Milwaukee police chase, shootout; 2 squads struck, 2 arrested

MILWAUKEE - A Milwaukee police chase and shootout ended with two men arrested early Friday morning, Oct. 6.

The chase spanned more than seven miles through the city. Police said the gunfire struck two squads, causing one to break down, but no one was hurt.

"Almost unbelievable to encounter in real life, but this happened with real people," said Andrew Wagner, president of the Milwaukee Police Association. "Real officers with families and communities and citizens who could’ve been easily injured as well."

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MPD said officers were first called for a shots fired report near 23rd and Capitol around 2:30 a.m. Neighbors woke up to the sounds of what came next.

"I heard shots and cars," said Steven Robertson. "To me, it sound normal like ‘bah bah bah,’ you feel me?"

Investigators said the driver took off, and someone in the SUV began shooting. An officer fired back but missed the car. Bullets hit that squad, causing it to break down, and another set of officers picked up the chase. That squad was also shot.

"This definitely, I think, one of the worst I’ve ever seen of criminals trying to murder officers in an attempt to allude being arrested," Wagner said.

The chase ended more than seven miles away near 32nd and Mitchell. The 28-year-old driver was arrested at the scene, and a 35-year-old passenger tried to run but was eventually caught. Several guns and suspected drugs were recovered.

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Criminal charges will be referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office in the upcoming days. Wagner is calling for serious consequences.

"Their behavior right now has demonstrated such dangerousness to the community, and such bold disregard for human life, that we believe there should be no bail," he said. "Just thankful that these officers acted that way, and we were able to bring these suspects into custody, so they won’t be able to terrorize the city right now."

Anyone with information is asked to call MPD at 414-935-7360; to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS or use the P3 tips app.