Saukville, WI – A deadly multi-vehicle crash on I-43 shut down northbound lanes for more than five hours Wednesday afternoon after a semi tractor-trailer lost control, jackknifed, and crossed into oncoming traffic, according to the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash happened around 3:11 p.m. near STH 33 in the Town of Saukville. Deputies say the semi was traveling southbound when the driver lost control, causing the truck to jackknife, cross the median, and enter the I-43 northbound lanes.
Two northbound vehicles—a 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van and a 2018 Ford Fusion—then struck the semi and became pinned underneath it as the truck came to rest blocking both lanes of traffic.
The driver of the Mercedes Sprinter van suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Ford Fusion sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to Aurora Medical Center in Grafton.
A third vehicle, a Subaru Forester, also struck the semi and came to rest in the gore area between the northbound lanes and the exit ramp to STH 33. Three people inside the Subaru were injured—none life-threatening—and were also taken to Aurora Medical Center.
The crash prompted an extensive emergency response from multiple agencies, including police, fire, EMS, emergency management, and crash reconstruction teams.
I-43 northbound was closed for approximately 5½ hours as first responders worked to extricate victims, investigate the scene, and clear debris. Traffic was diverted at STH 33 until all lanes reopened around 8:35 p.m.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased driver. The investigation remains ongoing.
