Texas Doctor Dies Before Child Sex Crime Sentencing

Matt Elza Hipke, a 62-year-old former doctor from Longview, Texas, was found dead at his home just days before his scheduled sentencing for multiple child sex crimes, including aggravated sexual assault of a child. Hipke had pleaded guilty to abusing several minor patients, some younger than 14, at his Adolescent Care Team practice between 2016 and 2020. After his initial arrest in 2020, Hipke was released on bond but later faced re-arrest and additional charges as more allegations surfaced. His medical license was revoked, and he faced both criminal prosecution and multiple civil lawsuits. Authorities have not released the cause of death but have ordered an autopsy and stated there is no ongoing threat to the public. The closure of his practice and the impact on victims have had significant effects on the Longview community.