MILWAUKEE, WI – July 11, 2025 — Ralph Taylor Jr., a Milwaukee man, has been arrested and charged with intentional homicide after he allegedly shot and killed his 4-year-old son during a violent outburst over a missing PlayStation 4. Authorities say the tragic incident took place on July 10, 2025, in the 9100 block of N. 75th Street in Milwaukee.
According to Milwaukee Police, Taylor, a convicted felon, became enraged after blaming his 12-year-old stepson for the disappearance of the gaming console. Authorities report that Taylor grabbed his autistic 4-year-old son, locked him in a room, and shortly thereafter, a gunshot was heard. The child was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound.
The Tragic Incident: Father’s Rage Over Missing Console Leads to Violence
The incident unfolded when Ralph Taylor Jr. reportedly lashed out in anger over the missing PlayStation 4, which led him to blame his stepson. After an argument, he removed his 4-year-old son from the living area, placed him in a locked room, and moments later, the sound of a single gunshot rang out.
The tragic loss has left the community in shock, particularly given the father’s past criminal history. Ralph Taylor Jr. had a felony conviction, making it illegal for him to own a firearm, but investigators say the gun used in the shooting had been purchased by Casandra Taylor, the boy’s mother.
The 12-Year-Old Stepson’s Brave Revelation: Truth Behind the Tragedy
After initially providing false information to authorities, Ralph Taylor Jr. reportedly confessed to the crime following the statements of his 12-year-old stepson, who bravely told detectives about the abuse in the home and the presence of firearms. The stepson’s testimony was crucial in piecing together the timeline of events, revealing the shocking details of how his half-brother was murdered in a fit of rage.
“The bravery of the 12-year-old in speaking up has been a critical factor in getting closer to the truth,” said Detective Anne Morgan of the Milwaukee Police Department.
Mother, Casandra Taylor, Arrested for Child Neglect and Gun Charges
The boy’s mother, Casandra Taylor, has been arrested and charged with child neglect and illegally purchasing a gun for her husband, a convicted felon. Authorities say she bought the firearm despite knowing that Ralph Taylor Jr. was legally prohibited from owning one due to his felony conviction.
“It is unfathomable that a mother would enable such a tragedy by providing access to a firearm to someone who should not have one,” said District Attorney Maria Stevens. “This case highlights the importance of responsibility when it comes to firearms and the protection of children.”
The Investigation: Authorities Seek to Understand the Motive
While the motive behind the murder appears to be linked to a dispute over a missing gaming console, investigators are continuing to probe the background of the family dynamics, including possible domestic abuse and previous incidents of violence. Taylor’s actions were reportedly fueled by anger and a lack of control, escalating into a devastating and senseless tragedy.
The Milwaukee Police Department is working closely with the District Attorney’s Office to ensure that both Ralph Taylor Jr. and Casandra Taylor face the appropriate charges. As of now, Taylor remains in jail on a $500,000 bond, awaiting trial for the murder of his young son.
Community Shock: Mourning a Life Lost to Violence
The death of the 4-year-old boy, whose identity has not been released, has deeply shaken the Milwaukee community. Local residents expressed outrage and sorrow over the senseless killing, while family members mourn the loss of a child who was full of potential and life.
“It’s heartbreaking that a child had to lose his life over something so trivial,” said neighbor Sarah Jenkins. “We’re all in shock, and our hearts go out to the family, even as we struggle to understand how something like this could happen.”
A Call for Justice: Legal Action and Prevention
This tragic incident has sparked renewed conversations about domestic violence, mental health, and gun control, with advocates urging for stronger measures to prevent violence in households with young children. The case also raises serious questions about gun access and the role of responsible firearm ownership, particularly in households with individuals who are legally prohibited from owning weapons.