Corey Ruiz Death Sparks CRAZ Blockade in Madison

Black Lives Matter and other protesters have blockaded two blocks of Willy Street in downtown Madison after Corey Ruiz, an armed felon who had knifed a police officer, was fatally shot by police. The demonstrators have dubbed the area the Corey Ruiz Autonomous Zone (CRAZ), echoed by city officials who are providing portable toilets and other resources as the two-block intersection remains closed. Locals describe the occupation as disruptive and unlawful, while activists draw attention to Ruiz’s long criminal history (at least 25 cases dating back to 2007) and the police shooting that has become a flashpoint, with nightly protests continuing.