Milwaukee authorities have identified the teenager who was killed during an apparent attempted robbery earlier this week on the city’s North Side. The victim, 18-year-old Namar Hicks, died after being shot near the 4600 block of North Hopkins Street, according to the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office. The shooting occurred just two blocks from Assata High School, where Hicks later tried to seek help before collapsing.
Police say the violence unfolded during what appeared to be a robbery attempt involving Hicks and a 17-year-old suspect, who was also wounded in the exchange. After being shot, Hicks walked toward Assata High School at 3517 W. Courtland Avenue in an attempt to get assistance. Staff at the school quickly contacted emergency services, and Hicks was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, he died from his injuries while receiving treatment.
The incident triggered a brief lockdown at Assata High School as officers secured the area and ensured that students and staff were safe. Parents were eventually allowed to pick up their children once the scene was cleared. During a press conference on November 14, Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman expressed frustration over the continuing rise in youth gun violence. “This is unacceptable, Milwaukee,” he said. “There is no place for firearms in our youth’s hands.” His comments reflect growing concerns about violence involving teenagers across the city.
Assata High School, established in 1992 in partnership with Milwaukee Public Schools, serves as an alternative education program for students considered at risk of not graduating on time. The school focuses on credit recovery, career planning, and personalized academic support. The shooting deeply affected the school community, where staff and students were confronted not only with the immediate shock of the incident but also with the broader reality of gun violence impacting Milwaukee’s youth.
The fatal shooting comes as the city continues to see rising homicide numbers. As of November 13, Milwaukee had reported 128 homicides in 2025, compared to 117 during the same period in 2024. Police officials have stressed the importance of community involvement, urging residents to stay alert and report suspicious activity, especially in areas where teens gather or where violent incidents have previously been reported.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to determine whether additional suspects were involved. Anyone with information is asked to contact Milwaukee police at 414-935-7360 or Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS. Authorities emphasize that even small details may help bring clarity to the events that led to the tragic death of Namar Hicks.
