145 homicides in Milwaukee in 2015: Families gather to remember those whose lives were lost

MILWAUKEE -- As of December 30th, 2015, there have been a total of 145 homicides in Milwaukee. This, compared with 86 homicides during all of 2014. On Wednesday evening, with just one day left in the year, 145 families gathered to remember those who lost their lives to violence this year.

The 145 names of those who lost their lives in Milwaukee this year were read aloud at St. Martin De Porres Church near 12th and Burleigh in Milwaukee.

This, as their family members hope for change.

Candles for Milwaukee's 145 homicide victims in 2015

"She was shot nine times -- for nothing really," Latoya Eskridge said. "No real explanation to why this happened to her."

The pain of losing her 17-year-old cousin Breanna will never go away.

Breanna Eskridge

"We're still grieving. It's like a big piece of us is missing," Latoya Eskridge said.

For so many inside St. Martin De Porres Church on Wednesday evening, their loss has motivated them to call for change.

"I hope it touches someone -- someone's son, someone's daughter," Latoya Eskridge said.

Candles were lit for each person killed this year in Milwaukee as the names were read aloud.

"My heart dropped, honestly. It was just overwhelming," Carmalethia Craigs said.

Ules Burks

Craigs' brother, Ules Burks was killed in late June. His killer has not been caught.

"It brings comfort to know you're not the only one out here, but families still don't have justice," Craigs said.

Candles for Milwaukee's 145 homicide victims in 2015

"I hope it gets through to people that you only have one life," Eskridge said.

This vigil for homicides victims in Milwaukee has been happening for 24 years.

Organizers say this may be one of the most violent years they can remember.

Everyone who was involved in this event on Wednesday evening is hopeful 2016 will be different.

Vigil for Milwaukee 145 homicide victims in 2015