June 27, 6:30p
(WGTD)---An arrest has been made in the murder of Racine Police Officer John Hetland. Appearing next to the squad car that's served as a memorial to the 24-year veteran of the department, authorities late Thursday afternoon announced that a suspect has been taken into custody in Milwaukee.
"The crime lab was able to give us information and we were able to have the suspected picked up in Milwaukee," said Dave Beth of the Kenosha County Sheriff's Dept., the lead investigative agency on the case. Beth said the identity and a photo of the suspect would be released as soon as possible, along with other details. No questions were taken from reporters.
Joining Beth at the announcement was Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling, Racine Police Chief Art Howell and Racine Mayor Cory Mason. "On behalf of the entire city, I want to thank all of law enforcement who've been involved in getting us to this point," Mason said. "I can't tell you what a relief it is to know that we've reached this point."
Beth said the suspect was led away in the handcuffs that were Hetland's.
Hetland was shot and killed a week ago Monday at Teezers Bar and Grill while trying to stop an armed robbery.
Authorities had released a security camera photo of the suspect. With the exception of his eyes, the man's face was covered.
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