Milwaukee woke up this week to heartbreaking news: 22-year-old Gladys Johnson-Ball, a mother and expectant mother, was found dead in her bedroom after a fire was intentionally set in her family’s home near 26th Street and Hadley. Gladys was five months pregnant with her second child when authorities discovered her the night of Monday, January 5.
Her death has shaken the tight-knit north side neighborhood, where loved ones gathered this weekend for a vigil filled with tears, balloons, and shared memories of a young life cut far too short. Friends and family described Gladys as a devoted mom and hopeful about her growing family.
Police now say Gladys’ boyfriend, 21-year-old Cameron Washington, who lived in the home with her and her family, is at the center of the tragedy. Responding officers were called to the house shortly after 11:30 p.m. when Gladys’ mother, Michelle Johnson, smelled smoke and rushed toward her daughter’s bedroom.
Family accounts paint a terrifying scene: when Michelle tried to open the bedroom door, Washington blocked her way and refused to let her in. Minutes later, he allegedly pointed a gun at another family member and fled the house. It was only after Michelle forced her way into the room that she could put out the fire and pull Gladys to safety. But it was too late — Gladys was unresponsive and later pronounced dead.
Investigators quickly noted troubling signs that suggested more than just a tragic fire. Gladys had visible bruising and injuries on her arms, neck and face, and emergency responders saw blood around her nose and mouth. Family members told police the fire erupted just moments after an assault. Police also believe the couple’s 3-year-old daughter may have witnessed what happened.
Washington was located and arrested less than half an hour after the 911 call. He now faces six felony charges including arson and first-degree reckless endangerment. A judge set his bond at $100,000, though prosecutors say if convicted on all counts he could face more than 50 years in prison. At this time homicide charges have not yet been filed, pending the medical examiner’s report. His next court appearance is scheduled for January 20.
As the community mourns Gladys and her unborn child, family members are left trying to piece together their shock and grief. Neighbors lit candles and released balloons in her memory, holding onto stories of a young woman with so much left to give.
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