'He's not coming back': Family remembers Torrell Coleman, 27th and Highland fire victim

MILWAUKEE (CBS58) — Five people are dead, and seven others still in the hospital - with one in critical condition - after a massive fire tore through the Highland Court apartment complex.

The Red Cross confirmed 114 people are now homeless, and residents are still not able to enter the Highland Court apartment to get any of their belongings.

In a press conference held Tuesday, Fire Chief Aaron Lipski said it could be up to a week before residents are allowed back in.

Among the five people killed is 40-year-old Torrell Coleman.

Gregory Williams, Coleman's older brother, said Coleman didn't live in the building. He was visiting his girlfriend and friend.

He said Coleman was an aspiring music producer, loving father of two teenage girls, and just a fun person.

"Torrell was the type of person that was always into music, making beats, trying to be an inspirational rapper, loving father, loved his girls to the core. It's really devastating to me right now," said Williams.

Williams says Torrell's friend and girlfriend both got out of the building.

"Just come back. Every day I'm consistently looking for my brother. His favorite food was chicken, he loved some chicken. I walked to Popeyes pretty much every day to look for my brother to see if he's there, but the more he's not coming back, I have come to the realization he's not coming back," said Williams.

His girlfriend's apartment was on the fourth floor, and he says Torrell was found on the second floor trying to escape the flames.

Below is a statement from the family:

"In Loving Memory of Torrell Coleman

Our hearts are broken as we mourn the tragic loss of Torrell Coleman, whose life was taken due to the actions of another. Torrell was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. He was a kindhearted, caring soul—a devoted father, a beloved son, brother, cousin, and the life of every gathering.

Torrell’s light touched so many, and his absence leaves a void that words can’t fill. Our family is devastated, and we are praying that justice will be served. We ask that anyone with information or the person responsible for this pain come forward.

We will forever hold Torrell in our hearts.

Love the Coleman family

We will get justice for you
Love RaeRae"