Shirley L. Erickson, Arlen Erickson Obituary, Death; UPDATE: Two Wausau residents ID’d in fatal Friday crash.
Shirley L. Erickson, Arlen Erickson Obituary, Death – Authorities in Marathon County have identified the two people who tragically lost their lives in a head-on collision late Friday night in the town of Wausau. The victims were named as Shirley L. Erickson, 81, and her husband, Arlen Erickson, 82, both longtime residents of Wausau. The Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, working with the Marathon County Medical Examiner’s Office, confirmed their identities in a statement released over the weekend.
The fatal crash occurred shortly after 10 p.m. on September 26 along Highway 52, near the intersection with Forest Lawn Road. Emergency crews were dispatched immediately after the collision was reported. Upon arriving at the scene, first responders found two vehicles that had collided head-on. Despite efforts to assist, both Shirley and Arlen Erickson were pronounced dead at the crash site.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the cause of the crash, but they confirmed that two other individuals were injured. One of the injured victims suffered serious injuries and required urgent medical treatment, while the other sustained less severe injuries. Officials have not yet released the names of those injured, citing privacy and ongoing notifications to family members.
The crash prompted significant disruptions to traffic in the area. A section of Highway 52 was closed for more than six hours overnight as investigators examined the scene and crews worked to remove debris and damaged vehicles. Traffic was diverted while authorities documented the crash site, collected evidence, and attempted to piece together the events leading up to the collision. The roadway was later reopened in the early hours of Saturday morning.
At this stage, the Sheriff’s Office has not released information on what may have led to the crash. Factors such as road conditions, weather, driver impairment, or vehicle issues have not been ruled out. Officials stated that the case remains under active investigation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The deaths of Shirley and Arlen Erickson have sent shockwaves through the Wausau community. The couple, both in their eighties, were well known locally, and news of their passing has left neighbors and friends grieving. The loss underscores the devastating impact serious collisions can have, particularly when they claim the lives of older residents who have been longtime members of the community.
Highway 52, where the crash occurred, is a busy route that has seen its share of serious accidents over the years. Authorities frequently caution drivers to remain alert, especially during nighttime travel when visibility is reduced. While no specific safety advisory has been issued in connection with this latest crash, officials continue to emphasize safe driving practices to reduce the risk of tragedies like this one.
The Sheriff’s Office has asked anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information that could assist investigators to come forward. Eyewitness accounts could provide critical insight into how the collision occurred, particularly in determining whether either vehicle crossed into oncoming lanes or if other factors played a role.
For now, the focus remains on both the ongoing investigation and the grieving families of those involved. Friends and relatives of the Ericksons are expected to release obituary details and funeral arrangements in the coming days. The community is likely to rally around the family, offering support during what is undoubtedly a painful time.
The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials have promised to release further updates as soon as they are able.
