HUDSON, Wis. — The death of St. Croix County Sheriff’s Deputy Kaitie Leising has shocked the community. A squad car outside of the sheriff’s office is filled with flowers. 

What You Need To Know

  • A St. Croix County sheriff’s deputy was killed in the line of duty Saturday evening

  • The fallen deputy was 29-year-old Kaitie Leising

  • Leising was dispatched for a report of a potential drunk driver in a ditch, who later shot her

  • Hundreds of community members have visited the memorial to pay their respects to Leising

Hundreds of community members have visited the memorial to pay their respects to Leising, including Brian Ostlie. He didn’t know her personally, but said he wanted to thank her for her service. 

“Pulled up the news and saw the young girl and looked so full of life,” said Ostlie.

As father to a teenage girl, he said he can’t imagine what Leising’s loved ones are going through. 

“The devastation around the family and the police force who are obviously trying to protect us and do good for the community and these things happen,” said Ostlie.

Several members of law enforcement have visited the memorial too, including Leising’s fellow deputies. 

“It’s sad,” said Pat Ceicha. “It’s sad for the community. It is.” 

Pat Ceicha and his wife Dee thanked Leising and also paid a visit to the St. Croix Sheriff’s Office. Both said it’s a shock to the community and they’re devastated. 

“I was very sad,” said Dee Ceicha. “Like people are saying, enough is enough. I just don’t get it.” 

The Ceicha’s and Ostlie said the community will remember Leising and will continue to honor her for her work as a sheriff’s deputy. 

Funeral arrangements for Leising are still pending. 

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