Milwaukee Tow Truck Driver Jonathan Otto, 35, Fatally Shot by Officer Clinging to Vehicle During Chaotic Arrest Attempt
Milwaukee tow truck driver Jonathan Otto was fatally shot after driving off while an officer clung to the vehicle. Family launches fundraiser as inves
The Milwaukee community is grappling with the tragic death of 35-year-old tow truck driver Jonathan “Jaybird” Otto, who was shot and killed Thursday morning during a confrontation with police on the city’s south side. Otto, a devoted father of two, died after an officer fired while clinging to his truck during an attempted arrest, leaving his family and neighbors in shock and mourning.
Authorities said the incident unfolded around 10 a.m. near 12th Street and Burnham. Officers, along with a Wisconsin Department of Corrections agent, approached Otto, who was wanted for a patrol violation and sitting in a flatbed tow truck with a passenger. When Otto refused orders to exit the vehicle, an officer tried to remove him, prompting Otto to drive away while the officer remained attached to the truck.
Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said the officer repeatedly warned Otto to stop and threatened to use his weapon if he did not comply. The pursuit ended near 15th Street and Grant Avenue, where the officer fired, striking Otto. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene. The officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was placed on administrative duty, while the passenger was taken to a hospital as a precaution.
Family members questioned the necessity of lethal force. Tracy Broyld, Otto’s mother, expressed grief and confusion, saying, “Why did he shoot him in the head, that’s what I want to know.” She emphasized that while her son had prior convictions and a history of fleeing police, he was not violent and loved his work and family.
In the wake of the tragedy, Otto’s relatives launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Honoring Jonathan ‘Jaybird’ Otto” to help cover funeral expenses and support his loved ones. The family wrote that their “hearts are shattered” and asked the community for donations and prayers during this difficult time.
The Milwaukee Area Investigative Team, led by the West Allis Police Department, is conducting a full investigation into the shooting. Under department policy, Otto’s family is expected to review body camera footage within 48 hours.
Friends, neighbors, and the wider community are coming to terms with the sudden loss of a man remembered for his dedication to his children, his work, and his family. While questions about the circumstances of the shooting remain, those who knew Jonathan Otto are honoring his life and the positive impact he had on those around him.
As the investigation continues, the focus for his family remains on remembering a devoted father and beloved son, whose memory will live on through his children and the countless lives he touched.