MILWAUKEE, WI – After a Juneteenth community event in Milwaukee’s Washington Park, gunfire erupted, claiming the life of a Milwaukee teenager and injuring another. A third teenager was taken into custody in connection with the incident.
Chief Deputy Daniel Hughes of The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office revealed that the community event was cut short due to several fights involving unsupervised youth. The fights escalated even after the event ended, leading to a violent altercation at 8:53 p.m. when deputies were called to respond to a group of around 50 kids appearing ready to fight in the northeast corner of Washington Park.
Upon arrival, an undercover detective witnessed a shooter firing towards the playground, striking one victim multiple times. The detective then engaged with the shooter, who fled the scene to the north. Another detective successfully apprehended the suspect at gunpoint. Tragically, the 17-year-old victim succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital. Additionally, a 15-year-old boy arrived at the hospital at 9:35 p.m. with gunshot wounds but is expected to survive.
Following the incident, a total of eight firearms were recovered, three from the shooting scene and five after the Juneteenth event concluded. The detective involved in the shooting is a 27-year veteran on administrative leave following department protocols. The suspected shooter, also a 17-year-old, had been previously arrested for felon in possession of a firearm on May 20, but was out on bail at the time of the Washington Park shooting.
Hughes expressed frustrations over the violent turn of events at a celebration meant to honor Juneteenth, condemning the senseless tragedy that unfolded. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges law enforcement face in preventing such violence within communities, emphasizing the need for swift justice and accountability.