OCONOMOWOC, Wis. — A 50-year-old man was taken into custody Friday after police responded to reports of a person walking through an Oconomowoc neighborhood carrying what was initially described as an airsoft rifle and a machete.
The incident unfolded early Friday morning near S. Franklin Street and W. Second Street, prompting a significant police response and an investigation into reports of gunfire in the area.
According to Oconomowoc police, investigators determined that an airsoft gun was involved, but a .22-caliber rifle was also used, with multiple rounds reportedly fired near the intersection.
Security video captured around the time of the incident appears to show the sound and activity associated with shots being fired. Residents in the neighborhood told investigators they heard numerous gunshots, with one neighbor estimating they heard at least 10 shots.
Despite the reports of gunfire, no injuries were reported, and police said there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Police Execute Search Warrant
Investigators later executed a search warrant at a location on W. Third Street, where police said they recovered the firearm.
The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to establish a detailed timeline of what happened. Police are reviewing security footage, examining other evidence and speaking with witnesses.
The man could face three counts of second-degree recklessly endangering safety. The allegations remain part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
Residents Shocked by Police Response
The incident caught the attention of residents who said the police presence was unusual for the neighborhood.
“It’s not usually the kind of thing that happens in this neighborhood,” resident Arlene Verges said.
Verges described seeing numerous police vehicles arrive and officers block off the street.
“We just saw all the cop cars pull up, they blocked off the street, and the K-9 unit showed up, so we knew it was serious when that happened,” she said.
Officers were initially dispatched to the area at approximately 1:22 a.m. Friday following reports of the person walking in the area with the weapons.
Police are continuing to investigate what led to the reported gunfire and the circumstances surrounding the man’s actions.
Police Asking for Information
Oconomowoc police are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or captured relevant video to come forward.
Anyone with information or video is asked to contact Detective Moss at 262-569-3257.
No injuries have been reported, and authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The investigation remains active, and criminal charges are allegations unless and until proven in court.
