Milwaukee is grieving the tragic loss of 18-year-old student Namar Hicks, who was shot and killed Friday morning just blocks from Assata High School. The heartbreaking incident happened around 11:30 a.m., shortly after Hicks was released from school due to an early dismissal. What began as a normal day quickly turned into a devastating moment that has shaken the community and renewed concerns about youth violence.
Authorities say Hicks was walking near Hopkins Street and Glendale Avenue when he was approached by individuals attempting to rob him. During the confrontation, gunfire broke out, striking both Hicks and one of the suspected robbers. Despite being seriously wounded, the teen managed to make his way back to the school, where he sought help from staff members who immediately called 911. The school quickly went into lockdown, securing doors and turning off lights to protect students and employees.
Hicks was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but sadly did not survive his injuries. A 17-year-old suspect was also taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and is now in police custody. Investigators believe additional suspects were involved in the attempted robbery and are continuing their search as the investigation moves forward.
The shooting occurred shortly after Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman and violence prevention leaders with 414Life attended an event focused on the rising levels of gun violence affecting youth. Chief Norman expressed deep frustration that firearms continue to fall into the hands of juveniles, emphasizing the urgent need for community-wide action. “There is no place for firearms in our youth’s hands. None,” he said. “We all have a responsibility to do something.”
Leaders from 414Life echoed these concerns, stressing the importance of intervention programs and ongoing prevention efforts to keep young people safe. Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Brenda Cassellius extended her condolences to Hicks’ family and called for unity in addressing the violence, saying that children’s lives depend on adults taking immediate and meaningful action.
Parents were given the option to pick up their children after the shooting, while those who remained at school were kept safe until regular dismissal. A $1,500 reward is now being offered for any video footage, photos, or information that could help identify the remaining suspects. Anyone with details is urged to contact Milwaukee Police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
