Wisconsin Man Shot and Killed by Police in Fort Atkinson After Reports of Gunfire at Home

FORT ATKINSON, WISCONSIN — A man was shot and killed by police Sunday evening after officers responded to reports of gunfire inside a home in Fort Atkinson, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ).

The incident unfolded around 5 p.m. in the 600 block of Washington Street, where neighbors described a heavy police presence, multiple gunshots, and officers taking defensive positions behind squad cars.

“Holy cow, it was a big, big production for this town,” said William Otto, who lives next door to the home where the shooting occurred. “You don’t usually see officers with rifles blocking off the road in Fort Atkinson.”

Police Surround Home After Reports of Disturbance

Authorities said Fort Atkinson police were called to the home after receiving reports of shots fired. When officers arrived, they surrounded the residence and issued commands for occupants to come out with their hands up.

Witnesses told WMTV they saw a man holding a rifle when he emerged from the garage. Moments later, gunfire erupted.

The DOJ confirmed that one Fort Atkinson officer fired at the suspect, striking him. The man was immediately given medical aid before being airlifted to a Madison hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

A rifle was recovered at the scene, though it remains unclear whether the suspect fired any shots at police.

Neighbors Describe Chaos and Shock

Residents said the scene was unlike anything they had ever witnessed in their small Wisconsin town.

“Not much ever goes on around here,” said Diane Lenz, who lives nearby. “We have normal patrols, but you don’t see officers blocking the road, taking aim down the street with rifles. It was unreal.”

Otto said he heard multiple gunshots and saw officers moving quickly between homes during the standoff. Later, he was told to evacuate his home as the investigation continued.

“They were here until at least five this morning,” Otto said. “Crime tape, investigators, laser equipment — it looked like a full-scale operation.”

Investigation Ongoing; Officer on Leave

The Wisconsin DOJ Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is leading the case. Officials confirmed the officer who fired was wearing a body camera and has been placed on administrative leave, per department policy.

Investigators remained at the scene through the night, processing evidence and reconstructing the timeline of the shooting.

Police have not yet released the name of the man killed or the officer involved.

As the DCI investigation continues, Fort Atkinson residents remain shaken by the rare act of violence in their typically quiet neighborhood. For ongoing updates on Wisconsin police investigations and community safety news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.