Officer and suspect hurt in La Crosse shooting

An officer and a suspect both suffered injuries after exchanging gunfire Saturday in La Crosse.

La Crosse Police were called to 317 9th St. South at 3:05 p.m. for a domestic disturbance complaint. Allen C. Kruk, 35, of La Crosse was the ex-husband of the complainant and was at the back door of the residence. Kruk also had an active felony warrant for his arrest, after failing to appear in court last month on a drug charge.

Kruk pulled a handgun on an officer who arrived on scene and made contact. The officer drew his sidearm and the two exchanged gunfire, according to La Crosse Police. The officer was hit by one round in the chest area, which was stopped by a ballistic vest. Kruk was struck multiple times by the officer’s return fire.

The officer was transported by TriState Ambulance to a local hospital where he was treated and released. Kruk was also transported by TriState Ambulance to a local hospital where he is currently being treated. There is no additional information on his condition at this time.

The Division of Criminal Investigations (DCI) of the Wisconsin Department of Justice will be the lead investigative agency for this incident. DCI will file a full report with the La Crosse County District Attorney’s Office, according to a statement from Police. The La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office will also be assisting with the investigation.

The officer was placed on administrative leave pending the outside agency investigation of the shooting.