Man Shot by Police After Entering Day Care Center With Meat Cleavers

Mar 9, 2004 - Madison, WI

Gregory Velasquez was shot dead by police after he barged into the Red Caboose Day Care Center with two meat cleavers and threatened children and staff. It took heroic actions by staff and officers to prevent a further tragedy. A teacher, Gary Dosemagen, was slashed when tried to stop the man.

The three Madison police officers, Shane Pueschner, Phil Yahnke and Jean Papalia, who confronted and stopped the man received national Top Cop Awards in Washington from The National Association of Police Organizations.

"Suicide by cop" was the apparent motive

Gregory Velasquez (39)
Gary Dosemagen
Wendy Rakower
Shane Pueschner
Phil Yahnke
Jean Papalia