Investigation Continues in Madison Police Shooting

Authorities have released the name of the Madison police officer involved in the July shooting of Corey Ruiz, a 38-year-old Black man. Officer Kiel Baitinger-Peterson, who is white and has nearly 11 years in law enforcement, was identified as firing the fatal shots on July 22. The incident, reported by the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation, has ignited protests and demands for transparency regarding racial justice issues in Madison.

Video captured by bystanders depicted the shooting, yet no body camera footage exists due to Madison police not being equipped with such devices. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Ruiz’s family, labeled the shooting as an ‘execution’ and urged for an independent investigation and charges against Baitinger-Peterson.

The shooting occurred while Ruiz was on a bicycle, surrounded by four officers responding to reports of suspicious activity and a supposed burglary attempt. According to the statement, Ruiz brandished a knife and injured Baitinger-Peterson, prompting the officer to discharge his weapon. Two officers attempted to subdue Ruiz with a Taser beforehand but failed. After the shooting, Ruiz was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Baitinger-Peterson and another officer received treatment for their injuries and were released from the hospital. Law enforcement provided a photo of a fixed-blade knife recovered at the scene.

Madison Police Chief John Patterson emphasized ongoing communication with the Division of Criminal Investigation and pledged to share received information with the public. He remarked on the community’s challenges during these weeks, highlighting a commitment to future dialogues with the community.

Officer Baitinger-Peterson’s Career

Baitinger-Peterson joined the Madison Police Department in 2015. He served as a patrol officer until 2022, transitioning to a neighborhood police officer in the Darbo-Worthington area. He later joined the Gang and Neighborhood Crime Abatement Team, and in February, moved to the Central District Community Police Team. Baitinger-Peterson is also a certified instructor for the department. Police Chief Patterson noted that Baitinger-Peterson has no prior use of force allegations and has not previously resorted to deadly force.

This is a developing story, and more updates are expected.