Watertown, WI – Fatal Hit-and-Run on E Main St Leaves Pedestrian Dead
Watertown, WI (December 22, 2025) – Watertown police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a pedestrian early Sunday, December 21. Officers with the Watertown Police Department were dispatched at about 12:40 a.m. to reports of a collision involving a pickup truck and a pedestrian along East Main Street.
According to authorities, the crash began in the 500 block of East Main Street and continued into the 200 block. The pedestrian, identified as a 35-year-old man, was found in the 200 block suffering from severe injuries. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.
Police reported that the driver fled the scene before officers arrived. Investigators used license plate reader data and video evidence from the area to identify the vehicle involved. The registered owner, a 54-year-old man, was later located at his residence and taken into custody. He was arrested and referred for charges including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle and hit-and-run causing death.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash as the case moves forward.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the man who lost his life in this tragic incident.
Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accidents in Watertown
Pedestrian crashes remain a serious safety concern in Watertown and across Jefferson County, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours. Reduced visibility, impaired driving, and lower traffic volumes can increase the risk of drivers failing to see pedestrians or react in time. East Main Street is a commonly traveled corridor that sees both vehicle and foot traffic, even outside normal business hours.
Hit-and-run crashes often result in more severe outcomes because victims may not receive immediate medical assistance. When a driver leaves the scene, critical minutes are lost, which can significantly affect survival and recovery. Wisconsin law treats leaving the scene of a fatal crash as a serious criminal offense, with enhanced penalties when impairment is suspected.
Families affected by fatal pedestrian crashes often face emotional trauma along with unexpected financial burdens. Medical expenses, funeral costs, and the sudden loss of income can place added strain on loved ones. In Wisconsin, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for these losses, as well as for loss of companionship and emotional suffering.
Working with a skilled wrongful death lawyer can help families understand their rights, hold responsible parties accountable, and begin to find closure through the legal process.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a fatal crash in Jefferson County or its surrounding areas, help is available. Dunk Law Firm is committed to standing up for victims and their families and pursuing the compensation they deserve. Call 414-209-4398 today to speak with our qualified lawyers about your case.
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.
