A man wearing a ski mask and carrying an AK-47 was apprehended by police just outside the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Monday. The arrest unfolded as the suspect approached the perimeter of the event, hosted at the Fiserv Forum.
Homeland Security Investigators and Capitol Police were monitoring the area when they encountered the man, who has yet to be identified, carrying a “large tactical bag” containing an AK-47 and ammunition.
According to the Milwaukee Police Department, the incident occurred on July 15, 2024, at approximately 1:00 pm on the 1200 block of N. 11th Street. The official statement reads:
Milwaukee Police arrested a 21-year-old man for carrying a concealed weapon. United States Capitol Police initially observed the suspect looking suspicious, wearing a ski mask and a large tactical backpack in the street.
The individual’s appearance and behavior immediately raised red flags, prompting Capitol Police to perform a subject stop. Upon investigation, it was revealed that he was concealing a firearm in his backpack. Further checks confirmed that the suspect lacked a legal CCW permit in Wisconsin or any other state.
Following his arrest, the suspect faces multiple charges, pending review by the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office.
The police presence at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee is substantial, with over 4,000 officers reportedly present to ensure security. This includes 1,600 officers from the Milwaukee Police Department, 800 from other Wisconsin law enforcement agencies and 1,600 from out-of-state agencies.
Additionally, the Wisconsin National Guard has been activated and federal law enforcement, including the Secret Service, are present. Security measures include a 90-block security zone in downtown Milwaukee, with strict access controls and checkpoints surrounding the main venues.
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