Milwaukee Police Officer Dies After Drug Case Suspect Shoots Him, Accused Arrested

A veteran police officer was fatally shot near 28th and Wright, Milwaukee on Wednesday and the suspect was arrested.

"I'm saddened to inform you the officer injured did not make it today," Police Chief Alfonso Morales said. "This is a difficult time for us. He was well loved by the department and a friend of mine."

Morales added that the deceased officer had been with the department for 17 years. He said the incident occurred when the officials came in contact with the suspect who was wanted for gun and drug violations. Fox 6 reported the gun used by the suspect was discovered.

A witness said the suspect shouted "I'm not going back to jail," before firing at the officer, local daily TMJ4 reported.

Deputy Fire Chief David Votsis said the fire department was called around 5 p.m. local time (6 p.m. EDT) and the officer was rushed to a nearby hospital. He also said two persons were wounded in the shooting and their current condition is unknown.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barret also reached the scene immediately.

“Words cannot describe the sorrow and anger I feel at this moment. Our police department, as they do every single day, put their lives on the line to protect the people who live in this city. Tragically, in the last few hours, one of them lost their lives trying to protect us. We as a community are grieving. This officer had been on the department a long time. The police undertook their activities today and knew it would be a dangerous assignment as they do every single time they respond. I’m asking every resident of this city to pray for the families of police officers. Respect our police officers and thank them for the sacrifices they and their families make on our behalf,” he said.

Milwaukee County Acting Sheriff Richard Schmidt said, "My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fellow officers who today suffered the loss of a beloved Milwaukee Police Department officer."

"Our community mourns once again at this tragic loss of life. May God's comfort be felt in this most difficult moment," he added.