Family of Corey Ruiz retains attorney Ben Crump after fatal Madison police shooting

Madison, WI — The family of Corey Ruiz, who was shot and killed by a Madison police officer on July 22, has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump to examine the case. Bystander video shows officers tase Ruiz, force him to the ground and then shoot him multiple times at close range, including in the face.

Crump said the footage raises serious concerns about excessive force.

“The video gives us a clear picture of what happened,” he said.

“This case has to be examined for excessive force. It happened in broad daylight, in front of dozens of witnesses.”

What Police Say Happened

Madison police responded to reports of a man checking parked vehicles in the Marquette neighborhood. Officers said Ruiz fled on a bicycle, and a struggle followed when they caught up with him. Police alleged Ruiz produced a fixed‑blade knife and injured one officer before another officer opened fire.

The department placed all four officers on administrative leave. Police Chief John Patterson said investigators are treating the case as an open and active homicide investigation.

Bystander Video Prompts Public Outcry

Several witnesses recorded the encounter. According to the family, the video shows one officer holding Ruiz down, another appearing to stomp on him, a third with a Taser drawn and a fourth firing the fatal shots. Madison police officers do not wear body cameras, making bystander video the primary visual record.

Consequently, protests grew across Madison. Demonstrators marched from the east side through downtown, calling for transparency and accountability. A memorial formed at the intersection where Ruiz was killed.

Investigation Underway

The Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation is leading the inquiry, as required for officer‑involved shootings. Crump and the Ruiz family are urging authorities to preserve and publicly release all available footage, including squad‑car video and witness recordings.

Crump said the family “deserves the truth, and the public deserves accountability.”