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Milwaukee community remembers Alderman Jonathan Brostoff following tragic passing

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Milwaukee community remembers Alderman Jonathan Brostoff following tragic passing


MILWAUKEE — Passionate, caring, and hardworking are just a handful of words that Jeff Bentoff would use to describe his friend and colleague Jonathan Brostoff.

“He would walk through fire when he believes in something; it’s just amazing,” said Bentoff, a member of the Historic Downer BID.

He and countless others are mourning the loss of their dear friend and alderman who died Monday.

Previous Coverage: https://www.tmj4.com/news/milwaukee-county/milwaukee-alderman-jonathan-brostoff-and-former-alderman-terry-witkowski-have-died

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“Becoming an alderman, I think, was just the perfect fit for him because he loved the constituent service,” said Bentoff. “He pretty much never—I don’t think ever said no to a request to meet, to set up a connection.”

Mike Beiermeister

Jeff Bentoff

Brostoff was born in Milwaukee. He graduated from UW-Milwaukee. For the past two years, he served as alderman for the city’s third district, which represents much of the east side.

Jonathan Brostoff

“I think this neighborhood is really on an upswing, and I think largely due to him,” said Bentoff. “I mean, he did so much work in his now short time.”

Brostoff was an advocate for safer streets for all people. He also worked to fill vacant storefronts and bring businesses into his district.

Previous Coverage: https://www.tmj4.com/about-us/lighthouse/tmj4-asks-walkers-and-bikers-about-proposed-traffic-calming-project-for-prospect-avenue

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Previous Coverage: https://www.tmj4.com/news/project-drive-safer/effort-to-redesign-one-of-milwaukees-most-dangerous-streets-picks-up-speed

“He’s been working on pedestrian improvements and big infrastructure, and so his legacy is going to be a stronger east side,” said Bentoff. “He is an east side guy through and through.”

Watch: Milwaukee community remembers Alderman Jonathan Brostoff following his death

Milwaukee community remembers Alderman Jonathan Brostoff following tragic passing

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During his seven years as a state representative, Brostoff championed several key pieces of legislation, even refusing to cut his hair until his bill for more sign language interpreters was passed into law.

Previous Coverage: https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/state-rep-finally-cuts-his-hair-after-winning-deaf-rights

Ryan Laessig is the East Side BID executive director. He will remember Brostoff for being more than just a public servant.

“He’s come to support different community events, like Milwaukee Makers Market, where I got to talk with him and his wife and see his family and just, you know, really see this, this community advocate, this family man, and a person that wants to support Milwaukee,” said Laessig.

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Ryan Laessig

Mike Beiermeister

Ryan Laessig

Bentoff will remember his friend as someone who always showed up and fought for not just the east side but the entire city.

“Jonathan was somebody who cared about everyone around him,” said Bentoff. “He was a really talented person, a really hard worker. Yeah, he’s going to be greatly missed.”

Brostoff was 41 years old.

Statements on the passing of Alderman Jonathan Brostoff:

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Milwaukee Jewish Federation:

Milwaukee Jewish Federation mourns the passing of City of Milwaukee Alderman Jonathan Brostoff – Zichrono livracha: May his memory be a blessing. Jonathan was a dedicated and passionate Milwaukeean, a proud member and advocate of the Jewish community and a champion of service and advocacy. Jonathan’s passion for democracy, life of public service and tireless work for the greater good are gifts that will live on. Our deep condolences to his family, friends and constituents, he will be missed.  Hamakom yinachem et-chem b’toch sh’ar avelei tzion v’yerushalayim: May you be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

Brady Street Area Association:

The Brady Street Area Association with our 3rd aldermanic district neighbors mourns the loss of Jonathan Brostoff. As an alderman, he served our community with unwavering dedication, always prioritizing the well-being of our residents and working tirelessly to make our neighborhood a better place for all. Beyond his role in public service, Jonathan was a devoted father, a trusted neighbor, a passionate advocate, and a dear friend to many. Over the years, Jonathan’s collaborative work touched many residents on the East Side. Whether it was through his work on housing, pedestrian safety, and community development, Jonathan’s impact was invaluable, and his legacy will continue to inspire us.

In this time of loss, our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Let us honor his memory by continuing his work and supporting one another. In remembrance of Alder Brostoff’s contributions, the Brady Street Area Association will hold a moment of silence at our upcoming meeting on November 12th at 6:30 p.m. We will also be highlighting mental health resources available in the community. 

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Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley:

“Today, Milwaukee County lost a beloved leader, partner, and dear friend. I am devastated by the passing of Alderman Jonathan Brostoff. He was a hard worker, a fierce advocate, a loving husband and father, and a positive influence on everyone who knew him.

“Our friendship goes back to our days of community organizing, where we discovered our shared passion for improving Milwaukee County. From there, Jonathan and I worked our way up, eventually serving together in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Every day, we walked through the halls of the State Capitol to support working families, build healthier communities, and foster a brighter future for our children. After our time in Madison, Jonathan was elected to the Milwaukee Common Council, where he continued working on behalf of the people. Jonathan never lost sight of why he ran for office: To make a difference in the lives of all Milwaukeeans.

“Jonathan consistently brought new ideas, contagious energy, and endless optimism to every room he entered. When he saw an opportunity to benefit his constituents, he seized it. When he saw a challenge to overcome, he worked with others to address it. Throughout the years, Jonathan and I remained close friends and colleagues. We should all learn from Jonathan’s leadership, compassion, and genuine love for those around him.

“My heart and prayers are with his wife, their children, and the many Wisconsinites who also consider Jonathan what I did: a dear friend.”

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Forward Latino:

“Today our members in Milwaukee and across the state mourn the passing of a truly honorable man, Milwaukee Alderman Jonathan Brostoff. Jonathan’s special gift was the empathy and compassion he had for others, gifts that were an extension of his deeply held Jewish faith. Our condolences and prayers go out to his family. We hope they find comfort in knowing the positive impact he had on so many lives. My his memory be a blessing.”

From Common Council Members: José G. Pérez, Andrea M. Pratt, Mark Chambers, Jr., Robert J. Bauman, Lamont Westmoreland, Milele A. Coggs, DiAndre Jackson, JoCasta Zamarripa, Larresa Taylor, Sharlen P. Moore, Peter Burgelis, Scott Spiker, Marina Dimitrijevic, Russell W. Stamper, II

As colleagues, and as friends, we are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Alderman Jonathan Brostoff.

Jonathan was a loving father and husband, and greeted everyone he met with empathy and kindness. He was also a passionate advocate for the betterment of our community, and dedicated his professional life to the people he represented. It was an honor to have served in office with him, and he will be missed.

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Out of respect for his family, we would ask that they be provided the privacy and time to grieve that they most certainly deserve.

Mayor Cavalier Johnson:

“Jonathan brought a unique energy to his work at City Hall. His passion and dedication were evident every day. No elected official brought more enthusiasm to their work than Jonathan. He was a husband, a father, a son, and, to me, a close friend. My thoughts and sympathy go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.”


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Milwaukee, WI

What are the road conditions in and around Milwaukee Thursday morning?

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What are the road conditions in and around Milwaukee Thursday morning?


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As Milwaukee sees its first snowfall of the season Thursday morning, you should brace for some tricky road conditions on your morning commute.

Two to four inches of wet, heavy snow is possible in the Milwaukee area, making for a “messy morning commute,” the National Weather Service Milwaukee wrote on X. Motorists should drive slowly and with caution throughout the morning, NWS said.

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Here’s what to plan ahead for if you’re commuting in Milwaukee on Thursday.

What are the road conditions in and around Milwaukee this morning?

As of 8:15 a.m. Thursday, all of Milwaukee and its surrounding areas — including Interstates 41, 43 and 94 — were seeing “slippery stretches,” according to 511 Wisconsin. Several highways are also seeing one or more lanes blocked due to crashes or stalled vehicles.

If you’re traveling on I-94 this morning, NWS wrote on X that conditions south of the I-94 corridor, especially between Milwaukee and Madison, would “quickly deteriorate” as snow continues.

In affected areas, drivers should plan for slushy snow accumulation and low visibility on the roads, NWS said.

Accidents reported in Milwaukee on Thursday morning

As of 8:15 a.m. Thursday, several crashes or incidents have been reported in Milwaukee that could affect traffic, 511 Wisconsin reported:

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  • 7:49 a.m. – I-794 West 1.3 miles beyond the ramp from Carferry Road. The center lane is blocked due to a crash.
  • 7:44 a.m. – I-43 South at ramp from Wisconsin Avenue. The left shoulder is blocked due to a crash.
  • 7:50 a.m. – Ramp from I-94 East to I-43/94 South. Shoulders are closed due to a disabled vehicle.
  • 7:51 a.m. – I-794 West at Michigan Street. The right shoulder is blocked due to a disabled vehicle.
  • 7:52 a.m. – I-43 South at I-794 East. The center lane is blocked due to a crash.
  • 7:57 a.m. – I-43/94 North at Ramp from 6th and Mineral Street. The center lane is blocked due to a disabled vehicle.

Accidents reported in Milwaukee suburbs on Thursday morning

  • 7:15 a.m. – Disabled vehicle on ramp from Burleigh Street to I-41/US 45 North.
  • 7:22 a.m. – I-94 West 1.3 miles beyond the ramp from Highway 100. The right shoulder is blocked due to a crash.
  • 7:23 a.m. – I-43 North at Hampton Avenue East. The left shoulder is blocked due to a crash.
  • 7:37 a.m. – I-94 West at ramp from Moreland Boulevard East. The right shoulder is blocked due to a crash.
  • 7:42 a.m. – Highway 38 South at Air Cargo Way (by the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport). The right lane is closed due to a crash.
  • 7:52 a.m. – I-41/894 South 0.3 miles beyond the ramp from National Avenue. The right shoulder is blocked due to a disabled vehicle.
  • 7:54 a.m. – Ramp from I-94 West to I-41/US 45 North. The right shoulder is blocked due to a disabled vehicle.
  • 8:05 a.m. – I-41/US 45 North at North Avenue. The 3 right lanes are blocked due to a disabled vehicle.

To look up road conditions on your morning commute, check out 511 Wisconsin’s live map.



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Milwaukee, WI

Family: Missing Milwaukee girl found safe, gas station taped off

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Family: Missing Milwaukee girl found safe, gas station taped off


Winter Weather Advisory

from THU 6:00 AM CST until THU 12:00 PM CST, Racine County, Sheboygan County, Dodge County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, Milwaukee County, Fond Du Lac County, Jefferson County, Waukesha County, Kenosha County, Walworth County



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Milwaukee, WI

Mother of Riverwest hit-and-run victim looking for accountability

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Mother of Riverwest hit-and-run victim looking for accountability


MILWAUKEE — Monday night was terrifying for Ashley Kirkwood. She received a call from her daughter that no parent ever wants to hear.

Kennedy Kirkwood, 16, was crossing Locust on Holton in Milwaukee’s Riverwest neighborhood when she was hit by a black SUV turning onto Locust.

The car slowed down but then drove off without checking on Kennedy. The teenager was left alone, injured, and in the rain.

“It’s just heartbreaking that we’ve become a culture of, ‘Okay, we’re just going to leave a person like that,’” Kirkwood said.

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Ashley spoke with TMJ4 about the incident, saying watching the video was difficult for her.

“As parents, that’s something you always worry about,” Kirkwood told TMJ4.

Watch: Mother of Riverwest hit-and-run victim looking for accountability

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Family speaks out after 16-year-old injured in hit-and-run near Holton and Locust

She works on the other side of the city and couldn’t be there immediately, so she turned to social media.

Kirkwood posted about the incident on the Riverwest Facebook page.

“Thankfully, within minutes, Riverwest responded,” Kirkwood said. “Over 100 comments, and they were right out here.”

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Helpful neighbors stayed with Kennedy until authorities arrived to take her to Children’s Hospital. Kirkwood said she’s grateful to the Riverwest community for their support.

Kennedy Kirkwood

Ashley Kirkwood

Kennedy is safe at home, but now Kirkwood is looking for answers.

She told TMJ4 she spoke to authorities the night of the incident and called them back after obtaining video of the accident. As of Wednesday afternoon, she had not heard back from police about any updates on the incident.

“I understand that she wasn’t injured to the point where it’s something we’re seeing every day, but we need to take this seriously, and people need to be held accountable,” Kirkwood said.

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Kirkwood plans to reach out to Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Mayor Cavalier Johnson about the situation.

Milwaukee police say they are looking for the driver of a black SUV. Anyone with information is urged to call authorities at (414) 935-7252.

Kirkwood told TMJ4 she understands things happen, but choosing to leave the scene is unacceptable.

“This was a human being, and we left her out in the rain after running her over,” Kirkwood said.


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Hey there! At TMJ4 News, we’re all about listening to our audience and tackling the stuff that really matters to you. Got a story idea, tip, or just want to chat about this piece? Hit us up using the form below. For more ways to get in touch, head over to tmj4.com/tips.


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