Tragedy in Milwaukee: Kimani Smith Identified Among Two Fatally Shot in North Side Double Homicide Late Wednesday Night
Milwaukee, WI — June 19, 2025 — A community is reeling after a devastating double homicide late Wednesday night took the lives of two men on Milwaukee’s north side. Among the victims was 29-year-old Kimani Smith, a beloved local musician, mentor, and cherished friend to many, whose death has shattered hearts and reignited concerns about rising violence in the city.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday, June 18, just before midnight, in the 3200 block of North 42nd Street. Milwaukee Police were dispatched to the scene after multiple 911 calls reported gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered two men suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
As of Thursday morning, police have not publicly released the identity of the second victim, pending notification of family. However, loved ones and members of the local music community have confirmed the identity of Kimani Smith as one of the deceased.
A Life Full of Passion, Music, and Brotherhood
Kimani Smith was far more than a name on a police report. To his community, he was a beacon of light — a talented artist, a loyal friend, and a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. Known for his deep passion for music, Kimani had been pursuing a dream that began in childhood: to share his story and spirit through rhythm, lyrics, and melody.
“We’ve been at this since we were 12 years old,” one close friend shared. “Kimani just wanted to share his music and love with the world. He brought people together. He gave us purpose. He made us laugh, cry, celebrate, and think. Losing him is like losing a part of myself.”
The heartbreak is even more profound because Kimani is the fourth friend in a tight-knit circle to pass in recent years. “Now Kimani, Jakari, Nate, and Leon are all gone. We were supposed to grow old together,” his friend continued. “To take him out like that, when he had his guard down, when he trusted you — it’s the deepest betrayal. I’m sick to my soul.”
Many in Milwaukee’s creative and cultural community remember Kimani not only for his performances and freestyles, but for his humility and the way he mentored younger artists trying to find their way.
A Scene of Violence and Unanswered Questions
Milwaukee Police have launched a full-scale investigation into Wednesday night’s shooting. Detectives spent the early hours of Thursday morning canvassing the area, searching for surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and collecting forensic evidence. No arrests have been made as of this writing, and a motive has not been officially determined.
Authorities believe that the shooting may not have been random, though they have not commented publicly on whether the victims were targeted. Residents in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by the sound of screeching tires and shouting.
The 3200 block of North 42nd Street, which now bears the physical scars of gun violence, has become a site of mourning. Flowers, candles, and hand-written notes began appearing on the sidewalk Thursday morning — makeshift memorials in honor of lives taken far too soon.
A Pattern of Loss in Milwaukee
Kimani Smith’s death is the latest in a troubling trend of violence that continues to plague Milwaukee’s urban neighborhoods. City leaders and activists have long called for systemic changes — including increased investment in community programs, mental health support, conflict resolution initiatives, and economic opportunities for youth.
“This is not just about crime — this is about broken trust, poverty, pain, and a cycle that repeats when there’s no intervention,” said one neighborhood advocate. “Kimani should still be here. He was the light. He was the one reminding others there was something better.”
The collective grief was evident Thursday, as posts flooded social media with tributes to both victims. Friends called for peace and justice, but also accountability — not only for the shooter, but for the systems that failed to protect them.
Funeral Plans and Ongoing Tributes
As the investigation continues, Kimani’s loved ones are beginning to organize a memorial service to celebrate his life and legacy. Details are expected to be released in the coming days. In the meantime, a candlelight vigil is being planned for this weekend at the site of the shooting, where community members will gather to reflect, honor, and call for change.
His friends say the date “2013” — a reference to a pivotal year in their journey together — will always be remembered as the beginning of something beautiful, while 2025 will be remembered as a year marked by unimaginable pain.
“When it’s my time, I hope Kimani meets me at the gates,” one grieving friend said. “Until then, I’ll carry his memory in everything I do. I’ll keep his music alive. I’ll make sure people know who he was.”
Police Seeking Public’s Help
Milwaukee Police are asking anyone with information related to Wednesday night’s double homicide to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS or directly to Milwaukee Police at (414) 935-7360.
We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available regarding the investigation, memorial arrangements, and the identity of the second victim.
If you or someone you know is affected by this tragedy and in need of support, please contact local grief counseling services or visit Milwaukee’s Office of Violence Prevention for resources.