09/04/2026
*WWPD Arrests Three in Connection to July Child Death*
On 7/13/26 at approximately 1302 hours, WWPD responded to the 1600 block of Evergreen St. for a report of a medical assist. A 3-year-old child was found in an apparent medical emergency. Medical personnel transported the child to a local hospital where they were pronounced deceased. Due to the circumstances, investigators remained on scene and processed the scene under the authority of search warrants. The investigation determined that the child’s cause of death was from acute fentanyl intoxication.
On 9/2/26 WWPD arrested a 37-year-old Walla Walla woman, Ashlee Kveton for the following crimes in connection to this case:
- Manslaughter 1st (DV)
- Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl powder
- Possession of fentanyl powder
Today, 9/3/26 WWPD arrested a 36-year-old Walla Walla man, Richard Matson for the following crimes in connection to this case:
- Manslaughter 1st (DV)
- Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl powder
- Possession of fentanyl powder
On 9/2/26 WWPD, with the assistance of CPPD arrested a 28-year-old College Place man, Nicholas Beckman for:
- Controlled substance conspiracy - Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl powder
Mr. Beckman’s fentanyl distribution charge is in connection to this case.
This case remains under investigation. No further information will be released at this time.
