The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is currently conducting an investigation into an officer involved critical incident that took place in Grafton, Wis. on the morning of Thursday, November 2, 2023.
According to reports, deputies from the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office attempted to apprehend Christopher T. Sewell, a 29-year-old individual with outstanding felony warrants. Sewell, however, chose to flee in his vehicle, leading law enforcement on a pursuit. During the chase, officers deployed a tire deflation device, causing Sewell's vehicle to come to a stop near the 900 block of Lakefield Road in Grafton.
Upon exiting his vehicle, Sewell fled on foot towards a nearby tree line, prompting law enforcement to give chase. Initial information suggests that Sewell was armed. It was during this pursuit that Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office Deputy Michael Zilke, an experienced officer with 8 years of service, discharged his firearm, striking Sewell. Despite lifesaving efforts, Sewell succumbed to his injuries at the scene. A firearm was recovered from the area.
Fortunately, no law enforcement officers were harmed during the incident. The deputies involved in the incident were equipped with body cameras, which will likely provide valuable evidence for the ongoing investigation.
In compliance with agency policy, Deputy Zilke has been placed on administrative assignment while the investigation is underway. The DCI is leading the investigation and is being assisted by various other agencies, including the Wisconsin State Crime Lab, Wisconsin State Patrol, DCI's Digital Evidence Unit, and a DCI Crime Response Specialist. All law enforcement personnel involved in the incident are fully cooperating with the DCI.
The DCI is currently reviewing all available evidence to establish the facts surrounding this incident. Once the investigation concludes, investigative reports will be turned over to the Ozaukee County District Attorney. For any media inquiries related to this officer involved critical incident, please direct them to the Wisconsin DOJ.
The investigation into this officer involved critical incident remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
To learn more, click on this link: https://www.doj.state.wi.us/news-releases/update-officer-involved-critical-incident-investigation-ozaukee-county-wis