Attempted robbery and stabbing near Milwaukee airport leads to two arrests and pending criminal charges

Incident reported shortly after midnight near South Howell Avenue

Milwaukee police are investigating an attempted robbery and stabbing that occurred early Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, at a hotel property near Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.

Officers and sheriff’s deputies were called to the Super 8 Milwaukee Airport area on South Howell Avenue near West Grange Avenue just after midnight. Police activity at the scene included a section of the hotel parking area being restricted while investigators worked.

Victim hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries

Investigators said a 19-year-old was targeted in an attempted robbery. During a struggle, the victim was stabbed with a knife and transported to a hospital. Police said the injuries were not life-threatening and the victim is expected to recover.

Authorities have not released the victim’s identity or additional medical details.

Two suspects taken into custody

Police arrested two people in connection with the incident: a 22-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman. Their names were not released in initial police statements.

As of Thursday afternoon, the case was being prepared for review by the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, which will determine what charges—if any—will be filed in court. That referral process typically involves investigators submitting reports and evidence for prosecutors to evaluate applicable criminal statutes and whether the evidence supports formal counts.

What remains unknown as the investigation continues

Authorities have not publicly detailed the sequence of events leading up to the reported robbery attempt, including where the victim and suspects first encountered each other or whether the incident began inside the hotel, in the parking lot, or in the surrounding area. Police also have not disclosed whether property was taken, whether a weapon was recovered, or what statements—if any—were made by the parties at the scene.

• The reported offense: attempted robbery with a stabbing during a struggle
• Location: hotel property near Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, South Howell Avenue corridor
• Victim: 19-year-old, hospitalized, expected to recover
• Suspects: 22-year-old man and 27-year-old woman, both arrested
• Next step: referral to prosecutors for a charging decision

Cases at this stage can evolve quickly as investigators interview witnesses, review surveillance video where available, and document physical evidence before prosecutors decide whether to issue charges.

Police have indicated the investigation remains ongoing. Further details are expected through court filings if charges are issued in Milwaukee County.