Westby Police release more details about incident that caused tactical response earlier this week

Sept. 24, 2026

WESTBY, Wis. — A Westby man was arrested on felony charges after reports of possible gunfire prompted a large law enforcement response and temporary traffic restrictions in a mobile home community earlier this week, authorities said Thursday.

The incident began shortly before 3 p.m. Tuesday when officers from the Westby Police Department, Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Viroqua Police Department and Cashton Police Department responded to a report of a disturbance and possible gunshots in the area of Douglas Street in Westby, according to a news release from Westby Police Chief Scott Stuber.

Authorities had initially described the situation as a tactical law enforcement operation and restricted traffic entering and leaving the neighborhood while officers worked to secure the area. Neighbors reported hearing sounds they believed were gunshots coming from a mobile home on Douglas Street.

During the response, law enforcement officers made contact with the suspect, identified by police as Charles Erlandson, 54, of Westby.

According to the police department, officers observed signs of impairment during their investigation. A subsequent search of the residence revealed multiple firearms inside the home.

Erlandson was arrested on several felony charges, police said. Authorities said the charges are being sought through the Vernon County District Attorney’s Office. Court records detailing the specific allegations were not immediately available Thursday.

Sheriff Roy Torgerson said Tuesday that officers responded to the scene at approximately 3:22 p.m. and temporarily restricted access to the neighborhood while tactical personnel worked to resolve the situation. About 30 minutes after providing an update from the scene, Torgerson announced the situation was under control and said traffic restrictions had been lifted.

Officials reported no injuries and said there was no ongoing threat to residents or the surrounding community. School officials were also notified that students who live in the neighborhood could safely return home once the incident was resolved.

Police said Erlandson has since been released on a $5,000 signature bond.

The investigation remains ongoing.