"A rough road ahead:" Family grieves loss of Army veteran killed in hit-and-run crash



MILWAUKEE -- He served and fought for our country. But for one Milwaukee man, the real danger was here at home. 40-year-old Army veteran Lamarr Banks was killed in a hit-and-run crash.

"He was the love of my life, he was my everything," said Liya Guzman, Banks' fiancee.

Guzman will not experience her happily ever after.

"Want to know why. I want to know who could have done this to him," sad Guzman.

Banks was struck and killed on Sunday, August 16th near Appleton and Burleigh on Milwaukee's northwest side.

"He was trying to get back in the car they hit him and ran him over," said Guzman.

Family members say the driver ran over him and took off -- and Banks' vehicle was also taken.

"If it was for the car, why not just take the car? Why take him too?" asked Guzman.

The suspect or suspects involved in this incident took the life of a man who was a devoted father of four, companion and Army veteran.



Lamarr Banks Jr., the victim's eldest son, is in disbelief. Though in mourning, he tries to recall fond memories.

"He loved trips, he loved parties, he loved to laugh," said Banks Jr. "He loved his family."

The pain is especially being felt for Banks' youngest children who barely got to know their dad. He leaves behind a three-week-old baby boy -- and a three-year-old daughter who is in the midst of battling Leukemia.

Despite the grief felt, Guzman has no choice but to be strong for the kids -- who can now only depend on her.

"It's going to be a rough road ahead," said Guzman.

Milwaukee police say they are searching for a black 2007 Audi Q7 SUV in this case. Anyone with information is asked to call Milwaukee Police at 414-935-3813.

CLICK HERE if you would like to contribute to the Lamarr Banks funeral fundraiser.