Bradley Ritger Obituary, Cause of Death – Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Dies at 29
Wisconsin is mourning the loss of Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger, who died October 2, 2026, from injuries sustained while responding to a traffic pursuit in western Wisconsin. He was 29 years old.
Ritger was critically injured September 21 while assisting with a pursuit near the Dunn County and Eau Claire County line. According to authorities, he had deployed a tire deflation device on an Interstate 94 bridge deck as troopers worked to stop a fleeing vehicle.
After deploying the device, Ritger moved toward a position of cover but fell from the bridge onto the roadway below. Emergency responders performed lifesaving measures at the scene, including CPR, before transporting him to a medical facility.
Despite continued medical treatment, Ritger died from his injuries 11 days later.
A Career Dedicated to Public Service
Ritger served with the Wisconsin State Patrol for nearly five years after joining the agency as a member of its 67th Recruit Class. He primarily served in the Northwest Region, including the Dunn County area.
During his career, Ritger took on several specialized responsibilities. He was certified as a general law enforcement instructor, served as a member and squad leader of a mobile field force team, and worked as a salvage vehicle inspector.
Before joining the Wisconsin State Patrol, Ritger spent approximately three years with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, continuing his career in public service and law enforcement.
Wisconsin State Patrol officials remembered Ritger as a dedicated public servant whose work ethic and positive presence made an impact on those around him. Colleagues said he approached his responsibilities with professionalism, integrity and a commitment to helping others.
His service also extended beyond his formal duties, with colleagues remembering his willingness to assist members of the public and support fellow troopers.
Remembering Trooper Bradley Ritger
News of Ritger’s death has prompted condolences from law enforcement agencies and communities across Wisconsin.
The St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office joined others in extending sympathy to Ritger’s family, friends and fellow troopers following his line-of-duty death.
A memorial vehicle has been placed at the Wisconsin State Patrol’s Northwest Region Post in Eau Claire, where members of the public can leave cards, flowers and other expressions of sympathy for Ritger’s family and colleagues.
Authorities have asked the public to respect the privacy of Ritger’s family as they grieve. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the family, and additional details were not immediately being released out of respect for his loved ones.
Bradley Ritger Cause of Death
Trooper Bradley Ritger died from injuries sustained after falling from an Interstate 94 bridge while assisting with a traffic pursuit on September 21.
According to authorities, Ritger had deployed a tire deflation device before moving toward a position of cover and falling onto the roadway below. He received emergency medical treatment and remained under medical care for 11 days before his death on October 2.
His death is being mourned as a line-of-duty death by the Wisconsin State Patrol and fellow law enforcement agencies.
A Legacy of Service
Trooper Bradley Ritger leaves behind a record of several years dedicated to public service and law enforcement in Wisconsin.
His nearly five years with the Wisconsin State Patrol followed his service with the Department of Corrections, reflecting a career centered on public safety and helping others.
For his family, friends and fellow troopers, Ritger’s death represents a profound loss. His colleagues will remember his dedication, professionalism and willingness to serve, while the communities he worked to protect mourn the loss of a young public servant.
As condolences continue to reach Ritger’s loved ones and the Wisconsin State Patrol, his years of service remain an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.