Juan Bernal, a 21-year-old from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, tragically lost his life on May 28, 2018. Bernal, known for his roles as a spoken word poet, rapper, leader, and mentor, was deeply embedded in his community. On the day of his death, Bernal suffered a serious gunshot wound. According to witnesses, he collapsed after exiting a vehicle and running a short distance in the 3500 block of N. Humboldt at around 1:30 p.m.
Responding officers from the Milwaukee Police Department administered life support, but Bernal was unresponsive upon their arrival.
The investigation into Bernal's murder remains ongoing. The MPD has been actively searching for suspects, but no arrests have been made as of the latest reports. The circumstances surrounding his death have left the community in shock and mourning. Bernal was a beloved figure at the Neighborhood House of Milwaukee, a community center where he grew up and later became a mentor to other children. His friends and colleagues from the Still Waters Collective, an organization through which he began writing and teaching spoken word poetry, remember him as an innovator and a supportive figure who always encouraged others to keep pursuing their passions.
Bernal's death has had a profound impact on those who knew him. He was known for his close relationship with his siblings, often taking on a paternal role in their lives. His untimely passing has left a void in the community, with many still seeking justice and answers. The MPD continues to investigate the case, urging anyone with information to come forward. Despite the lack of arrests or identified suspects, the community remains hopeful that justice will eventually be served.
