Phase two in the Brian Flatoff trial begins. Flatoff is accused of taking hostages at gunpoint at Eagle Nation Cycles in December 2015 in a dispute over a motorcycle. The standoff lasted for several hours. Neenah police eventually stormed the building. A shootout ensued between Flatoff and officers. The police retreated.
One of the hostages, Michael Funk, was killed by police when he ran from the building holding a gun. Police say Funk did not respond when told called to drop the weapon. Police Chief Kevin Wilkinson called in a tragic accident. The Attorney General said the officers’ actions were justified. Flatoff is now charged with Funk’s murder.
Brian Flatoff was found guilty last week on all charges,including felony murder. The same jury will now decide if he was mentally competent at the time.
Michael Funk’s widow filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Neenah police. A judge dismissed the lawsuit but it is now sitting in the U.S. Court of Appeals.
