A Wisconsin woman has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of her neighbor during a heated dispute over loud music, authorities said.
Keionna McGowan, 27, faces a charge of second-degree reckless homicide in the death of 41-year-old dentist Akintunde Bowden, according to local outlets WITI-TV, WDJT-TV, and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
The Deadly Encounter
Police responded to an apartment complex in Brown Deer on April 19 after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they found Bowden lying face down in the doorway of McGowan’s apartment with a gunshot wound to his lower abdomen, according to the criminal complaint. Despite efforts to save him, Bowden was pronounced dead at the scene.
McGowan, who allegedly shouted to officers for help, claimed the confrontation began when Bowden banged aggressively on her door, demanding she turn down her music. She told investigators that Bowden appeared intoxicated when she saw him through her peephole, but she complied with his request and closed the door.
However, according to McGowan, Bowden returned shortly afterward and began kicking the door. Fearing for her safety, she said she retrieved her handgun and fired a shot when he again motioned to kick the door, striking him fatally.
Different Accounts
Bowden’s fiancée, Theresa Bell, painted a different picture for police. She said she and Bowden lived in the unit below McGowan’s and that while they occasionally heard loud music, Bowden had never confronted their neighbor or displayed a temper. Bell, who was at a concert with her mother the night of the shooting, last communicated with Bowden via FaceTime around 10:30 p.m.
Bell described prior interactions with McGowan as “civil” and expressed disbelief that Bowden would have acted aggressively.
Community in Mourning
Milwaukee Health Services, Inc., where Bowden served as Dental Director, paid tribute to him in a heartfelt Facebook post, remembering him as a compassionate healthcare leader and community advocate.
“Dr. Bowden’s contributions to the health and well-being of our patients and community were extremely impactful,” the statement read.
“His leadership, compassion, and vibrant personality will forever remain in our hearts. Our hearts go out to Dr. Bowden’s family, friends, patients, and the many lives he impacted.”
Legal Proceedings Ahead
McGowan was booked into the Milwaukee County Jail with bail set at $15,000. She remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court again on May 5.
The Brown Deer Police Department has not released further details as the investigation continues.