MILWAUKEE -- Reaction to the deaths of Racine Police Officer John Hetland and Milwaukee Police Officer Kou Her, two off-duty police officers who died in southeast Wisconsin in less than 24 hours, poured in on social media Tuesday, June 18, as well as via official statements.
Officer John Hetland witnessed an armed robbery in progress at Teezers Tavern located at 20th Street and Lathrop Avenue Monday night, June 17. Officials said Officer Hetland umped over the bar and tried to take the suspect down, but was shot once and killed in the process. A manhunt was underway for the shooter.
Officer Kou Her died following a crash near 60th and Capitol early Tuesday morning, June 18. Officials said the striking driver was taken into custody, and has a history of OWI convictions. Witnesses said the striking driver was traveling at a high rate of speed -- and crossed through the intersection at a red light when he struck Her.
Read the statements and social media posts as they come in below:
Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul
Senator Van Wanggaard (R-Racine)
Representative Greta Neubauer (D-Racine)
Racine Mayor Cory Mason
Milwaukee Alderman Cavalier Johnson
Milwaukee Alderman Bob Donovan