Protesters rallying in support of George Floyd block traffic on I-43 northbound in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- In the wake of unrest in Minneapolis, protests are taking place across the country, including here in Milwaukee. 

Several hundred people gathered in solidarity in a "Justice 4 George Floyd" rally near 27th and Center, on the city's north side Friday, May 29. It was a diverse, passionate crowd of young and elderly people. 

Many held signs demanding justice to be served, while cars drove by blowing their horns in support. 

The march made its way to the I-43 on-ramp, briefly shutting down northbound traffic. 

Although Minneapolis is nearly 300 miles away, the tragedy hits close to home. Just four years ago, Milwaukee had its own unrest after the fatal police shooting of Sylville Smith. 

"Some of you are victims to the very same incident that happened in Minneapolis,” said a protester.

“Milwaukee is one of the most segregated cities in the US. Now if we can come together, I think that would be a staple point, we’re also one of the most dangerous cities in the US, so if we can come together calm and collective, it shows and handle this the right way, it’s some type of ground we can break,” said another protester. 

Although Minneapolis is nearly 300 miles away, the tragedy hits close to home. Just four years ago, Milwaukee had its own unrest after the fatal police shooting of Sylville Smith. 

"Some of you are victims to the very same incident that happened in Minneapolis,” said a protester.

“Milwaukee is one of the most segregated cities in the US. Now if we can come together, I think that would be a staple point, we’re also one of the most dangerous cities in the US, so if we can come together calm and collective, it shows and handle this the right way, it’s some type of ground we can break,” said another protester. 

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Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales condemned the incident, calling it "deeply disturbing." 

Mayor Tom Barrett encouraged protesters to keep the peace at planned demonstrations in Milwaukee. 

"The horrific murder of George Floyd that America has witnessed is shocking, undefendable and unjustified. American witnessed a murder. It underscores the very serious challenges we face in combatting racism and I ask residents in our community to remain calm. This is not a time for unrest. This is a time for soul searching. This is a time for honest conversation," Barrett said.