PHOTO and VIDEO: One in custody after hours long standoff in Fond du Lac

On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the City of Fond du Lac Police Department arrested a 32-year-old man from the city following a search warrant executed at an apartment inside 868 Martin Avenue.

Chief Aaron Goldstein stated, “We are incredibly thankful this traumatic incident ended without further harm to a mother and her child. This was a dangerous situation and the coordinated response by our FDLPD Officers alongside our law enforcement partners was instrumental in ensuring a safe outcome.  I am proud of the courage and professionalism shown by our Officers and thankful for the agencies who continue to stand beside us when every second counts.”

At approximately 5:08 p.m., a FDLPD Officer was conducting follow-up for an unrelated incident when two family members approached, expressing concern for their 32-year-old son’s mental health after receiving suicidal text messages.  During the conversation, the Officer also learned that a 29-year-old female inside the apartment was being prevented from leaving.  The male was armed with an edged weapon (box cutter), and the female was with her 8-month-old child.

Upon realizing that additional FDLPD Officers had arrived at the apartment, the suspect released both the mother and child.  FDLPD Officers acted immediately, swiftly moving the mother and child to a safe and secure location. Additional reports of domestic violence throughout the day were documented.

As a precaution, a shelter in place was issued for residents of the building and surrounding neighborhood while Officers established a perimeter and evacuated neighbors as the suspect remained inside the apartment.

The violence prompted the activation of the FDLPD SWAT and Crisis Negotiations teams, along with support from the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team.  Both agencies also deployed armored rescue vehicles, K-9 units, and Technology Response Groups which contain drone and robot resources. 

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding this domestic violence incident is ongoing. 

The City of Fond du Lac Police Department was assisted by the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, and the City of Fond du Lac Fire Rescue.

The investigation into this incident is at the preliminary stages.  No further details or information are being released at this time.