FDL Police Officer Craig Birkholz Killed Four Years Ago Today

It was four years ago today Fond du Lac was shaken by the shooting death of a police officer. Officer Craig Birkholz was shot and killed during a standoff incident. At a press conference then Police Chief Tony Barthuly called it a nightmare. He broke the news to Craig’s parents. He said they would be proud of the support other officers showed to Craig. He said other law enforcement and city agencies rallied to support the police department. Chief Barthuly said Fond du Lac is a geat community and the shooting was tearing him apart. Officer Ryan Williams and his K-9 Grendel were critically wounded, but would recover. Officer Zach Schultz received minor injuries and was treated and released. The shooter James Cruckson took his own life.  In the coming days and months the community was unwavering in its support of the police department.

Officer Birkholz’s body is brought back to Fond du Lac from his hometown of Kenosha for a memorial ceremony. 

In a previously unpublished photo law enforcement vehicles line up along with buses carrying department officers, employees and City staff to travel to Kenosha the morning of Officer Birkholz’s funeral.