Ashanti Hamilton, Milele Coggs make plea to Harambee residents for information in weekend homicide



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A 39-year-old man was gunned down over the weekend in what his family tells FOX6 News was a drive-by shooting. William Green's family says he was playing cards near his garage when he was shot and killed near 1st and Auer. Milwaukee Alderman Ashanti Hamilton and Milwaukee Alderwoman Milele Coggs grew up in the neighborhood, and on Monday, they returned there to make a plea to the community.

"We are still struggling with it. He has a little child, you know? It's just -- it's just sad," Green's cousin, Gwendolyn Smith said.

Monday marked two days since William Green was gunned down outside his home in Milwaukee's Harambee neighborhood -- and no one is in custody.

"We don't understand why it happened. I don't understand," Smith said.

Smith says the family was expecting Green for a family party on Saturday night. When he didn't show, Smith drove to his home, but police tape held her back.

"I am out here trying to hold it together for my family and it's rough," Smith said.

On Monday, at the scene of what Milwaukee police are calling a homicide, Smith was joined by Milwaukee Common Council members Ashanti Hamilton and Milele Coggs. Both grew up in the neighborhood.

"You never want these things to happen to anybody, but when it does happen in your backyard, it's where you came up, there is a fear you have a relationship with the person that is the victim," Alderman Hamilton said.

Alderman Hamilton and Alderwoman Coggs are asking those who live in the neighborhood to say something if they know something. They're asking that the person(s) involved come forward.

"For those people who who committed this crime and to the people who love them, to recognize we do not need anymore bloodshed on these streets and they need to turn themselves in," Coggs said.

Police are asking for your help in solving this case. Anyone with information is asked to call Milwaukee police.

Green's family has established an account to cover funeral expenses and assist his surviving children. You're welcome to make donations at any Associated Bank.

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