A heartbreaking accident on Interstate 43 early Thursday morning claimed the life of a 76-year-old Milwaukee woman who had arrived at the scene of an earlier crash. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Bobbie Wade, a local resident. Her family has chosen not to comment publicly at this time.
The crash occurred around 4 a.m. near the West North Avenue on-ramp on I-43 northbound. According to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, an initial collision involving a car and a truck had taken place prior to Wade’s arrival. Authorities believe she was related to one of the individuals involved in that first crash and had come to offer assistance.
After reaching the scene, Wade began walking near the roadway when she was fatally struck by a vehicle. The driver, a 25-year-old Milwaukee man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of operating while intoxicated. His name has not yet been released, and the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Milwaukee County Supervisor Priscilla E. Coggs-Jones issued a statement mourning the loss and honoring Wade’s selflessness. “Ms. Wade stepped forward to help others in a time of need, embodying the compassion and courage we all hope to see in our community,” she said. Supervisor Coggs-Jones also urged the public to take impaired driving seriously, calling it a reckless choice with devastating consequences.
The crash prompted a complete shutdown of all northbound lanes on I-43 for more than three hours. Emergency responders and investigators worked to secure the scene and gather evidence. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation advised motorists to seek alternative routes, and the highway was fully reopened by 8:30 a.m.
This tragic event has left the Milwaukee community mourning the loss of a woman who acted out of love and concern. Wade’s death is a stark reminder of the dangers that come with impaired driving and the risks faced by Good Samaritans who respond to emergencies.
Authorities continue to investigate both the initial crash and the fatal accident that followed. Officials are urging the public to stay sober, alert, and cautious when driving—especially near active crash scenes—to prevent further tragedies like this.