Madison officer Kiel Baitinger-Peterson identified in fatal shooting of Corey Ruiz

The Wisconsin Department of Justice's Division of Criminal Investigation has identified Kiel Baitinger-Peterson as the Madison police officer who fatally shot Corey Ruiz on July 22. Ruiz, a 38-year-old Black man, was riding a bicycle when he was surrounded by four officers responding to reports of a potential burglary attempt. According to police, Baitinger-Peterson fired the shots after an attempt to use a Taser failed and Ruiz allegedly drew a knife. One other officer was also reportedly injured during the encounter.

Baitinger-Peterson and the three other involved officers have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the results of a state investigation. Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne will review the findings to determine if criminal charges are warranted. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing the Ruiz family, has called for the officer to be charged.

The shooting, which was captured on video, has triggered significant unrest and protests in Madison. Community members have organized vigils and encampments at the site of the shooting, demanding racial justice and accountability. The Wisconsin Professional Police Association has expressed concern regarding the public identification of the officer, citing safety and privacy risks for his family.