Posted at: 09/04/2009 10:40 AM

Eau Claire Co. Sheriff says Deputies' Shooting Justified

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) - Eau Claire County's sheriff says two deputies followed proper protocol when they shot a man during a standoff near Fall Creek.

Sheriff Ron Cramer says the deputies "had to do what they did."

Forty-four-year-old David Rubitski was shot four times Wednesday night after deputies were called to a domestic disturbance at a trailer home. They found Rubitski in a nearby van. Deputies say he refused orders to get out of vehicle, then pointed a rifle at officers, causing deputies to shoot.

Rubitski was medflighted to Luther Midelfort Hospital in Eau Claire where he was last listed in critical condition.

Eau Claire police have been asked to investigate the shooting. Police Lt. Tim Golden says it's believed the Rubitski did not fire his rifle.