Dominic A. Carter, a 35-year-old barber and youth mentor from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was tragically shot and killed on September 9, 2021. Carter was well-known in his community for running a mentorship program aimed at guiding young boys, particularly Black males, towards entrepreneurship and away from street life. He owned HairTrappers Suite, a barbershop located on Milwaukee's northwest side, where he frequently engaged with local youth, offering them opportunities to learn about the
cosmetology industry and business ownership.
On the day of his death, Carter was inside a Domino's Pizza near his barbershop, a place he often visited to buy food for the kids involved in his programs. According to reports, 22-year-old Joel L. Blake, who was linked to the Wild 100s street gang, had been lying in wait outside the barbershop. Blake was seen circling the parking lot in a vehicle before entering the restaurant and shooting Carter multiple times. Security footage captured the incident, showing Blake approaching the restaurant, opening the door, and firing at Carter before fleeing the scene.
Blake was later arrested and charged with three felonies, including first-degree intentional homicide, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and felony bail jumping. The criminal complaint detailed how Blake had been released on bail for unrelated charges just a few months prior to the shooting. He was eventually found guilty on all charges and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in April 2024.
The investigation into Carter's murder revealed that Blake had connections to the Wild 100s gang, although the exact motive for the shooting remains unclear. Witnesses reported seeing Blake's vehicle circling the area and identified him as the shooter through a combination of security footage and witness testimonies. The case highlighted the ongoing issues of gang violence and the impact it has on community leaders like Carter, who dedicated their lives to making a positive difference.
Carter's death was a significant loss to the Milwaukee community, particularly to the young boys he mentored. His mother, Cecelia Jordan, spoke about his dedication to helping others and his desire to provide alternatives to street life through entrepreneurship. Carter's legacy continues to inspire those who knew him, and his efforts to uplift his community are remembered fondly.
