Torrel Coleman, Shakwanda, and Three Other Victims Perish in Milwaukee Apartment Fire; 200 Displaced, Investigators Suspect Arson

On the morning of Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, a devastating fire broke out in a four-story, 85-unit apartment building in Milwaukee’s Concordia neighborhood. The blaze resulted in the tragic loss of five lives and left four others in critical condition. Approximately 200 residents were displaced, with many forced to leap from windows to escape the inferno. The building, constructed in 1968, lacked a sprinkler system, which may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Authorities are investigating the cause, with suspicions of arson.

Victims Identified

As of now, two victims have been publicly identified:

• Torrel Coleman: A resident of the building, identified by loved ones.The Guardian

• Shakwanda: Another resident, identified by loved ones.WISN 12 News+3TMJ4 News+3AP News+3

The identities of the remaining three victims have not been released by authorities.

The Fire Incident

The fire was reported just before 8 a.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered intense flames and thick smoke, making rescue operations challenging. Some residents were forced to jump from windows to escape the blaze, while approximately 30 others were rescued using ladders and by crawling through smoke-filled hallways. Fire Chief Aaron Lipski described the situation as “outmatched” upon arrival, highlighting the severity of the fire .People.comThe Guardian+2AP News+2AP News+2AP News+3The Guardian+3People.com+3

The building, constructed in 1968, did not have a sprinkler system due to its age, predating laws that would mandate such safety measures. The fire reportedly started in a common area and spread rapidly across multiple floors .The Guardian+3AP News+3AP News+3AP News+2The Guardian+2AP News+2

Displacement and Damage

Approximately 200 residents were displaced due to the fire, with many losing all their belongings. The building has been deemed uninhabitable, and residents are being assisted by the American Red Cross and other local organizations. The Milwaukee Fire Department has emphasized the importance of fire safety measures, including the installation of sprinkler systems, to prevent such tragedies in the future.AP News+1People.com+1People.com

Investigation and Suspected Cause

Investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the fire. While the origin is believed to be in a common area, authorities have not yet disclosed the specific details. There is speculation that the fire may have been intentionally set, but no official determination has been made. The Milwaukee Fire Department continues to investigate, and officials have urged anyone with information to come forward .

Community Response and Support

In the wake of this tragedy, the Milwaukee community has come together to support the displaced residents. The American Red Cross has opened a reception center at their offices at 2600 W. Wisconsin Ave. in Milwaukee to offer assistance to families affected by the fire. Additionally, local organizations and residents have initiated fundraising efforts to help those who have lost their homes and belongings.