Seeking answers: Alderwoman calls on MPD to discuss officer-involved shooting

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Wednesday, May 21st marked three weeks to the day since a mentally-ill man was shot and killed by a Milwaukee police officer inside Red Arrow Park in downtown Milwaukee -- and Alderwoman Milele Coggs wants answers.

Coggs has announced she has requested an update from MPD and the Fire and Police Commission regarding the officer-involved shooting.

Police say Dontre Hamilton had been lying on the ground inside Red Arrow Park on April 30th when an officer came over to investigate. Authorities say Hamilton grabbed an officer’s baton and starting beating him with it. That’s when the officer shot and killed Hamilton.

In a press release issued Wednesday, Coggs said she "she hopes police officials can shed new light on the ongoing investigation into the shooting, which resulted in the death of a 31-year-old mentally-ill man, as well as provide some answers for the man’s grieving family."

Coggs has also requested a briefing on standard operating policies relating to officer interactions with mentally-ill people.

“When a conflict with law enforcement results in the death of a community member—especially one with mental health needs—it is paramount that we examine with utmost transparency the circumstances around that death. The community must be assured that every precaution is taken to safeguard the lives of its most vulnerable citizens," Coggs said.

The communication is expected to be heard during the Public Safety Committee meeting on Thursday, May 22nd.