MILWAUKEE -- Governor Scott Walker has activated the Wisconsin National Guard after a violent night in Milwaukee.
Walker made the decision after a request from from Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke, and after discussions with Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Adjutant General Donald Dunbar.
He said 125 soldiers will be activated to assist the Milwaukee Police Department and the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office.
"Our intention is not to have then come over immediately to be on the streets, but available if the request is made," Walker said.
- Violence Erupts on North Side
- Milwaukee City Leaders Plead for Calm
- Milwaukee Cleans up, Prays for Peace
- Targeted BP Station Had Strained Relationship With Neighborhood
- WATCH: Crowd burns down BP Gas station
- WATCH: Police Tase and Arrest Man
- GALLERY:Photos from the North Side
- Officer Shoots, Kills Suspect Near 44th and Auer
At least 100 protesters skirmished with police Saturday evening, hours after an armed man was fatally shot by an officer near 44th and Auer.
Police said the 23-year-old man was fleeing a traffic stop and was armed with a gun.
Several businesses were looted and burned down during the protests.
"My sense is that in states where the governor has waited too long that the violence escalates," Walker said. "Our hope is it de-escalates here, but God forbid it continues we have resources to help our local law enforcement."
On Sunday morning, it was time for prayer -- and cleanup. Some residents showed up to the burned-out BP Gas station that burned down at 35th and Burleigh with brooms and garbage bags -- despite some mild admonishment from police officers about tampering with a crime scene.
Walker released the following statement Sunday afternoon:
I commend the citizens who volunteered in clean-up efforts this morning. This act of selfless caring sets a powerful example for Milwaukee's youth and the entire community. I join Milwaukee's leaders and citizens in calling for continued peace and prayer.
It is also important for citizens to know that Wisconsin is the first state in the nation to have a law requiring an independent investigation anytime there is a shooting by a law enforcement officer that leads to a death. I will not comment on the specifics of the case as it is now under this investigation. I do, however, hope people will give law enforcement the respect they deserve for working so hard to keep us safe.
