2 officers fatally shoot robbery suspect armed with rifle at Sheboygan tavern

SHEBOYGAN -- Sheboygan police are investigating an officer-involved fatal shooting that occurred late Sunday night, July 17th. The incident occurred at the Union Avenue Tap.

According to police, two officers were called out to the area of Union Avenue and 14th Street just after 11:30 p.m. for a report of a robbery-in-progress.

Police say two patrons and two tavern employees were inside the establishment when police arrived. That's when those officers encountered a suspect in one of the doorways -- armed with a rifle. The officers fired shots at the suspect -- and the suspect died at the scene.

Sheboygan Police Chief Chris Domagalski says a 53-year-old employee inside the tavern suffered at least one gunshot wound (to the arm) and a possible graze wound to the chest. Officials say it's not clear whether this person was shot by the suspect in this case -- or wounded from the gunfire from the officers.

The employee's injury will require surgery.

"There are many victims in this incident that will need support -- we`re talking about the tavern employees, the patrons, the officers," Domagalski said.

The officers involved include a 32-year-old man with 10 years of experience -- and a 33-year-old man with seven years experience. Both have been placed on administrative duty.

Neighbors heard the commotion Sunday night.

"I thought it was fireworks, but then it happened to be gunshots," Jordan Pfeifer said.

"I was laying in the bed and I heard a flash-bang. The cops were all over. I came outside and they were just entering the tavern," Dan James said.

The Winnebago County Sheriff's Department is coordinating the regional investigative team on this case.

The suspect has not been identified.