Heartbreak in Milwaukee: 17-Year-Old Donnell Jones Identified as Victim in Easter Morning Double Shooting
Milwaukee, WI – April 20, 2025
A Milwaukee family is reeling from unimaginable grief after a promising young life was cut short in a double shooting early Easter Sunday. Police say the incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. near North 23rd Street and West Townsend Street, not far from Union Cemetery on the city’s north side.
The victim has been identified by family as Donnell Jones, a 17-year-old senior at Milwaukee Lutheran High School, whose life was full of potential, passion, and purpose. Donnell’s mother confirmed to 12 News that her son was killed in the early-morning violence, which has left the community devastated and searching for answers.
Donnell, described by family and friends as bright, ambitious, and deeply loved, had plans for his future. A talented football player, he had just weeks to go until graduation, and had been accepted to Northern Illinois University, where he intended to study Pre-Med in the fall. He dreamed of becoming a doctor, a goal he worked tirelessly toward both on and off the field.
“He had his whole life ahead of him,” Donnell’s mother shared through tears. “He wanted to help people. He was ready to go to college. He was our heart.”
According to the Milwaukee Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire and found two people suffering from gunshot wounds. Donnell was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. The second individual, whose identity and condition have not been publicly disclosed, was also wounded in the shooting. Police have not yet confirmed a motive or whether any suspects are in custody.
The tragic loss of Donnell Jones has reverberated through his school community. Milwaukee Lutheran High School officials described Donnell as “a leader, a friend, and a student who brought light to every room.” Grief counselors have been made available on campus as students, teachers, and staff try to process the news.
Community leaders and clergy have also spoken out, decrying the senseless gun violence that continues to claim young lives in Milwaukee and calling for unity, peace, and justice.
“Easter is a time of renewal and hope, and instead, this family is waking up to a nightmare,” said one local pastor. “We are tired of mourning our children. This violence must end.”
As the investigation continues, Donnell’s family is calling on the public to come forward with any information that might lead to justice. Anyone with tips is urged to contact Milwaukee Police at (414) 935-7360, or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS (8477).
In the coming days, family and friends are expected to hold a vigil in honor of Donnell’s life—a life that, while brief, left a profound impact on all who knew him. They remember his wide smile, his love for football, his dream of wearing a white coat as a doctor—and most of all, the warmth and kindness that defined him.
As Milwaukee mourns yet another promising life lost to gun violence, the community wraps its arms around the Jones family, vowing not to let Donnell’s memory fade, and praying that his tragic death becomes a turning point in the city’s battle against senseless violence.