On a cold December evening in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a family argument turned into a tragedy that would forever alter the lives of the Rowsey family. Rodney L. Rowsey, a 53-year-old Black / African American male, was shot and killed on December 19, 2017. The incident unfolded near 16th and Olive, where police responded to a call around 9:50 p.m. to find Rodney unconscious with multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite the life-saving efforts of the Milwaukee Fire Department, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The initial investigation by the Milwaukee Police Department was met with unclear details surrounding the shooting. However, it soon became tragically clear that the perpetrator was not a stranger but Rodney's own brother, Shawn Rowsey. The fatal confrontation was reportedly witnessed by their mother and sister, who saw an argument between the brothers escalate to a horrifying conclusion. In a fit of anger, Shawn brandished a gun, chased his brother through their home, and shot him several times.
Following the deadly encounter, Shawn Rowsey was arrested and faced serious charges for his actions. He was charged with first-degree reckless homicide and possession of a firearm by a felon. The court proceedings revealed that Shawn had a prior criminal history involving firearms, including previous convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm and carrying a concealed weapon. During his trial, Shawn claimed he was intoxicated and had no memory of the events that led to his brother's death. Despite his expressions of remorse and an apology to his family, the court found him guilty. The judge, noting the profound and devastating impact on the family, sentenced Shawn Rowsey to 30 years in prison for the murder of his brother, Rodney.
