Amari Smith Obituary – Less than a day after her son’s passing, Shanita Hill fondly remembered the qualities she most admired in him. Hill stated that Amari Smith, 30, possessed a notably calm demeanor and a strong work ethic. “I believe he inherited that from me,” Hill remarked. “He’s always been reserved, with a more laid-back personality.”
Smith passed away on Sunday night. According to Milwaukee police, officers attempted to pull over a speeding driver near N. 24th St. and W. Burleigh Street around 6:15 p.m. The driver fled, and the chase concluded after traversing approximately four blocks.
Footage from a gas station at the intersection of N. 20th St. and N. Burleigh Street depicted a vehicle speeding east on Burleigh Street and running a red light. The suspect’s car collided with the driver’s side of a car traveling north on 20th St.
Authorities confirmed that the victim, later identified as Smith, perished at the scene. Hill mentioned that her son was set to graduate from Milwaukee Area Technical College in May, pursuing studies in cosmetology with aspirations of becoming a barber.
“He had planned to finish by his birthday, which is May 15,” Hill shared.
Despite facing hardships, Hill described her son as resilient. She recounted his initial ambition to become a tattoo artist before transitioning to his dream of opening a barber shop. Throughout, Smith maintained a positive attitude and displayed financial prudence.
“He was street-smart, but not involved in street life,” Hill emphasized. “He always held a job, saved money, and was frugal.”
Police successfully apprehended the driver, identified as a 40-year-old, and seized a firearm from the individual. “Frankly? He can suffer in hell, I’m sorry,” Hill expressed. “He took my child from me. He snatched my world from me.”
Smith’s father, Anthony, declined an on-camera interview, citing overwhelming grief. He mentioned that burying his child was a heart-wrenching experience, marking the second time he had to endure such a loss alongside Hill.