26-Year-Old Man Killed After Confrontation With Off-Duty Milwaukee Police Officer Following Minor Crash
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — A 26-year-old man was shot and killed by an off-duty Milwaukee police officer Thursday morning after a minor traffic accident quickly escalated into a deadly exchange of gunfire, according to authorities.
Police said the shooting occurred around 8:25 a.m. near the 4800 block of West Mill Road, when the off-duty officer — a 40-year-old veteran with 21 years of service — was on his way to work and collided with another vehicle.
Minor Crash Turns Deadly
According to investigators, both drivers pulled over and got out to assess the damage. During the interaction, the 26-year-old man allegedly pulled a gun and struck the officer in the face, prompting the officer to draw his own weapon.
“Gunfire was exchanged between the two,” police said in a statement. “The 26-year-old man was struck and died at the scene.”
The officer sustained facial injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Officials said he has since been placed on administrative duty, which is standard procedure following a police-involved shooting.
Community Leaders Call for Answers
During a press conference, Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman acknowledged community frustration over another fatal encounter involving police.
“This is a story that happens too often in our community,” Chief Norman said. “How does a minor accident turn into a deadly use-of-force situation? Unacceptable — we have to be better than this.”
The Milwaukee Area Investigative Team (MAIT), led by the West Allis Police Department, is handling the independent investigation. Officials confirmed that body and dash camera footage from the incident will be released within 15 days, per department policy.
Police Association Backs Officer’s Actions
Milwaukee Police Association President Alexandar Ayala visited the injured officer in the hospital and shared a statement on Facebook, describing him as “lucky to be alive.”
“He was simply driving to work when he was attacked by an armed individual after a minor traffic incident,” Ayala wrote. “He was pistol-whipped and shot at. Our officer did exactly what any well-trained officer would do — he fought to survive.”
Ayala added that the officer’s “quick response not only saved his own life but likely prevented more violence in this neighborhood.”
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have not yet released the identity of the 26-year-old man killed in the confrontation. Police say the investigation remains active as they review evidence and witness statements.
The fatal shooting underscores ongoing tensions surrounding police use of force and community safety in Milwaukee. For continued updates on Wisconsin crime and justice coverage, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.