'Not targeted': Girl, 10, shot and killed inside her home on Milwaukee's south side
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A 10-year-old was shot and killed on Milwaukee's south side early morning Friday, May 31.
According to the Milwaukee Police Department, the shooting took place around 12:30 a.m. near the intersection of 21st and Orchard streets.
Authorities told CBS 58 News the incident happened inside the home while Ortiz was in bed. Police also said the victim "did not appear to be targeted based on the circumstances."
The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office identified the child as Isdennyeliaz Ortiz. Authorities said she was pronounced dead at the scene.
"A loss like this at such a young age is something we should not experience as a community," said Ashanti Hamilton, Office of Community Wellness & Safety executive director.
As of Friday afternoon, officials had not yet revealed what happened, nor why the girl was caught in the middle of a violent situation.
Hamilton said it's important gun owners take responsibility and seek proper training.
"Even though you think you may be carrying it to protect yourself or your loved ones, you're actually making them more unsafe," he said.
Other city leaders also expressed their outrage upon waking up to the news on Friday.
"My heart absolutely goes out to the family," said Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson. "As folks know, I've got a 13-year-old and two 6-year-olds, so I'm hurting for that family, and I know this community is too."
District 8 Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa told CBS 58 News this violence is utterly unacceptable.
"Immediately this morning, my staff and I looked to see on the south side where we could direct constituents, and we know that at Milwaukee Christian Center you can obtain a free gun lock, we know at Journey House in the Clark Square neighborhood on the near south side, you can obtain a free gun lock, and absolutely, if you insist on having guns you should be utilizing these things," Ald. Zamarripa said.
Milwaukee police said they are seeking a known suspect.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Milwaukee police at (414) 935-7360, or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS or the P3 Tips online service.