FDL Standoff And Fire News Extras

Shots could be heard for blocks away and schools went into lockdown in Fond du Lac Monday morning when a 40-year-old Fond du Lac man barricaded himself in an apartment at a trailer park on South Main Street. It started with a fire at 65 North Hickory shortly after 9 a.m. and nearly an hour later police officers were shot at as they developed information the person of interest in the fire was at an apartment in the Elms Trailer Park. About four hours later it ended when the man surrendered. Fond du Lac Assistant Police Chief Steve Thiry says they believe the man is the same person who fired on officers. He says fortunately no one was hurt. Police blocked off about a three block area around South Main Street and Pioneer Road and people in residences and businesses in the area were advised to “shelter in place” and seek protection in an interior room or basement. Fond du Lac Police press releases.

Arson Fire Tough To Battle

Firefighters in Fond du Lac had their own unique challenges Monday morning battling a fire as police dealt with an armed man suspected of setting it. Division Chief of Fire Prevention Troy Haase  says it was quite a blaze. State Fire Marshals and the police and fire department are investigating the cause of the fire, but are dealing with a lot of damage to sift through. Firefighters encountered below zero wind chills and lost water pressure on a hydrant while trying to put out the fire. Shortly after that a water main broke. The Red Cross was at the scene to provide hot drinks and food to weary firefighters.

Four Schools Locked Down During Standoff

During yesterday’s standoff incident in Fond du Lac four elementary schools were placed under a yellow alert. School district officials say a yellow alert means increased awareness, all exterior doors are locked, and classes proceed as normal.  Upon being informed by the police that the suspect had been taken into custody, the yellow alert was lifted. Schools under the yellow alert included Riverside, Pier, Waters, and Theisen elementary schools. 

Photo courtesy Jitters Coffee.