Milwaukee Mourns the Loss of Officer Kendall Corder, Ambushed in the Line of Duty

MILWAUKEE, WI — With immense sorrow and heavy hearts, the City of Milwaukee and its police department are reeling from the tragic loss of Officer Kendall Corder, a 32-year-old officer who was ambushed and fatally wounded while responding to a shots-fired call on Thursday night. After courageously fighting for his life, Officer Corder passed away surrounded by his family, friends, and fellow officers.

The Milwaukee Police Department confirmed the heartbreaking news early Friday morning, expressing profound grief over the death of one of their own. Officer Corder’s death marks a devastating moment for the department, his family, and the entire community, who are now left to honor a man who served with integrity, bravery, and deep compassion.

A Tragic Night

The incident unfolded late Thursday evening, when officers were dispatched to investigate reports of gunfire in a Milwaukee neighborhood known for recent spikes in violent crime. According to preliminary reports, as Officer Corder approached the scene, he was ambushed by a suspect armed with a high-powered firearm. Struck multiple times, Corder was immediately transported to Froedtert Hospital, where surgeons worked through the night to save his life.

Despite their efforts, Officer Corder succumbed to his injuries the following day. Family members have shared that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him most.

“He was strong, he was fighting,” one family member shared. “But in the end, his injuries were just too severe. He died a hero.”

A Hero Remembered

Officer Kendall Corder had served with the Milwaukee Police Department for over 8 years, earning a reputation for his professionalism, compassion, and commitment to justice. He was known not only as a dedicated officer but as a mentor, a friend, and a protector—both on and off duty.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Corder was driven by a passion to serve his hometown. Colleagues describe him as a dependable partner, someone who never hesitated to take the lead, and who was always willing to lend an ear or a helping hand.

“Kendall had a heart for people,” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. “He wore the badge because he believed in making our community safer. He made the ultimate sacrifice, and we will never forget him.”

Outpouring of Support

In the hours following his passing, tributes to Officer Corder began pouring in from across the state and beyond. Fellow officers, public officials, and everyday citizens have expressed their condolences and praised his selfless service. A growing memorial of flowers, notes, and candles now sits outside the Milwaukee Police Department’s District 5 headquarters, where Officer Corder was stationed.

Flags across the city have been lowered to half-staff, and a public vigil and procession are being planned to honor his life and sacrifice.

Governor Tony Evers also released a statement, calling Corder’s death “a tragic reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day,” and offered condolences to the Corder family and the Milwaukee Police Department.

Justice and Investigation

Milwaukee authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody and is expected to face multiple charges, including first-degree intentional homicide of a law enforcement officer. The investigation into the ambush is ongoing, and officials have pledged to pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law.

Chief Norman has vowed that the department will honor Officer Corder by continuing to serve the public with the same courage and resolve he exemplified.

“He was the best of us,” said one officer, tearfully. “And we’re going to carry his memory with us, every time we put on this uniform.”

Honoring a Legacy

Officer Kendall Corder is survived by his parents, his fiancée, and two young children. Plans for a memorial service are underway, with law enforcement agencies from across the country expected to attend.

In this moment of profound loss, the city of Milwaukee stands united in grief—and in gratitude for the life and service of Officer Kendall Corder, a true public servant, and hero.