Trevor Casper, a 21-year-old Wisconsin State Trooper, tragically lost his life on March 24, 2015, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Casper was on his first solo assignment when he encountered Steven Snyder, a suspect involved in a bank robbery and murder earlier that day. Snyder had robbed a bank in Wausaukee, Wisconsin, and subsequently killed 59-year-old Thomas C. Christ before stealing a second vehicle. Casper located Snyder driving the stolen vehicle and began following him. The pursuit ended in a parking lot where Snyder opened fire on Casper, hitting him three times. Despite being mortally wounded, Casper managed to return fire, fatally wounding Snyder.
The incident was a significant and tragic event for the Wisconsin State Patrol and the community. Casper was the youngest police officer killed in the line of duty in Wisconsin. The shootout lasted only about 17 seconds, during which Snyder fired nine shots, and Casper, despite his injuries, fired 12 shots, ultimately killing Snyder with a single shot. Casper was pronounced dead en route to the hospital.
Following the incident, there were no arrests or further suspects as the primary suspect, Steven Snyder, was killed in the exchange of gunfire. The investigation confirmed that Snyder was responsible for multiple bank robberies across several states and the murder of Thomas C. Christ. The Fond du Lac County District Attorney, Eric Toney, stated that Casper's actions were heroic and justified, emphasizing that he did more in those 17 seconds than most would do in a lifetime.
The community and law enforcement agencies mourned the loss of Trevor Casper. Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker issued a statement expressing his condolences and highlighting Casper's bravery and dedication to his duty. Casper was posthumously honored and inducted into the State of Wisconsin Fire & Police Hall of Fame in recognition of his service and sacrifice.
