DOJ: Troopers fatally shoot driver after pursuit in Fort Atkinson

Troopers fatally shot driver after pursuit in Fort Atkinson

Law enforcement began life-saving measures, but the driver succumbed to injuries at the scene.

FORT ATKINSON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) is investigating a fatal, officer-involved shooting that unfolded in Fort Atkinson on Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 9.

Wisconsin State Patrol attempted a traffic stop on WIS-26 between Watertown and Johnson Creek around 12:30 p.m.

A passenger got out of the car and was later apprehended. The driver fled the scene, prompting a pursuit.

During the pursuit, according to the DOJ, the driver fired shots at law enforcement. The pursuit continued southbound on WIS-26 until the vehicle hit stop sticks and exited the highway near US-12, coming to a stop on the median.

The driver then got out and attempted to carjack another driver's vehicle. Three Wisconsin State Patrol troopers then fired shots, the DOJ said, striking the driver.

Law enforcement began life-saving measures, but the driver succumbed to injuries at the scene. No other people were injured during the incident.

The involved troopers have been placed on leave, per department policy.

The Department of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory and the DOJ OFfice of Crime Victim Services.

The investigation is ongoing.

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