On Thursday, October 19, 2023, the city of Milwaukee found itself reeling from a shocking incident that unfolded on the 700 block of S. Layton Blvd. It was around 4:31 p.m. when the Milwaukee police received a distressing call and rushed to the scene. What they discovered was a scene of heart-wrenching tragedy.
At the center of this devastating incident was Julio Sostre, a 30-year-old man known in the community as “Pook The Barber.” Sadly, his encounter with violence proved fatal. After sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, Julio was promptly transported to Froedtert Hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he was pronounced deceased.
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Tragically, this dreadful incident did not end with the loss of Julio Sostre. His 7-year-old son was also a victim of this senseless act of violence. He had been shot once in the face, an experience that no child should ever have to endure. Thankfully, the child displayed remarkable resilience and was reported as responsive, though in critical condition. He was swiftly taken to Children’s Hospital, where a dedicated team of medical staff worked diligently to provide him with the care he so desperately needed.
A small glimmer of relief in this dark tale was the presence of a woman who had accompanied the shooting victims. Miraculously, she emerged from the incident unharmed, providing a sense of hope in an otherwise devastating situation.
According to eyewitness accounts, Sostre had been heading northbound on S. Layton Blvd. He came to a halt at the intersection due to a red traffic light at W. Pierce St. and S. Layton Blvd. It was at this seemingly ordinary moment that a light tan or silver SUV, which had been trailing the victims, unleashed a hail of bullets upon them. More than 12 shots were fired, with at least 10 striking the driver’s window. The consequences were fatal, and Julio Sostre, lost his life in this horrifying attack.
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The light tan or silver SUV, occupied by unknown suspect(s), swiftly fled the scene, making a hasty exit before law enforcement and the Milwaukee Fire Department’s first responders could arrive.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of gun violence that continues to plague communities across the country. It also highlights the devastating impact that such violence can have on innocent bystanders, like Julio Sostre’s young son. The community mourns the loss of a vibrant life while hoping for the full recovery of the young child who was caught in the crossfire.
The Milwaukee police are working diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding this shocking act of violence and bring those responsible to justice. As the investigation unfolds, the city stands united in grief, reflecting on the tragic loss of Julio Sostre and praying for the recovery and healing of his young son.
