Witness says man upset about theft of $200 cut Victor Rogers' throat under overpass bridge
Lawrence Ingram
MILWAUKEE -- 55-year-old Lawrence Ingram of Milwaukee is now criminally charged with the death of 55-year-old Victor Rogers. The alleged crime happened near 5th and Becher on Milwaukee's south side early Sunday, November 5th. Ingram faces a single charge of first degree intentional homicide.
According to the criminal complaint, police were called to the area underneath an overpass at 5th and Becher shortly before 6:00 a.m. on November 5th. A 911 caller stated that a man named "Lawrence had cut another man's throat and killed him 'under the bridge.'" The caller indicated she was in a nearby park speaking with two witnesses to the murder.
When officers arrived on the scene, they found Victor Rogers. He suffered multiple cuts to his face and neck. He died on the scene.
Victor Rogers
Officers then sought out witnesses to the crime. One witness told police "Lawrence was holding a broad bladed implement like what a roofer would use to pry off shingles. Lawrence was upset because the victim had earlier stolen $200 from Lawrence. Lawrence found the victim underneath the overpass." The witness went on to say he "heard a commotion as Lawrence and the victim struggled, and he heard the victim yelling for help." Ingram apparently then walked away from the scene.
Body found near 5th and Becher
While officers were taking statements from witnesses, a woman became agitated. An officer "observed (the witness) make a slashing motion across her throat with her right hand while pointing while agitated across the street." The officers spotted that man, asked for identification, and revealed they were speaking with Ingram. He was subsequently arrested and searched.
The complaint indicates officers "observed what appeared to be blood stains on the front of the defendant's pants legs." A DNA analysis later determined the blood on Ingram's pants was consistent with blood from the victim.
If convicted, Ingram faces up to life in prison. He is due in court for a preliminary hearing on Friday, November 17th.
Meanwhile, cash bond has been set at $125,000.
Body found near 5th and Becher