News Summary
Milwaukee witnessed a tragic shooting on October 9, when Elijah Wilks was killed by an off-duty officer after a minor car crash escalated. Family members expressed their heartbreak while acknowledging Wilks’ aggressive actions that led to the confrontation. Videos from the incident corroborate the officer’s account, revealing that Wilks attacked the officer with a gun. The community responds with calls for calm amid grief, investigation, and pressing questions about police conduct during civilian encounters.
Milwaukee witnessed a tragic incident on October 9, when 26-year-old Elijah Wilks was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer following a minor car crash. The event unfolded near West Mill Road and North 47th Street and has since prompted widespread reactions from the Wilks family and the community.
During a press conference on October 10, family members expressed their devastation while also acknowledging Wilks’ role in escalating the situation. They confirmed that he had pistol-whipped the officer during the confrontation, a detail that was supported by video footage of the incident, which the family’s attorney stated corroborated the officer’s account.
Reports indicate that Wilks initially cut off the officer in a construction zone, leading to a minor collision. Following the crash, both individuals exited their vehicles, with Wilks accusing the officer of striking his car. In a sudden escalation, Wilks reportedly drew a gun and struck the officer with it. The officer, acting in accordance with his training, then returned fire when Wilks allegedly pointed the weapon at him. There was a second exchange of gunfire reported as Wilks moved back in front of his vehicle after the initial confrontation.
The shooting occurred at around 8:30 a.m., and graphic footage of the incident has circulated on social media, stirring significant concern among community members. After learning of their son’s death, Wilks’ family remarked on their grief, noting that he was on his way to an uncle’s funeral and describing him as a normally soft-spoken and gentle individual.
As the situation unfolded, the officer involved, a 40-year-old male with over 21 years of service, was placed on administrative duty, according to department policy. The West Allis Police Department is leading the investigation into the shooting, with Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman confirming that there was an exchange of gunfire but withholding details on who fired first.
Wilks’ family has requested that police protocols regarding the release of video evidence be followed, asking to view the material within 48 hours before it is publicly released. Community members, who gathered in frustration and concern, called for calm and healing in response to the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Following the press conference, family members held a balloon release in memory of Wilks, further emphasizing the tragedy of the event. Meanwhile, the attorney for the family expressed concern regarding the apparent lack of immediate aid provided to Wilks after he was shot but raised questions about whether such aid could have made a difference in the outcome.
Authorities have indicated that video evidence of the incident will be released in accordance with standard procedures within 15 days. This ongoing case has not only highlighted the tragic events leading to Wilks’ death but also raised questions about police conduct during encounters with civilians and the appropriate protocols that follow such incidents.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 6 Now
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- WISN 12 News
- Google Search: Milwaukee police shooting October 2025
- Wikipedia: Police brutality
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
