Chief of Police Elmer Sundby, Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin

Chief of Police Elmer Sundby

Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin

End of Watch Tuesday, July 26, 1921

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Elmer Sundby

Chief of Police Elmer Sundby was shot and killed while attempting to arrest an armed robbery suspect.

The suspect had robbed a power company of trolley car receipts and fled towards a wooded area on the bank of the Chippewa River. Chief Sundby, his officers, and citizens began a search of the area. Chief Sundby located the suspect and confronted him. During the ensuing shootout, Chief Sundby was shot twice.

The suspect escaped by swimming across the river and was never apprehended.

Chief Sundby had served with the Eau Claire Police Department for 12 years.

Bio

Age 48
Tour 12 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Monday, July 25, 1921
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Never apprehended

robbery, foot pursuit

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Most Recent Reflection

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As a former Police Officer with the Eau Claire Police Department, I appreciate your sacrifice for the City and your fellow citizens. While on desk duty at ECPD I used to look at your photo in the hall and wonder what that shootout was like on the banks of the Chippewa. I too chased suspects on these muddy banks.

Ron Taggart- former Police Officer
Retired Investigator- State of MN

October 7, 2025