Teens Involved In Milwaukee’s Recent Surge In Gun Deaths

Two teenagers are among the victims of the 18 gun homicides that police have recorded in Milwaukee over the last three weeks, with other teens suspected as shooters.

In the latest case, police say 13-year-old Giovonnie Cameron was killed inside a house by another 13 year-old male. In addition, police say a 15-year-old male shot 14-year-old Tariq Akbar close to where police were located during a fireworks display late last week.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said the incidents raise concerns about access to guns.

“The questions are, how did this happen? How did these teenagers ever get access to these guns?” he said.

Barrett said he’s also looking at whether the local children’s court system has enough resources to deal with troubled youth. This week, Barrett has been promoting reading, sports, jobs and scholarship programs to remind young people there are alternatives to violence.