Two Milwaukee Police Officers Shot in Ambush While Responding to Call; Suspect in Custody

Two Milwaukee Police Officers Shot in Ambush While Responding to Call; Suspect in Custody

Milwaukee, WI – June 27, 2025  – Two officers with the Milwaukee Police Department were shot late Thursday night while responding to a call about a person armed with a weapon, in what officials are now calling an “ambush-style attack.” The incident has sent shockwaves through both the law enforcement community and the city at large, reigniting urgent conversations about rising violence in Milwaukee.

The shooting occurred as the officers approached an alleyway, responding to what appeared to be a routine call. Without warning, gunfire erupted, striking both officers. A 32-year-old officer was critically injured and rushed to Froedtert Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. A 29-year-old officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is also being treated.

Suspect in Custody

By early Friday morning, Milwaukee police confirmed that a suspect had been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. The identity of the individual has not yet been released, but police say criminal charges will be referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office in the coming days.

“Thank you to our law enforcement partners who assisted us in taking the suspect into custody,” the Milwaukee Police Department said in a statement. “This ambush is a stark reminder that the Milwaukee Police Department will not tolerate harm to our community or our officers. Individuals inflicting harm against the public and our officers will be held accountable.”

A City Reeling From Violence

The Milwaukee Police Association issued a somber and emotional statement following the attack, describing the shooting as a senseless act of violence that underscores the dangerous conditions officers face daily.

“It is with profound sorrow and outrage that we confirm that two Milwaukee police officers were tragically shot and critically injured in the line of duty tonight,” the union said. “Our thoughts are with these officers, their families, friends, and colleagues. These officers face unimaginable suffering and they have long roads ahead of them.”

The statement further emphasized the mounting toll on law enforcement in Milwaukee.

“This senseless act of violence has struck the very heart of our department and our community. We have reached a breaking point. Violence in our city is out of control, and those who protect our neighborhoods are increasingly in the crosshairs.”

The union pointed out that five Milwaukee officers have been killed in the line of duty over the past seven years, and dozens more have been shot or targeted during their service.

“Our officers wear the badge with pride and honor, but they need more support—more leadership—from the city to bring this cycle of violence to an end.”

Mayor Cavalier Johnson Responds

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson also addressed the media following the incident, visibly shaken and resolute in tone.

“It’s a sad day. It’s a very sad day. Because no officer—no person in law enforcement—should ever, ever be fired upon,” the mayor said.

Directly addressing the shooter, he added:

“For the person that shot at our police officers, I want you to know: you should turn yourself in. Know that the men and women on this police force—they are going to find you, they are going to arrest you, and you will be brought to justice.”

An Ongoing Crisis of Gun Violence

The attack comes amid rising concerns over gun violence in Milwaukee, a city that, like many across the nation, has struggled to curb the escalation of violent crime in recent years. This incident reinforces growing fears that even first responders are no longer safe.

City leaders and police officials are now calling for renewed focus on public safety, community support, and greater accountability for those who engage in violence against police and civilians alike.

Investigation Ongoing

As of Friday afternoon, the investigation remains active and ongoing, with more details expected in the coming days as detectives process the scene and prepare the case for the District Attorney’s Office. Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the ambush or whether the suspect had prior contact with law enforcement.

Community Support and Next Steps

As the injured officers fight to recover, community leaders are organizing support for their families and urging residents to rally behind law enforcement.

The Milwaukee Police Department is expected to release further information, including the suspect’s identity and formal charges, early next week.

In the meantime, police officials are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Our Community Stands With Milwaukee’s Finest

The city of Milwaukee remains united in prayer and support for the two officers injured in the line of duty. Their bravery and sacrifice are a reminder of the risks taken daily by those sworn to protect and serve.

For updates on this developing story, follow local law enforcement announcements and city press briefings.