A wave of grief has spread through the University of Wisconsin-Stout community and the broader Menomonie area following the unexpected death of Sergeant Lucas Kinblom of the UW-Stout Police Department.
Kinblom, who had only recently been promoted to sergeant, passed away suddenly while off duty, according to a statement released by the department on social media.
News of his death has stunned colleagues, students, and law enforcement partners across Dunn County, many of whom had just celebrated his promotion weeks earlier.
The department asked the public for patience and understanding as staff process the loss, while also requesting privacy for Kinblom’s family during this difficult time.
A Career Built From the Ground Up
Kinblom’s path into law enforcement began with an associate degree in criminal justice from Chippewa Valley Technical College.
He went on to complete the demanding 720-hour Wisconsin Law Enforcement Academy program at the same school, a rigorous training requirement for officers across the state.
He joined the UW-Stout Police Department on June 1, 2020, stepping into the role during what was widely regarded as one of the more turbulent years for college campuses nationwide.
Over the following years, Kinblom built a reputation as a versatile and dedicated officer. He served as a patrol officer, a narcotics detective, a Taser and general instructor, and a field training officer responsible for mentoring new recruits joining the force.
His promotion from Police Officer I to Sergeant came on May 17, 2026, marking a significant milestone in a career that colleagues say was defined by steady professionalism and a calm, approachable demeanor.
Those who worked alongside him often pointed to his ability to defuse tense situations without losing his composure, treating students, coworkers, and members of the public with patience and respect.
Community and Law Enforcement Mourn Together
The Menomonie Police Department extended its condolences in a public statement, asking residents to keep Kinblom’s family and the UW-Stout community in their thoughts.
Tributes have also circulated on social media, with many describing him as a devoted officer whose loss is being felt deeply across local law enforcement circles.
One widely shared post described Kinblom as someone who had just locked in a major career achievement only weeks before his death, noting that he had spent years quietly putting in the work needed to advance, from his time at Chippewa Valley Technical College through his rise within the Stout police ranks.
The post highlighted his calm presence under pressure and his genuine kindness toward those he served, qualities that left a lasting impression on students and fellow officers alike.
As of now, funeral arrangements for Sergeant Kinblom remain in progress. The UW-Stout Police Department has said that, in the meantime, those wishing to honor his memory may send memorials to Stokes, Prock, and Mundt Funeral Chapel in Altoona. Details regarding a possible celebration of life have not yet been finalized.
The sudden nature of his passing has left many in the community searching for ways to offer support. University officials have not released additional information beyond confirming his death and asking for continued respect for the family’s privacy.
Kinblom is remembered by colleagues not only for his professional accomplishments, including his recent promotion, but for the warmth and dedication he brought to his work every day.
As the investigation into arrangements continues, the UW-Stout community has been urged to lean on one another while honoring the memory of a sergeant whose career, though relatively short, left a meaningful mark on those he served alongside.
