Police Officer Matthew John Rittner, Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin

Police Officer Matthew John Rittner

Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin

End of Watch Wednesday, February 6, 2019

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Matthew John Rittner

Police Officer Matthew Rittner was shot and killed as he executed a narcotics and firearms related search warrant at a home in the 2900 block of South 12th Street near West Dakota Street.

As the Tactical Enforcement Unit attempted to breach the apartment door the suspect opened fire with an AK-47, shooting through the door and striking Officer Rittner in the chest.

Officer Rittner was transported to Froedtert Hospital where he died from his injuries.

The subject who shot him was taken into custody at the scene. He was charged with first-degree intentional homicide and numerous other narcotics and weapons charges. He was sentenced to life without parole.

Officer Rittner was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the War on Terror. He had served with the Milwaukee Police Department for 17 years. He is survived by his expectant wife and child.

Bio

Age 35
Tour 17 years
Badge 1286
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle; AK-47
Offender Sentenced to life

narcotics, search warrant, swat, weapons violation

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Most Recent Reflection

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Matt my brother from another mother, it’s been 6 years and I still think about you every day……from when we met at 2/24, to the day you unknowingly talked me into becoming a police officer in the front seat of a Humvee in Iraq, to the day you helped me out before my TEU interview and many more. I wish you could see your kids! I hope you get to look down on them every day. Semper FI brother, and I hope I get to see you again in Valhalla!

Milwaukee Police Motor Officer Erik Smit
Milwaukee Police Department

July 1, 2025