Dramatic surveillance video captured a midday shootout at a Woodman’s gas station off Highway 145, where two brothers confronted a man in a parked car, leading to an exchange of gunfire at pump number eight.
The incident occurred on April 28 at the gas station in Menomonee Falls. According to a criminal complaint filed Friday, the victim had just filled up his tank when the Stewart brothers pulled up next to him in a white Malibu.
Prosecutors say 18-year-old Rodrick Stewart told his older brother, 19-year-old Ralph Stewart, that he wanted to “rough up” the victim. The confrontation quickly escalated when Roderick allegedly pulled out a gun and fired multiple shots at the driver of a gray Honda.
The driver, who told police he feared for his life, returned fire with a weapon of his own. Innocent bystanders at the gas station attempted to flee the chaos as approximately five shots rang out.
Despite the hail of gunfire, no one was struck. However, a detective found a bullet lodged in the driver’s side door of the Honda Accord. Authorities noted the bullet could have easily hit the driver.
The Stewart brothers’ mother later identified them to police. According to the complaint, the victim told investigators he knew Ralph Stewart from a previous incident, stating that Ralph had robbed him last year. The complaint does not provide a clear motive for the shooting.
Both Rodrick and Ralph Stewart have been charged with attempted first-degree intentional homicide. Rodrick turned 18 on the day of the shooting. The two brothers are due back in court next Thursday.
