Vigil honors 2024 homicide victims in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE, (CBS 58) -- As we near the end of 2024, some families in Milwaukee are remembering members of their families they lost to gun violence this year.

At Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church, faith leaders and community organizations have come together for the "Forever in our Hearts" Milwaukee Homicide Candlelight Vigil. Family members and friends of those impacted by violence lit candles and read the names of victims in the city this past year. 

Tony Kearney, the Executive Director of Northcott Neighborhood House, is one of those behind the annual event. He says it provides a space for healing, remembrance, and support for families and friends affected by senseless violence in Milwaukee.

“Remember those people who’ve gone on. Don’t forget to love them," Kearney said as he addressed the crowd that gathered on Sunday, Dec. 29

The vigil took place after a violent few days in Milwaukee. On Christmas Day, a 6-year-old was shot. Later that day, two teenagers were shot and killed. On Saturday, Dec. 28, a 14-year-old was injured after a shooting and an 18-year-old was taken into custody. 

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson joined other elected leaders like Rep. Gwen Moore at the vigil. The mayor addressed the violence during over the holiday. 

“When my 6-year-old twin daughters were opening their gifts, I saw a message that a 6-year-old in our community had been shot," Johnson said. "I don't want to see anybody hurt during any time of year, but especially during this time of year." 

While CBS 58 spoke with the mayor after the event, he said our elected leaders need to have conversations to address this issue. 

According to the Milwaukee Police Department, there were 130 homicides and 632 non-fatal shootings in 2024. In 2023, there were 130 homicides and 833 non-fatal shootings.