In the spring of 2022, a young Black / African American man's life was tragically cut short in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. On the evening of April 23, 23-year-old Lashont Stewart was fatally shot at a gas station located at the intersection of 27th and Burleigh. The incident that led to his death began when he reportedly confronted two individuals about stealing from the establishment.
Following the initial confrontation, the two suspects left the scene, only to return later.
They allegedly lured Stewart out of the gas station and into the parking lot, where he was shot twice. His mother later described him as a "good boy" who "didn't bother nobody" and was working to support his family. The senseless act of violence left a community in mourning and a family searching for answers.
The investigation into Lashont Stewart's homicide led to the arrest of two teenage brothers, 18-year-old Peltrion Banks and 17-year-old Lrada Cross. Their capture came about after they brazenly returned to the same gas station just three days after the fatal shooting, reportedly to steal again. An employee at the gas station recognized them and alerted the authorities. Police were able to apprehend the suspects at their home, where they were found wearing the same clothing as on the day of the incident.
The two brothers were subsequently charged with first-degree intentional homicide. If convicted of the charges, they face the possibility of life in prison for their roles in the death of Lashont Stewart, a young man who lost his life over an attempt to prevent a petty theft.
