Police are still looking for the person who shot and killed a 6-year-old boy on Saturday as the child ran up his grandmother's porch.
The shooting happened near 23rd and Nash. The boy's aunt says Justin Evans Jr. wanted to say goodbye to his mother before a fishing trip.
"When my sister-in-law opened the door, he fell into her arms," said Angel Lewis, the boy's aunt.
Messages written to Evans Jr. are taped to a tree outside his grandmother's home, where a memorial has grown in the last two days.
"They're taking it very hard," said Tracey Dent, who is part of a coalition helping the family as they begin to plan the funeral.
"It's Monday, it's really setting in," said Dent. "They know they have to start making those arrangements and stuff for that child."
He went on to say that in order for the violence to stop in Milwaukee, people need to get more involved in taking their neighborhoods back.
"I'm sure that somebody in this neighborhood saw what happened and saw who did it but they're probably afraid to speak up," said Dent.
Police Chief Ed Flynn spoke to the community Sunday saying the department won't rest until the case is solved.
"We will get justice for Justin, I promise you that," said Flynn.
Evans Jr. is the fourth homicide victim this year under the age of 18. Dr. Michael Levas at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin works with child victims of violence and their families through Project Ujima.
"We have a lot of kids who have the same amounts of post traumatic stress disorder as kids who are in war zones," said Levas. "That's here, that's in Milwaukee."
Community leaders & neighbors are marching on Milwaukee's north side in honor of 6yo Justin Evans Jr., he was shot & killed Saturday. @tmj4 pic.twitter.com/h4pjDnjhHz
— lauren winfrey. (@LaurenWinfreyTv) July 23, 2017
He says when children fall victim to gun violence, it takes a toll on the entire community. His work involves helping the families through the grieving process.
But he says other children may be affected by this kind of incident, especially once school starts again.
"You know your child best and if you're picking up that they're really struggling with the fact that someone their age was a victim of gun violence, be open to talking about it and be there for them," said Levas.
Police ask anyone with information about this weekend's shooting to come forward.
The family has set go a GoFundME account, they're asking for monetary gifts to assist with funeral expenses. To donate, click here.
