Mayor Cavalier Johnson addresses officer-involved shooting near RNC

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson addressed the media Wednesday, July 17 at around 6:30 a.m. to discuss the officer-involved death of a man near 14th and Vliet on Tuesday, July 16.

The shooting, involving Ohio officers, occurred around three-quarters of a mile from Fiserv Forum, where the Republican National Convention is being held.

Despite the close proximity and the officers involved being from out of town, Mayor Johnson said that he knows of no other connection to the RNC.

The mayor detailed the situation, noting that officers from Columbus, Ohio were briefing about the day’s activities before encountering a situation where Samuel Sharpe, Jr., armed with knives, was threatening another person. Despite repeated commands to drop the knives, Sharpe reportedly lunged at the other person, prompting the officers to intervene and fatally shoot him.

Johnson expressed his condolences to Sharpe's family and the officers involved. He said he has been in contact with the Mayor of Columbus, Andrew Ginther.

Additionally, the mayor offered a brief recap of the second day of the Republican National Convention, noting that former President Donald Trump contacted him on Tuesday with positive remarks about Milwaukee’s security and preparations. Johnson also encouraged residents to continue supporting local businesses.

Another morning press briefing about the state of the RNC is scheduled to be delivered on Thursday, July 18 at 6:30 a.m.