Quick Hit:
A homeless man wielding knives was shot dead by police near the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, raising questions amid heightened security following an assassination attempt on former President Trump.
Key Details:
Diving Deeper:
On Tuesday afternoon, just two miles from the bustling activity of the Republican National Convention at Fiserv Forum, a Milwaukee homeless man, reportedly suffering from auditory hallucinations and known among his peers for erratic behavior, confronted police with lethal force in hand.
The incident unfolded when "Sam," as he was known in the homeless community, brandished two steak knives at officers stationed near the convention center. According to witnesses, the situation escalated rapidly, resulting in Sam being shot in the back as he fled from the police.
Eyewitness accounts and statements from those who knew Sam paint a picture of a man struggling with severe mental health issues, compounded by drug use. Edward Watkins, who claimed to be a close friend of the victim, described Sam's state of mind as disturbed and desperate. "It was like he wanted to die," Watkins said, highlighting the gravity of Sam's daily battles.
The Milwaukee police association confirmed that officers from the Columbus department were the ones who discharged their weapons, leading to Sam's death.