Relatives remembered 9-year-old Jade Riser during a vigil near the intersection where gunfire struck her inside her home.
MILWAUKEE — Family members and neighbors gathered Thursday to remember a 9-year-old girl who died after she was struck by gunfire while inside her Milwaukee home, releasing balloons as they called for answers in the unsolved shooting.
Relatives identified the girl as Jade Riser, a fourth grader who was shot late July 2 near East Burleigh and North Richards streets. Police said she was taken to a hospital in critical condition and died July 7. Investigators have not announced a motive or identified the person who fired the shots.
Jade’s family said she was in her bedroom when gunfire from outside entered the home and struck her. Her aunt, Cortrice Young, said the circumstances have made the loss especially difficult because Jade was not outside or involved in the events that led to the shooting.
“She was not outside. She was thought to be in the safety of her own home,” Young said. She said the shooting left the family feeling that even Jade’s bed could not protect her from violence outside.
Family and friends exchanged hugs and wiped away tears during Thursday’s gathering near Burleigh and Richards. Balloons were released in Jade’s memory as those attending reflected on a child relatives described as cheerful and closely connected to her family.
Young said Jade was “always smiling, always laughing” and loved spending time with relatives. Jade’s mother also described her as bright and creative. She said the girl enjoyed dancing, painting her nails, making videos and spending time with her sisters.
The vigil was held one week after the shooting and two days after Jade died. Young said her niece’s death was unexpected and that the family was struggling to find words for the loss.
Police said the shooting happened at about 11:19 p.m. July 2. Officers and emergency workers responded near the intersection, and Jade was taken to a hospital. Authorities initially reported that she had suffered life-threatening injuries before confirming her death several days later.
Investigators have released few details about what led to the gunfire. Police have not said whether the home was targeted, whether more than one person fired a weapon or how many shots were discharged. No arrest directly connected to Jade’s shooting has been announced.
Young said the family wants the person responsible to be found and held accountable. “We’re still looking for justice,” she said. “She was only 9 years old.” Milwaukee police said the investigation remains active and that detectives continue to seek information about the shooting.
Author note: Last updated July 10, 2026.