Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales said in a news conference Saturday that at least 16 businesses were looted Friday night into Saturday and some were set on fire when events turned violent around 11:30 p.m. on Friday. More than 50 people were arrested.

A Milwaukee police officer was struck by gunfire around 3:30 a.m. Saturday as unrest unfolded near 2nd and Locust. Morales says that the officer is expected to be OK.

Police in riot gear formed a line outside Milwaukee Police District 5 near Locust and Vel Phillips in the city's Harambee neighborhood, surrounded by crowds overnight. During the chaos, police say a 38-year-old officer with four years of experience was shot but will survive. More than 50 people were arrested.

“If you decide to protest, please do so peacefully. The Milwaukee Police Department will continue to protect our residents’ right to assemble and freedom of speech; however, we will arrest those who victimize people and vandalize property,” said Chief Morales.

Additionally, the Wisconsin National Guard has been called to Milwaukee Saturday to assist local law enforcement in response to "agitators" that disrupted otherwise peaceful protests, Gov. Tony Evers announced on Saturday.

The assistance comes at the request of Morales, Barrett, Milwaukee County Sheriff Earnell Lucas and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley.

"The role the National Guard will play is not to be patrolling the streets. What they can do is help protect valuable institutions, cultural institutions, child care centers, churches and fire houses," Barrett said.

Barrett said he also is angry about Floyd's death in Minneapolis.

The governor authorized 125 members of the National Guard to be immediately used by local law enforcement in response to the agitators. Guard members may not be used to impede the ability of people's peaceful protests or interfere with the media’s ability to report on these activities.

Officials are not sure how long the National Guard's support will last.

Gov. Evers and Barrett issued the following statement:

“It is critical that people are able to peacefully express their anger and frustration about systemic racism and injustice, in Milwaukee, the State of Wisconsin, and our Nation. This limited authorization of citizen soldiers from the Wisconsin National Guard will help protect people who are exercising their First Amendment rights and ensure the safety of the public.”

Photo: Fox 6 News

Read More at Fox 6 News:

Milwaukee Mayor issues 9 p.m. curfew: click here

Wisconsin National Guard called in to support Milwaukee - click here

50 people arrested after protests turn violent overnight - click here

Milwaukee business owners react to vandalism - click here

Protests continue Saturday across Milwaukee - click here

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