Madison Police Chief John Patterson confirmed the death of Corey Ruiz, who was shot and killed by an officer during a physical struggle.
Madison Police Chief John Patterson confirmed that Corey Ruiz was shot and killed by a police officer during a physical struggle on Wednesday afternoon. The incident occurred in the Marquette neighborhood after officers responded to a report of a man checking parked vehicles. Ruiz fled on a bicycle before being caught by four officers. During the arrest, Ruiz produced a large fixed-blade knife, which injured the officer who eventually fired his weapon. Although a Taser was deployed, it was unsuccessful in subduing the man. The Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation is currently leading the investigation. The shooting sparked a significant public reaction, with hundreds of rioters gathering to march to the state Capitol. The crowd interrupted a "Concerts on the Square" event, which was eventually canceled. While some residents described the shooting as an execution, Patterson urged the community to reflect on the historical trauma of the neighborhood, noting that a similar fatal shooting occurred in the same area in 2015.