United States of America
Headstone of Wayne William Olson

Wayne William Olson

Died January 26, 1975

Wayne William Olson. Wayne served during the years of World War II.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Patrolman Wayne Olson and Patrolman Robert Atkins were shot and killed in front of the police station as they began their shift. For several days, all shifts had been doubled due to a recent rash of burglaries, including three at the police station. Shortly after midnight, a citizen heard several gunshots in front of the city hall. At approximately 4:00 a.m. units began looking for the officers who failed to respond to radio calls. Patrolman Olson's body was located behind some bushes in front of town hall, and Patrolman Atkins' body was found in the woods just south of town hall. An all-day search led officers to the home of a 16-year-old boy. Evidence of the burglaries and murders was found in his bedroom. The suspect was declared insane and committed to a mental institution. He was released in 2013. Patrolman Olson served with the Summit Township Police Department for two years.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife and daughter.
Media
Wayne William Olson
Wayne William Olson 0 views
Service Record
1942 – 1945
Also Served
Summit Township Police Department
Patrolman
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 43W · Line 14 cut as WAYNE W OLSON
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtn79ehd66j7egs28781x
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I never knew you. I am standing here anyway.

Patrolman Olson gave the Summit Township Police Department 2 years.

Thank you for your service to the Oconomowoc community. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, Patrolman Olson.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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