MILWAUKEE — A family is grappling with grief following the fatal shooting of Angel Olivares, who was killed in his driveway just hours before Thanksgiving. The incident occurred Wednesday night on the city’s south side near Winona Lane and Burnham Street.
Around 2 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning, police delivered the devastating news to Angel’s family at their home on the north side. His son, Jose Olivares, described the shock and despair he felt upon hearing about his father’s death. “I couldn’t believe it. I was distraught. He didn’t start any problems; he was a good person,” he said.
The shooting took place at approximately 10 p.m. Wednesday, with neighbors reporting gunfire to authorities. Despite their quick response, it was too late; Angel was found fatally wounded in his driveway. “All they told us was that they heard the shots and when they got downstairs, he was lying on the ground,” Jose recalled.
The family had intended to celebrate Thanksgiving together, looking forward to cooking a meal that included a turkey that Jose had already purchased. “He was supposed to come over and help, but he never made it,” said Jose, reflecting on their lost plans.
As investigations continue, the perpetrator remains unidentified, leaving the Olivares family with lingering questions. Angel had lived in the neighborhood for about two years without reported conflicts. He devoted his time to running a cleaning business and caring for his three children.
His daughter, 13-year-old Andrea Olivares, cherishes memories of dancing with her father and had been eagerly anticipating sharing a dance with him at her upcoming quinceañera. “I can still see him smiling and having a great time dancing with me,” she said, noting that he was already saving money for the special occasion.
Andrea added that her father frequently took extra shifts to accumulate funds for her birthday celebration, saying, “He was doing it all for me, but now it feels like it went to waste.”
The family is calling on the shooter to come forward and is appealing for anyone with information to reach out to law enforcement. They have shared contact information for the Milwaukee Police Department and Crime Stoppers for those wishing to remain anonymous.
Additionally, in the wake of Angel’s tragic death, the family has set up a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses as they navigate this difficult time.