(Rightallegiance.com) – A police shooting occurred Tuesday afternoon near 14th and Vliet streets, resulting in the death of a man. This location is approximately one mile from Fiserv Forum, the primary venue for the Republican National Convention (RNC).
Witnesses reported to WISN 12 News that two homeless individuals were involved in a confrontation at King Park, during which one of them brandished a knife. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the presence of multiple officers startled the men, leading to a chaotic situation. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the man with the knife was shot by several officers at the scene.
A significant police presence remains, including members of the Secret Service, with Beloit police assisting in securing the area. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office arrived on-site shortly after 2:50 p.m. to conduct an investigation.
The Columbus Fraternal Order of Police stated that no officers sustained injuries during the incident. This week, law enforcement from 63 departments across 24 states and Washington, D.C., along with 44 local agencies, are in Milwaukee for the RNC.
WISN 12 News Political Director Matt Smith spoke with Mayor Cavalier Johnson, who was receiving updates about the unfolding situation. Notably, this incident appears to be unrelated to the RNC and occurred outside of the designated security perimeter.
“The incident took place in the outer perimeter of the RNC, within the operational zone to which our officers were assigned,” the Columbus Police Department said in a statement.
The theme for Tuesday at the RNC is “Make America Safe Once Again.” Sources indicated that the police line has since been extended to 17th and Vliet streets, and the Milwaukee Area Investigative Team is currently handling the shooting investigation.