Domestic Violence Deaths Persist Across Wisconsin

State records show 61 domestic violence fatalities in 2025 as Milwaukee reports 38 homicides this year.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Violence

Domestic Violence Deaths Persist Across Wisconsin

Wisconsin reported 61 domestic violence-related deaths throughout 2025. In Milwaukee, authorities have documented 38 domestic violence-related homicides as of October 2026.

Why it matters

Rising violence trends observed in 2016 prompted the creation of a specialized high-risk team. This intervention seeks to lower fatalities that have remained elevated compared to historical averages.

Official reports show 38 domestic violence-related homicides in Milwaukee as of October 2026, compared to 32 during the 2025 calendar year. Data indicates these figures remain significantly higher than the pre-2016 average of 12 to 15 deaths annually.

The players

Sojourner Family Peace Center

This organization tracks domestic violence death data annually and provides support services for victims.

The details

The domestic violence high-risk team meets twice weekly to intervene in potential cases using risk assessments conducted by law enforcement. The Sojourner Family Peace Center manages the collection and tracking of this mortality data.

Prior to 2016, annual domestic violence homicides in Milwaukee averaged 12 to 15.
In 2016, Milwaukee recorded 35 domestic violence-related homicides.
The domestic violence high-risk team began its twice-weekly meetings in 2017.
Milwaukee recorded 51 domestic violence-related homicides in 2020.
Wisconsin recorded 61 domestic violence-related deaths in 2025.

Legal Context

This data marks a departure from the historical baseline established before 2016. The city's current response follows a pattern set by the 2016 shift in Milwaukee domestic violence homicide trends, which triggered the formation of specialized high-risk intervention teams.

Law enforcement continues to utilize risk assessment screenings at crime scenes to identify high-risk situations. Residents should be aware that these intervention efforts are designed to mitigate threats and prevent escalating violence in the local community.

The takeaway

Ongoing monitoring by specialized teams is essential for managing domestic violence risks in the community. Residents can support safety efforts by familiarizing themselves with local intervention programs and resources.