Beloit police officer acquitted in shooting of knife attacker

BELOIT, Wis. (WIFR) – The Beloit police officer who shot and killed a South Beloit man is cleared of any wrongdoing, the Rock County District Attorney announced July 2.

It was determined that Officer Cole Gille acted lawfully in the May 16 incident and that his use of force was legal and reasonable. The district attorney also said that Gregory Tracy, 54, of South Beloit was shot and died as a direct result of his own actions.

On May 16, 2024, Beloit officers responded to reports of a stabbing in the 2000 block of Fredrick Street. When they arrived, investigators found Tracy intoxicated and holding two knives. They also said they learned that Tracy had stabbed his girlfriend 40 times in the torso and arms, requiring her to be airlifted to a hospital in Madison.

According to investigators, officers spoke to Tracy through a screen door and ordered him to drop the knives, but he refused. Police asked if anyone else was in the house, and Tracy reportedly said his two grandchildren were home.

As Tracy appeared to be walking away from officers, police attempted to stun and arrest him with 40mm rounds. Before they could get into the building, Tracy was able to get back up and reportedly held a knife over his head toward officers. Officers asked if anyone knew where the children were and police say Tracy responded, “I have one here,” and quickly walked away from officers. Officer Gille then fired three shots, all of which struck Tracy. Tracy died at the scene.

The home was evacuated, but no children were found. The District Attorney says Officer Gille acted based on video and photographic footage from the scene, as well as witness testimony, to protect the lives of the children, who he believed were in danger.

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