A police officer in Madison, Wisconsin, fatally shot a man on Wednesday afternoon. The incident occurred during a confrontation while officers investigated a report of someone attempting to open vehicle doors, according to police.
Investigation Details
Officers responded to the Marquette neighborhood around 1 p.m. following a report of a person checking parked cars, explained Madison Police Chief John Patterson in a news conference. The individual initially fled on a bicycle but was later confronted by officers around 1:35 p.m.
Chief Patterson stated that the man either fell off his bicycle or was removed by officers, leading to a struggle at an intersection. During this struggle, the man allegedly brandished a fixed-blade knife. An officer sustained an injury while trying to arrest him, Patterson said.
A photo showing a knife on the ground was included in the police department’s news release about the incident.
Events During the Shooting
Patterson noted that a stun gun was used during the struggle but proved ineffective. The officer injured by the knife subsequently discharged his firearm. Bystanders captured videos of the incident, which were shared on social media. One verified by NBC News shows officers holding the man as someone shouts, “Let go!” and multiple shouts of “He’s got a knife!”
The video further depicts an officer shouting “Taser!” as the man stands while being restrained. Approximately three seconds later, as the man is on the ground, an officer appears to fire three shots, after which the man ceases moving.
Community Reactions and Official Statements
Chief Patterson confirmed that he reviewed some videos, cautioning that they present only one perspective of the event. No body camera footage exists because the officers involved did not have body cameras.
“I want to take a moment to honestly and sincerely offer my heartfelt sympathies to his family for this loss,” Patterson expressed sincerely.
The deceased was identified as a man in his 30s, while the officer who fired was described by Patterson as a veteran officer. Madison Council Alder Davy Mayer, who represents the district, stated he was liaising with city officials to ensure community safety and transparency about the incident.
Four officers present at the scene have been placed on administrative leave as routine practice following a shooting. Michael Doubek, who filmed one video of the event, recalled seeing officers struggling with the man on the ground before shots were fired. He noted seeing police move a knife to the side after the shooting.
Protests and Investigation
A protest ensued on Wednesday evening following the incident. The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra canceled a planned outdoor performance in response. The Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation will conduct an independent investigation, with the district attorney also reviewing the case.