Crime
Former Milwaukee police officer David SkiBar shot and killed his wife Aleisha Harris, 2 Children and a Dog Before Taking his Own Life at Home in West Bend
WEST BEND, Wis. — A devastating domestic tragedy has left four family members and a pet dead inside a West Bend home, following an apparent murder-suicide carried out by a former law enforcement officer.
The deceased adults have been identified as former Milwaukee police officer David Skibar and his wife, Aleisha Harris.
Officers with the West Bend Police Department responded to a home in the 100 block of East Washington Street at approximately 11:47 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, following reports of multiple deceased individuals inside the residence.
Upon entering the home, officers discovered four deceased individuals: David Skibar, Aleisha Harris, and two young children, a boy and a girl. The family’s dog was also found dead inside the residence.
Investigators recovered a firearm at the scene believed to have been used in the incident. Preliminary findings indicate that Skibar shot and killed his wife, two children, and the family dog before taking his own life.
A young girl inside the home survived the tragedy. Emergency medical services personnel treated her at the scene before transporting her to a local hospital, where she was reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have not publicly disclosed the nature of her injuries.
Police Lt. Brian McAndrews confirmed that all individuals involved were connected and that the suspect was among the deceased found inside the property. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the surrounding community.
“The investigation remains active as our detectives work to establish the full timeline and circumstances of this heartbreaking incident,” the department stated.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the West Bend Police Department at 262-335-5000.
Authorities encourage anyone experiencing domestic conflict, abuse, or distress to reach out for confidential help. Local support and crisis assistance are available through Friends Inc. at 262-334-5598, or by reaching out to local emergency services.
Our deepest thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences go out to the surviving child, extended family members, friends, and the West Bend community as they navigate this profound loss.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.