Fatal shooting at Burger King; 16-year-old dead, suspect sought

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee police are seeking the public's help to identify and locate a suspect wanted in a homicide at the Burger King restaurant near 51st and Capitol Drive late Sunday, Jan. 2. The crime happened at approximately 10:25 p.m.

The victim, identified as 16-year-old Niesha Harris-Brazell of Milwaukee, suffered life-threatening injuries. She was taken to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead.  

The medical examiner's report indicates Harris-Brazell was a cashier at the Burger King.

The suspect vehicle is described as black, 4-door Chevy Impala with a sunroof and spoiler on the back.

Surveillance images show the suspect at the drive-thru window with a gun drawn. 

"Told her to give him all the money, if she didn’t, they was going to kill her," said Mariah Edwards. She was inside the restaurant working.

Milwaukee police say the suspect is described as a male, African American, with a heavy build. He was last seen wearing a red hooded sweatshirt, tan pants, and was armed with a handgun.

"After I heard the shots go off, I ran to the front and I see my best friend on the floor just laying there saying she got shot," said Edwards.

Harris-Brazell was rushed to the hospital where she later died.

Family and friends remember the Pulaski High School student as a hard worker and happy teen.

"Here we are trying to raise a self-sufficient, independent young lady and she’s taken away from us in the blink of an eye," said Ida Lane, her grandmother.

Loved ones, remembering a life cut short by Milwaukee gun violence. They are asking the community to help find her killer.

"My family hurting, we all hurting," said Kenya Lane, her aunt.

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Anyone with information on this crime is urged to contact Milwaukee Police at 414-935-7360 or Crime Stopps at 414-224-Tips or P3 Tips App to remain anonymous.

Reaction

Acting Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson

"Last night’s shooting death of a 16-year-old girl is a horrible tragedy, made worse by the circumstances the police have shared with me.

"This victim appears to have been a hardworking teenager with her future bright and ahead of her. Instead, that light has been snuffed out by senseless gun violence. I offer my deepest condolences to her family and friends.

"Gunfire does not solve problems; it does not offer the protection that people imagine; and, too often, there are unintended, innocent victims. Milwaukee can be a safer city, and an important part of increased safety is stopping those who use guns to show-off, to threaten, or to deal with their problems."

Burger King public relations

"We are aware of and saddened to hear of the fatal shooting involving a team member at this location. Our deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends during this devastating time. The franchisee is fully cooperating with authorities on this matter. We’re not able to share additional details as this remains an ongoing investigation."

Milwaukee Alderman Khalif Rainey 

"My heart goes out to the loved ones and friends of the young female victim, who was just working her job when a gunman decided to shoot. I offer my condolences and pray for comfort for her family during what is undoubtedly a time of extreme pain and sorrow. 

"I am asking the community to help provide justice for the young victim. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Milwaukee Police at (414) 935-7360 or Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS or use P3 Tips App to remain anonymous.  

"Additionally, I would encourage those in need of support to reach out for help. For those who were affected by the incident (witness to the incident or its aftermath), you can receive assistance by calling the city’s Mobile Trauma Response Team (MPD), at 414-257-7621 or by contacting Milwaukee County’s 24-hour Mental Health Crisis Line at 414-257-7222." 

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