Maurice Williams Obituary, Death – A violent shooting incident outside a Milwaukee strip club has left two men dead and another man injured, as police continue searching for suspects connected to the late-night attack. The shooting unfolded just before 11:15 p.m. on Thursday night near the front entrance of Gold Diggers Gentleman’s Club, located at the intersection of North Hopkins Street and West Hampton Avenue in the city’s Old North neighborhood.
According to police, three individuals were shot in the incident. A 37-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, while another 37-year-old succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. A 34-year-old man was also shot and taken to a hospital for treatment, but authorities confirmed his injuries were not life-threatening.
Michael Ray, the owner of Gold Diggers, spoke with WISN 12 News and revealed that one of the deceased victims was a security guard who had been working at the club that night. Ray described the terrifying moments that led to the shooting. According to him, a man attempted to enter the club while armed. The security team, spotting the weapon, intervened and forced him out of the building. In response, the suspect opened fire.
“The guy had a gun, and when the security noticed it, they pushed him out. Then he just started shooting,” Ray said, recalling the incident. He also mentioned that the shooter had concealed his identity, wearing both gloves and a face mask to avoid recognition.
Family members of the security guard who lost his life have identified him as Maurice Williams. Loved ones say Williams was a devoted father to seven children and was also active in the community, serving as a coach for a local youth football league. The news of his death has deeply affected those who knew him.
“A lot of people are hurting right now. Those kids lost their father. It’s just terrible,” Ray added.
Milwaukee Police have stated that the 34-year-old man who was injured in the shooting was “involved” in the incident. However, no arrests have been made so far, and police clarified that the injured man is not currently in custody. Authorities are continuing their investigation and are looking to identify additional persons of interest who may have been involved or have knowledge about what happened.
Officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who has information related to the case to come forward. The Milwaukee Police Department can be reached at 414-935-7360. Those wishing to remain anonymous can provide tips through Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS.
This latest shooting has drawn additional attention to Gold Diggers Gentleman’s Club, which already has a troubled history with city officials. In 2023, the Milwaukee Common Council took disciplinary action against the establishment, suspending its license for 20 days. This decision came after numerous complaints from nearby residents and frequent calls to police related to disturbances or issues at the location.
Residents of the neighborhood have previously expressed concerns about the club, citing safety issues and noise disturbances. Some have pushed for more oversight or even the closure of the venue, pointing to repeated incidents that have required police involvement. The latest act of gun violence is likely to intensify the spotlight on the establishment and renew discussions about its future operations.
For now, the community is mourning the loss of life and seeking answers. The death of Maurice Williams, in particular, has struck a nerve, as people remember him not just as a security guard, but as a father, mentor, and active member of the community. Friends and family have already begun sharing tributes and expressing their sorrow on social media, remembering Williams for his kindness, dedication to his children, and commitment to youth development.
The shooting also raises broader concerns about gun violence in Milwaukee. The city has faced ongoing challenges related to violent crime in recent years, and this latest tragedy underscores the continued threat posed by illegal firearms and unresolved community tensions.
Authorities are expected to release more details as the investigation progresses, including any surveillance footage from the area, descriptions of potential suspects, and updates on the condition of the surviving victim. Until then, the community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and grieving the lives lost in yet another senseless act of violence.
Gold Diggers has not yet announced whether it will remain open in the coming days or take steps to increase security measures. Meanwhile, neighbors, patrons, and city leaders alike will likely be watching closely to see how the club and law enforcement respond moving forward.
