Man in custody in connection with death of 51-year-old man

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee police are investigating the death of a 51-year-old man as a homicide. The victim was found inside a home near 39th and Meinecke on the city's north side.

Officers were called to the scene shortly after 2:30 p.m. on Friday, September 6th.

"It appears at this time we are investigating a homicide. It appears at this time, also, that this could possibly be domestic related," said Lt. Justin Carloni of the Milwaukee Police Department.

Neighbors tell FOX6 News the victim had been missing for a couple of days -- and was found dead in a closet of the home he lives in.

"He didn't tell nobody he was leaving. We got to calling his phone and no one picked up his phone," said Nikki Coleman. "His niece told me John was in the closet dead with the mattress over his body."

Those who knew the man say he was one of the kindest people in the neighborhood and they are shocked that he is gone.

"He was so proud of me because I told him I was going to school. He said 'girl, go ahead.' He walked me to the bus stop," said Yasmine Perkins. "He was so sweet. Like, when I say sweet, he was sweeter than candy."

"He never had problems, never had trouble. He was a friendly person. He was friends with everyone on the block," said Coleman. "I am shocked and sad. I want to cry but I can't cry right now."

Police indicated early Saturday, September 7th that one person is now in custody in connection with this case.



Monitor FOX6 News and FOX6Now.com for updates on this developing story.