Treneel V. Bankston Charged With Felony Homicide For Carmelo Silva Jr.'s Death

Milwaukee police arrested injured 21-year-old suspect about three blocks from where an 18-year-old victim died after a shooting and sword stabbing alteration during a drug deal gone bad.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

October 6, 2016 

Milwaukee, WI - On Wednesday, Treneel V. Bankston, 21, was booked at the Milwaukee County jail for homicide in connection with the death of Carmelo Silva Jr., 18, on October 1 near the 2400 block of W. Becher St. According to the criminal complaint, Bankston had gone with Silva Jr. and another man to buy marijuana where Silva Jr. stayed. Bankston during the drug transaction took out a handgun and attempted to rob Silva Jr. and others at the residence. An altercation began and the weapon discharged striking Silva Jr. who left the residence injured and ended up at a corner store and asked for help. 

Carmelo Silva Sr. told police that he began to struggle with Bankston and was injured with a sword and Bankston was stabbed in the abdomen as well. Another 18-year-old victim also struggled with Bankston and got shot in the shoulder and face when the weapon discharged.  Both Silva Sr. and the 18-year-old victim survived.

Silva Jr. died at the corner store after attempts by police and emergency responders to save him failed.

Bankston was taken into custody shortly after the incident when a tip led police to locate him about three blocks away from the crime scene, according to the criminal complaint.

Bankston is expected to appear in court on Thursday to face homicide charges. He is being held on $200,377 cash bond.

Bankston was convicted of a misdemeanor count for battery in 2014.