Crime
Assata High School student Namar Hicks shot and killed in Milwaukee
An 18-year-old student, identified by family members as Namar Hicks, was fatally shot on Friday morning just blocks from Assata High School in Milwaukee.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m., shortly after Hicks was released from school on an early dismissal schedule.
According to the Milwaukee Police Department, Hicks was approached near Hopkins Street and Glendale Avenue by individuals attempting to rob him.
During the confrontation, gunfire erupted, striking both Hicks and one of the suspects.
Despite his injuries, Hicks managed to return to the school seeking help.
School staff immediately called 911 and initiated a lockdown, securing all entry points and turning off lights as a safety precaution.
Hicks was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where he later died from his injuries.
A 17-year-old suspect was also wounded during the incident and was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police confirmed that the teen was subsequently taken into custody. Authorities continue to search for additional suspects believed to be involved.
The shooting took place only moments after Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman and violence prevention advocates with 414Life attended a youth-focused event addressing the rise in gun violence.
Chief Norman condemned the repeated pattern of firearms in the hands of juveniles, stating:
“There is no place for firearms in our youth’s hands. None. We are seeing this situation play out over and over again. We all have a responsibility to do something.”
David Sinclair, Outreach Supervisor for 414Life, echoed the message, emphasizing the importance of continued intervention and prevention efforts.
Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Brenda Cassellius expressed condolences to the victim’s family, stating:
“Our young people need us aligned, unafraid, and fully committed to real solutions to gun violence in our community. Our children’s lives depend on all of us acting with urgency.”
Following the incident, families were given the option to pick up their children from the campus. Students also had the choice to remain in the school until regular dismissal.
A $1,500 reward is being offered for surveillance footage, including Ring camera video, photos, or any information that may assist in identifying the remaining suspects.
Individuals may contact Niema Chanell Ross directly at 414-429-4425.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Milwaukee Police at 414-935-7360. To remain anonymous, tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS or via the P3 Tips app.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.