A tragic multi-vehicle crash in the Village of Waukesha claimed the lives of an elderly couple from Oconomowoc on Monday afternoon. Authorities have identified the victims as Frances Tallmadge, 91, and her husband, Robert Tallmadge, 92. The Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office confirmed their identities following notification of family members.
The fatal collision occurred around the intersection of Highway 164 and Lawnsdale Road. According to investigators, the crash was set in motion when a semi-truck, driven by a 44-year-old man, was heading south on Highway 164. At the same time, Frances Tallmadge was driving northbound and attempted to make a left turn onto Lawnsdale Road, crossing into the path of the oncoming truck.
The semi-truck collided with the Tallmadge’s vehicle, pushing it into another car that was stopped at the intersection. The impact was so severe that both Frances and Robert were pronounced dead at the scene despite the rapid response of emergency personnel. Authorities confirmed that Frances had been driving and Robert was in the passenger seat at the time of the crash.
The driver of the semi and the motorist in the third vehicle were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. No additional passengers were reported in any of the vehicles involved, and both survivors are expected to recover.
The crash caused the intersection to be closed for several hours as crews worked to investigate and clear the wreckage. Multiple agencies responded, including the Wisconsin State Patrol and fire departments from the Village of Vernon and the Village of Waukesha. Investigators are examining whether weather, mechanical failure, or other factors may have played a role in the crash.
As the Oconomowoc community mourns the loss of Frances and Robert Tallmadge, local residents have shared tributes and condolences to honor the couple’s memory. Known for their long lives and quiet dedication to family and community, their deaths have left a profound void among those who knew them. The sheriff’s office continues to urge drivers to be extra cautious, especially when making turns at busy intersections. Funeral arrangements for the Tallmadges have not yet been announced.
