On February 7, 2023, Milwaukee Police Officer Peter Jerving, aged 37, was fatally wounded while attempting to apprehend a robbery suspect. Officers responded to a robbery call around 1:16 a.m. near the 2700 block of South 14th Street. Upon arrival, the suspect fled on foot, leading to a brief pursuit. Officer Jerving's partner caught up with the suspect, and during the ensuing struggle, the suspect retrieved a firearm and fired, striking Officer Jerving as he approached to assist.
Despite his injuries, Officer Jerving returned fire, resulting in the suspect's death at the scene. Officer Jerving was transported to Froedtert Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect involved in this tragic incident was identified as 19-year-old Terrell Thompson. Thompson had a criminal history, including recent charges related to two hit-and-run incidents. On February 6, 2023, just a day before the fatal encounter, he was sentenced to probation for these offenses. Additionally, reports indicate that Thompson had been involved in previous incidents, such as harassing a woman with threats and photos of firearms, which led to a temporary restraining order against him.
Officer Jerving's death marked a significant loss for the Milwaukee Police Department and the community he served. A four-year veteran of the force, he was remembered for his dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to public service. His passing was the first line-of-duty death for the Milwaukee Police Department since 2019, underscoring the inherent risks law enforcement officers face daily. The incident prompted calls from city officials and community leaders for a renewed focus on addressing gun violence and supporting law enforcement efforts to maintain public safety.
