This press release will serve as an update for two incidents that occurred on 01/30/2019.
Fatality Crash 2400 Hauser Street:
On 01/30/2019 at approximately 7:11AM, Officers were dispatched to the 2400 block of Hauser Street, reference a car crash. Dispatch advised that employees from Alter Scrap had called saying there was an unoccupied van down by the Landscape and Stone Center sign, and it appeared the van had struck the gate. There was severe front end damage to the van. Responding Officers located the van, and approximately 25 feet from the van, they located the body of a male party lying face down in the snow. The male party has been identified as Benjamin F. Ahlstrom (DOB: 12/06/1982) of Onalaska, and he was also the registered owner of the vehicle. It is believed that Mr. Ahlstrom was driving the vehicle. The La Crosse Police Department is awaiting the results of an autopsy to determine the manner of death.
This remains an ongoing investigation by the La Crosse Police Department and the Wisconsin State Patrol. We would also like to extend our sympathies to the family of Benjamin Ahlstrom.
Robbery/Shot Fired 300 Liberty Street:
On 01/30/2019 at 10:53AM, Officers responded to a shots fired complaint in the 300 block of Liberty Street. Shortly after the initial dispatch, Officer Trenton Bowe was approached by a victim in the 600 block of Liberty. The victim told Officer Bowe that his vehicle had been shot at, and he had been robbed. A perimeter was established by responding Officers with additional department members responding as well. The scene was processed, witnesses interviewed, and two suspects were identified. During the investigation, it was learned that Timothy and Justin Ellis had approached the victim outside 828 Gould Street. The Ellis’ had demanded the victim’s money and brandished a handgun. After the victim had given over money, Tim Ellis fired a round from a .380 caliber handgun into the victim’s vehicle. At this point, both suspects fled on foot.
During this investigation, Officers followed footprints from the suspects to 918 Gould Street. It was further learned the suspects reside at 918 Gould Street. Field Services staff established a perimeter at approximately 11:30AM around the Ellis’ apartment building (918 Gould) and maintained the perimeter for a prolonged amount of time in the extreme cold temperatures. A no knock search warrant was applied for and granted, and at approximately 3:55PM, ERT members made entry to 918 Gould Street #12.
As a result of the search warrant, Timothy Ellis (DOB 01/01/1995) and Justin K. Ellis (DOB 07/26/1996) were both taken into custody and each were charged with Armed Robbery and Reckless Endangerment of Safety. As of this time, the weapon has not been located.
The La Crosse Police Department would like to thank all the department members and assisting agencies who dealt with these investigations during dangerous weather conditions. The response to these incidents was a perfect example of teamwork, selflessness, and dedication of service to our community.
Timothy Ellis (DOB 01/01/1995)
Timothy Ellis
Justin K. Ellis (DOB 07/26/1996)
Justin K Ellis
La Crosse PD Newsroom 