'I'm tired of staying home': Neighbors create safe walking group on Milwaukee's east side
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Dozens of east side residents are connecting in hopes of making their daily walks a little safer.
Community strolls are being organized through a new Facebook group after multiple incidents.
The idea was sparked after several people recently posted in the East Side Neighborhood-Milwaukee Facebook page about dangerous encounters.
"People being followed, people being mugged, just people giving descriptions," said organizer Samantha Barragan. "It's made me stay home and just made me nervous."
Milwaukee police crime data show District 1 has seen a 5% rise in assault crimes and 16% rise in burglaries in the last six weeks.
Last week, east-sider Rachel Voegeli posted on Facebook about a scary moment that she said happened in broad daylight.
"I was getting into my car and two young men ran after me and approached my car," Voegeli said.
She was able to drive away and call police, shaken up.
"I have a dog and I walk her several times a day, and I've never really felt unsafe until now," Voegeli said.
After noticing many fellow frequent walkers, she posted again, with a suggestion.
"I thought, 'hey, why not do this together and be a little safer?'" Voegeli said.
Barragan was inspired and took charge, creating a Facebook page called East Side Community Stroll.
"I'm tired of staying at home. I want to be able to go on my walks and feel safe, and also become friends with my neighbors," Barragan said.
Since last week, 53 people have joined the group to connect with safe walking buddies.
"I just want to promote the safety for people, have the confidence to step out of their home and enjoy being in the neighborhood," Barragan said.
Though Mother Nature made for a small group, the first official community stroll stepped off Monday.
Barragan is planning several more to bring neighbors together.
"I created the group to become a safe space for everybody. Everybody is welcome," Barragan said.
Most future walks will be held on weekends. Updates will be posted on the East Side Community Stroll Facebook page.