Milwaukee Man Charged in Deadly Attack on Neighbor

Suspect accused of beating 64-year-old victim with household items, leading to his death

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:44pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered household appliance, such as a microwave or mini fridge, against a stark black background, conceptually representing the violent attack on an elderly victim.The violent attack on an elderly Milwaukee man with household items exposes the dangers of unchecked anger and lack of support for vulnerable populations.Today in Milwaukee

A 61-year-old Milwaukee man has been charged with two counts of battery to an elder person after allegedly attacking two of his neighbors in their apartment building. According to the criminal complaint, David Tisser first kicked a bathroom stall door, injuring a 72-year-old man's hand. Later that day, Tisser is accused of forcing his way into the apartment of 64-year-old Steve Stegall, arming himself with a microwave, mini fridge, and TV, and beating Stegall over the head and face. Tisser then allegedly pushed Stegall down the stairs, and Stegall later died from his injuries at the hospital.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the growing problem of violence against the elderly in urban areas, as well as the potential dangers of uncontrolled anger and access to household items that can be used as weapons. It also raises questions about mental health support and de-escalation training for law enforcement when dealing with volatile situations involving vulnerable populations.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, on April 1, Tisser first entered a shared bathroom in the apartment building and kicked a stall door, injuring a 72-year-old man's left hand. Later that day, around 7 p.m., Tisser allegedly forced his way into the apartment of 64-year-old Steve Stegall and 'armed himself with a series of items in SAS's room, including a microwave, a mini fridge, and a small TV.' Tisser then beat Stegall, hitting him over the head and face and causing multiple lacerations. Tisser ran outside, but later re-entered the building and pushed Stegall down the stairs as he tried to walk to the stairs. Stegall was taken to the hospital, where he died on April 8 from his injuries.

  • On April 1, Tisser allegedly kicked a bathroom stall door, injuring a 72-year-old man.
  • Around 7 p.m. on April 1, Tisser allegedly forced his way into Stegall's apartment and attacked him.
  • Tisser allegedly pushed Stegall down the stairs on April 1.
  • Stegall died from his injuries on April 8.

The players

David Tisser

A 61-year-old Milwaukee resident who has been charged with two counts of battery to an elder person.

Steve Stegall

A 64-year-old Milwaukee man who died on April 8 from injuries sustained in an attack by Tisser.

72-year-old man

A neighbor of Tisser and Stegall who was injured when Tisser kicked a bathroom stall door.

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What’s next

Charges against Tisser are likely to be upgraded since Stegall died from his injuries. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will determine if any additional charges are warranted.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater support and protection for vulnerable elderly residents, as well as the importance of addressing mental health issues and anger management to prevent such violent outbursts in the community.