Reward Climbs To $27,000 For Man Who Shot, Killed Police Officer

RACINE, WI — Authorities are continuing their manhunt in southeastern Wisconsin for the man who shot and killed Racine Police officer John Hetland.

Authorities said Tuesday that Hetland, who was off-duty Monday night, was shot and killed after he tried stopping an armed robbery at Teezer's Tavern, 1936 Lathrop Ave. on Racine's southwest side. Police said Hetland intervened as a masked man attempted to rob the bar at about 9:40 p.m. Monday. He sustained a fatal gunshot wound during the altercation, police said.

Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth, whose department is heading up the investigation, said that authorities have received hundreds of tips that are aiding them in their search for the suspect. In a press conference Wednesday, Beth lauded Hetland's heroism.

"He jumped over the bar and fought with this person and ultimately gave his life to protect the other people in Racine," Beth said to reporters Wednesday.

"Officer Hetland was a trusted and highly respected member of the department, serving in various positions over the years, including an assignment as a field training officer, as well as a member of the Greater Racine FBI Gang Task Force," the Racine Police department said in a statement.

Hetland had been with the Racine Police Department for 24 years. Jim Palmer, the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Professional Police Association said Hetland was about six months out from retirement and that he would have greatly valued the additional time to spend with his children.

Racine Mayor Cory Mason offered his condolences following the news of officer Hetland's tragic death.

“The entire City mourns the tragic loss of Officer John Hetland. My heart breaks for his children and family. I offer them my deepest sympathies. Officer Hetland dedicated his life to serving the City and he proved that again last night when he gave his life to protect the lives of others. John Hetland is a hero, and the City will honor him as such," he said. "As a City, we must also be here to lift up the officers of the Racine Police Department. They are grieving the loss of one of their brothers and they need our support, now more than ever. I ask the community to extend your thoughts, prayers, and a shoulder to lean on to our officers as we work to heal from this tragic event.”

State Sen. Van Wanggaard, (R-Racine) lives several blocks from the shooting scene, said he was a good friend of Officer Hetland. Wanggaard issued a statement mourning the loss of his friend.

"Every time a police officer leaves their house, they are risking their lives to protect others. Tragically, Racine learned that last night. Officer John Hetland embodies what it means to be a police officer. Where some people might avoid confrontation to protect themselves, Officer Hetland went into action to protect our city and its people," he said. "My heart goes out to his family, friends, and the entire Racine Police Family. I ask that all of Wisconsin keep John Hetland and Racine in their prayers. Always on duty."

Beth said a number of rewards are being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction the suspect. Beth said a $20,000 reward is being offered from the FBI. Andis, a Racine-area business that manufactures hair clippers, has offered $5,000. Crime Stoppers of Racine County is offering a $2,000 reward.

If you have any information regarding the identity of this person, or any information regarding this crime, officials asked that you please contact Crime Stoppers at 888-636-9330, 262-656-7333 or (800) 807-TIPS (8477). You can remain anonymous.