[Madison, WI] – Following an officer-involved shooting, riots, and the destruction of businesses last night in Kenosha, WisGOP Chairman Andrew Hitt released the following statement:

“There is a tragic human cost whenever anyone is injured or dies while interacting with law enforcement. We must have a thorough accounting of the facts — it’s good that authorities have moved to quickly investigate this incident, but it’s clear we still don’t have the full picture. Our thoughts are with those involved and who witnessed the incident. We pray that the City of Kenosha finds calm during these turbulent times.

“As a former prosecutor, I know one of the most dangerous situations is when someone is walking away from law enforcement who already have firearms drawn and that person is going towards or reaching into a vehicle. That greatly enhances the risk that that person is obtaining a weapon that could be fatally used against law enforcement.

“Unfortunately Gov. Evers statement last night jumped to conclusions even while the full scope of events has yet to be released and that puts the Kenosha community at risk for more violence. Last night we saw businesses burn and an officer knocked unconscious after being smashed in the head with a brick. Leaders shouldn’t stoke mob violence with only grainy cell-phone videos. The governor’s statement provoked anger and fear at a time when Wisconsin needs the facts and a steady hand.”

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