Wisconsin authorities say 26-year-old pharmacy student Ariel Spillner was fatally shot on November 4, and her friend, Jamica Simone Mills, has been charged in connection with the killing. Mills faces one count of first-degree reckless homicide and a felony charge for the use of a dangerous weapon, according to reports from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, WMTV, and Fox 6 Milwaukee.
Spillner’s death has prompted an outpouring of support for her family, who described her as compassionate, energetic, and devoted to her loved ones. A fundraiser launched in her honor aims to cover funeral costs and support causes that meant the most to her.
What Police Say Happened
First responders were dispatched around 9:40 p.m. on November 4, where they found Mills with a gunshot wound to her abdomen, per WMTV and the Journal Sentinel. Spillner was discovered unresponsive at the scene and was pronounced dead. Both women had reportedly been friends for about a year, and Spillner was visiting Mills’ home that evening to groom her dogs’ hair.
According to the criminal complaint cited by Fox 6 Milwaukee, Mills told investigators that she and Spillner smoked marijuana together before the shooting and that they both quickly became paranoid. Mills allegedly said she saw Spillner make a sudden hand movement that made her fear she was about to be stabbed. She told police that she then retrieved a handgun from her bedroom. Mills allegedly said she did not intend to kill Spillner.
Authorities have not publicly detailed any additional evidence regarding the moments leading up to the shooting, and the full investigative record has not been released. The case remains active, and all statements referenced are drawn from the criminal complaint and local news reports.
Charges, Bond, And Court Date
Mills has been charged with first-degree reckless homicide and a dangerous weapon enhancer, according to the outlets. She is currently in custody, and her bond has been set at $150,000, People reports. A court appearance is scheduled for November 17.
Under Wisconsin law, a first-degree reckless homicide charge generally alleges conduct that created an unreasonable and substantial risk of death and demonstrated utter disregard for human life. A dangerous weapon enhancer can increase potential penalties if a firearm or other weapon was used in the commission of a felony. Mills has not entered a plea at this time.
As with any criminal case, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Additional hearings are expected to establish the path forward as prosecutors and defense counsel review evidence and prepare arguments.
Family Tribute & Community Support
Following the fatal shooting, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist Spillner’s family with funeral expenses and to honor her legacy. “Ariel was a light to everyone who knew her – she had the most giving soul with the biggest heart,” the family wrote on the fundraising page. “She loved deeply: her family, her friends, her dogs, and the simple joys of life.”
They described Spillner as “an outstanding athlete, a loyal friend, and someone who always looked for ways to help others,” adding that “her compassion and energy touched everyone she met. She had such a bright future, and it is heartbreaking that it was ripped away from her and us.”
The organizers note that the funds will be used to support funeral costs and help Spillner’s family navigate life after their loss. In keeping with her giving nature, the campaign states that a portion of the donations will be directed to causes and organizations that were important to her.
Remembering Ariel Spillner
Loved ones and community members have emphasized Spillner’s generosity and warmth, painting a portrait of a young woman dedicated to her studies, her friends and family, and her dogs. That she was at a friend’s home helping with pet grooming the night she died has resonated throughout the tributes, underscoring how often she stepped in to help those around her.
Her death has prompted both grief and calls for support within the community, with many noting the profound loss of a life described as bright, compassionate, and full of promise. While the criminal case proceeds through the courts, the focus from Spillner’s family remains on honoring her memory and channeling support into the meaningful causes she cared about.
Law enforcement officials have not released further updates on the investigation beyond the information contained in the complaint. Anyone with additional information is generally encouraged to contact local authorities as the case continues.
This is a developing story. Screen Rant will update with new information as it becomes available through official channels and verified reports.
