The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is currently investigating an officer involved critical incident (OICI) that took place in the City of Shullsburg, Wis. on the early morning of Monday, February 12, 2024.
According to reports, the Lafayette County Sheriff's Office responded to a 911 call at approximately 1:06 a.m. regarding a subject acting erratically on West Water Street near North Iowa Street in Shullsburg. Two Lafayette County Sheriff's deputies and one Darlington police officer promptly arrived at the scene.
Law enforcement encountered a subject who was yelling and wandering in the street. Despite their attempts to make contact, the subject physically resisted their efforts. Non-lethal means were deployed, but unfortunately, they were unsuccessful in subduing the individual. The subject then fled from law enforcement but was eventually detained. Throughout the encounter, the subject continued to resist.
As the situation escalated, the subject became distressed, prompting law enforcement to provide life-saving measures. Emergency medical services (EMS) were called to the scene, and the subject was transported to a local hospital. Tragically, the individual was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.
Fortunately, no law enforcement officers were injured during the incident. In accordance with department policy, the involved officer from the Darlington Police Department and the two Lafayette County Sheriff's Office deputies have been placed on administrative duty.
It is worth noting that both the Darlington Police Department and the Lafayette County Sheriff's Office had body cameras and squad cameras in operation during the incident. This equipment will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the ongoing investigation.
The DCI is leading the investigation, with assistance from various agencies, including the Shullsburg Police Department, Lafayette County Coroner's Office, Lafayette County EMS, Shullsburg EMS, Wisconsin State Patrol, DCI Crime Response Specialists, and members of DCI's Digital Evidence Unit. All law enforcement personnel involved in the incident are fully cooperating with the DCI during the investigation.
The DCI is diligently reviewing all available evidence to determine the facts surrounding this incident. Once the investigation concludes, investigative reports will be turned over to the Lafayette County District Attorney for further action.
For any media inquiries, please direct them to the Wisconsin DOJ, who will provide further updates as they become available.