Deputies said the suspect was taken into custody after bystanders stepped in to stop the attack.
MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Two people were stabbed and a 21-year-old suspect was taken into custody after an attack Wednesday at Pulaski Park, where sheriff’s officials said a boy was first stabbed while sitting on a bench.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office said the first victim, a 13-year-old boy, was stabbed in the neck at the south side park. A 19-year-old man who saw the attack ran over to help and was then stabbed in the neck and shoulder, investigators said.
A third person also joined the fight to stop the attacker, officials said. That person had a knife and may have stabbed the suspect during the struggle. Deputies said the suspect was later found with a knife, a makeshift explosive, a stab wound to his leg and a fractured skull.
Authorities said another makeshift explosive was found at the park. Investigators did not report any fatal injuries. The sheriff’s office said the attack appeared to begin without warning, but the motive remained unclear.
The case also raised questions about events earlier that day. Milwaukee police had taken an armed robbery report in which the suspect claimed three people held him at knifepoint, punched him and stole his sweatshirt near 15th and Lincoln. Officials did not say whether that report was connected to the park stabbing.
The park, near 16th and Cleveland, was active again by Friday, but some neighbors said the attack changed the mood. Amaidea Estrada said she saw the crime scene while walking nearby. “You have to pay attention with your surroundings,” Estrada said.
Shonda Ceballos came to the park with her children two days after the stabbing and said the violence was troubling. “It’s horrible to hear about what happened,” she said. The mother of the 13-year-old victim could not be reached for an update on his condition.
The Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office was expected to review possible reckless endangering safety charges. Officials had not released a court date or charging decision by the latest public update.
Author note: Last updated April 26, 2026.