Milwaukee Man Killed After Confrontation With Off-Duty Police Officer Following Minor Crash, Family Demands Answers
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — A 26-year-old man was shot and killed Thursday morning after a minor traffic accident escalated into a deadly shooting involving an off-duty Milwaukee police officer, authorities confirmed.
The incident unfolded around 8:25 a.m. near North 49th Street and West Mill Road, where the officer — a 40-year-old veteran with 21 years of service — was driving to work when he collided with another vehicle, Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said.
Traffic Crash Turns Into Deadly Confrontation
According to Chief Norman, both drivers pulled over and exited their vehicles to assess the situation. At that point, investigators say the other driver — identified as 26-year-old Elijah Wilks — approached the officer, pulled a gun, and struck him in the face.
The off-duty officer then drew his department-issued firearm, and both men exchanged gunfire, police said.
Wilks was pronounced dead at the scene. The officer sustained facial injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment. He was later released and placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure in police-involved shootings.
“Both individuals exchanged gunfire, but it’s unclear who fired first,” Chief Norman told reporters. “This is an ongoing investigation.”
A firearm was recovered at the scene.
Video Captured the Shooting
Although the officer was not wearing a body camera since he was off duty, Chief Norman confirmed that “very clear video” of the shooting exists and will be released in 15 days, in line with department policy.
The Milwaukee Area Investigative Team, led by the West Allis Police Department, is handling the independent investigation.
“Transparency is key,” Norman said. “We intend to release all available evidence once the investigative process allows.”
Police Union Praises Officer’s Response
Milwaukee Police Association President Alex Ayala said the officer was “incredibly lucky to be alive.”
“He was simply driving to work when he was attacked by an armed individual,” Ayala said in a statement. “He was pistol-whipped, shot at, and injured. His quick response saved his own life and likely prevented further violence.”
Ayala added that the incident demonstrates the dangers officers face “even when off duty and simply going about their daily lives.”
Family Questions Officer’s Actions
Family members of Elijah Wilks gathered at the scene Thursday afternoon, demanding accountability and clarity.
“I want to know why did you kill him?” said Wilks’ stepfather, Cardell Bonslater. “Why did you shoot him that many times? A car accident doesn’t deserve that.”
A family friend, Billie Wallace, described Wilks as kind and close to her family.
“I’m shocked,” Wallace said. “He was a good man, a friend of my daughter. He didn’t deserveto die like this.”
Investigation Ongoing
Chief Norman emphasized that the investigation remains active. The department has not disclosed how many shots were fired or whether the officer attempted to de-escalate the situation before drawing his weapon.
Officials say updates will be provided once evidence, including the video footage, has been reviewed.
The fatal confrontation has renewed community tensions over police use of force in Milwaukee, especially in off-duty incidents. For developing updates on this investigation and local law enforcement coverage, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.