BELLEVILLE — Belleville Police Chief Matthew S. Eiskant, a lifelong member of the Belleville community who led the Belleville Police Department after more than 25 years of service, died at approximately 4:30 p.m. Aug. 24, 2026, following a battle with cancer, the department announced on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026. He was 49 years old.
“It is with profound sadness that the Belleville Police Department announces the passing of Chief of Police Matthew S. Eiskant,” the department said.
Eiskant devoted his career to the department and the City of Belleville, serving first as a patrol officer and later advancing through every command rank before being appointed police chief on June 21, 2022.
“To those of us who worked beside him, he was not only our Chief, but also a friend, mentor, and leader,” the department said. “His loss is deeply felt throughout our Department. We will honor him by continuing to serve this community with the same dedication and care he demonstrated throughout his career.”
Eiskant graduated from Belleville East High School in 1995. He began his career with the Belleville Police Department on June 18, 2001, after graduating from the Southwestern Illinois College Police Academy. He served as a patrol officer before joining the Detective Division in 2003.
He was promoted to detective sergeant on Sept. 12, 2010; lieutenant on July 3, 2012; captain and special operations commander on June 25, 2016; and assistant chief of police on July 3, 2018.
Eiskant also served the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis as an investigator, supervisor, deputy commander, and board member. His commendations included the Belleville Police Department Officer of the Year and Big Brothers Big Sisters Police Officer of the Year awards in 2008, as well as the Southern Illinois Police Chiefs Association Merit Award.
He earned bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and sociology and a master’s degree in criminal justice administration from Lindenwood University. He also graduated from FBI National Academy Session 257.
“Chief Eiskant leaves a lasting legacy of leadership, professionalism, and devoted public service,” the department said. “His impact will continue through the officers and employees he led, the law-enforcement partners with whom he served, and the community he dedicated his career to protecting.”
Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced once finalized.
