Aundre Cross, a 44-year-old U.S. Postal Service worker, was tragically shot and killed on December 9, 2022, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Cross, who had worked for the Postal Service for 18 years, was known for his dedication, kindness, and positive spirit. He was described by colleagues and friends as a devout man who enjoyed singing gospel music and spreading joy wherever he went.
The incident occurred around 4:38 p.m. on the 5000 block of North 65th Street, on Milwaukee's northwest side.
Surveillance footage from nearby residences captured a silver Audi Q5 SUV conducting surveillance on Cross. At 4:37 p.m., a suspect was seen walking through a yard towards Cross' location, and a minute later, a single gunshot was heard. The suspect then ran back to the waiting SUV, which was later seen on video on the south side of the pedestrian bridge on West Parkway Drive. A gun matching the casing from the murder was found in a nearby creek on December 19.
In the days following the murder, significant progress was made in the investigation. On December 28, three individuals were charged in connection with Cross' death: Kevin McCaa, 36, and Charles Ducksworth Jr., 26, were charged with murder or aiding and abetting the murder, while Shanelle McCoy, 34, was charged with providing false statements to law enforcement. In January, a fourth person, Lakisha Ducksworth, 38, was also charged with providing false statements.
The investigation revealed that McCaa and Charles Ducksworth were involved in mailing drugs from California to Milwaukee, which may have been a motive for targeting Cross. Surveillance video, license plate readers, fingerprints, and cellphone records were crucial in piecing together the events leading to Cross' death. McCaa and Ducksworth were detained ahead of their court hearings, while McCoy was released on bond. If convicted, McCaa and Ducksworth face up to life in prison, with additional mandatory minimum sentences for firearm-related offenses.
The tragic death of Aundre Cross has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the community. Local leaders and residents have expressed their grief and called for justice. The Milwaukee Police Department, along with federal, state, and local partners, continue to work diligently to bring those responsible to justice.
