'I need some justice': Family identifies man fatally shot by police near Milwaukee's Sherman Park
MILWAUKEE, Wis. (CBS 58)-- Family identified the 33-year-old man who was fatally shot near Milwaukee's Sherman Park on Thursday night as Earl Dean Lawhorn.
Family of Earl Dean Lawhorn shared this photo with us. They said he’s the victim of the officer involved shooting in Milwaukee last night. His mom shares more on @CBS58. pic.twitter.com/Ih6No4avuQ
— Gabriella Bachara (@GabbyBachara) August 27, 2021
Lawhorn's family released balloons during a private vigil near the scene on Friday afternoon.
His mother, Jacqueline Ratzel, said he was a loving son, uncle and father of four.
"I don't want nobody to riot. I don't want none of that," Ratzel said.
What Ratzel does want is answers, specifically body camera or dash camera video that shows her son being shot and killed by two Milwaukee police officers.
"All I know is I need some justice. I need to see the video, because I'm not happy right now," Ratzel said.
Police said officers attempted to pull Lawhorn over for reckless driving, but he sped off and it turned into a chase. Lawhorn crashed near 41st and Locust and reportedly ran away on foot.
Police said Lawhorn was armed and refused to drop the gun. Two officers shot him. A gun was recovered at the scene.
"I'm going to need for you police to find better ways to stop these chases. Put out the strips instead of shooting the person," Ratzel said.
Community activists are asking for transparency, also calling on the police to release video.
"I don't believe these reckless driving incidents alone should end in a police shooting," Community Task Force MKE activist Vaun Mayes said.
Ratzel is hoping she's the last mother to get a call like the one she got Thursday night.
"And for any other people who's children out here speeding, please pull over so your momma don't get a phone call like just got that the police killed your son," Ratzel said.
The Waukesha Police Department is handling the investigation.
Local activists are planning a protest over the shooting. It starts at 6:30 p.m. in Sherman Park.