MILWAUKEE — A family in Milwaukee is grappling with the shock and grief following the fatal shooting of Angel Olivares, who was killed in a tragic incident just hours before Thanksgiving. The shooting occurred late Wednesday evening in his driveway on the city’s south side, leaving loved ones heartbroken.
Detectives visited the Olivares family home around 2 a.m. Thursday to deliver the devastating news to Angel’s son, Jose. “I still can’t believe it,” Jose said, expressing his disbelief and sorrow. “He didn’t have any enemies; he was a devoted family man.”
The shooting unfolded around 10 p.m., shortly before the family’s planned Thanksgiving gathering. Jose indicated that neighbors heard gunfire and called 911, but by the time help arrived, it was too late for Angel. “They ran downstairs and found him lying on the ground,” he recalled.
Angel Olivares was known for his commitment to family and hard work. He had lived at the home near Winona Lane and Burnham Street for about two years, establishing a stable life while operating his own cleaning business and being active in the lives of his three children.
The family had looked forward to sharing Thanksgiving, with Angel set to assist in cooking the meal. “I had just bought a turkey and everything we needed for the holiday,” Jose said, reflecting on the sudden void that Angel’s death has left.
His youngest daughter, 13-year-old Andrea, reminisced about the cherished moments spent with her father, particularly their shared love for dancing. She had eagerly anticipated sharing a dance at her upcoming quinceañera. “He taught me to dance and always had a smile on his face,” she shared, highlighting their close relationship.
Andrea revealed that her father was already saving up for her celebration two years in advance. “He took on extra shifts for it, but now it feels like it all went to waste,” she said, her voice heavy with emotion.
As the investigation continues, the family is left searching for answers. The shooter remains unidentified, prompting Jose to call for anyone with information to come forward. He urged, “We just want justice for my dad.”
In light of the tragic loss, the family is also seeking community support to cover funeral expenses. They have started a fundraising campaign and are appealing to neighbors and friends for assistance during this difficult time.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the Milwaukee Police Department at (414) 935-7360 or to reach out anonymously via Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS.