Milwaukee County Supervisor Hospitalized After Attack At Mayfair Mall

WAUWATOSA, WI — Milwaukee County Supervisor Peter Burgelis was seriously injured in an attack at Mayfair Mall on Monday, according to a news release sent by his office Friday.

Burgelis, who represents the 15th District on the Board of Supervisors, had to undergo surgical care at Froedtert Hospital but is expected to make a full recovery, his office said.

The news release said the attack was unprovoked, but noted police are still investigating. Wauwatosa police told TMJ4 news the incident came after a parking issue earlier in the lot.

Burgelis is the first openly LGBTQ member elected to the county board, a report by WTMJ Radio said in April 2022.

Burgelis said he plans on moving ahead with plans to present citations of recognition to dozens of local LGBTQ+ people and organizations during the June 22nd County Board meeting.

A news release from Burgelis' office gave gratitude to Wauwatosa police and Froedtert Hospital for their help and the support from the community.

Burgelis put out a statement on Friday after the attack:

“I will never be silenced, nor will I allow this act of violence to detract from our ongoing efforts to secure acceptance and equality for the LGBTQ+ community," said Burgelis in a statement. "If anything, this assault serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive challenges we continue to face."

“The unfortunate truth is that threats and acts of violence against the LGBTQ+ community persist at an alarming rate. Nationally, LGBTQ+ people are nearly four times more likely than non-LGBTQ+ people to be victims of violent crime. This reflects a broader pattern of discrimination and intolerance that plagues our society. We have seen a concerning rise in incidents, including the recent bomb threats directed at several Milwaukee-area Kohl's stores due to their Pride displays," said Burgelis in a statement.

“It is through resilience and unwavering determination that we must confront these injustices and strive for a future where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can live without fear of harm or prejudice."

See also: Bomb Threats At Kohl's Stores Across Milwaukee Area: Police