Milwaukee, WI (September 19, 2025) – A tragic police pursuit ended in a violent collision late Tuesday, claiming the lives of three innocent people at the intersection of 35th Street and Vliet Street in Milwaukee.
Authorities confirmed that a 19-year-old male was fleeing Milwaukee police when his vehicle slammed into a car carrying a local family. The impact killed three occupants of the struck vehicle and left two others seriously injured. The deceased were identified by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office as:
- Pler Moo, 50, female
- Taw Moo May, 21, male
- Karlah Ko Moo, 15, male
All three were from the same family and reportedly had no connection to the pursuit.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash and provided aid to the injured. Surveillance footage captured the devastating moment of impact. The driver attempting to flee police sustained injuries and was taken into custody at the scene. Two other passengers in the fleeing vehicle were also hospitalized with injuries.
Community members, including close friends of the victims, gathered to grieve and express their frustration. “We all family. We all grew up together,” said Samuel Htoo, a friend of the family. “Now it’s only his dad, his little sister.” Htoo called for drivers to think about the consequences of reckless behavior, especially when innocent lives are at stake.
Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson addressed the crash, placing blame on reckless driving and stating that relaxing police pursuit policies only emboldens offenders. “When the police pulled back on their pursuit policy… that’s what caused an explosion of reckless driving,” Johnson stated, reinforcing the city’s commitment to addressing the crisis.
This devastating crash remains under active investigation by Milwaukee authorities.
Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones affected by this horrific tragedy.
The Toll of Police Pursuits in Wisconsin Communities
Crashes resulting from police pursuits—especially those involving innocent victims—have become a deeply painful issue for cities like Milwaukee. Tuesday’s collision at 35th St and Vliet St is a tragic reminder of the high stakes involved when suspects flee and high-speed chases unfold on city streets.
In this heartbreaking case, three family members lost their lives—two of them teenagers—through no fault of their own. The ripple effect on the surviving family members and the broader community is profound. Grief, trauma, and anger often accompany such incidents, especially when the victims were simply going about their daily lives.
Police chases are controversial by nature. Supporters argue that enforcement deters lawlessness, while critics highlight the dangers they pose to the public. In dense urban areas like Milwaukee, high-speed pursuits can quickly escalate, leading to crashes at intersections, residential zones, or near schools and community centers.
The emotional weight of these crashes is especially heavy when young people and families are involved. Recovery, if possible, goes far beyond physical healing—it includes mourning, psychological support, and often, legal advocacy.
As communities look for solutions, calls for better technology, stricter traffic enforcement, and stronger community engagement continue to grow. While policies evolve, one truth remains constant: innocent lives should never be collateral damage.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a police pursuit crash, know that help is available. Local Accident Reports is committed to supporting families who are coping with the aftermath of devastating accidents. We connect victims with legal resources, grief support, and guidance to help them find a path forward. Contact Local Accident Reports today and let us help you find clarity, support, and a way to move ahead.
