custody.”, Sheriff Weekly

Local residents and business owners say the incidents have increased anxiety about public safety and raised questions about the resources available to prevent and respond to violent acts. The case highlights how partnerships between law enforcement and private businesses and the use of automated camera systems can accelerate investigations, while also prompting conversations about surveillance, privacy, and equitable public safety investments across Douglas County. Investigators ask anyone with information related to the shootings to contact the sheriff’s office as the inquiry continues.