Town of Eau Galle shooting justified according to investigation

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HUDSON - The shooting of a town of Eau Galle man in a standoff with St. Croix County sheriff’s deputies last month was justified two separate investigations have determined.

Patrick McDonnell, 51, was fatally wounded after he shot twice at law officers and they returned fire at 9:09 p.m. Sept. 22.

“It is clear by the information provided that the shooting by law enforcement officers was justified,” said St. Croix County District Attorney Eric Johnson a letter dated Oct. 11 following a review of the incident by his office.

“The information that I find most compelling is Mr. McDonnell shot two times with a rifle at close range towards law enforcement officer. Officers responded in kind and defensively,” Johnson said.

Sheriff John Shilts said an earlier review by his department also determined the shooting was justified.

Deputies Jason Sykora, Justin Johnson and Tyler L’Allier were placed on administrative leave and eligible to return to work Sept. 28 following the sheriff’s review, Shilts said.

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