November 11, 2026 – West Bend, WI – My heart is absolutely broken over the horrific tragedy that occurred on November 7th in the City of West Bend. There are simply no words that can adequately express the sorrow and heartbreak surrounding the loss of these precious lives.
As a retired West Bend Police Officer this tragedy hits especially close to home.
During my years serving and protecting the citizens of West Bend, I had the privilege of becoming familiar with the family connected to this home. This was a family with deep roots in the community, having lived in that residence for several generations. From my personal experience, I can say they were a wonderful, beautiful family, and knowing that makes this tragedy even more heartbreaking.
My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their surviving family members, friends, and everyone whose lives have been forever changed by this unimaginable loss.
To the young girl who survived, My prayers are especially with you. No child should ever have to experience such unimaginable trauma and loss. I pray that God wraps His loving arms around you, provides you with healing, comfort, protection, and surrounds you with people who will love and support you throughout the difficult journey ahead. May you someday find peace despite the heartbreak you have endured.
To the responding police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, investigators, and all assisting agencies, Please know that you are also in my thoughts and prayers.
Having worn the badge myself, I understand that there are calls in a police officer’s career that never leave you. There are scenes, images, and emotions that remain with you long after your shift ends. Responding to a tragedy involving children and an entire family is something no first responder should ever have to experience.
I pray that each of you finds strength, comfort, and the support you need in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Please remember that even those who dedicate their lives to helping others sometimes need someone to lean on.
To my former brothers and sisters at the West Bend Police Department, Although I have been retired for many years, a part of my heart will always remain with that department and the community we proudly served.
I grew up in Milwaukee and have lived in Ozaukee County and Fond du Lac County, but West Bend will always hold a very special place in my heart.
I have complete confidence in the men and women of the West Bend Police Department and in their professionalism, dedication, compassion, and investigative abilities. I know they will do an outstanding job conducting a thorough and complete investigation, seeking answers, and establishing the facts surrounding this tragedy.
I also ask everyone in the community to respect the privacy of the victims, their loved ones, and especially the surviving child. There will be time for answers. Right now, there needs to be time for compassion, healing, and prayer.
FINALLY, A MESSAGE ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.
Domestic violence knows no boundaries. It occurs in large cities, small towns, wealthy neighborhoods, and struggling households. It can happen anywhere, to anyone, regardless of age, background, or social standing.
We must never ignore the warning signs of abuse, threats, intimidation, or violence within a home.
If you are living in fear, PLEASE seek help. There are people, organizations, shelters, and law enforcement professionals who genuinely care about your safety and are ready to assist you.
If you know someone who may be in danger, reach out, listen, and help them connect with available resources. Sometimes a simple act of compassion can make a life-changing difference.
For those in the West Bend area, Friends Inc. provides domestic violence assistance and can be reached at (262) 334-5598.
Please join me in praying for this family, the surviving child, the responding first responders, and the entire West Bend community.
May God welcome those who have lost their lives into His eternal peace, bring healing to those left behind, and give strength to everyone carrying the emotional weight of this tragedy.
West Bend is a special community filled with wonderful people. In times like these, may we come together with compassion, love, faith, and support for one another.
God bless the victims and their families. God bless our first responders. And God bless the City of West Bend.
Kurt Bohn
Retired Police Officer
West Bend Police Department
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