In Milwaukee on September 23, 2024, a series of events culminated in the shooting death of 17-year-old Javontae Davis. The male teenager was a passenger in a vehicle involved in a "shots fired" incident in the afternoon, at approximately 3:30 p.m. near the 1400 block of West Locust Street.
During this incident, a 51-year-old man, who was not connected to the initial gunfire, engaged with the vehicle Davis occupied. This man discharged a firearm at the vehicle, striking Davis.
The vehicle then fled the scene but subsequently crashed near North 7th and West Locust Streets. Javontae Davis was pronounced dead at the location of the crash as a result of his gunshot wounds.
Following the incident, the 51-year-old shooter was taken into custody by the Milwaukee Police Department. However, the shooting was later determined to be an act of self-defense. In connection with the initial "shots fired" incident, two other individuals who were in the vehicle with Davis were also arrested: a 20-year-old man and a 15-year-old girl.
The death of Javontae Davis marked the 100th homicide in Milwaukee in 2024, prompting calls from community leaders and organizations for increased resources to address gun violence and provide support for the city's youth. Vigils and memorials were held to honor his life in the wake of the events.
