The Grant County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that the final autopsy report for Muscoda Police Officer Kate Fleischauer has been received from the University of Wisconsin‑Forensic Pathology laboratory. The report confirms that Officer Fleischauer’s death was accidental, caused by drowning in an indoor pool.
Cause and contributing factors
According to the coroner, the immediate cause of death was freshwater drowning. Toxicology testing revealed acute intoxication from alcohol and diphenhydramine, a medication commonly sold under the brand name Benadryl. Both substances were identified as contributing factors to the fatal incident.
Investigation background
The Muscoda Police Department requested assistance from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office after Officer Fleischauer was found unresponsive at a private residence. At the coroner’s request, a forensic pathologist from the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison performed the autopsy and reviewed all relevant investigative and medical records. The final report could not be completed until toxicology results were finalized, which is now reflected in the released findings.
Community response
“Officer Fleischauer was a valued and respected member of the Muscoda Police Department and the Grant County law‑enforcement community,” the sheriff’s office statement read. “Our thoughts remain with Officer Fleischauer’s family, friends, colleagues, and the Muscoda community.” The department has not indicated any further details will be released at this time.
Public safety reminder
While the investigation remains closed, local officials encourage residents to be mindful of alcohol consumption and the risks associated with medication interactions, especially around swimming facilities. The tragedy underscores the importance of safety protocols in private and public pool settings.
The Muscoda Police Department and Grant County Sheriff’s Office will continue to support the officer’s family and provide updates should additional information become available.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
