For a second straight day, a ‘teen takeover’ event in Milwaukee advertised on social media brought chaos to the community. Gunshots rang out during Monday night’s event at Moody Park.
Gunfire erupted near a teen takeover event at Moody Park in Milwaukee on Monday night, prompting police and sheriff’s deputies to respond as teenagers ran from the chaotic scene.
A WISN 12 News crew was at the park and heard approximately 10 shots fired near 24th and Burleigh. Reporter Kendall Keys said shell casings were visible on the front steps of the nearby COA Goldin Center.
Fights broke out among the crowd before the gunfire, Milwaukee Police said. Milwaukee County Sheriff’s deputies arrested at least one person at the scene. Investigators have not immediately released information on any injuries.
The gathering was one of several “teen takeovers” promoted on social media during spring break in the Milwaukee area.
The Moody Park incident followed a similar gathering the previous night at Bayshore Mall in Glendale. Hundreds of teenagers, many wearing masks and hoods, converged on the mall after social media flyers circulated.
Fights erupted, and Glendale police arrested 13 to 14 people ages 12 to 19 on charges that included disorderly conduct, battery and resisting officers.
A high school student who attended the Bayshore event told Keys she saw guns, large crowds and pepper spray before leaving early.
Community groups including 414 Life were present at Moody Park attempting to de-escalate tensions. Milwaukee police and Milwaukee County sheriff’s deputies increased their presence in response to the earlier takeover.
Law enforcement officials have expressed concern over the pattern of large, unsupervised youth gatherings fueled by online promotion.
