MILWAUKEE, WI – Two Milwaukee police officers are recovering after being shot in the line of duty, with one officer in critical condition. A 22-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident, shocking residents and reigniting concerns over gun violence in the city.
The officers were responding to a report of gunfire near 25th and Garfield. Upon arrival, they were ambushed in an alley and shot before they could return fire. Hours later, around 2 a.m., the suspect was apprehended.
The injured officers, both veterans with over six years of service, were transported to Freighter Hospital. One officer, aged 29, suffered non-fatal injuries, while the other, aged 32, remains critically injured.
Community members gathered at the crime scene, showing support and solidarity. Karen Tyler, interim director for Milwaukee County’s Office of Community Wellness and Safety, distributed free gun locks and safety pamphlets, emphasizing the importance of violence prevention.
Neighbors, expressing shock and concern, voiced a collective desire for change to prevent further violence. The Milwaukee Police Association highlighted staffing challenges, noting that the officers involved were working outside their usual district due to a shortage of personnel.
Milwaukee Police Association President Alex Ayella expressed frustration over the staffing crisis, revealing that the department is short 200 officers and 50 detectives. He emphasized the need for a wage increase to retain and recruit officers, as many are overworked and exhausted.
The suspect, who remains in police custody, has a prior offense from 2021 for stealing a car and evading arrest. Charges related to the shooting are pending, contingent on the officers’ recovery.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, with many hoping for a swift recovery for the injured officers and a decrease in gun violence across the city.