Photojournalist Shot At While Covering Duplex Fire In Burke, Wisconsin: Police

MADISON, WI — A fire in the town of Burke on the 5500 block of Larry Lane Sunday night brought the attention of safety services, including the Sun Prairie Fire Department and Dane County Sheriff deputies. News crews were also at the scene covering the fire.

One man, Jeffery Lovick, 51, didn't seem to be as concerned about the fire as he was the TV news crews "infringing on his property." Lovick was so concerned, police say, he shot at the news crews with a pellet gun.

A WKOW photojournalist was struck by a pellet while trying to cover the fire. According to WKOW, a neighbor of the burning duplex invited camera crews to film on her property.

Dane County Sheriff's deputies, who were already at the scene of the fire, immediately began questioning witnesses near the area from where the shots were fired. On Monday, deputies questioned Lovick, who they say admitted to the shooting.

"Our photojournalist was doing his job, covering a fire as a journalist," said WKOW News Director Ed Reams, "No one deserves to be targeted like this for just doing their job."

The WKOW photojournalist received minor injuries, and the residents of the burning duplex got out safely and are receiving help from the Red Cross.

WKOW reports that Lovick was arrested on suspicion of endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon.

Photo: Dane County Sheriff's Office