Chief of Police Elmer Sundby

Chief of Police Elmer Sundby | Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin
Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin
Chief of Police Elmer Sundby

Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin

End of Watch Tuesday, July 26, 1921

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Elmer Sundby

Chief of Police Elmer Sundby was shot and killed while attempting to arrest an armed robbery suspect.

The suspect had robbed a power company of trolley car receipts and fled towards a wooded area on the bank of the Chippewa River. Chief Sundby, his officers, and citizens began a search of the area. Chief Sundby located the suspect and confronted him. During the ensuing shootout, Chief Sundby was shot twice.

The suspect escaped by swimming across the river and was never apprehended.

Chief Sundby had served with the Eau Claire Police Department for 12 years.

Bio

  • Age 48
  • Tour 12 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Monday, July 25, 1921
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Never apprehended

foot pursuit, robbery

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As a former Police Officer with the Eau Claire Police Department, I appreciate your sacrifice for the City and your fellow citizens. While on desk duty at ECPD I used to look at your photo in the hall and wonder what that shootout was like on the banks of the Chippewa. I too chased suspects on these muddy banks.

Ron Taggart- former Police Officer
Retired Investigator- State of MN

October 7, 2025

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