Michelle Hoch, Director of Finance & Human Resources | Explore La Crosse
Michelle Hoch, Director of Finance & Human Resources | Explore La Crosse
On July 15, 2025, La Crosse Police responded to a report of shots fired at Pettibone Park. The incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. when a witness saw an individual discharge a firearm in the park's north end. Officers promptly arrived at the scene, evacuated the area, and established a perimeter.
The police located Jared T. Duddles at approximately 10:45 a.m. and arrested him without incident. He was taken to La Crosse County Jail. Several firearms were found hidden in the park, including one on Mr. Duddles.
Further investigation revealed that Mr. Duddles had been involved in a verbal altercation before firing the weapon.
La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron stated, “Safety is our top priority. On a summer day in La Crosse our parks are active with a variety of programs, activities and guests. Department members quickly recognized this situation as being a high priority and all resources were deployed, including department members from all Bureaus, Drone unit, and Emergency Response team members. 30 minutes after receiving the initial call, department members located the suspect, taking him into custody. Department members’ response to this situation was immediate and deliberate with the community’s safety at the forefront.”
The investigation is ongoing, and Mr. Duddles remains innocent until proven guilty.
Jared T. Duddles has been charged with first-degree reckless endangering safety (941.30(1)), carrying a concealed weapon (941.23(2)), and disorderly conduct while armed (947.01(2)).
Alerts Sign-up