Wisconsin State Patrol trooper Bradley Ritger has died from injuries sustained when he fell from a bridge while responding to a traffic pursuit in western Wisconsin.
Ritger, 29, was deploying a tyre-deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County and Eau Claire County line on 21 September when he fell on to the road below as he moved into cover.
The incident happened on Interstate 94 at about 4.55am, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Division of State Patrol. Ritger had been responding to a pursuit reportedly triggered by speeding and a related driving complaint.
He was treated at the scene, where emergency crews carried out CPR, before being taken to hospital in a critical condition. He died from his injuries on Friday, 2 October.
The vehicle involved continued with flat tyres after hitting the device before stopping on the hard shoulder, where the driver was arrested following a high-risk traffic stop.
The fall is being investigated by the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation, the Dunn County Sheriff’s Office and the Wisconsin State Patrol.
Ritger had served with the State Patrol for almost five years, primarily working in Dunn County. He joined the force after nearly three years with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
“The entire law enforcement community mourns the loss of a brave and dedicated colleague,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
The department described Ritger as a dedicated public servant whose work ethic and positive presence had left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Funeral arrangements are being made by his family. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the State Patrol have asked the public and the media to respect the family’s privacy while they grieve.
