2/3/2025

RHINELANDER - The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is continuing to investigate an officer-involved death investigation. The incident happened in the Town of Newbold in Oneida County on Friday, January 17 when Oneida County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Bedish attempted a traffic stop in the town of Newbold.  28-year-old Matthew Johnson, failed to stop, prompting a vehicle pursuit. The pursuit ended when Johnson crossed into the opposite lane of traffic, crashed his vehicle, and hit another vehicle.  The victim vehicle contained six passengers, all of whom sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment.  Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.  Deputy Bedish, who has 4.5 years of law enforcement service, is on administrative duty. DCI says he had his squad camera activated during the incident.  DCI is leading this investigation and is assisted by a DCI Crime Response Specialist and the Wisconsin State Patrol. All involved law enforcement is fully cooperating with DCI during this investigation.  DCI is continuing to review evidence and determine the facts of the incident and will turn over the investigative reports to the Oneida County District Attorney’s office when the investigation concludes.