Bobbie Wade Obituary, Death: Woman killed after being struck while at crash scene on I-43 at North Avenue

Bobbie Wade Obituary, Death – A tragic accident early Thursday morning on Interstate 43 in Milwaukee claimed the life of a 76-year-old woman who had arrived at the scene of an earlier crash. Authorities identified the victim as Bobbie Wade, a Milwaukee resident. Her family declined to comment immediately following the incident.

According to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred around 4 a.m. on I-43 northbound near the West North Avenue on-ramp. An earlier crash involving a car and a truck had already taken place at the location. Wade is believed to have been related to one of the individuals involved in that initial collision.

Authorities reported that after Wade arrived at the crash scene, she began walking around the area. It was then that a 25-year-old Milwaukee driver struck her with his vehicle. Officials stated that the driver was taken into custody on suspicion of operating while intoxicated (OWI). The Sheriff’s Office has not released the name of the suspected driver but confirmed the investigation is still ongoing.

This tragic incident highlights the dangers faced by those who come to help during emergency situations, especially along busy roadways where conditions may be unpredictable.

Milwaukee County Supervisor Priscilla E. Coggs-Jones issued a statement expressing her condolences and paying tribute to Wade’s bravery and selflessness. She said that Wade had acted out of compassion and concern for others, a reflection of the best qualities in a community member.

“This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those who act selflessly in moments of crisis,” Coggs-Jones said in her statement. “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. Her loss is heartbreaking and should never have happened.”

Supervisor Coggs-Jones further urged the public to take impaired driving seriously, noting that such reckless decisions have lasting and devastating effects. “We must continue to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of impaired and reckless driving,” she said. “Every life lost due to these preventable choices is one too many.”

The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office reminded drivers to stay alert and avoid impaired driving at all times to prevent further tragedies like this one. Reckless and impaired driving is a continuing issue on Wisconsin roadways, with authorities stressing the importance of safety for both drivers and pedestrians, especially near crash scenes.

The crash and investigation led to significant delays for Thursday morning commuters. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation reported that all northbound lanes of I-43 were shut down for over three hours as emergency crews worked the scene and investigators gathered evidence. The section of the freeway was particularly congested as a result of the closure.

Transportation officials advised drivers to seek alternate routes while the lanes remained closed. The northbound lanes of I-43 reopened to traffic around 8:30 a.m., restoring normal travel conditions for the morning commute.

This unfortunate event left many in the Milwaukee community mourning the loss of a woman who simply wanted to help a loved one in need. Wade’s tragic death stands as a painful reminder of the dangers present on the roads and the life-threatening consequences of driving under the influence.

Authorities have not released further details about the initial crash involving the car and the truck, nor about the identity of the 25-year-old driver arrested on suspicion of drunken driving. The investigation remains active, and additional details may emerge as officials continue their work.

Wade’s death has sparked renewed calls for increased driver responsibility and road safety awareness across Milwaukee County. Leaders like Supervisor Coggs-Jones hope that the tragedy will serve as a reminder for all drivers to stay sober, alert, and cautious behind the wheel—not only for their own safety but for the well-being of everyone sharing the road.

The Sheriff’s Office, as well as local officials, are expected to provide further updates as the investigation continues and charges are potentially filed in connection with the incident.

This heartbreaking story of compassion met with tragedy is a stark reminder of how quickly life can change on the roadways. The community continues to honor Bobbie Wade’s selfless actions, while also grieving the loss of a life taken far too soon.