The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is currently investigating an officer involved critical incident that took place in Winnebago County, Wis. on the evening of Friday, February 2, 2024.
According to reports, a North Fond du Lac police officer initiated a traffic stop in the Village of North Fond du Lac around 9:40 p.m. However, the vehicle involved in the stop fled, leading law enforcement on a pursuit. In an effort to stop the vehicle, a Fond du Lac County Sheriff's deputy deployed a tire deflation device on Interstate 41 near County Hwy Z, causing the vehicle to come to a halt.
The situation escalated when the driver, who was the lone occupant of the vehicle, called 911 and stated that they had a gun. The individual then exited the vehicle and approached law enforcement. In response, a North Fond du Lac police officer discharged their firearm, ultimately striking the subject. Despite life-saving measures performed at the scene, the subject succumbed to their injuries.
Fortunately, no law enforcement officers were harmed during the incident.
In accordance with department policy, the involved officer from the North Fond du Lac Police Department has been placed on administrative duty. It is worth noting that the officer was wearing a body camera, and both the North Fond du Lac Police Department and the Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office have squad cameras, which will aid in the investigation.
The DCI, with assistance from the Wisconsin State Patrol, the Winnebago County Coroner's Office, DCI Crime Response Specialists, and members of DCI's Digital Evidence Unit, is leading the investigation into this officer involved critical incident. All law enforcement agencies involved are fully cooperating with the DCI during the course of the investigation.
The DCI is currently reviewing evidence and working to establish the facts of the incident. Once the investigation concludes, the investigative reports will be handed over to the Winnebago County District Attorney. At this time, the investigation is still ongoing, and no further details are available.
For media inquiries, please direct them to the Wisconsin DOJ.