In the quiet town of Whitewater, Wisconsin, a promising life was cut tragically short on the evening of Friday, June 4, 2021. Zachary "Zac" Wasendorf, a 23-year-old Caucasian male, passed away in an incident that would leave his community in mourning. A student at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Zac was known for his dedication and service, not only to his studies but also to his country as a Sergeant in the Wisconsin National Guard.
Emergency services were dispatched to an
apartment on North Tratt Street at 9:21 p.m. following a distressing 9-1-1 call reporting that an individual had shot himself. Upon their arrival, police officers discovered Zachary Wasendorf with a single gunshot wound. Despite their efforts, he was not breathing and had no pulse. The scene was contained, and it was confirmed that no one else was harmed in the incident.
The investigation that followed, conducted by the Whitewater Police Department with assistance from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Police Department and the Walworth County Medical Examiner, pointed towards a heartbreaking conclusion. A legally owned firearm was recovered from the scene, and authorities later announced that the fatal shooting appeared to be both accidental and self-inflicted. The investigation remained ongoing with the medical examiner's office to finalize the details of this sorrowful event, but there was no indication of foul play or the involvement of any suspects.
Zac was a political science major with a minor in leadership and military science. His commitment to service was evident in his multiple deployments with the National Guard, including a tour in Afghanistan. He was an active member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and a strong advocate for the care of soldiers returning from active duty. In his memory, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater flew its flag at half-staff. He was remembered for his sense of humor and his passion for making a difference in the world. As an organ donor, Zac's final act was one of generosity, offering the gift of life to others.
