A police briefing in Madison, Wisconsin, regarding the fatal shooting of Corey Durell Ruiz, a 38-year-old homeless man, was disrupted Thursday when a protester seized the microphone. The demonstrator delivered a lengthy speech criticizing law enforcement, capitalism, imperialism, and Zionism, accusing Police Chief John Patterson of participating in an oppressive system.
The incident occurred one day after officers shot and killed Ruiz on Wednesday. Police stated Ruiz was armed with a knife and injured an officer during an encounter that began with responding to reports of bicycle theft and checking vehicle doors. Protesters, however, accused law enforcement of excessive force and drew comparisons to the 2020 death of George Floyd.
During the disruption, another demonstrator held a sign that read, "Corrupt cops deserve to die too!!!"
After the protesters quieted, Chief Patterson resumed the briefing, assuring full cooperation with the state investigation. Ruiz had a criminal history spanning nearly 30 years, with past cases involving child support non-payment, vehicle theft, bail jumping, threats to authorities, resisting an officer, theft, attempted invasion of privacy, and cocaine possession.
Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway stated the shooting would be "rigorously investigated," adding that "no one should lose their life as a result of an encounter with law enforcement." Common Council President Sabrina Madison expressed anger, questioning why officers involved in fatal shootings are not immediately taken into custody.
According to police, Ruiz fled on a bicycle when officers arrived. A struggle ensued when officers apprehended him, during which Ruiz allegedly pulled out a fixed-blade knife and injured an officer. After attempts to subdue Ruiz with a Taser were unsuccessful, the injured officer opened fire. A second officer also sustained an injury during the encounter, though it is unclear if it was from the knife. Life-saving measures were attempted at the scene before Ruiz was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Four officers were involved or witnessed the shooting and were placed on administrative leave.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers called for transparency and accountability as the investigation proceeds.