Wausau Police Department

10/15/2026

(most of 😉) The Wausau PD records team is sending winning vibes to the Milwaukee Brewers ahead of tonight's game! Let's go!

10/14/2026

Today we were informed it’s National Be Bald Day — a day some of our officers are clearly more prepared for than others.

Whether you’re proudly polished or rocking a full head of hair, we’re celebrating all the great people who help keep our community safe.

Stay shiny out there and Happy Be Bald Day. 🤣

10/10/2026

We are happy to have some fall vibes at the PD thanks to the folks at Pumpkin Hollow!

It may be a bit warmer than normal this weekend, but the crisp & chilly air will be back soon enough. Have a great weekend and safe out there!

10/09/2026

Domestic violence is one of the most pervasive issues to plague our communities. This , there are numerous events taking place to increase understanding & show support to victims. Whether it's live music, social meet-and-greets, or thought provoking art exhibits, you'll find a way to get involved.

Check out The Women's Community's website at https://womenscommunity.org/events/ for a list of area activities happening this month.

10/07/2026

October is . Throughout this month, you may notice some of our officers wearing pink badges in support of breast cancer awareness. These badges were purchased by officers as a visible reminder of the fight against breast cancer and the importance of early detection.

We are proud to support survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and stand with the families and communities impacted by this disease.

10/06/2026

****Update: Steven was located safe. Thank you for your assistance****

Please help us locate a missing person. Steven Kolubako was last seen around 10:30 PM near North 32nd Avenue and Madonna Drive on Wausau's west side. Steven has early-onset dementia and other medical concerns. If you have seen Steven or have any information on his whereabouts, please contact Marathon County Dispatch at 715-261-1200. Thank you for your assistance.

10/04/2026

What a great weekend for our Wausau Police Public Safety Cadets Unit #1274!

10/04/2026

We continue to address the problems associated with unlicensed juveniles driving battery-powered motorycles "e-motos" recklessly in our community; blowing through stop signs, traffic signals, driving the wrong way and speeding. These motorcycles in most cases are also not street legal, missing important safety features like side-mirrors, which would allow you to see us running up behind you.

Thankfully that missing feature allowed us to safely apprehend this juvenile male this week and seize his motorcycle. We have received complaints about his driving behavior, and have witnessed it ourselves. He had also fled from police several times, to include earlier this same day. That is over.

Children continue to be injured, and in some cases killed, across our state while riding battery-powered motorcycles. Parents need to step up and stop permitting their children from riding them on public roadways. Let's keep your children safe.

10/03/2026

We join in the mourning of Trooper Bradley Ritger of the Wisconsin State Patrol. We hold his family and all that knew him close in our hearts today. You will never be forgotten.

It is with profound sadness that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Wisconsin State Patrol announce the line-of-duty death of Trooper Bradley Ritger at the age of 29.

On September 21, 2026, Trooper Ritger was responding to a traffic pursuit when he deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County/Eau Claire County line. As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below. Despite lifesaving efforts and critical medical care, Trooper Ritger succumbed to his injuries on October 2, 2026.

Trooper Ritger joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of the 67th Recruit Class. He served in the Northwest Region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area. During his career, he attained certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector. Prior to his service with the Wisconsin State Patrol, Trooper Ritger served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for three years.

Trooper Ritger was a dedicated public servant whose strong work ethic and positive presence left a lasting impact on anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He approached every situation with professionalism, integrity and a genuine commitment to serving others. Whether assisting the public, supporting his fellow troopers, or taking on difficult challenges, he consistently demonstrated compassion and willingness to help wherever needed. His dedication to his family and unwavering commitment to his profession will not be forgotten.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Trooper Ritger’s family, friends, loved ones and all who served alongside him. As the community mourns, the Wisconsin State Patrol has placed a law enforcement memorial vehicle at its Northwest Region Post in Eau Claire where the public is welcome to drop off cards, flowers, or other condolences.

Out of respect for the family, no additional information will be shared at this time. Funeral arrangements are being made by the family. We kindly ask media and the public to respect their privacy and space for grieving.