A standard traffic stop in Wisconsin devolved into chaos as an exchange of gunfire took place which resulted in the deaths of two police officers this past weekend, as reported by area officials.
The deadly exchange took place at roughly three in the afternoon local time out in the village of Cameron, which is located in the western areas of the state in Barron County, explained the Wisconsin Department of Justice in a release.
The release stated that "gunfire was exchanged" during the traffic stop, after which one police officer from Cameron and one police officer from Chetek were officially pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect in the shooting was rushed to an area hospital and later passed away, the statement finished.
The Department of Justice for Wisconsin stated that there is no overt threat to the community, and a probe is currently underway that is headed up by its Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
"DCI is leading this investigation and is assisted by Barron County Sheriff’s Office, Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin State Crime Lab and a DCI Crime Response Specialist. All involved law enforcement are fully cooperating with DCI during this investigation," expressed the statement. "DCI is continuing to review evidence and determine the facts of this incident and will turn over investigative reports to the Barron County District Attorney when the investigation concludes."
The names of the deceased were not released to the public as of the time of writing.
The Facebook account for the Barron County Sheriff’s Office swapped it profile picture this past weekend to show a thin blue line, which has recently become a mark of solidarity both for and among law enforcement officials.
Officials for the state released their own statement regarding the tragic killings.
"Our hearts are heavy for the Chetek and Cameron police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty yesterday," expressed Democrat Governor Tony Evers via social media. "Kathy and I are praying for the officers’ families, colleagues, and the Barron County community mourning this tragic loss."
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss today of two officers," stated Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul in a tweet. "I am thinking of their families and the Chetek and Cameron Police Departments at this incredibly difficult time."