Milwaukee, WI – One Dead, Multiple Injured in Early-Morning Crash Near 51st St and Custer Ave

‍Milwaukee, WI (December 16, 2025) – A fatal two-vehicle crash on Tuesday, December 16, near the intersection of North 51st Street and West Custer Avenue, claimed the life of one person and left two others injured, according to the Milwaukee Police Department.

Officers responded to the scene at approximately 1:42 a.m. after receiving reports of a serious collision at the intersection. Preliminary findings indicate that one vehicle failed to stop at a posted stop sign and collided with another vehicle that was in the process of making a turn. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and prompted an immediate emergency response.

Emergency medical crews transported the occupants of the struck vehicle to a nearby hospital. A 47-year-old driver suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and remains under medical care. A 63-year-old passenger in the same vehicle was also taken to the hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have not released the victim’s name at this time, pending notification of family members.

The driver of the other vehicle, a 48-year-old man, was also transported to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Milwaukee police confirmed that this individual was taken into custody following treatment. The circumstances surrounding the arrest, including any potential charges, remain under investigation.

Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who lost their life in this tragic incident, and we hope for the recovery of those injured.

Fatal Intersection Crashes in Milwaukee County

Intersection-related crashes are a persistent safety concern throughout Milwaukee County, particularly during overnight and early-morning hours when traffic enforcement visibility is reduced, and driver fatigue or impairment may be factors. Residential intersections like 51st Street and Custer Avenue rely heavily on stop signs and driver attentiveness to prevent serious collisions.

According to Wisconsin traffic safety data, failure to yield and disregarding traffic control devices are among the leading causes of serious and fatal crashes statewide. Stop-sign violations, in particular, often result in high-impact side collisions, also known as T-bone crashes, which can be especially dangerous for passengers seated on the struck side of a vehicle. These types of impacts frequently lead to severe injuries, including head trauma, chest injuries, internal organ damage, and fatalities.

Late-night and early-morning crashes pose additional risks. Reduced lighting, limited visibility, and the possibility of impaired or drowsy driving can all contribute to delayed reaction times. Even at moderate speeds, a collision caused by a missed stop sign can generate enough force to cause catastrophic injuries, especially when one vehicle strikes another at a perpendicular angle.

Investigations into fatal crashes typically involve a detailed reconstruction of the scene. Accident investigators analyze vehicle damage, skid marks, debris patterns, traffic signage, and surveillance or dashcam footage when available. Witness statements and vehicle data may also play a role in determining exactly how the crash unfolded and whether additional contributing factors, such as speed, distraction, or impairment, were involved.

For surviving victims and families affected by fatal crashes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma often create long-term challenges. Insurance claims and legal proceedings may add further stress during an already painful time, particularly when fault is disputed or criminal charges are involved.

A wrongful death attorney familiar with Milwaukee County crash cases can help victims and families understand their legal rights and options. Legal support may include gathering evidence, working with accident reconstruction experts, handling communication with insurance companies, and pursuing compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in fatal cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

If your loved one has been killed in a pedestrian accident, you do not have to navigate the aftermath on your own. Our wrongful death attorneys at Dunk Law Firm are dedicated to helping families pursue justice and secure financial support after a sudden loss.

When you turn to Dunk Law Firm, you gain advocates who genuinely care about your recovery and your rights. We offer compassionate guidance, transparent communication, and dedicated support through every stage of your case. Contact us today at 414-209-4398 to schedule a free case consultation and learn how we can help you seek justice for your loved one.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.