NASW-WI Statement on the Shooting of Corey Ruiz

MADISON, WI - Yesterday afternoon on July 22, 2026, a Madison police officer shot and killed a man named Corey Ruiz. Our hearts are with his family and with everyone who witnessed this violence or has been retraumatized by ongoing violence against minority communities. This shooting happened just a block from where 19-year-old Tony Robinson, a young Black man, was killed by Madison police in 2015. That proximity is not lost on us, and it should not be lost on our community. The NASW-Wisconsin Chapter calls for a full and transparent investigation into what happened. Corey Ruiz should be with us today.

Madison has had years to act on de-escalation training, body cameras, and other reforms that could have changed what happened yesterday. Words are not enough. NASW-WI calls on the city to move now on concrete solutions that keep all involved safe.

---

The National Association of Social Workers, Wisconsin Chapter (NASW-WI) fosters community by advancing the profession through education, ethics, professional standards, and advocacy to serve diverse populations. For more, go to: https://naswwi.socialworkers.org/About.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.