Family Urges Release of Video After Man is Shot by Officer to Prevent Misinformation
The family of Elijah Wilks is urging for the release of official video footage after Wilks was shot and killed by an off-duty Milwaukee police officer. The move aims to prevent misinformation surrounding the incident.
Call for Transparency
On October 12, Wilks’ mother, Pamela Bonslater, and their attorney, B’Ivory LaMarr, requested the early release of the footage. This request was made following a grainy video of the October 9 shooting, which surfaced on social media over the weekend. The video, captured by a camera across the street from the scene near West Mill Road and North 47th Street, has fueled public speculation about what transpired.
Incident Details
- Date of incident: October 9
- Location: Near West Mill Road and North 47th Street, Milwaukee
- Individual involved: 26-year-old Elijah Wilks
- Officer Status: Off-duty
The family and police detailed that the confrontation followed a minor car accident. It was reported that Wilks struck the officer with a gun and pointed it at him, prompting the officer to shoot. The Milwaukee Police Department has yet to comment on the family’s request for the footage release.
Family’s Perspective
B’Ivory LaMarr emphasized that the dashcam video provides clarity on the incident. Having already reviewed this footage with police on October 10, the family believes its release will counteract unfounded rumors. “The Wilks family has chosen truth over rumor,” LaMarr stated, highlighting the need for transparency.
Public Accountability
Initially, the family opposed releasing the footage before 15 days, the maximum waiting period under department policy. However, LaMarr believes that this case extends beyond a single incident, focusing on restoring public trust in law enforcement through equal accountability. “Accountability and empathy can coexist,” he noted, commending the Wilks family for seeking transparency.
The West Allis Police Department is currently leading the investigation into the shooting. Further updates will ensue as the story develops.
