MILWAUKEE — A violent weekend in Milwaukee left multiple people dead, including a new father. Data from police shows the cases continue to rise, more than doubling the homicides at the same time last year.
John Haynes feels like a piece of himself is missing after the death of his son, Justice.
“The bottom of the line is my son is dead for no reason,” John said. “Me losing my son hurts me in ways that is unexplainable.”
Milwaukee police said the 22-year-old was shot and killed in the street by 25th and West Mitchell Friday evening, just a few days before his first Father’s Day.
John said Justice was a new dad, who dedicated his life to his son.
“My son hoped that he would, that his son would surpass all that he did, that’s all he talked about,” John said.
Justice graduated from Wauwatosa East, and was currently going to Milwaukee Area Technical College, pursuing videography and music. He also had a strong background in martial arts, and a good imagination.
“My son was better and in a better situation than most kids and still is dead,” John said.
Justice was one of multiple people killed over the past few days, and is a part of an increasing number of homicides this year.
According to police, as of June 21, there have been 79 homicides in Milwaukee this year, compared to 36 at this time in 2019. It’s an increase of nearly 120 percent. Non-fatal shootings are up 50 percent compared to the same time last year.
John said he’s now committed to protecting his grandkids and other families from meeting the same fate his son did.
“I would hope that the wiseness of individuals, these youth will not use guns to handle their problems and use a conversation and their intellect,” John said.
Police said they have taken a person of interest into custody. If you have any information about what happened, call Milwaukee police at (414) 935-7360.
