MILWAUKEE, WI — A Milwaukee neighborhood is grappling with grief following the tragic death of 16-year-old Marrion T. Johnson, who was killed in a triple shooting on Sunday, July 27, 2025. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office identified Johnson on Tuesday, July 29, as the community seeks answers and healing in the wake of yet another act of violence.
The shooting occurred around 10:41 p.m. near North Long Island Drive and West Custer Avenue on the city’s north side, according to the Milwaukee Police Department. Johnson was found dead in the basement of a residence at the scene, having sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Two other teenagers—a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old—were also injured. One was transported to a local hospital by emergency responders, while the other sought treatment independently. Both survivors are reported to have non-fatal injuries, though their current conditions have not been disclosed.
Details of the incident remain limited as investigators work to establish a motive and timeline. Neighbors reported hearing a rapid series of gunshots, followed by individuals fleeing the area. While some community members speculated to local media, including CBS 58, that the shooting took place inside a home’s basement, police have not officially confirmed the exact location within the residence.
In a significant breakthrough, Milwaukee police announced the arrest of two 16-year-old boys in connection with the shooting. Charges are expected to be referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, though specific details about the suspects or potential charges have not been released. Authorities are still seeking both known and unknown suspects, indicating the investigation is far from closed.
**Community Devastated, Calls for Change Grow**
Marrion Johnson’s death has left his family, friends, and neighbors reeling. Described by those who knew him as a vibrant and kind-hearted teenager, Johnson’s loss marks at least the 10th homicide of a person under 18 in Milwaukee this year, according to data from the Milwaukee Homicide Review Commission. The tragedy comes just 11 days after a 13-year-old was killed in an accidental shooting in the city, underscoring the persistent challenge of youth violence.
Johnson’s family, overwhelmed by grief, declined to comment on July 29 but shared plans for a balloon release to honor his memory on Thursday, July 31. Community members are also organizing a vigil to celebrate Johnson’s life and demand an end to the cycle of gun violence plaguing Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.
“This is heartbreaking. Our kids deserve to grow up without fear,” said a resident near the shooting site, who spoke to reporters on Monday. “We need more than police patrols—we need real solutions.” Community advocates echoed these sentiments, urging city leaders to prioritize investments in mentorship, mental health support, and safe spaces for youth.
Milwaukee has seen a decline in homicides in 2025, with 130 reported compared to higher numbers in previous years, according to police data. However, incidents like this triple shooting highlight the ongoing struggle to curb youth violence and its devastating impact on families and communities.
**Police Seek Community’s Help**
The Milwaukee Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including potential connections among those involved. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and following up on leads to piece together the events of that night.
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance, emphasizing that even minor details could prove critical. “We need the community’s help to bring closure to Marrion’s family and hold those responsible accountable,” a police spokesperson said during a recent briefing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Milwaukee Police Department at (414) 935-7360. For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through Milwaukee Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS or via the P3 Tips mobile app or website.
As Milwaukee mourns Marrion T. Johnson, the city faces a renewed call to address the root causes of violence and ensure a safer future for its youth.
