MILWAUKEE — What began as a Dane County death investigation quickly escalated into a high-speed pursuit and fatal officer-involved shooting in Marinette County on Friday morning, August 29, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ).
Authorities say the chain of events unfolded around 9:10 a.m., when a Marinette police officer spotted a vehicle believed to be connected to an active death investigation in Dane County. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle in Peshtigo, but the driver refused to pull over, sparking a pursuit northbound along U.S. Highway 41.
The chase came to a violent end near the intersection of U.S. 41 and Schacht Road, where the suspect’s vehicle crashed. After the crash, the driver exited the car and advanced toward officers. Investigators say law enforcement first deployed a Taser, but it was ineffective. As the suspect continued to approach while armed with what authorities later described as a sharp-edged weapon, two Marinette police officers opened fire. The suspect was struck and pronounced dead at the scene.
The Wisconsin DOJ Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is leading the investigation, as is protocol in officer-involved shootings. The officers involved were equipped with body-worn and squad cameras, which the DOJ says captured the encounter. No officers were injured in the confrontation.
Officials have not yet released the suspect’s identity pending notification of family. Details surrounding the Dane County death investigation that initially drew law enforcement’s attention to the suspect’s vehicle also remain limited, though investigators have confirmed a connection.
In a statement, the DOJ emphasized that the investigation is ongoing: “DCI is working diligently to gather evidence and review all available information, including video recordings and witness accounts. Once the investigation concludes, findings will be turned over to the Marinette County District Attorney’s Office.”
The incident has shaken the quiet community of Marinette, with residents expressing shock that a major police operation and fatal shooting unfolded in their town during the morning commute. Authorities are urging patience as investigators piece together the broader circumstances, including the link between the Dane County death investigation and Friday’s deadly pursuit.
This case now joins a growing list of officer-involved shootings in Wisconsin that spark both legal and community scrutiny. With many unanswered questions still surrounding the Dane County case and the suspect’s actions, the coming days are expected to bring greater clarity on what set these tragic events in motion.
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