Coordinated Effort Leads to an Arrest in Arson Investigation

Published on July 31, 2026

A coordinated, multi-agency investigation between La Crosse Police Department, La Crosse Fire Department, La Crosse County Sheriff's Office, Onalaska Police Department, and Onalaska Fire Department, in a series of recent intentionally set fires has led to the arrest of David P. Sheldon (04/28/89).

On Tuesday July 28, 2026, law enforcement and fire department members began responding to numerous fires in close proximity and time to one another. At approximately 7:10 p.m., two fires were reported in the City of La Crosse at 3800 State Rd 16. Fires were also reported in the City of Onalaska. Because of the close proximity and time of these calls, these incidents were investigated in a collaborative effort. 

Prior to the fires, the La Crosse Police Department investigated an entry/theft that had been reported in the 3200 block of State Road 16. An individual’s vehicle key was taken and their vehicle entered. Mr. Sheldon was determined to be a person of interest. He was contacted and taken into custody, the following morning, Wednesday July 29, 2026, at approximately 12:36 a.m. for the entry/theft incident. He also had a warrant for his arrest which was unrelated to these incidents. 

During this time, the investigation into the fires continued. Through the collaborations, communications, video footage of the area, and evidence collected at various scenes, investigators successfully identified Mr. Sheldon as the individual responsible for the fires. 

"Arson is a violent crime that places our citizens and first responders at serious risk," said Jeff Schott, City of La Crosse Fire Chief. "This successful arrest is a direct reflection of what happens when local fire and law enforcement agencies work seamlessly to pool their resources and protect the community."

"We want to thank our fire department and area law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to bring these incidents to a safe resolution. We also want to thank those community members who came forward with critical tips. We have a strong partnership with our local fire and law enforcement agencies, and our collaboration brought a quick conclusion to these investigations,” said Shawn Kudron, City of La Crosse Police Chief.

Mr. Sheldon is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The investigation remains active.

Please refer to the Onalaska Police Department for information regarding their investigations.

Arrested

David P. Sheldon (04/28/89)

La Crosse Police Department Charges

943.03 Arson of Property Other than a Building (2 counts)