Madison clears autonomous zone after Corey Ruiz shooting

Police in Madison, Wisconsin, moved to dismantle the autonomous zone that had been set up at the intersection where officer‑shot suspect Corey Ruiz was killed in July 2026. The encampment, created as a memorial and protest space after Ruiz’s death, blocked traffic and drew ongoing demonstrations.

Early on August 4, city and state police deployed bulldozers and other heavy equipment, offering buses for residents to relocate. Protesters responded with fires, rocks and verbal opposition, but the authorities cleared the site, ending the makeshift camp.

The operation marks the city’s effort to restore normal traffic flow and address concerns from local businesses and emergency services affected by the prolonged occupation.