Tragic Wrong-Way Crash on I-43 Claims Two Lives, Leaves Two Hospitalized in Ozaukee County
Ozaukee County, WI — A devastating wrong-way crash early Monday morning on Interstate 43 has left two people dead and two others seriously injured, according to the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office. The tragic collision occurred around 12:45 a.m. on May 26, 2025, and has sent shockwaves through the communities of Oostburg and Milwaukee.
Authorities began receiving multiple 911 calls from concerned drivers reporting a vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-43 near Jay Road in the Town of Belgium. Despite swift response efforts, just minutes later, that vehicle collided head-on with an SUV traveling northbound near County Highway H in the Town of Port Washington.
A Collision with Heartbreaking Consequences
The wrong-way driver, identified as a 34-year-old man from Milwaukee, was the sole occupant of his vehicle. Emergency responders extricated him from the wreckage and transported him to a nearby hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later airlifted to a second medical facility. He remains in critical condition.
The SUV, tragically impacted by the wrong-way driver, was occupied by three people—all from Oostburg. The 51-year-old female driver and a 56-year-old male front-seat passenger were both pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not yet been officially released pending notification of extended family.
A 22-year-old female, who was seated in the back seat of the SUV, was also extricated from the vehicle. She was rushed to a local hospital where she is being treated for her injuries. Her current condition has not been made public, but she is reportedly expected to survive.
Investigation Underway
The Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Wisconsin State Patrol and other first responders, secured the scene and immediately launched an investigation into the crash. The area of I-43 where the accident occurred remained closed for several hours as authorities collected evidence, documented the scene, and coordinated rescue and recovery operations.
It is not yet clear why the Milwaukee man was driving the wrong way on the interstate, and officials have not confirmed whether alcohol or other substances may have been a factor. Toxicology tests and further investigation will help determine the cause.
“This is a heartbreaking and senseless tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families and the Oostburg community during this time of profound grief.”
A Community in Mourning
The accident has deeply affected residents of Oostburg, a close-knit village in Sheboygan County. The two lives lost in the SUV were reportedly longtime members of the community, known and loved by many. Community members have taken to social media to express condolences, share memories, and support the surviving family members.
A local church plans to host a prayer vigil in the coming days, and grief counselors will be made available to help those struggling with the shock and sorrow of this unexpected loss.
A Grim Reminder of Road Safety Dangers
This tragedy underscores the catastrophic consequences of wrong-way driving—especially on high-speed roadways like interstates. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, wrong-way crashes are more likely to result in fatalities or severe injuries due to the force of head-on collisions.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are urging drivers to stay vigilant, avoid distractions, and immediately report any suspicious or dangerous activity on the roads to 911.
Anyone with additional information about the crash or who may have witnessed the wrong-way driver prior to the collision is encouraged to contact the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office.
May the victims rest in peace, and may the injured find strength and healing in the days ahead. The entire region mourns this devastating loss.
