New Video Captures Dramatic Police Response During Hostage Crisis at Wisconsin Meijer Store

Newly released witness video offers a closer look at the intense police response during a hostage situation inside a Meijer store in Waukesha, Wisconsin, on July 30.

The footage begins just moments after an officer shot the suspect. Both the suspect and the hostage can be seen lying on the store floor as first responders quickly move in to help. The most graphic parts of the video have been blurred.

Key Details

• The suspect is a 21-year-old Waukesha resident.
• He reportedly called 911 himself, claiming he had a hostage and asking to speak with a police negotiator.
• Police have not released the suspect's name.

The witness-recorded video shows officers treating the 59-year-old victim first. He is later helped to his feet and escorted out of the store. As he walks, he holds his injured right hand in the air. Authorities said his thumb was missing, and his shirt was heavily stained with blood.

Investigators are still trying to determine exactly how the victim suffered his injuries. Police also say it remains unknown whether the suspect and victim knew each other before the incident.

The video highlights the large law enforcement response as tactical officers rushed through the store wearing protective gear and carrying AR-15-style rifles. Witnesses described the scene as fast-moving and chaotic.

Later in the footage, officers are seen providing medical care to the wounded suspect, who is handcuffed and lying face down on the floor.

Police confirmed that officers' body cameras also recorded the incident. That footage will be made public as part of the independent investigation into the shooting.

Following the incident, the Waukesha police chief said he believes the responding officers acted within department policies and followed established procedures throughout the emergency.