Brady Street shooting: Casablanca owner says security guard involved

Milwaukee police are investigating a Brady Street shooting that happened on Thursday morning, April 4.

The owner of Casablanca said a security guard fired the shots. He said, in the past few years, they've experienced an uptick in incidents and are already working to put more safety measures in place.

"They’re resilient, and I am very proud of them," owner Al Musa said of his staff.

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The shooting happened around 1:30 a.m. Musa said someone inside the bar was upset that their friend was not allowed inside after last call. He said a fight started when two women punched a pregnant bartender who tried to break it up. 

"Those two girls then grabbed her and started punching her," said Musa. "A gentleman suspect who then goes to the security, pushes him into the bathroom, and they start fighting in the bathroom."

Shooting near Cass and Brady, Milwaukee

That is when Musa said the security guard fired. Police said a 38-year-old was taken to a hospital and is expected to survive.

"The security guard does what he is supposed to do – protect himself, self-defense, protect the establishment, protect the employees," said Musa.

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Musa said the security guard was among three people arrested. Police only noted a 29-year-old was detained.

Casablanca does have security cameras inside. Musa said they plan to update the ID scanners with new ones that would flag a person who has caused trouble or has been banned.

Business district responds

The Brady Street Business Improvement District said, in the past three years, there have been three shootings at Casablanca. 

"I do think there’s obviously some issues that this is happening over and over again," said Michael Sanders, the BID's executive director.

Sander said safety along Brady Street is a priority. With that, on Friday, Milwaukee police will get access to Brady Street's cameras for the first time – allowing them to monitor them live.

"If they see anything happening, they can get out here quicker," he said. "I’m hoping that will be a big change for us."

Related

Milwaukee shootings Thursday; 2 wounded, 1 in custody

Two Milwaukee shootings left two people wounded on Thursday, April 4. Both victims are expected to survive, police said. One person was detained.

Reaction

Michael Sander, Exec. Director, Brady Street Business Improvement District

"As the Executive Director of the Brady Street BID, I want to address the recent shooting incident that took place at Casablanca in our district. The safety and well-being of our community members, businesses, and residents are our top priority. We are actively looking into the situation and working closely with local authorities to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to enhance safety and security in the area. 

"Our thoughts are with those affected by this unfortunate event, and we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all who visit, work, and live in our neighborhood. 

"Thank you for your understanding and support. "

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