Milwaukee officials plead for calm after police shooting sparks violence

(Worthy News) – Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker activated the National Guard on Sunday afternoon, hours after a gas station was set on fire and other businesses were torched by demonstrators protesting a controversial shooting by police.

Walker said he took the step after receiving a request from Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke and talking with Mayor Tom Barrett and the Guard’s leader. The Guard will be in position to help “upon request,” according to Walker’s announcement.

Walker also praised citizens who showed up Sunday to clean up the north-side neighborhood where the violence took place. He called for “continued peace and prayer.”

The clashes and rioting erupted after a Milwaukee police officer shot and killed an armed suspect Saturday night during a foot chase on the city’s north side. [ Source ]