Two Men Fatally Shot on Milwaukee’s Northwest Side: Victims Identified as Shaq DJ Reckless and Quadir Carter
Milwaukee, WI — October 18, 2025
Milwaukee police are investigating a deadly double shooting that claimed the lives of two men on the city’s northwest side late Friday evening. The victims have been identified as 31-year-old Shaquille “DJ Reckless” Thompson and 29-year-old Quadir Carter, both residents of Milwaukee.
The shooting occurred in the 7900 block of West Appleton Avenue, a busy corridor known for its mix of residential and commercial properties. Police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire just after 10:30 p.m. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered two men suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.
Despite efforts by first responders, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police have not released information on any suspects or motive behind the shooting, and no arrests have been made as of Saturday morning. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Victims Known in the Community
One of the victims, Shaquille Thompson—widely known by his DJ name “DJ Reckless”—was a well-known figure in Milwaukee’s nightlife and music scene. Thompson had performed at local clubs, community events, and had a strong social media presence promoting music and youth engagement. Friends and fans have taken to social media to express shock and sorrow at his sudden and violent death.
“Reckless was more than a DJ—he was a mentor, a motivator, and someone who loved this city,” said Corey Miller, a local promoter and longtime friend. “He always talked about giving back and keeping kids off the streets. This is a huge loss for us.”
Little is publicly known about Quadir Carter, but those close to him described him as a “quiet soul” with a tight circle of friends and family. Carter’s relatives have requested privacy as they process the loss.
Community Reaction and Police Response
Residents in the area are grappling with the impact of yet another act of gun violence in the city. This latest incident adds to a growing concern about rising homicide rates in Milwaukee, which has seen a surge in fatal shootings over the past few years.
“I heard the shots from my apartment. It was loud, like fireworks, but faster,” said a neighbor who asked not to be identified. “When I looked outside, I saw flashing lights and people running. It was chaos.”
Milwaukee Police Department issued a brief statement early Saturday, confirming that detectives are actively investigating and reviewing nearby surveillance footage.
“We are working diligently to determine the circumstances that led to this shooting and to bring those responsible to justice,” the statement read. “We extend our condolences to the families of the victims.”
The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed autopsies are scheduled for the weekend.
Call for Action
City leaders and community activists are calling for urgent action in the wake of the shooting. “We cannot normalize this level of violence,” said Alderwoman Chantia Lewis. “We need more resources for conflict resolution, community policing, and outreach—especially for our young people.”
Local anti-violence groups such as 414Life and The Office of Violence Prevention have pledged to increase outreach efforts in the Appleton Avenue area in the coming days.
As the investigation continues, police ask that anyone with information, surveillance footage, or who may have witnessed the incident, contact the Milwaukee Police Department at (414) 935-7360. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-TIPS or via the P3 Tips app.
A candlelight vigil is being planned for Sunday evening near the site of the shooting to honor the lives of Shaquille Thompson and Quadir Carter.
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