ELBA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A Dodge County Sheriff’s deputy is recovering after a suspect opened fired on law enforcement at a dog park.
Just before 7 p.m. Sunday, deputies were responded to a report of an intoxicated male causing a disturbance and exhibiting threatening behavior toward members of the public at River Run Dog Park, located in the town of Elba, north of the city of Columbus in Dodge County.
When law enforcement located the suspect and tried to make contact with him, the suspect fired at responding officers and deputies, striking one Dodge County Sheriff’s deputy.
After firing at responding officers and deputies and striking the deputy, the suspect retreated into his vehicle. Responding law enforcement personnel immediately sought cover, secured the area, and coordinated a tactical rescue of the injured deputy so medical care could be provided.
The injured deputy sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to UW Hospital in Madison.
Officers later discovered the suspect was deceased inside his vehicle. Preliminary information indicates the suspect died from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A handgun was recovered near the suspect.
At no time during this incident did any law enforcement officer discharge a firearm.
The shelter-in-place order was lifted, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. Based on information obtained during the investigation, law enforcement does not believe any additional suspects were involved in this incident.
After receiving medical treatment, the deputy was released from the hospital early Monday morning and walked out under his own power, accompanied by family members, the Sheriff, a Patrol Lieutenant, and several fellow deputies.
