IN A STATEMENT RELEASED TODAY:
The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), at the request of the Eau Claire Sheriff’s Office, has been investigating an officer involved death (OID) that took place just before noon on Saturday, March 2, 2019 on Kempten Road between Augusta and Fairchild in Wisconsin.
An Eau Claire County Sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to a report of a suspicious person in the area. The Augusta Police Department responded to assist the deputy. Upon arrival, the deputy and officer were confronted by a male subject who was in a state of agitation. While attempting to gain control of the subject, the subject began fighting with law enforcement and a struggle ensued. During the struggle, less than lethal means were deployed but were unsuccessful. The subject was subsequently shot by law enforcement. Law enforcement immediately began life saving measures however the subject died at the scene.
An Augusta Police Officer and Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Deputy have been placed on paid administrative leave, per department policy. DOJ Crime Victim Services are providing support to the decedent’s family.
The Wisconsin DOJ-led investigation of this incident has been a collaboration between DCI and the Wisconsin State Patrol, with assistance from the Eau Claire Police Department. Augusta Police Department and the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office has been fully cooperating with DCI during this investigation.
DCI is continuing to collect evidence and determine the facts of this incident and will turn over investigative reports to the Eau Claire County District Attorney when the investigation concludes.
