Officer-Involved Shooting on July 22

Where can I find the latest information?

The best way to receive information from the City of Madison is by signing up for our news releases. We will also be updating this FAQ page.

What’s the status of the investigation?

The Madison Police Department requested the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to conduct an independent investigation into the shooting in accordance with state law. Chief John Patterson is checking in daily with DCI agents to see if there is any information that can be shared publicly. Chief Patterson's updates may be found online in the news release section of the Madison Police Department website. DCI may also provide updates directly. DCI will then present the facts and information from their investigation to the Dane County District Attorney's Office for review. It is solely up to the Dane County District Attorneys' Office to determine if charges will be filed.

Who can make charging decisions?

The Dane County District Attorney's Office.

What is the role of the Office of the Independent Police Monitor?

Under the supervision of the Police Civilian Oversight Board, the Office of the Independent Police Monitor provides civilians with an independent means of investigating and monitoring the Madison Police Department (MPD) in order to ensure that MPD is accountable and responsive to the needs and concerns of all segments of the Madison community. The Office of the Independent Police Monitor and the Police Civilian Oversight Board are governed by MGO 5.19 and MGO 5.20.

What authority can suspend, demote, or terminate a Madison police officer?

Only the Police and Fire Commission (PFC) has the authority to suspend, demote, or terminate police officers under Wisconsin state law. The PFC is an independent statutory body overseeing the hiring, promotion, discipline, and terminations of police and fire personnel in the City of Madison. The purpose of having an independent commission is to separate police and fire staffing matters from local politics.

How are officer-involved shooting investigated in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin law requires that, in the event of the death of an individual that results directly from an action or an omission of a law enforcement officer, the ensuing investigation must be conducted by an investigative team from an independent law enforcement agency.

If requested, the Wisconsin Department of Justice (Wisconsin DOJ)/Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) may serve as that independent agency. In those instances, Wisconsin DOJ/DCI will provide a complete report to the prosecutor for review. If the prosecutor determines there is no basis for prosecution of the law enforcement officer(s) involved, access to the report as required by Wisconsin law will be provided below.

How is the City responding to the activities at Williamson Street/Baldwin Street?

We continue to hear from residents in the Marquette neighborhood about the traumatic impact of another life lost, the desire for actionable and sustainable ways of remembering Corey Ruiz, and a way forward. Currently, local businesses are closed, workers are facing financial hardships, local residents are navigating a variety of challenges, and city streets are not safe locations for people sleeping in tents. City leadership continues to engage residents, community organizers, and the business community to work on a path that prioritizes safety, action, and remembering Corey.

The City of Madison is exploring many avenues to reach a successful resolution without further heightening tensions and causing more harm to impacted community members, including protesters. There are street outreach workers and Community Development Division staff reaching out directly to unhoused individuals to provide services. Economic Development Division staff are contacting local businesses to offer assistance and information and are in contact with the Williamson-Marquette Business Alliance. Local elected officials are working with residents to resolve immediate issues and are in touch with the neighborhood leaders and the Marquette Neighborhood Association.

What is the status of the street closures at Williamson Street/Baldwin Street?

The closure of Williamson Street and South Baldwin Street will remain in place due to the ongoing public gathering within the intersection. The closure will remain in effect until further notice. Further solutions to traffic issues created by this re-route are currently being and will continue to be worked on to accommodate commuters and neighbors.

What's the detour plan for the time being?

Traffic is being diverted off Williamson Street onto East Washington Avenue

Commuters and other through traffic should use alternate routes. A signed detour will direct motorists via First Street, East Washington Avenue, and South Ingersoll Street.

What about Metro Transit?

Routes C and 38 detours from a portion of Williamson St. and S Baldwin St.

Eastbound buses will miss stops #1289 on Williamson at Baldwin and #1645 on Williamson at Rogers. Passengers can use a temporary stop on Jenifer at Baldwin.

Westbound buses will miss stops #1208 on Williamson at Rogers and #1606 on Baldwin at Williamson. Passengers can use a temporary stop on Spaight at Rogers (in front of Georgia O'Keeffe Middle school).

I live near Fire Station 3. What should I do if I need their help?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency or fire, call 911 immediately, as you normally would. The closest available units will be assigned to respond to your call. This may be Fire Station 3 or it may be another nearby fire/EMS crew depending on who is available and who is closest to your location.

What mental health support services are available?

The 988 Lifeline is available for immediate support. You can also text HOME or HOLA to 741741 to reach a live crisis counselor. Public Health Madison Dane County has additional resources, as well. Please reach out if you need help – we all need to take care of ourselves in traumatic times.