Muscoda Police Officer cause of death identified as a fresh water drowning

On November 13, 2026, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office was notified by Grant County Coroner Phyllis Fuerstenberg that she had received the final autopsy report from UW-Forensic Pathology regarding the off-duty death of Muscoda Police Officer Kate Fleischauer.

According to the Grant County Coroner, the manner of death was determined to be accidental with the cause of death listed as a fresh water drowning (indoor pool), with a contributing factor of acute alcohol and diphenhydramine intoxication.

On October 18, 2026, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office was requested by the Muscoda Police Department to respond to and assist with the investigation into Officer Fleischauer’s death at a private residence. At the Coroner’s request, an autopsy was conducted by a forensic pathologist at UW-Hospital in Madison.

The final report could not be completed until toxicology testing was finalized and the forensic pathologist reviewed all relevant investigative and medical information. The Grant County Sheriff’s Office and Grant County Coroner’s Office recognize the community’s interest in receiving these findings and appreciate the patience shown while that process was completed.

Officer Fleischauer was a valued and respected member of the Muscoda Police Department and the Grant County law enforcement community. Our thoughts remain with Officer Fleischauer’s family, friends, colleagues, and the Muscoda community.

Based on the findings of the Grant County Coroner and the completed investigation, no further information will be released.