"It's a difficult time:" Family members, friends, strangers remember Archie Brown, killed after crash



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- His death kicked off a very violent week in Milwaukee last week, and on Sunday, April 19th, loved ones and even strangers gathered to remember 40-year-old Archie Brown.

Archie Brown



Brown was shot and killed near 48th and Glendale last Sunday evening. It happened after Brown struck two-year-old Damani Terry with his van -- killing him. Terry's older brother, 15-year-old Rasheed Chiles was also shot. He died at the hospital during surgery. The suspect in the shooting, 27-year-old Ricky Chiles took his own life as police and U.S. Marshals closed in on a Chicago motel last Thursday.

Witnesses report Brown was distraught and crying after hitting the child. He is said to have exited his van — going over to the child to try to help him. Shortly thereafter, he was shot and killed.

The case made headlines across the nation, and on Sunday, hundreds came out to pay their respects to Brown and comfort his family.

A visitation for Archie Brown was held on Sunday, April 19th from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at New Pitts Mortuary at 2031 W. Capitol Drive. His family has been relying on their faith this week, and they're quick to point out they're not the only family in Milwaukee to lose someone to gun violence.

Brown's brother says he feels the community's support and he sends his condolences to the family of Damani Terry and Rasheed Chiles.

"The community has embraced us and wrapped their arms around us wholeheartedly. They showed us support and solidarity and it`s a difficult time for both families right now and we`re just asking the community to pray," Brown's brother Jerry Hill said.

"I believe my son is in heaven with his maker," Archie Brown Sr. said.

Archie Brown Sr. says he even forgives the shooter.

"He was crying and repenting and saying he was sorry about the situation, but the guy shot him anyway. It has to be God`s will and God`s plan," Brown Sr. said.

Brown's brother says his family's loss is not unique.

"I want to send my condolences to Ricky`s mom. I know you`re hurting. We`re hurting with you. Young men are losing their lives every day behind a bullet. Enough is enough," Hill said.



Hill is asking that law enforcement officials and lawmakers stop fighting about gun violence and sit down to find a solution.

"Stop with the foolishness and find a way to help us," Hill said.

Hill says if the violent spring we've seen in Milwaukee continues, there will be more visitations like the one held Sunday for his brother.

"Somewhere along the line there`s gonna be another Ricky. There`s gonna be another Archie. There`s gonna be another two-year-old and another 15-year-old that has to dodge a bullet and that`s a sad day for Milwaukee," Hill said.

A funeral will be held on Monday, April 20th from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Christian Faith Fellowship at 8603 W. Good Hope Road.

Brown will be buried at Graceland Cemetery.

A fund has been established in Brown’s honor — the Archie Ray Brown Memorial Fund. Donations are being accepted at any Associated Bank branch. The money will help the family cover funeral costs.