'We need that village foundation': Family of Jamillian Brown says community needs to step up after teen's tragic death
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A memorial now stands near 68th and Silver Spring in Milwaukee in honor of Jamillian Brown, a 17-year-old who lost his life in a crash during a police chase. Family tells CBS 58, Brown was not involved in crime.
Brown's mother, Danirees Williams, told CBS 58 her son was a good kid who was goofy and had an artistic talent.
"I want his life to be viewed of what he was, not just some kid in a car that was 17 in a stolen car," said Williams.
Milwaukee police say around 11:20 p.m. on Aug. 13, officers tried to stop a stolen vehicle that was also wanted in connection to an armed robbery on W. Hampton Avenue. The vehicle did not stop and during the ensuing chase, the suspect vehicle crashed into another car at the intersection of 68th and Silver Spring.
Brown was pronounced dead at the scene.
Jamillian Brown
A 15-year-old boy, 16-year-old boy, two 17-year-old boys, an 18-year-old woman and two unknown females, all from the suspect vehicle, were injured.
Brown's family said he had nothing to do with those crimes.
"In their investigation they had found out that he had nothing to do with the robbery nor did he have anything to do with the stolen car," said Lorenzo Williams, Brown's stepdad.
Both parents said they do not resent Williams but pray for him.
Brown's mother said she believes the community needs to come together to hold these children accountable and keep them off the streets.
"We need that village foundation, you know, we need to be reunited as parents. We're failing our children," said Williams.