Milwaukee, Wisconsin – A Milwaukee man, identified as Jael Rivera-Jimenez, faces charges related to a road rage shooting incident that occurred on May 20, causing the closure of part of I-94 near the Stadium Interchange. Rivera-Jimenez, aged 19, is charged with three counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and one count of endangering safety by using a dangerous weapon from a vehicle towards a building or another vehicle. He is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, May 30.

Incident Details

The shooting incident transpired on I-94 westbound at Mitchell Boulevard around 7:25 a.m. According to court records, the victim’s red Honda sustained multiple gunshot hits, although neither the driver nor the passenger were injured. Prosecutors assert that a road rage conflict initiated near Miller Park Way and National before escalating into the shooting incident.

Sequence of Events

The victim reported that a white Honda abruptly pulled in front of them and began driving recklessly, leading to a confrontation. Both vehicles proceeded onto the freeway, with the white Honda ultimately firing multiple shots at the victim’s vehicle while on I-94 westbound. Following the shooting, the white Honda fled the scene, exiting the interstate at Hawley Road.

Investigation and Arrest

Law enforcement officers closed the interstate for investigation, discovering two bullet casings near the shooting location. Surveillance footage corroborated the victim’s account, showing Rivera-Jimenez maneuvering the white Honda in front of the victim’s vehicle before the shooting. Additionally, video evidence captured both vehicles traveling in close proximity, further supporting the victim’s statement.

Rivera-Jimenez was identified from the surveillance footage and apprehended at his residence on May 24. He was found wearing attire consistent with the shooting suspect’s description. Furthermore, the white Honda involved in the incident was impounded from Rivera-Jimenez’s home.

Suspect’s Testimony

Rivera-Jimenez confessed to engaging in aggressive driving behavior but claimed that the victim provoked him by displaying obscene gestures. He alleged that the victim’s passenger brandished a firearm, prompting him to retaliate. However, investigations revealed inconsistencies in Rivera-Jimenez’s account, as the victim’s vehicle’s window was reportedly rolled up at the time of the shooting.

Conclusion

The road rage shooting incident on I-94 underscores the dangers of escalating conflicts on public roads. The swift response by law enforcement resulted in the apprehension of the suspect, providing a measure of justice for the victims. Authorities continue to urge motorists to exercise restraint and prioritize safety to prevent such incidents in the future.

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