DA: La Crosse officer who shot suspect won't be charged

LA CROSSE — A prosecutor said a La Crosse police officer won't be charged for shooting and wounding a suspect who shot the officer Aug. 3.

La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke said Tuesday, Aug. 27 his office determined Officer Dustin Darling acted in self-defense.

Darling shot suspect Allen Kruk after police responded to a domestic disturbance.

Darling said he saw a handgun in Kruk's right hand. As the suspect pointed the muzzle at the officer, Darling backed up and began to shoot Kruk. Darling was shot in the chest, but survived, thanks to his bulletproof vest.

Kruk survived his injuries. The La Crosse Tribune reported he remained hospitalized Tuesday.

Darling was placed on administrative leave after the incident.

The Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the shooting.