A police officer shot and killed a man who allegedly drew a knife during a struggle in Madison, Wisconsin. The incident occurred as officers investigated reports of someone trying car doors in the Marquette neighborhood.
Madison Police Chief John Patterson stated that officers responded to a complaint about a person checking parked vehicles around 1 p.m. The individual fled on a bicycle, but officers caught up with him approximately 35 minutes later.
According to Patterson, the man either fell or was forced off his bicycle during the confrontation with police. As the struggle ensued, the man reportedly brandished a fixed-blade knife, injuring an officer attempting to arrest him.
The police department released an image depicting a knife on the ground, providing evidence of the weapon involved in the fatal incident.
Patterson mentioned that a stun gun was used but proved ineffective. The officer who suffered injuries from the knife was the one who fired his gun.
The encounter was captured by bystanders and spread online. NBC News verified one video showing officers restraining the man while someone shouted, “Let go!” Shouts of “He’s got a knife!” were audible.
In the footage, an officer can be heard yelling “Taser!” as the suspect stands; moments later, three rounds are fired while the man is on the ground. The suspect ceases movement following the shots.
Although Patterson reviewed some video, he emphasized that not all footage, which is being reviewed, circulated online. “This is one perspective,” he said, noting a lack of comprehensive visibility from the officers’ viewpoints.
Body cameras did not capture the incident, as none of the involved officers wore them. The deceased suspect, described only as a man in his 30s, was not named during the press conference.
Expressing condolences, Patterson offered his sympathies to the man’s family.
Authorities did not identify the shooter, stated to be a veteran officer. Alder Davy Mayer, representing the district where this happened, confirmed contact with officials and police. His focus remains on community safety and promptly informing the public about the events.
All four officers present during the shooting will go on administrative leave, a standard procedure in such cases.
Eyewitness Michael Doubek, who filmed a video of the shooting, recounted seeing police vehicles rush past and the struggle that unfolded. After the shooting, he observed officers discarding a knife beside the suspect.
Footage from a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter showcased a sizeable group of protesters marching in reaction to the incident. The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra cited the event as the reason for canceling a planned outdoor performance.
An independent investigation led by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation will occur. Additionally, the district attorney will review the case.