MILWAUKEE — Loved ones of a man hit and killed on 25th and Clybourn spoke with TMJ4 News about the impact he made in their lives.
Investigators told TMJ4 News, Nate Garski was hit and killed as he stood in a median near the intersection. He was holding a sign that read "Homeless and Hungry" at the time of the accident.
"He affected so many people and I’m going to miss him," said Amada Morales, a close friend of Garski.
Wednesday morning, Morales returned to the spot where Garski died. Officers on the scene said he was panhandling while standing legally on the median.
The driver of the SUV was taken into custody for suspicion of driving under the influence at the time of the accident. The Medical Examiner’s report pointed out alcohol was in the car.
According to the ME's report, a man was behind the wheel of the SUV about 50 feet from the intersection facing north. They said witnesses say the vehicle roll backward down the hill, through the intersection, hitting Garski.
"A lot of people would be grieving when they hear the news," Morales said.
Morales said she knew Garski for seven years. She said he was dealing with homelessness and was getting help through the Street Angels outreach group at the time of his death.
"Up until the last day of his life, they were helping him," Morales said.
A vigil for Garski was scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.
